Willow London believes that having access to the outdoors is an irrefutable perk to living in the Pacific Northwest. The Moscow native pointed out that nature is just a drive away from town. Mountains, forests, reservoirs and rivers can be found by heading in any direction and there are options much closer to home than many may realize.
The Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute works to engage people with the environment. It manages two sites on the Palouse that London said bring nature closer to the community. London, community engagement coordinator for the institute, said what’s neat about the Palouse Nature Center is that it’s conveniently located in Moscow.
Found at 1040 Rodeo Drive, the 26.2-acre property is available from dawn to dusk seven days a week for anyone looking to get outdoors. It features a nursery, orchard, greenhouse and plenty of community spaces, she said.
Offices and buildings are found at the center of the property, while fields and ponds extend outward. In the main area, London said people can enjoy a reservable pavilion, greenhouse and artist studio. The greenhouse is a versatile place, she said, that can be used to host events and also grow plants.
The studio is a timber-framed building which she said is built without nails but lumber that fits together. Two of the structures have living roofs with gardens on top, London added. Nature trails wind throughout the premises and will lead people to an orchard where they can pick fruit at no char.