789 Myrick Park Dr.
La Crosse, Wisconsin 54601
(608) 784-0303
info@mhecopark.org
History
The Myrick Hixon EcoPark project is a collaborative effort involving the former Hixon Forest Nature Center, seven area Rotary clubs, and the City of La Crosse. The EcoPark celebrates and continues a legacy of over 100 years of environmental protection and awareness.
History of Hixon Forest
In 1909, a group of citizens led by Mrs. Gideon Hixon (Ellen) purchased the north and west slopes of Grandad Bluff, saving the bluff from destruction. In 1912, the land was donated to the City of La Crosse for the purpose of a park and became known as Hixon Forest. Over the years, a trail system slowly developed and in 1988, the River to Bluff Trail opened making it possible to hike from the Mississippi River to the top of the bluffs without crossing a city street.
The Hixon Forest Nature Center, a non-profit organization opened in 1983 to protect the forest and other natural areas and provide environmental education programs.
History of Myrick Park Zoo
The Myrick Park Zoo started with the construction of “Monkey Island” in 1928 as a gift from veterans of World War I. Both exotic and indigenous animal exhibits were added over the years, making the zoo a favorite family destination. However, due to serious budget cuts and degraded facilities for the animals, the City of La Crosse closed the zoo in 2007.
The EcoPark is Born
In 2007, seven area Rotary Clubs, the City of La Crosse and the Hixon Forest Nature Center came together to transform the old Myrick Park Zoo site into an innovative, dynamic destination attraction focused on environmental awareness and nature education. In 2009, enough funds were raised to open the new EcoPark Center, which features publicly available meeting and event facilities, the beautiful atrium and Nature Nook, the Gift Shop, the Discovery Room classroom and will soon house a library.
In 2010, many achievements were made, including the following:
- Over 6,000 children educated (125,000 since 1983)
- Over 200 local organizations and business utilizing the facility
- Over 15,000 visitors
- More than 15 conferences and events held
- Over 2,000 hours of trail maintenance organized
A New Beginning
In September 2010, the masterplan for the new outdoor adventure playscapes was finished. The EcoPark is currently conducting a business and implementation plan, finishing construction of the EcoPark Center and raising funds for the completion of the playscapes.