What
is the Pfeiffer Nature Center
The
Pfeiffer Nature Center was founded in 1998 through
a bequest from Wendy Pfeiffer
Lawrence. The Pfeiffer Nature Center
is a non-profit, tax exempt organization with the
purpose of building a foundation of knowledge, understanding,
and appreciation for the intrinsic value and aesthetic
qualities of our natural world.
Located
near Portville and Olean,
New York, the Center promotes responsibility and
stewardship for nature within the local and the global
community through a variety of programs.
A
variety of ecotypes are found on the property, including coniferous, oak, and
mixed deciduous forests. The 188
acres includes an 85 acre old-growth remnant with large specimens of Eastern
Hemlock, White Pine, American Beech, and Red Oak.
The center offers approximately
9 miles of trails, spectacular views and
educational programs for visitors of all ages.
In 2003, thanks to the generosity of local resident, Col. Charles Eshelman, the Center received an additional 430 acre land donation which is situated on Yubadam Road, Portville. Approximately 200 acres are forested, 100 are open fields, and another 130 acres are transition areas. Additionally, the new property includes an excellent example of a shrub wetland, a portion of Dodge Creek, Coon Branch creek—a perennial tributary of Dodge Creek, a number of wetland areas, and an active sugar-bush.
As of fall 2005, three miles of foot trails have been created and are now open to the public (mid-December through Mid October, only. NOTE: closed Oct 15-Dec 15 due to big-game hunting by permit). Several research projects have already been completed there, to include important stream health assessments by St. Bonaventure University students, and an exciting Common Yellowthroat study conducted by Katrina Pagenkopp, in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institute. Area bird enthusiasts, including several from the Cattaraugus County Bird Club, have begun to compile a bird-sighting list for this property CLICK HERE FOR BIRD CHECKLIST .
The Pfeiffer Board of Directors is in the process of creating a master plan for this property's integration into the Nature Center's educational programming, research, and recreational activities. Watch for updates in the near future!
Photos by Jeff McMullen
As of fall 2005, three miles of foot trails have been created and are now open to the public (mid-December through Mid October, only. NOTE: closed Oct 15-Dec 15 due to big-game hunting by permit). Several research projects have already been completed there, to include important stream health assessments by St. Bonaventure University students, and an exciting Common Yellowthroat study conducted by Katrina Pagenkopp, in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institute. Area bird enthusiasts, including several from the Cattaraugus County Bird Club, have begun to compile a bird-sighting list for this property CLICK HERE FOR BIRD CHECKLIST .
The Pfeiffer Board of Directors is in the process of creating a master plan for this property's integration into the Nature Center's educational programming, research, and recreational activities. Watch for updates in the near future!
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