There is a natural treasure just minutes from downtown Asheville that is an important resource not only for school children in our region, but for scientists across the nation. The Western North Carolina Nature Center provides educational opportunities for 30,000 school children each year. Of the total 100,000 annual visitors, some are scientists who are learning from the center's Red Wolf re-introduction program. This program is one of only 28 facilities in the country and the Nature Center has made significant progress in raising litters of wolf pups. The Plone website has photo galleries and frequently asked questions that are answered by Professor Hoot and Ollie Otter which engages children's interest in the Center long after they have visited. The Friends of the Nature Center sells memberships online and you can 'Adopt an Animal' or 'Buy a Brick' to help fund the continued development of the facilities.