Ballard Nature Center

Mission Statement The mission of the Ballard Nature Center is to provide high quality environmental education to students, educators, organizations, and individuals through visitor interpretation, educational displays, natural community restoration and management. Environmental education will emphasize the importance of natural communities and their associated ecosystems, especially those communities typically found in southeastern Illinois.

The history of the Ballard Nature Center originates with the nature center's namesake Mr. Ernest "Ernie" Ballard. Ernie Ballard had a dream of creating a nature center for everyone to enjoy and learn about nature. His 210 acre parcel of land east of Altamont, Illinois became the site of what is now the Ballard Nature Center. Originally, the site was deeded to the Effingham County Soil & Water Conservation District. The District realized the nature center would be better served with an independent 501 (C) 3 board of directors and subsequently deeded the property to a newly formed board. On August 19, 1999, The Ballard Nature Center board was chartered as a 501 (C) 3 non-profit organization. The Ballard Nature Center Board was better equipped to pursue and secure grants and develop and manage the site as a "Nature Center". In this very short time, The Ballard Nature Center has developed into a fully functional nature education site with a visitor center, staff, programs, activities, and numerous miles of trails.

Volunteers are a vital part of the nature center’s operations. The Ballard Nature Center continues to grow and provides quality environmental nature education experiences and invites visitors to explore the natural world around them.

With approximately 6 miles of hiking trails, a kids’ fishing pond and two pavilions, Ballard Nature Center provides a place for the community to enjoy nature. We offer programs for kids, adults, families, schools, and organizations throughout the year.