By 1812Blockhouse
Friday evening saw a new chapter unfold in the story of the Ohio Bird Sanctuary.
The new treehouse feature at the Sanctuary officially opened to serve as both a public walkway and also as a classroom. Officials of the Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development were on hand for the ribbon cutting.
According to the Sanctuary website, a team from Washington State-based Nelson Treehouse, including twin sons of owner Pete Nelson — helped to create the 100 foot treetop bridge that goes from a field classroom to the new open air space suspended between beech and sycamore trees.
Executive Director Gail Laus said, “This is a new piece for us where kids, no matter what their abilities or disabilities, will be able to spend time learning and exploring the trees. We’ve become a place where individuals with disabilities can enjoy nature. We’ve worked very hard to develop that at the sanctuary. The one thing we haven’t been able to replicate is that time on the trails. That’s what this treehouse is going to be able to do.”
The cost of construction for the ADA-accessible facility was approximately $380,000. Organizers hope that this new feature will position the Ohio Bird Sanctuary for a growth in visitor numbers.
Photos from the evening are above and below. Click on image below for full picture.
Sources: Ohio Bird Sanctuary, Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development; Images: Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development
