The Friends of the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge was established in 1974 as a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization to help protect, conserve, and provide financial support for this urban wilderness of wetlands, forests, and prairies. The Friends organize a variety of annual fundraising events, host an on-site gift shop, and offer Nature Center memberships. Thanks to contributions, funding has been provided for major capital improvement projects, establishment of research-based education programs, purchase and care of the Nature Center’s bison herd and other ambassador animals, and acquisition of conservation equipment. At more than 3,600 acres, the Fort Worth Nature Center is one of the largest urban nature parks in the country, welcoming more than 60,000 visitors a year. It is an incredibly unique resource for the North Texas community in its primary focus areas of conservation, education, and recreation.