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FORT WORTH NATURE CENTER & REFUGE
River-Side Trail
Trail Rest
Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge - Upcoming Events
For upcoming events please visit our
WEBSITE
The Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge (FWNC&R) is a natural area comprised of forests,
prairies, and wetlands allowing you to step back in time and experience what the Fort
Worth/Dallas Metroplex was like in the early 20th century. The inception of the FWNC&R
was based on protecting our local watershed. In 1914 when Lake Worth was built land was
purchased around the West Fork of the Trinity River by the City of Fort Worth to protect
the quality of drinking water for the Fort Worth community. With great persistence from
some local citizens, particularly the Fort Worth Audubon Society, the Park Board designated
some land in 1964 to create a wildlife sanctuary and nature preserve for our community and
the FWNC&R was born.
At its current state, the FWNC&R covers 3,621 acres and includes over 20 miles of hiking
trails, making the park one of the largest city-owned nature centers in the United States.
In 1980 it was designated as a National Natural Landmark by the U.S. Department of the
Interior. With the ever growing population of Fort Worth and the surrounding communities,
having a place to explore and enjoy the outdoors is important for our residents. The
FWNC&R is home to many native habitats to discover on a self –guided or staff-guided
hike. Staff members offer many programs throughout the year providing opportunities for
our visitors to learn about our natural world.
In addition to education, the FWNC&R is a shining example of land stewardship and was
recognized with a Lone Star Land Steward award in 2009 by the Texas Parks and Wildlife
Department. Resource management staff work hard to preserve our ecosystems by promoting
best practices to enhance the fauna and flora. Managing our bison herd and implementing
prescribed burns are two of many ways we ensure our wildlife have a sustainable home.
The FWNC&R is a division of the City of Fort Worth Park and Recreation Department.
Additional funds to support the FWNC&R come from The Friends of the Fort Worth Nature
Center & Refuge (FONC). The FONC is a 501(c)3 organization that provides financial
support for projects, professional development for staff and other operational needs.
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