History of Friends of Eagle River Nature Center

A marvelous asset to the community, the Nature Center (called the Eagle River Visitor Center until 1996) has provided natural history and educational programs to residents and visitors since the early 80's. The Center serves as a wonderful rendezvous for people who love the outdoors, as well as a gathering place for people to enjoy interpretive programs by experts on a wide range of natural history topics. After a long day of winter activities, the center's log fire provides a warm welcome and a comfortable place to relax with a hot beverage.

In 1995 Chugach State Park's budget was cut drastically.   With the center's budget cut from $180,000 in 1983 to $16,000 in 1995, the center's survival was in peril.   Chugach State Park administrators decided it was time to seek other venues of keeping the center open tothe public.  In March of 1996, Dick Lloyd, Carole Lloyd and Asta Spurgis founded Friends of Eagle River Nature Center, Inc.(Friends), a non-profit organization that won the park's bid to assume financial and managerial responsibility for the Eagle River Nature Center.  With the help of hundreds of dedicated volunteers, the center has become a major destination for travelers and a haven for area residents.   The nature center is open year round and offers weekly interpretive programs to the public, nature studies for Alaska's school children, guided nature walks for summer visitors, and outstanding opportunities for wildlife viewing and study.  A public use cabin and two yurts provide visitors the chance to spend an evening in Alaka's pristine wilderness.  Each is less than a two mile hike in and affford splendid views of the Eagle River Valley.

The mission of Friends is to further the educational and interpretive opportunities available to park visitors; promote the preservation, protection, and enhancement of the historical, natural, and recreational resources within Chugach State Park; provide for the daily operation of the Nature Center; and assist in implementing park improvements, enhance safety awareness, and promote educational programs compatible with the nature of the Eagle River Nature Center. All revenues from programs, parking, and sales are used solely for these purposes.

In 2006, Friends celebrates its 10 year anniversary and is looking forward to the next 25 years.  Friends was awarded a long-term contract by the State of Alaska on December 31, 2005 to continue in the operation and stewardship of the Eagle River Nature Center.  We look forward to the challenges ahead.