Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute

Nature Center/Gardens/Public Outreach Program: CDRI operates from a 507 acre site named the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center & Botanical Gardens. The Nature Center contains a wide range of features including: i) a 20 acre botanical and pollinator garden, ii) a cactus house, iii) over 5 miles of trails including a canyon with a year round spring and pools and an overlook trail featuring one of three geologic exhibits at the Nature Center, iv) a mining exhibit, v) a visitor center with a well merchandised gift shop and vi) a bird blind with a year round water feature. CDRI offers annual memberships of varying levels and benefits to nearly 450 members and hosts over 14,000 visitors annually to its site. CDRI employs three full time personnel: the Executive Director, Events Coordinator and gardener, and 2-3 part time personnel, depending on seasonal demands. CDRI also utilizes the help of volunteer Host Campers throughout the year. Consistent with its mission, CDRI offers educational programs for Grades Pre-K through 8th, all free to Region 18 students, in addition to adult workshops and the Conant Lecture program (2x annually), also free of admission fees. There are 2 fundraiser events each year: The Cactus & Succulent Sale and the Cookout & Auction, with the Cookout/Auction being the principal fundraiser.

Education Program: CDRI has three major mission tenets: i)visitor experience, ii)education and iii) the support of research. The educational focus centers on programs for school aged children in a served market of schools within an approximate distance of 100 or so miles from the Nature Center. CDRI hosts two spring programs for area 1st-3rd , a summer day camp for Pre-K through 8th grades, and two fall programs for area 4th & 5th graders. All programs are designed to comply with TX Essential Knowledge & Skills (TEKS) tests. In addition to the site-based student programs, throughout the year the Nature Center hosts schools from across the State who visit for guided hikes and tours focusing on Chihuahuan Desert plants, geology, anthropology and animals from this unique biome. These costs include payroll for the personnel who design and coordinate these programs, and include other education program related costs. Additionally, CDRI funds, subject to eligible applicants, one or two $1000 scholarships to graduate students attending Texas colleges, and is continuing its 8 week summer college internship program begun in 2023.