What to Expect at the New Walter B. Jacobs Nature Center

The brand spanking new Walter B. Jacobs Nature Center is complete. The doors will open to the public next month.

How The Walter B. Jacobs Nature Center Came to Be

Voters approved a $20 million dollar bond package in 2022 to do a major facelift at the Blanchard area park. The previous facility was built in 1975 and it was outdated and very small. The new complex is 6 times larger than the old complex. The 160 acre property was donated to the parish back in the 1970's for use as a nature park.

What Exhibits Will the Center Have

There will be an interactive alligator exhibit, a lightning tree, a 28 foot white oak tree in the building, a scent panel, a bird aviary and much more. They also have at least 4 snakes at the complex.

There is also a 400 seat event center. There are two classrooms and a lab and a 4,000 square feet exhibit hall.

What Are the Fees at the Walter B. Jacobs Nature Center

It used to be free to visit this complex, but that will change with the new facility. There will be an $8 fee for adults and $5 for children. The center will offer annual memberships for local families who plan to visit the park often.

Get our free mobile app

The park opens to the public January 17.

Teachers and other educators who want to book field trips to the facility will be able to do so after the park opens to the public. There will be food available at the site so these trips can also include lunch for the children.