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NATURE CENTER HISTORY AND <br />BACKGROUND <br />The Wargo Nature Center, located in Anoka County's Rice <br />Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve, is devoted to increasing <br />the awareness and appreciation of natural and cultural <br />resources for all, regardless of age, ability, or background. <br />The nature center sits on a peninsula surrounded by George <br />Watch Lake. The Heritage Lab, located on Peltier Lake, is <br />used for Anoka County's programs and the YMCA's Camp <br />Heritage program. <br />The development of the nature center fulfilled the dream <br />of Joseph E. Wargo, a long-time Anoka County resident <br />and District Judge. David Torkildson, Anoka County's first <br />Parks Director, was also a long-time advocate for the nature <br />center and played a key role in building the facility to <br />educate Anoka County residents about the natural world. <br />Given the variety of natural habitats and the wonderful <br />water resources available, the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes <br />area was high on their list of ideal locations. Joseph Wargo <br />died in 1987, but thanks to his wife, Edith - who shared his <br />dream - his estate provided funding for the construction of <br />the Wargo Nature Center. This fund, combined with grants <br />from the Metropolitan Council, resulted in the construction <br />of the nature center in honor of Joseph Wargo in 1993. <br />Wargo Nature Center Master Plan - March 2015 <br />The Nature Center currently serves as the hub for Anoka <br />County Parks environmental education and outdoor <br />recreation programming, as well as off-site environmental <br />outreach. The 10,000 square foot building houses office <br />space for outdoor education and recreation staff and <br />provides storage for a variety of county -wide programs. <br />In 2013 Anoka County served 47,000 people though its <br />organized programs, events, and drop in visitors. <br />Wargo Mission Statement <br />The Wargo Nature Center is dedicated <br />to creating awareness, knowledge, and <br />appreciation of the natural and cultural <br />environments and their resources. We <br />strive to foster responsible stewardship <br />and lifelong learning in people of all <br />ages, abilities, and backgrounds though <br />environmental and recreational programs <br />and actions. <br />Chapter 1: Introduction 1 <br />