Mission: To foster appreciation and inspire stewardship of the natural world. We accomplish our mission by acquiring and preserving land, providing quality environmental education, conservation practices, and enjoyable outdoor experiences for visitors of all ages and capabilities.

Results: Through our programs and events Carpenter Nature Center has reached over 470,000 visitors since we opened in 1981.The team of neighbors, donors, volunteers, staff and board members has also increased the amount of protected habitat from the original 325 acres to 725 acres today.

Target demographics: Our K-12 award-winning environmental education curriculum teaches 7,000-10,000 students a year, most of whom live in the Twin Cities metro area and western Wisconsin. Our public programs and events reach children, parents and individuals of all ages from all over the United States, the majority of whom are from our region.

Direct beneficiaries per year: Each year 20,000-30,000 visitors enjoy the programs and trails at Carpenter Nature Center.

Geographic areas served: St. Croix Valley, Southeastern Twin Cities Metro area, western Wisconsin

Programs: Carpenter Nature Center's K12 Environmental Education curriculum includes over 130 programs that are adapted to each specific age group and address both Wisconsin and Minnesota science standards. Public programs and events and the K-12 curriculum take place on 725 acres of protected and restored habitat along the St. Croix River. Teachers especially love the Apple Orchard Programs, the Maple Syruping Programs, Flowers & Pollinators Programs and Winter Survival Programs.