Driftless Area Education and Visitor Center Encourages Youth to Connect with Nature

Open just over a year, the Driftless Area Education and Visitor Center in Lansing has counted 25,000 visitors from 49 states and 30 countries. Those guests can see live snakes, frogs, turtles and other driftless area flora and fauna; learn about the geology of Allamakee County; and experience the rich history of life along the Mississippi River through interpretive exhibits and a stunning view of the center’s surroundings — a view that includes otters swimming in a nearby creek as a it spills into the Mississippi.

“Numerous people tell us they travel around to facilities like this, and this is one of the best they’ve ever visited,” said Jarrod Olson, assistant director of the Allamakee County Conservation Board. “We think that’s pretty high marks coming from people who travel the United States and the world. People think this is a federal or state facility. They’re amazed that a county is able to have a facility like this.”

The $3.7 million project was made possible by contributions from the county board of supervisors, private fundraising and a variety of grants, including one from the Allamakee County Community Foundation (ACCF).

Payouts from an endowment fund set up through ACCF have been used to establish a scholarship fund for Allamakee County graduating seniors entering into the fields of natural resources, biology and wildlife. Future payouts will be used to defray the cost of transportation for school field trips to the visitor center.

The Allamakee County Conservation Board recently created a new fund with ACCF to help offset long-term operational costs and enhance future visitor experiences with new displays or exhibits. 

“Donations to either of these funds help the education of our youth,” said Olson. One example is an ongoing project to allow youth to kayak in the nearby marina. 

“There’s a strong disconnect with today’s youth and the outdoors,” Olson explained. “It’s amazing when you get a group of kids out on the Mississippi River who have never been out on the river. To get them here and let them experience that is huge. If we can spark a love for the outdoors in just a handful of kids when they come here, then we’re doing a good job.”