On September 10, 2011, Howard County opened the doors of a                              

state-of-the-art facility, the James and Anne Robinson Nature

Center. Inside, visitors of all ages can now enjoy interactive
exhibits on local habitats, wildlife, and the Chesapeake Bay, a
children’s discovery room, and a digital, domed nature theater.
Outside, you can stroll paths alongside native plants and rain
gardens or follow a wooded trail to the Middle Patuxent River
and historic Simpsonville Mill.

The 23,000-square-foot Center reflects years of creative and

innovative efforts of educators, community leaders, designers,

wildlife experts, historians, and resource conservationists.

Designed by GWWO Architects, the building demonstrates the

latest in sustainable design ideas, craftsmanship, and materials,

including geothermal heating, green roofing, and even recycled wood from the Robinsons’ own barn. The Center has been recognized by Associated General Contractors as the "Best Sustainability Project of the Year in New Construction" and was recently awarded Platinum LEED (Leadership in Energy Design) Certification, the highest rating from the U.S. Green Building Council.

Anyone interested in learning more about the Center, including hours of operation, can visit its page on the Howard County Department of Recreation and Parks website. 

The Center’s location near the Middle Patuxent Environmental Area encourages visitors to experience the woods, wetlands, and meadowlands of the MPEA. By introducing many to the outdoors, the Center will contribute to the education, health, and enjoyment of our community. As County Executive Ken Ulman has said, “It’s a long-term investment for future generations.”