Work > Environmental Learning Center

Founded in 1985 by Carmen Sylva Mathews, actress, the New Pond Farm Education Center educates people of all ages to appreciate and understand the natural world. Each year countless school children and inner-city campers are exposed to freshwater ecology, bee keeping, maple sugaring and the natural rhythms of a working farm. The farm manages livestock, pastures, gardens, free-range chickens, cows and sheep. Through its programs and Shared Harvest initiative, New Pond has inspired a new generation of stewards to care for the land. Click here to learn more about the New Pond Farm Education Center.

The Learning Center consists of meeting spaces and classrooms to support the mission of New Pond Farm as well as Native American artifact storage and display, bunk rooms, food prep and living space for resident children during programs, animal rescue and housing space, offices and support facilities.

The building is set into the hillside overlooking the property. The rear of the building forms a small amphitheater for outdoor performances. Natural materials were used throughout, including posts and beams from a 150 year old barn.

Leonard Wyeth AIA and Samuel Callaway AIA, Wyeth Architects llc. Photos By Olson Photographic llc.