Mission & Vision
Conservation through Research & Education
The Nature Foundation at Wintergreen (TNFW) was founded in 1993 by Wintergreen community members to conserve an environment still blessed with much of its original forest floor ecosystem. The founders understood that effective and enduring conservation could best be achieved through an organization led by scientists and devoted to meticulous habitat preservation and management.
Mission
TNFW fosters an understanding and appreciation of the natural and cultural heritage of the Central Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and our community through conservation, research and education.
Vision
TNFW is a nationally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to preserving Wintergreen’s and the region’s environmental legacy for present and future generations. TNFW seeks to exemplify environmental stewardship by promoting a deeper understanding of nature through research and a stronger community commitment to conservation through education.
Program Overview
TNFW believes that offering broad-based environmental education programs coupled with robust scientific research are vital for successful conservation efforts. This legacy continues to inspire everything TNFW does, from the programs we offer to our service to our area communities.
Conservation
TNFW conserves 6000 acres of open space and mountain forests located along the spine of one of the narrowest points of the Blue Ridge. The surrounding mountain ecosystem includes some of the most unique and diverse plant communities on the planet and is home to abundantly diverse wildlife, billions-year old geologic formations and archaeological sites and artifacts left by Native Americans thousands of years ago.
Education
TNFW offers a wide range of education programs helping participants appreciate the area’s natural and cultural heritage. Thanks to generous contributions from area foundations and TNFW members, our school-focused programs reach pre-K through 12th grade students across Nelson and surrounding counties through site-based learning opportunities at TNFW and through in-school visits by TNFW naturalists. Life-long learners of all ages can access a variety of programs and educational experiences including naturalist-led hikes, environmentally themed lectures, field trips, and workshops that promote enjoyment and understanding of the Blue Ridge’s unique ecosystem.
Research
Together with Virginia universities, the Smithsonian Institution, and environmental organizations, TNFW supports research that informs best practices for managing Wintergreen’s ecosystem and contributes more broadly to the scientific community’s body of knowledge. Additionally, much of this research is used in education programs TNFW offers to local school students and adults.
TNFW strives to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where all individuals can explore, learn, and appreciate the beauty and significance of our natural surroundings. Through education, conservation, and community engagement, we aim to inspire a diverse range of people to become stewards of the environment, promoting the preservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of our natural resources for generations to come.
TNFW is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in its programs or hiring practices. We welcome program participants and employee applicants from traditionally underserved communities. We accept membership and support from all who share our interest in preserving this Blue Ridge legacy.