Henry N. Barkhausen Cache River Wetlands Center facts for kids
The Henry N. Barkhausen Cache River Wetlands Center is a cool place where you can learn all about nature! It's like a museum and a nature center rolled into one, located near Cypress, Illinois. This center is right in the middle of the amazing Cache River Wetlands.
Inside, you'll find awesome exhibits, including a special interactive model of a wetland. You can also use touch screens to explore and watch a 12-minute video. This video tells the story of the area's history, both natural and human, including the nearby Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources helps manage the center. It also works with a group called the Cache River Wetlands Joint Venture Partnership to run it.
History of the Wetlands Center
The Henry N. Barkhausen Cache River Wetlands Center was finished in November 2004. It officially opened its doors in 2005.
The center is named after a very important person, Henry N. Barkhausen. He was a big fan of protecting nature. Henry encouraged different government groups, private organizations, and local people to work together. His goal was to protect the natural beauty of the Cache River.
Henry Barkhausen used to be the director of the Illinois Department of Conservation. This department is now called the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. He helped start the state's first natural area program. He was also a trustee for The Nature Conservancy in Illinois. For 19 years, he was part of the Citizens Committee to Save the Cache River. This was a group of local people who worked hard to protect the Cache River.
Building the center cost about $4 million. Construction started in the year 2000. In 2004, the center opened for school groups and community programs. By 2005, all the exhibits were ready. The center then opened to the public two days a week. Later that same year, in November, it expanded its hours. Now, you can visit the center Wednesday through Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Fun Activities at the Center
The center offers many fun things to do for families, students, and groups. You can find out about hunting, hiking, fishing, or watching wildlife here.
Student programs are very hands-on. They include activities and presentations. These programs teach you about local wildlife. They also show how important wetlands are and other nature topics.
