Member Profile: Severson Dells Nature Center
At Severson Dells Nature Center, a legacy of nature education and environmental stewardship thrives. The nature center began as a gift to the community from Harry and Fannie Severson in 1975 and has been providing opportunities for the northern Illinois community to connect with nature ever since.
“It was important to Fannie Severson that her family’s 369-acre farm and lodge were used to help get people, especially children, outside and learning in nature,” said Ann Wasser, executive director of Severson Dells Nature Center. “It’s important to us that we honor and continue her legacy and the legacy of those that have worked and volunteered at the nature center for nearly 50 years.”
Severson Dells continues this tradition of environmental education and stewardship through a wide variety of programs for all ages, like Science Saturdays, camps, guided hikes, field trips, and more.
Wasser has been the director of Severson Dells Nature Center since December of 2016. Over the past few years, Severson Dells has added staff and become an AmeriCorps host site, adding capacity for more community programs.
Developing the next generation of conservation minded people is far from Severson Dells’ only goal.
“It’s important to us that guests who participate in programs have a greater understanding of the role the environment plays in our lives and the ecosystem,” Wasser said. “On student field trips, we engage them in the process of doing science so they flex those mental muscles that ultimately help them be better critical thinkers. It’s important to build and practice these skills to be engaged and informed citizens.”
In addition to their Montague Road location on the southwest side of town, Severson Dells recently purchased 168 acres of Elliot Golf Course from the Rockford Park District.
“These two locations will allow us to be more accessible to a greater number of people, and, in turn, educate more people about the importance of natural habitats in rural and urban environments,” Wasser said.
Wasser credits the success of Severson Dells to a number of factors, including support from the business community, strong partnerships, a generous donor base, a dedicated staff and board, and enthusiastic volunteers.
“The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce and the local business community have been so generous to the nature center over the years,” Wasser said. “They encourage their employees to serve on our board of directors, they volunteer on service days, and they financially support the organization. We are grateful for their partnership in delivering high quality nature and science education to our community.”