OUR MISSION
BRDC inspires curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge.
OUR VISION
We envision a world with deep appreciation and understanding of place.
BRDC provides opportunities for people to discover the wonders in their backyards, parks, forests, fields, rivers and mountains.
BRDC fosters a community-based interest in sharing biodiversity with others through guided education activities.
BRDC brings the principles of ecology, sustainability, and discovery to the next level through collaborations with various educational and established outdoor institutions.
OUR APPROACH
The Blue Ridge Discovery Center (BRDC) is pioneering a dynamic approach to ecological awareness and outdoor education that promotes healthy outdoor activities while fostering a sustainable and thriving economy rooted in the Blue Ridge region's extraordinary natural resources. Through an extensive grassroots network and strong regional partnerships, BRDC has developed a wide array of programs in collaboration with local school systems, public agencies, and other non-profits. These programs focus on natural history exploration, environmental education, research, and community service.
Since its founding in 2008, BRDC has earned a reputation for innovation in creating programs that cater to a variety of outdoor interests. Engaging all age groups, from children to adults, including professional researchers and amateur naturalists, BRDC taps into the wealth of local knowledge to showcase the diverse flora, fauna, geology, and habitats that define the unique Blue Ridge ecosystem. The center’s mission is guided by a commitment to education, community service, and enhancing public appreciation for the natural wonders of the Blue Ridge region.