Mission statement

Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center is a regional, hands-on nature center in Columbus, Ga., dedicated to providing quality educational programs and resources that promote environmental awareness (particularly as it relates to watersheds), encourage sustainable development and inspire individuals to conserve, protect and restore the natural environment.

Goals

• To provide watershed and environmental education through annual events, programs and hands-on interdisciplinary tours
• To provide workshops and specialized training to pre-service and in-service teachers and community groups
• To educate students and the public about the natural and cultural history of the region through exhibits of animals and hands-on displays
• To act as a community and regional resource center for environmental education, regional wildlife, sustainability and watershed issues
• To manage Oxbow Meadows Environmental Park as an outdoor classroom, a habitat for wildlife and a place where visitors can explore nature in a wetland and riverine setting
• To provide a site for environmental research and activities in aquatic and terrestrial river communities for faculty and students
• To partner with a variety of organizations to enhance public understanding of sustainability and participation in the stewardship of our natural resources
• To stimulate in all visitors an environmental conscience and a desire for lifelong learning