History
In 1973, the residents of the Town of Greenburgh voted to allocate funds for the purchase of what was then known as the “Hall Estate.” Additional funds were secured through a federal grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund. This marked the first property in Greenburgh acquired specifically to protect wildlife. In 1975, the Hall Estate officially became the Greenburgh Nature Center, dedicated to preserving its natural environment and inspiring environmental stewardship.
From the beginning, the vision for the Greenburgh Nature Center was clear: it would be a refuge for wildlife and a hub for active educational programming that promotes an appreciation and understanding of nature and the environment.
For the past 50 years, the nonprofit organization Nunataks Ltd. has been the driving force behind the Nature Center’s operations and educational initiatives, through a unique public-private partnership with the Town of Greenburgh. Today, that organization, now known as the Nature Center at Greenburgh, continues to be the lifeblood of the Greenburgh Nature Center, ensuring the delivery of exceptional programming, the protection of diverse ecosystems, and the forever care of our animal ambassadors.
The Nature Center property encompasses 33 acres of preserved natural beauty, offering open spaces, forested trails, and diverse ecosystems, including a vernal pond, pollinator gardens, and a native plant meadow. Highlights of the grounds include educational features such as a Native American Replica Village, a barnyard, and demonstration gardens.
Annually, the Nature Center inspires and educates over 100,000 individuals through immersive programs, a live animal museum, and a variety of interactive experiences.
Our mission and values remain steadfast, rooted in a commitment to environmental education, conservation, and connection with nature. We are proud of our legacy and look forward to continuing this vital work for the next 25 years and beyond.
Mission
To inspire curiosity, respect, and action for our local environment and the larger natural world.
Vision
The Nature Center’s vision is to be a leader in the region for environmental education and best sustainable practices so that people live in harmony with nature and adapt to a changing environment.
Sustainability
We are the first nature center to be a certified Green Business Partnership. Sustainability is modeled and demonstrated in our operations, programs, and events. Watch a video about how we did it. Our green policy addresses energy, water, land use, transportation, and materials management.
Values
– We are committed to fostering awareness and understanding of environmental issues
– We believe in developing a dialogue of care around our interconnectedness with nature
– We are dedicated to serving as stewards of the Nature Center’s land