Berks Nature was founded on the belief that nature is essential to our quality of life. As such, a driving factor behind the creation and design of The Nature Place and its surrounding grounds was a goal to create a destination where people could better learn about and connect with nature—and never has it been more important. Data derived by the Center for Social and Economic Research at West Chester University states that the health status of Berks County’s residents is poor, and on a national scale, children only spend an average of 1% of their time in unstructured free play, which allows for unencumbered exploration.

Counteracting this data, in its first full year of operation, The Nature Place welcomed thousands of visitors who have participated in yoga, family bike hikes, guided trail walks, and an introduction of how to just be in nature, all potentially contributing to an improvement in their health. More so, over one thousand children from the City of Reading experienced being in a creek for the first time through field trips. Through their dedicated nature play zone, children have explored, connected, and let their imagination take flight. This fall, they opened a Nature Preschool, the first in the area where children spend 75% of their time (on average) outside. 

Furthermore, with the presence of The Nature Place, awareness of Berks Nature’s overall conservation work has been elevated. Residents can visit and learn more about their local watersheds, land protection, various habitats, and overall sustainability.