Lower Shore Conservation and Heritage Center opens

SNOW HILL, Md. – After years of planning, environmental advocates in Snow Hill celebrated the grand opening of the Lower Shore Conservation and Heritage Center.

“This is a part office, part nature center, part museum essentially,” said Josh Hastings, deputy director at the Lower Shore Land Trust.

This new space showcases artifacts and photographs that represent the rich natural and cultural history of the Lower Eastern Shore.

Members of the Lower Shore Land Trust say their goal is to promote land conservation.

“We want to have resources here that people can learn about how they can protect their land or how they can grow different kinds of native plants or increase pollinator habitats,” said Hastings.

This new center also has a garden, offering people a chance to learn more about the environment and what steps they can take to protect it.

Snow Hill Mayor Gary Weber says the center also offers a chance to bring more foot traffic to the small town and support small businesses.

“It’s something that can grow into an attraction,” said Weber.

Kids who visit the center will have the chance to grab a backpack with different items like a magnifying glass to explore the nature around them and understand the importance of conservation efforts.

“Maybe they’ll get the bug, no pun intended,” said Weber, “But, maybe they’ll get involved and become advocates.”

Ultimately, advocates tell us they hope people will find new inspiration at the center to protect their natural environment so that it is still there for future generations to enjoy.

There are plans to expand the Lower Shore Conservation and Heritage Center.

According to members of the Lower Shore Land Trust, a butterfly house will be added in the future.