Tamarack Nature Center Master Plan
White Bear Township, Minnesota
Client: Ramsey County Parks
“The Destiny of Discovery Master Plan proposes upgraded and expanded facilities, interpretive trails, programs, and exhibits to enhance the Nature Center’s capacity to contribute significantly to the region’s quality of life.”
Tamarack Nature Center is a 320-acre nature area located within Bald Eagle-Otter Lakes Regional Park in White Bear Township, Minnesota. The primary purpose of the Destination for Discovery Master Plan is to redirect Tamarack Nature Center’s vision to be an essential community resource that integrates personal explorations of nature with art, play, and active investigation. Destination for Discovery is an intentional transformation of the Nature Center into a highly attractive destination offering a wide array of environments and activities for visitors to interact with nature.
The master plan proposes an interpretive plan that uncovers themes and stories, essential experiences, and the integration of art and nature education programs, along with an interpretive strategy to be implemented. Another critical aspect of the plan was to prepare creative designs with resiliency and land stewardship in mind. From site redevelopment and building expansion plans, as well as concepts for engaging hands-on environments and exhibits (destinations), we were intentionally mindful of preserving natural resources. It also included preparing implementation strategies, such as phasing and construction costs, funding and partnerships, as well as guidance on operations and staffing needs.
