Texas Border Business
WESLACO, Texas – Weslaco’s Valley Nature Center (VNC) is awarded the Texas Environmental Excellence Award in Education, a program of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. The team, led by Executive Director Hollie Johnston, attended the awards ceremony at the Austin Convention Center, in Austin, TX on May 17, 2023.
Valley Nature Center (VNC) is a six-acre nature park in Weslaco, TX designed to introduce students and families to the flora and fauna of the Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV). The VNC in also the oldest nature center in the LRGV and the only non-profit center fully dedicated to environmental education in the area. Their programs include environmental summer camps, school field trips, virtual curriculum, online videos, and after-school and weekend programs.
“The LRGV Nature Center has a mission to provide education opportunities and to foster appreciation and understanding of the area’s plants and animals. The Valley Nature Center does a wonderful job committing to that mission with the youth and extending community through its many programs and educational opportunities it provides” said Robert Donalson, VNC Board President.
The VNC is currently enrolling students in their upcoming summer programs, Nature Quest, and the STEAM Camp. For more information on how to enroll in a summer camp, support the VNC Wish List or become a supporter of the center you can contact them at 956-969-2475 or email, info@valleynaturecenter.org
“This award is a testament to the curriculum and programing set and executed by our Executive Director and Staff. To win next to much larger organizations like The City of Plano, Texas A&M AgriLife, and USDA helps in highlighting what an accomplishment this really is” shared Donalson on this achievement for the community.
For more information on the VNC contact the Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce at 956.968.2102 or visit www.weslaco.com
