The Tama County Nature Center is located at Otter Creek Lake and Park. The 5,600 sq. ft. facility is a work in progress as construction has been phased over the past sixteen years. The facility has been made possible through use of non-property tax revenues including grants, donations and fundraisers.

A Nature Center Exhibit Team worked with Museum Professionals, Inc. of Loretto, MN, for three years to develop the Conceptual Design document to guide the fabrication stage of the project. Fundraising to allow construction of Phase 1 which includes the diorama will kick off the fall of 2012.

The Exhibit Team members are: Chelsea- Josh Van Hamme, Dysart- David Hill, Cathy Wieck, Gladbrook- Geri Eilers, Montour- Melody Bro, Tama- George Corum, Ginny Elliott, Toledo- Dennis Appelgate, Bob Etzel, Jim Little, and Traer- Yvette Berner. These individuals are graciously donating their time and talents to assure a quality display component of the Nature Center will be available to Tama County residents and guests.

While the facility is being used for environmental education activities of the board it may also be rented to serve as host site for private events such as training workshops, banquets, weddings and receptions.

There are restrictive policies in place regarding use of the Nature Center. A brief overview of use of the Nature Center is outlined in the "Can We Use the Nature Center" brochure.