Joseph provides an opportunity for education and interpretation of nature and conservation, relative to the significance of the Missouri River and Northwest Missouri. Joseph utilizes the 13,000 square foot center for educational purposes in an entertaining and enjoyable environment. With the variety of displays and information available, the center appeals to people of all ages and interests. Seve
ral interactive components allow people to use their senses to learn about and appreciate the natural environment, as well as the events that impacted nature in and around Northwest Missouri. Another important aspect is the portrayal of the native land and abundant plant and animal life that sustained human habitation. The nature center has many displays featuring animal habitats including a beaver dam, beehive, and 7,000-gallon native fish aquarium. The area surrounding the nature center includes several additional features such as natural habitats for birds and animals, prairie and wildflower areas, and a paved walking trail. Interpretive signage further assists in the education and enjoyment of these areas. The nature center showcases the Missouri River and the River’s force in the development of Northwest Missouri, as it relates to travel, transportation, and trade. The aquarium provides visitors an opportunity to view a variety of native fish common to the River. The Missouri River’s mutations over time and the impact of those changes are also presented. The nature center also emphasizes the significance of Native American civilization in Northwest Missouri, by showcasing artifacts used by the tribes of this area. It is important to relate these civilizations and their relationship to the story of the Sacred Hills. Native American habitats also educate visitors as to how the changes to the natural setting began. A significant, unique component of the nature center are cultural displays to convey the prominent role Northwest Missouri played in western migration, especially in exploration, trapping, trading and mercantile. All of these areas changed the natural setting of the area. The Re*****on Nature Center features an outdoor and indoor classroom area, meeting rooms with full audio visual components, and multiple wildlife viewing areas.
