CharlesGoodgame,Student DepartmentofLandscapeArchitecture, FayJonesSchoolofArchitecture+Design, UniversityofArkansas

The JB and Johnelle Hunt Family Nature Center, ran by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, is an establishment that is not only trying to restore Bobwhite quail habitat through the integration of prairie land, but to restore the connection between people and ecology. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's mission is to conserve and enhance Arkansas's fish and wildlife and their habitats while promoting sustainable use, public understanding, and support. Re-Connection, located in Springdale, AR, seeks to enhance the creek habitat, restore prairie habitat, and establish a place for Hispanic community members in Northwest Arkansas.

Through the analysis phase, looking to the extent of the watershed the Nature Center resides in, it proved a challenging task migrating the bobwhite quail to the site due to the disappearance of their preferred habitat; grasslands and agricultural land. The proposed design dissects prairie land to understand how the ecosystem functions. With the addition of creek restoration, this will provide another form of wildlife habitat.

Group discussions with the Hispanic/Latinx community brought to light some of the social issues that resided. The Hispanic community does not understand the role of the AGFC and believes that the nature center’s building is cold, and unwelcoming. Revitalizing the front of the building with community artwork and interactive built works are some ways that will make the site feel welcoming Food is an important part of Hispanic culture Implementing a community garden is a great way to establish a sense of re-connection to the wildlife

RE-CONNECTION: JB AND JOHNELLE HUNT FAMILY NATURE CENTER

Springdale, Arkansas

Parks, Recreation & Open Space Design: Student - MERIT AWARD