PEEC Executive Director Jillian Rubio cuddles a small goat at a Summer Family Evening in 2024. Courtesy/PEEC
Long-standing PEEC supporter Enterprise Bank & Trust includes among its sponsorship the recent PEEC summer camp, Valley Voyagers. Courtesy/PEEC
By CAROL A. CLARK
Los Alamos Daily Post
caclark@ladaily post.com
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Los Alamos Nature Center is marking its 10th anniversary year, expressing gratitude for the generous support received from the local community and businesses. PEEC (Pajarito Environmental Education Center) has been a cornerstone of the community for more than 25 years and operates the Los Alamos Nature Center.
Los Alamos County awarded PEEC the contract to operate the new facility, which opened on Earth Day, April 22, 2015. Since then, PEEC has welcomed people from around the country and the globe to explore the nature center and discover nature in Northern New Mexico.
Equipped with a full-dome planetarium, wildlife observation room, indoor and outdoor play areas, and interactive indoor and outdoor exhibits, the Los Alamos Nature Center is a great place to orient to the region and enjoy the breathtaking views of canyons, mesas, mountains, and skies. The nature center serves 40,000 adults and children per year at the nature center and through public programs such as talks, hikes, outings, and classes; school lessons and field trips; and the state-of-the-art planetarium.
PEEC’s stated mission is to enrich people’s lives by strengthening their connections to our canyons, mesas, mountains, and skies.
“PEEC has been deeply rooted in this community for over 25 years,” Executive Director Jillian Rubio said. “We’re here because of the incredible generosity of local supporters, from individuals to long-time sponsors like Enterprise Bank & Trust.”
Los Alamos Market President Liddie Martinez spoke about the bank’s long history of supporting PEEC.
“PEEC has been Enterprise Bank’s environmental educational partner since its inception. We are so proud to have helped provide engaging opportunities for our kids in Los Alamos for so long,” Martinez said. “We are also proud of our recent investment in the development and expansion of the Valley Voyager’s program. Thanks to the board and staff at PEEC for recognizing the need in Española and stepping up to serve our kids in the valley as well.”
For 25 years, PEEC has grown with the support of a community that values education, nature, and connection, Rubio said, adding that every visitor to the nature center, every child who attends camp, and everyone who believes in PEEC’s mission … it all adds up to something powerful.
“PEEC wouldn’t be what it is today without 25 years of incredible support from this community,” Rubio said. “From generous sponsors to dedicated volunteers and loyal visitors, the people of Los Alamos have truly helped shape who we are today.”
PEEC hosts a wide variety of programs throughout the year, from expert-led talks and planetarium shows to guided wildflower and butterfly walks. For those new to outdoor adventures or seeking community, weekly group hikes provide a safe and welcoming way to explore. Special summer events, such as Summer Family Evening and Bear Fest, bring families and nature lovers together in celebration of our region’s biodiversity.
The Los Alamos Nature Center is an award-winning building at 2600 Canyon Road.
“The Los Alamos Nature Center is more than a building, it’s a launchpad for curiosity. Whether it’s your first time exploring the Pajarito Plateau or your hundredth, we want to help people connect with nature in hands-on, meaningful ways,” Rubio said. “Our longevity and success are thanks to the generosity and engagement of our community, dedicated sponsors, and collaborative partners.”
Rubio’s staff includes Director of Programs Kristen O’Hara, Visitor Services Manager Nicole, Marketing & Communications Manager Casey Lundberg, Operations Manager Beth Cortright, Gift Shop & Programs Coordinator Ashleigh Lusher, Lead Educator and Curriculum Designer Beth Sanchez, Early Childhood Educator Izza Bello, and Environmental Educator Sarah VanHoosier.
“We know that spending time outdoors improves well-being and strengthens community. That’s why our programming, from expert-led walks to family events, is designed to be accessible, educational, and inspiring,” Rubio said. “This summer, something is happening every week, whether you’re interested in birding at dawn, tracking wildlife, or enjoying a quiet walk with our Happy Ramblers.”
PEEC Board members include President Bonnie Klamm, Board Treasurer Robin Gurule, Board Secretary Janet Griego, Board Member Ed Santiago, Board Member Kristen Dors, Board Member Galen Gisler and Board Member Nan Sauer.
PEEC’s stated mission is to enrich people’s lives by strengthening their connections to our canyons, mesas, mountains, and skies.
To learn more, call 505.662.0460 or visit https://peecnature.org/.
Scene from PEEC summer camp, Valley Voyagers sponsored by Enterprise Bank & Trust. Courtesy/PEEC
Aerial view of the Los Alamos Nature Center, an award-winning building at 2600 Canyon Road, operated by the Pajarito Environmental Education Center (PEEC). Courtesy/PEEC