Eustis, FL

Change City

---

• Back to Things to Do

Trout Lake Nature Center

520 E County Road 44

Eustis, FL 32736

Trout Lake Nature Center

352-357-7536

History

Trout Lake Nature Center History

The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha Valley Audubon Society (OVAS) members in 1985, the Center has become a thriving and vital place dedicated to environmental education and conservation.

1988

OVAS obtained land which had been part of the Haselton Dairy Farm during the 1960’s, from Jean Lenkerd and Tom Haselton. With the addition of donated land from the City of Eustis in the form of a conservation easement, Trout Lake Nature Center became a reality.

1989

A Long Range Development Plan was drawn up. The decision was made by OVAS to incorporate the venture as a 501[c]3 non-profit corporation called Trout Lake Nature Center, Inc. (TLNC).

1991

Title was transferred to TLNC, Inc. An architect drew up plans for a layout including an entrance roadway, parking area, building site and pond.

1993

Charles Newell Hall opened as a museum and community meeting place for education programs and special events.

1994

TLNC began offering school field trips. The response by the county schools was so enthusiastic that it soon became necessary to train volunteers as docents to guide children through TLNC.

1997

It soon became apparent a larger meeting space was needed and both TLNC and OVAS committed to the effort to build the present Environmental Education Center. Fundraising ensued to match the grant of a total of $60,000, available over a four year period, from Lake County Parks and Recreation Department. The grant was one of the capital improvements funded from the county’s extra penny sales tax. More and more, Lake County schools realized the value of TLNC’s student programs and, once again, TLNC responded. Fred Michels, president, enlisted donations and raised the matching funds and a building construction committee was created and chaired by Walt Gunkel, the new building was completed in 1997. Further fundraising and volunteer work completed and furnished the interior.

1999

Newell Hall had become the Newell Hall and Museum and another grant of $10,000 was obtained to further develop the museum’s collection of mounted wildlife specimens native to central Florida. To accommodate the needs of the Lake County schools, a curriculum was written by a team of teachers for the TLNC school field trip program. The curriculum matched the Sunshine State Standards and TLNC’s instructors began using it in the fall of 1999. Since then, the curriculum has been updated on an annual basis to remain current with the Lake County schools.

2000

A TLNC committee chaired by Bernie Yokel, drew up a Strategic Plan to keep on course and plan several years ahead.

2001

Until February 2001, everything at TLNC was done by volunteers. With funding for a part time Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator from the Lake County Water Authority, TLNC benefited from a professional staff person to guide the programs and volunteers.

2004

The Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator position expanded to a full-time post and two part-time positions were added an Administrative Volunteer Coordinator and an Outreach Volunteer Coordinator.

2005

When the economic recession hit in 2005, plans were terminated for a new Museum Building to replace the existing double wide trailer known as the Charles Newell Hall and Museum. This took place after architects, land planners, numerous committees, professional fund raisers were put to work under the guidance of Ron Macfarlane and president, Dr. Robert Hart.

2009

Under the leadership of Hugh Kent, president, a new Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors. The plan guides new programs and projects. Also, the Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator was upgraded to Administrative Director/ Naturalist.

2012

The Board of Directors adopted a long range Land Use Plan. This, along with the Strategic Plan, will be used to guide TLNC’s growth into the future. Current building plans are to establish a loop road providing additional parking and better access to the property. At the same time, TLNC will tap into the City of Eustis sewer system, eliminating the two above ground septic tanks currently in use.

2012

Former naturalist retired and first Executive Director was hired.

Membership in TLNC is encouraged. TLNC functions separately from OVAS with its own officers and board. OVAS members have access to the facilities for meetings and events. Many supporters maintain membership in both TLNC and OVAS.

Throughout its history, TLNC developed through the efforts of many individuals and organizations. OVAS members, more than any others, provided fundraising and volunteers. The property was fenced, an access road was engineered and built, and nature trails were created. The Center is open to visitors and offers guided walks led by volunteers. The Kiwanis Clubs in Lake County built the first building, the picnic pavilion.

Flag This Place

Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors.

AARP Events for Eustis

AARP Events for Eustis

• A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga

  Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. ET

  Zoom

  Online Event

• Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All

  Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. ET

  Zoom

  Online Event

• A Virtual Hatha Yoga Class for All

  Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. ET

  Zoom

  Online Event

View All AARP Events

Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal

• Immediate access to your member benefits
• Discounts on travel and everyday savings
• Subscription to AARP The Magazine
• FREE second membership

Join AARP

Already a member? Renew or Print Card

Facebook

Contact AARP
Florida

• FLAARP@aarp.org
• AARP Florida
• Contact Us

     

Return to top

Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]
Code Context
            <?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?>
            <?php if (!$nowrapper):  // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Trout Lake Nature Center</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>520 E County Road 44</div>
											<div>
							<span>Eustis</span>,
							<span>FL</span>
												<span>32736</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.troutlakenaturecenter.com/" target="_blank">Trout Lake Nature Center</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 352-357-7536</div>
				
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Trout+Lake+Nature+Center%2C+520+E+County+Road+44%2C+Eustis%2C+FL+32736" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>History</p>
<p>Trout Lake Nature Center History</p>
<p>The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha Valley Audubon Society (OVAS) members in 1985, the Center has become a thriving and vital place dedicated to environmental education and conservation.</p>
<p>1988</p>
<p>OVAS obtained land which had been part of the Haselton Dairy Farm during the 1960&rsquo;s, from Jean Lenkerd and Tom Haselton. With the addition of donated land from the City of Eustis in the form of a conservation easement, Trout Lake Nature Center became a reality.</p>
<p>1989</p>
<p>A Long Range Development Plan was drawn up. The decision was made by OVAS to incorporate the venture as a 501[c]3 non-profit corporation called Trout Lake Nature Center, Inc. (TLNC).</p>
<p>1991</p>
<p>Title was transferred to TLNC, Inc. An architect drew up plans for a layout including an entrance roadway, parking area, building site and pond.</p>
<p>1993</p>
<p>Charles Newell Hall opened as a museum and community meeting place for education programs and special events.</p>
<p>1994</p>
<p>TLNC began offering school field trips. The response by the county schools was so enthusiastic that it soon became necessary to train volunteers as docents to guide children through TLNC.</p>
<p>1997</p>
<p>It soon became apparent a larger meeting space was needed and both TLNC and OVAS committed to the effort to build the present Environmental Education Center. Fundraising ensued to match the grant of a total of $60,000, available over a four year period, from Lake County Parks and Recreation Department. The grant was one of the capital improvements funded from the county&rsquo;s extra penny sales tax. More and more, Lake County schools realized the value of TLNC&rsquo;s student programs and, once again, TLNC responded. Fred Michels, president, enlisted donations and raised the matching funds and a building construction committee was created and chaired by Walt Gunkel, the new building was completed in 1997. Further fundraising and volunteer work completed and furnished the interior.</p>
<p>1999</p>
<p>Newell Hall had become the Newell Hall and Museum and another grant of $10,000 was obtained to further develop the museum&rsquo;s collection of mounted wildlife specimens native to central Florida. To accommodate the needs of the Lake County schools, a curriculum was written by a team of teachers for the TLNC school field trip program. The curriculum matched the Sunshine State Standards and TLNC&rsquo;s instructors began using it in the fall of 1999. Since then, the curriculum has been updated on an annual basis to remain current with the Lake County schools.</p>
<p>2000</p>
<p>A TLNC committee chaired by Bernie Yokel, drew up a Strategic Plan to keep on course and plan several years ahead.</p>
<p>2001</p>
<p>Until February 2001, everything at TLNC was done by volunteers. With funding for a part time Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator from the Lake County Water Authority, TLNC benefited from a professional staff person to guide the programs and volunteers.</p>
<p>2004</p>
<p>The Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator position expanded to a full-time post and two part-time positions were added an Administrative Volunteer Coordinator and an Outreach Volunteer Coordinator.</p>
<p>2005</p>
<p>When the economic recession hit in 2005, plans were terminated for a new Museum Building to replace the existing double wide trailer known as the Charles Newell Hall and Museum. This took place after architects, land planners, numerous committees, professional fund raisers were put to work under the guidance of Ron Macfarlane and president, Dr. Robert Hart.</p>
<p>2009</p>
<p>Under the leadership of Hugh Kent, president, a new Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors. The plan guides new programs and projects. Also, the Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator was upgraded to Administrative Director/ Naturalist.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>The Board of Directors adopted a long range Land Use Plan. This, along with the Strategic Plan, will be used to guide TLNC&rsquo;s growth into the future. Current building plans are to establish a loop road providing additional parking and better access to the property. At the same time, TLNC will tap into the City of Eustis sewer system, eliminating the two above ground septic tanks currently in use.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>Former naturalist retired and first Executive Director was hired.</p>
<p>Membership in TLNC is encouraged. TLNC functions separately from OVAS with its own officers and board. OVAS members have access to the facilities for meetings and events. Many supporters maintain membership in both TLNC and OVAS.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Throughout its history, TLNC developed through the efforts of many individuals and organizations. OVAS members, more than any others, provided fundraising and volunteers. The property was fenced, an access road was engineered and built, and nature trails were created. The Center is open to visitors and offers guided walks led by volunteers. The Kiwanis Clubs in Lake County built the first building, the picnic pavilion.</p>
<p></p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/eustis-fl/report/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-co-virtual-hatha-yoga-with-teri-mullen-online-co-111-12132024-46n842qg24q.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-HATHA-YOGA-CLASS-FOR-ALL">A Virtual Hatha Yoga Class for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 11:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-EUSTIS-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha" name="description"/>
<meta content="Trout, Lake, Nature, Center, Eustis, FL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="28.872299"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-81.681396"/>
',
	'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Trout Lake Nature Center</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>520 E County Road 44</div>
											<div>
							<span>Eustis</span>,
							<span>FL</span>
												<span>32736</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.troutlakenaturecenter.com/" target="_blank">Trout Lake Nature Center</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 352-357-7536</div>
				
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Trout+Lake+Nature+Center%2C+520+E+County+Road+44%2C+Eustis%2C+FL+32736" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>History</p>
<p>Trout Lake Nature Center History</p>
<p>The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha Valley Audubon Society (OVAS) members in 1985, the Center has become a thriving and vital place dedicated to environmental education and conservation.</p>
<p>1988</p>
<p>OVAS obtained land which had been part of the Haselton Dairy Farm during the 1960&rsquo;s, from Jean Lenkerd and Tom Haselton. With the addition of donated land from the City of Eustis in the form of a conservation easement, Trout Lake Nature Center became a reality.</p>
<p>1989</p>
<p>A Long Range Development Plan was drawn up. The decision was made by OVAS to incorporate the venture as a 501[c]3 non-profit corporation called Trout Lake Nature Center, Inc. (TLNC).</p>
<p>1991</p>
<p>Title was transferred to TLNC, Inc. An architect drew up plans for a layout including an entrance roadway, parking area, building site and pond.</p>
<p>1993</p>
<p>Charles Newell Hall opened as a museum and community meeting place for education programs and special events.</p>
<p>1994</p>
<p>TLNC began offering school field trips. The response by the county schools was so enthusiastic that it soon became necessary to train volunteers as docents to guide children through TLNC.</p>
<p>1997</p>
<p>It soon became apparent a larger meeting space was needed and both TLNC and OVAS committed to the effort to build the present Environmental Education Center. Fundraising ensued to match the grant of a total of $60,000, available over a four year period, from Lake County Parks and Recreation Department. The grant was one of the capital improvements funded from the county&rsquo;s extra penny sales tax. More and more, Lake County schools realized the value of TLNC&rsquo;s student programs and, once again, TLNC responded. Fred Michels, president, enlisted donations and raised the matching funds and a building construction committee was created and chaired by Walt Gunkel, the new building was completed in 1997. Further fundraising and volunteer work completed and furnished the interior.</p>
<p>1999</p>
<p>Newell Hall had become the Newell Hall and Museum and another grant of $10,000 was obtained to further develop the museum&rsquo;s collection of mounted wildlife specimens native to central Florida. To accommodate the needs of the Lake County schools, a curriculum was written by a team of teachers for the TLNC school field trip program. The curriculum matched the Sunshine State Standards and TLNC&rsquo;s instructors began using it in the fall of 1999. Since then, the curriculum has been updated on an annual basis to remain current with the Lake County schools.</p>
<p>2000</p>
<p>A TLNC committee chaired by Bernie Yokel, drew up a Strategic Plan to keep on course and plan several years ahead.</p>
<p>2001</p>
<p>Until February 2001, everything at TLNC was done by volunteers. With funding for a part time Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator from the Lake County Water Authority, TLNC benefited from a professional staff person to guide the programs and volunteers.</p>
<p>2004</p>
<p>The Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator position expanded to a full-time post and two part-time positions were added an Administrative Volunteer Coordinator and an Outreach Volunteer Coordinator.</p>
<p>2005</p>
<p>When the economic recession hit in 2005, plans were terminated for a new Museum Building to replace the existing double wide trailer known as the Charles Newell Hall and Museum. This took place after architects, land planners, numerous committees, professional fund raisers were put to work under the guidance of Ron Macfarlane and president, Dr. Robert Hart.</p>
<p>2009</p>
<p>Under the leadership of Hugh Kent, president, a new Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors. The plan guides new programs and projects. Also, the Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator was upgraded to Administrative Director/ Naturalist.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>The Board of Directors adopted a long range Land Use Plan. This, along with the Strategic Plan, will be used to guide TLNC&rsquo;s growth into the future. Current building plans are to establish a loop road providing additional parking and better access to the property. At the same time, TLNC will tap into the City of Eustis sewer system, eliminating the two above ground septic tanks currently in use.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>Former naturalist retired and first Executive Director was hired.</p>
<p>Membership in TLNC is encouraged. TLNC functions separately from OVAS with its own officers and board. OVAS members have access to the facilities for meetings and events. Many supporters maintain membership in both TLNC and OVAS.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Throughout its history, TLNC developed through the efforts of many individuals and organizations. OVAS members, more than any others, provided fundraising and volunteers. The property was fenced, an access road was engineered and built, and nature trails were created. The Center is open to visitors and offers guided walks led by volunteers. The Kiwanis Clubs in Lake County built the first building, the picnic pavilion.</p>
<p></p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/eustis-fl/report/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-co-virtual-hatha-yoga-with-teri-mullen-online-co-111-12132024-46n842qg24q.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-HATHA-YOGA-CLASS-FOR-ALL">A Virtual Hatha Yoga Class for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 11:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-EUSTIS-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha" name="description"/>
<meta content="Trout, Lake, Nature, Center, Eustis, FL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="28.872299"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-81.681396"/>
'
$title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP'
$asset_version = '230831'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = ''
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/eustis-fl/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Eustis, FL</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/eustis-fl/things-to-do/">Places</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'Things to Do',
		'slug' => 'things-to-do'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to Things to Do',
	'slug' => 'things-to-do'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]
Code Context
            <?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?>
            <?php if (!$nowrapper):  // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Trout Lake Nature Center</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>520 E County Road 44</div>
											<div>
							<span>Eustis</span>,
							<span>FL</span>
												<span>32736</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.troutlakenaturecenter.com/" target="_blank">Trout Lake Nature Center</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 352-357-7536</div>
				
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Trout+Lake+Nature+Center%2C+520+E+County+Road+44%2C+Eustis%2C+FL+32736" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>History</p>
<p>Trout Lake Nature Center History</p>
<p>The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha Valley Audubon Society (OVAS) members in 1985, the Center has become a thriving and vital place dedicated to environmental education and conservation.</p>
<p>1988</p>
<p>OVAS obtained land which had been part of the Haselton Dairy Farm during the 1960&rsquo;s, from Jean Lenkerd and Tom Haselton. With the addition of donated land from the City of Eustis in the form of a conservation easement, Trout Lake Nature Center became a reality.</p>
<p>1989</p>
<p>A Long Range Development Plan was drawn up. The decision was made by OVAS to incorporate the venture as a 501[c]3 non-profit corporation called Trout Lake Nature Center, Inc. (TLNC).</p>
<p>1991</p>
<p>Title was transferred to TLNC, Inc. An architect drew up plans for a layout including an entrance roadway, parking area, building site and pond.</p>
<p>1993</p>
<p>Charles Newell Hall opened as a museum and community meeting place for education programs and special events.</p>
<p>1994</p>
<p>TLNC began offering school field trips. The response by the county schools was so enthusiastic that it soon became necessary to train volunteers as docents to guide children through TLNC.</p>
<p>1997</p>
<p>It soon became apparent a larger meeting space was needed and both TLNC and OVAS committed to the effort to build the present Environmental Education Center. Fundraising ensued to match the grant of a total of $60,000, available over a four year period, from Lake County Parks and Recreation Department. The grant was one of the capital improvements funded from the county&rsquo;s extra penny sales tax. More and more, Lake County schools realized the value of TLNC&rsquo;s student programs and, once again, TLNC responded. Fred Michels, president, enlisted donations and raised the matching funds and a building construction committee was created and chaired by Walt Gunkel, the new building was completed in 1997. Further fundraising and volunteer work completed and furnished the interior.</p>
<p>1999</p>
<p>Newell Hall had become the Newell Hall and Museum and another grant of $10,000 was obtained to further develop the museum&rsquo;s collection of mounted wildlife specimens native to central Florida. To accommodate the needs of the Lake County schools, a curriculum was written by a team of teachers for the TLNC school field trip program. The curriculum matched the Sunshine State Standards and TLNC&rsquo;s instructors began using it in the fall of 1999. Since then, the curriculum has been updated on an annual basis to remain current with the Lake County schools.</p>
<p>2000</p>
<p>A TLNC committee chaired by Bernie Yokel, drew up a Strategic Plan to keep on course and plan several years ahead.</p>
<p>2001</p>
<p>Until February 2001, everything at TLNC was done by volunteers. With funding for a part time Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator from the Lake County Water Authority, TLNC benefited from a professional staff person to guide the programs and volunteers.</p>
<p>2004</p>
<p>The Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator position expanded to a full-time post and two part-time positions were added an Administrative Volunteer Coordinator and an Outreach Volunteer Coordinator.</p>
<p>2005</p>
<p>When the economic recession hit in 2005, plans were terminated for a new Museum Building to replace the existing double wide trailer known as the Charles Newell Hall and Museum. This took place after architects, land planners, numerous committees, professional fund raisers were put to work under the guidance of Ron Macfarlane and president, Dr. Robert Hart.</p>
<p>2009</p>
<p>Under the leadership of Hugh Kent, president, a new Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors. The plan guides new programs and projects. Also, the Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator was upgraded to Administrative Director/ Naturalist.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>The Board of Directors adopted a long range Land Use Plan. This, along with the Strategic Plan, will be used to guide TLNC&rsquo;s growth into the future. Current building plans are to establish a loop road providing additional parking and better access to the property. At the same time, TLNC will tap into the City of Eustis sewer system, eliminating the two above ground septic tanks currently in use.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>Former naturalist retired and first Executive Director was hired.</p>
<p>Membership in TLNC is encouraged. TLNC functions separately from OVAS with its own officers and board. OVAS members have access to the facilities for meetings and events. Many supporters maintain membership in both TLNC and OVAS.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Throughout its history, TLNC developed through the efforts of many individuals and organizations. OVAS members, more than any others, provided fundraising and volunteers. The property was fenced, an access road was engineered and built, and nature trails were created. The Center is open to visitors and offers guided walks led by volunteers. The Kiwanis Clubs in Lake County built the first building, the picnic pavilion.</p>
<p></p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/eustis-fl/report/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-co-virtual-hatha-yoga-with-teri-mullen-online-co-111-12132024-46n842qg24q.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-HATHA-YOGA-CLASS-FOR-ALL">A Virtual Hatha Yoga Class for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 11:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-EUSTIS-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha" name="description"/>
<meta content="Trout, Lake, Nature, Center, Eustis, FL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="28.872299"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-81.681396"/>
',
	'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Trout Lake Nature Center</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>520 E County Road 44</div>
											<div>
							<span>Eustis</span>,
							<span>FL</span>
												<span>32736</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.troutlakenaturecenter.com/" target="_blank">Trout Lake Nature Center</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 352-357-7536</div>
				
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Trout+Lake+Nature+Center%2C+520+E+County+Road+44%2C+Eustis%2C+FL+32736" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>History</p>
<p>Trout Lake Nature Center History</p>
<p>The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha Valley Audubon Society (OVAS) members in 1985, the Center has become a thriving and vital place dedicated to environmental education and conservation.</p>
<p>1988</p>
<p>OVAS obtained land which had been part of the Haselton Dairy Farm during the 1960&rsquo;s, from Jean Lenkerd and Tom Haselton. With the addition of donated land from the City of Eustis in the form of a conservation easement, Trout Lake Nature Center became a reality.</p>
<p>1989</p>
<p>A Long Range Development Plan was drawn up. The decision was made by OVAS to incorporate the venture as a 501[c]3 non-profit corporation called Trout Lake Nature Center, Inc. (TLNC).</p>
<p>1991</p>
<p>Title was transferred to TLNC, Inc. An architect drew up plans for a layout including an entrance roadway, parking area, building site and pond.</p>
<p>1993</p>
<p>Charles Newell Hall opened as a museum and community meeting place for education programs and special events.</p>
<p>1994</p>
<p>TLNC began offering school field trips. The response by the county schools was so enthusiastic that it soon became necessary to train volunteers as docents to guide children through TLNC.</p>
<p>1997</p>
<p>It soon became apparent a larger meeting space was needed and both TLNC and OVAS committed to the effort to build the present Environmental Education Center. Fundraising ensued to match the grant of a total of $60,000, available over a four year period, from Lake County Parks and Recreation Department. The grant was one of the capital improvements funded from the county&rsquo;s extra penny sales tax. More and more, Lake County schools realized the value of TLNC&rsquo;s student programs and, once again, TLNC responded. Fred Michels, president, enlisted donations and raised the matching funds and a building construction committee was created and chaired by Walt Gunkel, the new building was completed in 1997. Further fundraising and volunteer work completed and furnished the interior.</p>
<p>1999</p>
<p>Newell Hall had become the Newell Hall and Museum and another grant of $10,000 was obtained to further develop the museum&rsquo;s collection of mounted wildlife specimens native to central Florida. To accommodate the needs of the Lake County schools, a curriculum was written by a team of teachers for the TLNC school field trip program. The curriculum matched the Sunshine State Standards and TLNC&rsquo;s instructors began using it in the fall of 1999. Since then, the curriculum has been updated on an annual basis to remain current with the Lake County schools.</p>
<p>2000</p>
<p>A TLNC committee chaired by Bernie Yokel, drew up a Strategic Plan to keep on course and plan several years ahead.</p>
<p>2001</p>
<p>Until February 2001, everything at TLNC was done by volunteers. With funding for a part time Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator from the Lake County Water Authority, TLNC benefited from a professional staff person to guide the programs and volunteers.</p>
<p>2004</p>
<p>The Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator position expanded to a full-time post and two part-time positions were added an Administrative Volunteer Coordinator and an Outreach Volunteer Coordinator.</p>
<p>2005</p>
<p>When the economic recession hit in 2005, plans were terminated for a new Museum Building to replace the existing double wide trailer known as the Charles Newell Hall and Museum. This took place after architects, land planners, numerous committees, professional fund raisers were put to work under the guidance of Ron Macfarlane and president, Dr. Robert Hart.</p>
<p>2009</p>
<p>Under the leadership of Hugh Kent, president, a new Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors. The plan guides new programs and projects. Also, the Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator was upgraded to Administrative Director/ Naturalist.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>The Board of Directors adopted a long range Land Use Plan. This, along with the Strategic Plan, will be used to guide TLNC&rsquo;s growth into the future. Current building plans are to establish a loop road providing additional parking and better access to the property. At the same time, TLNC will tap into the City of Eustis sewer system, eliminating the two above ground septic tanks currently in use.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>Former naturalist retired and first Executive Director was hired.</p>
<p>Membership in TLNC is encouraged. TLNC functions separately from OVAS with its own officers and board. OVAS members have access to the facilities for meetings and events. Many supporters maintain membership in both TLNC and OVAS.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Throughout its history, TLNC developed through the efforts of many individuals and organizations. OVAS members, more than any others, provided fundraising and volunteers. The property was fenced, an access road was engineered and built, and nature trails were created. The Center is open to visitors and offers guided walks led by volunteers. The Kiwanis Clubs in Lake County built the first building, the picnic pavilion.</p>
<p></p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/eustis-fl/report/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-co-virtual-hatha-yoga-with-teri-mullen-online-co-111-12132024-46n842qg24q.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-HATHA-YOGA-CLASS-FOR-ALL">A Virtual Hatha Yoga Class for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 11:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-EUSTIS-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha" name="description"/>
<meta content="Trout, Lake, Nature, Center, Eustis, FL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="28.872299"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-81.681396"/>
'
$title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP'
$asset_version = '230831'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = ''
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/eustis-fl/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Eustis, FL</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/eustis-fl/things-to-do/">Places</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'Things to Do',
		'slug' => 'things-to-do'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to Things to Do',
	'slug' => 'things-to-do'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]
Code Context
            <?php if (!$nowrapper):  // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Trout Lake Nature Center</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>520 E County Road 44</div>
											<div>
							<span>Eustis</span>,
							<span>FL</span>
												<span>32736</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.troutlakenaturecenter.com/" target="_blank">Trout Lake Nature Center</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 352-357-7536</div>
				
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Trout+Lake+Nature+Center%2C+520+E+County+Road+44%2C+Eustis%2C+FL+32736" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>History</p>
<p>Trout Lake Nature Center History</p>
<p>The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha Valley Audubon Society (OVAS) members in 1985, the Center has become a thriving and vital place dedicated to environmental education and conservation.</p>
<p>1988</p>
<p>OVAS obtained land which had been part of the Haselton Dairy Farm during the 1960&rsquo;s, from Jean Lenkerd and Tom Haselton. With the addition of donated land from the City of Eustis in the form of a conservation easement, Trout Lake Nature Center became a reality.</p>
<p>1989</p>
<p>A Long Range Development Plan was drawn up. The decision was made by OVAS to incorporate the venture as a 501[c]3 non-profit corporation called Trout Lake Nature Center, Inc. (TLNC).</p>
<p>1991</p>
<p>Title was transferred to TLNC, Inc. An architect drew up plans for a layout including an entrance roadway, parking area, building site and pond.</p>
<p>1993</p>
<p>Charles Newell Hall opened as a museum and community meeting place for education programs and special events.</p>
<p>1994</p>
<p>TLNC began offering school field trips. The response by the county schools was so enthusiastic that it soon became necessary to train volunteers as docents to guide children through TLNC.</p>
<p>1997</p>
<p>It soon became apparent a larger meeting space was needed and both TLNC and OVAS committed to the effort to build the present Environmental Education Center. Fundraising ensued to match the grant of a total of $60,000, available over a four year period, from Lake County Parks and Recreation Department. The grant was one of the capital improvements funded from the county&rsquo;s extra penny sales tax. More and more, Lake County schools realized the value of TLNC&rsquo;s student programs and, once again, TLNC responded. Fred Michels, president, enlisted donations and raised the matching funds and a building construction committee was created and chaired by Walt Gunkel, the new building was completed in 1997. Further fundraising and volunteer work completed and furnished the interior.</p>
<p>1999</p>
<p>Newell Hall had become the Newell Hall and Museum and another grant of $10,000 was obtained to further develop the museum&rsquo;s collection of mounted wildlife specimens native to central Florida. To accommodate the needs of the Lake County schools, a curriculum was written by a team of teachers for the TLNC school field trip program. The curriculum matched the Sunshine State Standards and TLNC&rsquo;s instructors began using it in the fall of 1999. Since then, the curriculum has been updated on an annual basis to remain current with the Lake County schools.</p>
<p>2000</p>
<p>A TLNC committee chaired by Bernie Yokel, drew up a Strategic Plan to keep on course and plan several years ahead.</p>
<p>2001</p>
<p>Until February 2001, everything at TLNC was done by volunteers. With funding for a part time Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator from the Lake County Water Authority, TLNC benefited from a professional staff person to guide the programs and volunteers.</p>
<p>2004</p>
<p>The Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator position expanded to a full-time post and two part-time positions were added an Administrative Volunteer Coordinator and an Outreach Volunteer Coordinator.</p>
<p>2005</p>
<p>When the economic recession hit in 2005, plans were terminated for a new Museum Building to replace the existing double wide trailer known as the Charles Newell Hall and Museum. This took place after architects, land planners, numerous committees, professional fund raisers were put to work under the guidance of Ron Macfarlane and president, Dr. Robert Hart.</p>
<p>2009</p>
<p>Under the leadership of Hugh Kent, president, a new Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors. The plan guides new programs and projects. Also, the Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator was upgraded to Administrative Director/ Naturalist.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>The Board of Directors adopted a long range Land Use Plan. This, along with the Strategic Plan, will be used to guide TLNC&rsquo;s growth into the future. Current building plans are to establish a loop road providing additional parking and better access to the property. At the same time, TLNC will tap into the City of Eustis sewer system, eliminating the two above ground septic tanks currently in use.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>Former naturalist retired and first Executive Director was hired.</p>
<p>Membership in TLNC is encouraged. TLNC functions separately from OVAS with its own officers and board. OVAS members have access to the facilities for meetings and events. Many supporters maintain membership in both TLNC and OVAS.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Throughout its history, TLNC developed through the efforts of many individuals and organizations. OVAS members, more than any others, provided fundraising and volunteers. The property was fenced, an access road was engineered and built, and nature trails were created. The Center is open to visitors and offers guided walks led by volunteers. The Kiwanis Clubs in Lake County built the first building, the picnic pavilion.</p>
<p></p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/eustis-fl/report/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-co-virtual-hatha-yoga-with-teri-mullen-online-co-111-12132024-46n842qg24q.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-HATHA-YOGA-CLASS-FOR-ALL">A Virtual Hatha Yoga Class for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 11:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-EUSTIS-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha" name="description"/>
<meta content="Trout, Lake, Nature, Center, Eustis, FL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="28.872299"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-81.681396"/>
',
	'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Trout Lake Nature Center</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>520 E County Road 44</div>
											<div>
							<span>Eustis</span>,
							<span>FL</span>
												<span>32736</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.troutlakenaturecenter.com/" target="_blank">Trout Lake Nature Center</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 352-357-7536</div>
				
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Trout+Lake+Nature+Center%2C+520+E+County+Road+44%2C+Eustis%2C+FL+32736" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>History</p>
<p>Trout Lake Nature Center History</p>
<p>The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha Valley Audubon Society (OVAS) members in 1985, the Center has become a thriving and vital place dedicated to environmental education and conservation.</p>
<p>1988</p>
<p>OVAS obtained land which had been part of the Haselton Dairy Farm during the 1960&rsquo;s, from Jean Lenkerd and Tom Haselton. With the addition of donated land from the City of Eustis in the form of a conservation easement, Trout Lake Nature Center became a reality.</p>
<p>1989</p>
<p>A Long Range Development Plan was drawn up. The decision was made by OVAS to incorporate the venture as a 501[c]3 non-profit corporation called Trout Lake Nature Center, Inc. (TLNC).</p>
<p>1991</p>
<p>Title was transferred to TLNC, Inc. An architect drew up plans for a layout including an entrance roadway, parking area, building site and pond.</p>
<p>1993</p>
<p>Charles Newell Hall opened as a museum and community meeting place for education programs and special events.</p>
<p>1994</p>
<p>TLNC began offering school field trips. The response by the county schools was so enthusiastic that it soon became necessary to train volunteers as docents to guide children through TLNC.</p>
<p>1997</p>
<p>It soon became apparent a larger meeting space was needed and both TLNC and OVAS committed to the effort to build the present Environmental Education Center. Fundraising ensued to match the grant of a total of $60,000, available over a four year period, from Lake County Parks and Recreation Department. The grant was one of the capital improvements funded from the county&rsquo;s extra penny sales tax. More and more, Lake County schools realized the value of TLNC&rsquo;s student programs and, once again, TLNC responded. Fred Michels, president, enlisted donations and raised the matching funds and a building construction committee was created and chaired by Walt Gunkel, the new building was completed in 1997. Further fundraising and volunteer work completed and furnished the interior.</p>
<p>1999</p>
<p>Newell Hall had become the Newell Hall and Museum and another grant of $10,000 was obtained to further develop the museum&rsquo;s collection of mounted wildlife specimens native to central Florida. To accommodate the needs of the Lake County schools, a curriculum was written by a team of teachers for the TLNC school field trip program. The curriculum matched the Sunshine State Standards and TLNC&rsquo;s instructors began using it in the fall of 1999. Since then, the curriculum has been updated on an annual basis to remain current with the Lake County schools.</p>
<p>2000</p>
<p>A TLNC committee chaired by Bernie Yokel, drew up a Strategic Plan to keep on course and plan several years ahead.</p>
<p>2001</p>
<p>Until February 2001, everything at TLNC was done by volunteers. With funding for a part time Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator from the Lake County Water Authority, TLNC benefited from a professional staff person to guide the programs and volunteers.</p>
<p>2004</p>
<p>The Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator position expanded to a full-time post and two part-time positions were added an Administrative Volunteer Coordinator and an Outreach Volunteer Coordinator.</p>
<p>2005</p>
<p>When the economic recession hit in 2005, plans were terminated for a new Museum Building to replace the existing double wide trailer known as the Charles Newell Hall and Museum. This took place after architects, land planners, numerous committees, professional fund raisers were put to work under the guidance of Ron Macfarlane and president, Dr. Robert Hart.</p>
<p>2009</p>
<p>Under the leadership of Hugh Kent, president, a new Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors. The plan guides new programs and projects. Also, the Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator was upgraded to Administrative Director/ Naturalist.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>The Board of Directors adopted a long range Land Use Plan. This, along with the Strategic Plan, will be used to guide TLNC&rsquo;s growth into the future. Current building plans are to establish a loop road providing additional parking and better access to the property. At the same time, TLNC will tap into the City of Eustis sewer system, eliminating the two above ground septic tanks currently in use.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>Former naturalist retired and first Executive Director was hired.</p>
<p>Membership in TLNC is encouraged. TLNC functions separately from OVAS with its own officers and board. OVAS members have access to the facilities for meetings and events. Many supporters maintain membership in both TLNC and OVAS.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Throughout its history, TLNC developed through the efforts of many individuals and organizations. OVAS members, more than any others, provided fundraising and volunteers. The property was fenced, an access road was engineered and built, and nature trails were created. The Center is open to visitors and offers guided walks led by volunteers. The Kiwanis Clubs in Lake County built the first building, the picnic pavilion.</p>
<p></p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/eustis-fl/report/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-co-virtual-hatha-yoga-with-teri-mullen-online-co-111-12132024-46n842qg24q.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-HATHA-YOGA-CLASS-FOR-ALL">A Virtual Hatha Yoga Class for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 11:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-EUSTIS-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha" name="description"/>
<meta content="Trout, Lake, Nature, Center, Eustis, FL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="28.872299"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-81.681396"/>
'
$title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP'
$asset_version = '230831'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = ''
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/eustis-fl/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Eustis, FL</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/eustis-fl/things-to-do/">Places</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'Things to Do',
		'slug' => 'things-to-do'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to Things to Do',
	'slug' => 'things-to-do'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]
Code Context
            <?php if (!$nowrapper):  // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Trout Lake Nature Center</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>520 E County Road 44</div>
											<div>
							<span>Eustis</span>,
							<span>FL</span>
												<span>32736</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.troutlakenaturecenter.com/" target="_blank">Trout Lake Nature Center</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 352-357-7536</div>
				
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Trout+Lake+Nature+Center%2C+520+E+County+Road+44%2C+Eustis%2C+FL+32736" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>History</p>
<p>Trout Lake Nature Center History</p>
<p>The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha Valley Audubon Society (OVAS) members in 1985, the Center has become a thriving and vital place dedicated to environmental education and conservation.</p>
<p>1988</p>
<p>OVAS obtained land which had been part of the Haselton Dairy Farm during the 1960&rsquo;s, from Jean Lenkerd and Tom Haselton. With the addition of donated land from the City of Eustis in the form of a conservation easement, Trout Lake Nature Center became a reality.</p>
<p>1989</p>
<p>A Long Range Development Plan was drawn up. The decision was made by OVAS to incorporate the venture as a 501[c]3 non-profit corporation called Trout Lake Nature Center, Inc. (TLNC).</p>
<p>1991</p>
<p>Title was transferred to TLNC, Inc. An architect drew up plans for a layout including an entrance roadway, parking area, building site and pond.</p>
<p>1993</p>
<p>Charles Newell Hall opened as a museum and community meeting place for education programs and special events.</p>
<p>1994</p>
<p>TLNC began offering school field trips. The response by the county schools was so enthusiastic that it soon became necessary to train volunteers as docents to guide children through TLNC.</p>
<p>1997</p>
<p>It soon became apparent a larger meeting space was needed and both TLNC and OVAS committed to the effort to build the present Environmental Education Center. Fundraising ensued to match the grant of a total of $60,000, available over a four year period, from Lake County Parks and Recreation Department. The grant was one of the capital improvements funded from the county&rsquo;s extra penny sales tax. More and more, Lake County schools realized the value of TLNC&rsquo;s student programs and, once again, TLNC responded. Fred Michels, president, enlisted donations and raised the matching funds and a building construction committee was created and chaired by Walt Gunkel, the new building was completed in 1997. Further fundraising and volunteer work completed and furnished the interior.</p>
<p>1999</p>
<p>Newell Hall had become the Newell Hall and Museum and another grant of $10,000 was obtained to further develop the museum&rsquo;s collection of mounted wildlife specimens native to central Florida. To accommodate the needs of the Lake County schools, a curriculum was written by a team of teachers for the TLNC school field trip program. The curriculum matched the Sunshine State Standards and TLNC&rsquo;s instructors began using it in the fall of 1999. Since then, the curriculum has been updated on an annual basis to remain current with the Lake County schools.</p>
<p>2000</p>
<p>A TLNC committee chaired by Bernie Yokel, drew up a Strategic Plan to keep on course and plan several years ahead.</p>
<p>2001</p>
<p>Until February 2001, everything at TLNC was done by volunteers. With funding for a part time Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator from the Lake County Water Authority, TLNC benefited from a professional staff person to guide the programs and volunteers.</p>
<p>2004</p>
<p>The Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator position expanded to a full-time post and two part-time positions were added an Administrative Volunteer Coordinator and an Outreach Volunteer Coordinator.</p>
<p>2005</p>
<p>When the economic recession hit in 2005, plans were terminated for a new Museum Building to replace the existing double wide trailer known as the Charles Newell Hall and Museum. This took place after architects, land planners, numerous committees, professional fund raisers were put to work under the guidance of Ron Macfarlane and president, Dr. Robert Hart.</p>
<p>2009</p>
<p>Under the leadership of Hugh Kent, president, a new Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors. The plan guides new programs and projects. Also, the Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator was upgraded to Administrative Director/ Naturalist.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>The Board of Directors adopted a long range Land Use Plan. This, along with the Strategic Plan, will be used to guide TLNC&rsquo;s growth into the future. Current building plans are to establish a loop road providing additional parking and better access to the property. At the same time, TLNC will tap into the City of Eustis sewer system, eliminating the two above ground septic tanks currently in use.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>Former naturalist retired and first Executive Director was hired.</p>
<p>Membership in TLNC is encouraged. TLNC functions separately from OVAS with its own officers and board. OVAS members have access to the facilities for meetings and events. Many supporters maintain membership in both TLNC and OVAS.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Throughout its history, TLNC developed through the efforts of many individuals and organizations. OVAS members, more than any others, provided fundraising and volunteers. The property was fenced, an access road was engineered and built, and nature trails were created. The Center is open to visitors and offers guided walks led by volunteers. The Kiwanis Clubs in Lake County built the first building, the picnic pavilion.</p>
<p></p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/eustis-fl/report/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-co-virtual-hatha-yoga-with-teri-mullen-online-co-111-12132024-46n842qg24q.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-HATHA-YOGA-CLASS-FOR-ALL">A Virtual Hatha Yoga Class for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 11:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-EUSTIS-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha" name="description"/>
<meta content="Trout, Lake, Nature, Center, Eustis, FL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="28.872299"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-81.681396"/>
',
	'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Trout Lake Nature Center</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>520 E County Road 44</div>
											<div>
							<span>Eustis</span>,
							<span>FL</span>
												<span>32736</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.troutlakenaturecenter.com/" target="_blank">Trout Lake Nature Center</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 352-357-7536</div>
				
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Trout+Lake+Nature+Center%2C+520+E+County+Road+44%2C+Eustis%2C+FL+32736" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>History</p>
<p>Trout Lake Nature Center History</p>
<p>The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha Valley Audubon Society (OVAS) members in 1985, the Center has become a thriving and vital place dedicated to environmental education and conservation.</p>
<p>1988</p>
<p>OVAS obtained land which had been part of the Haselton Dairy Farm during the 1960&rsquo;s, from Jean Lenkerd and Tom Haselton. With the addition of donated land from the City of Eustis in the form of a conservation easement, Trout Lake Nature Center became a reality.</p>
<p>1989</p>
<p>A Long Range Development Plan was drawn up. The decision was made by OVAS to incorporate the venture as a 501[c]3 non-profit corporation called Trout Lake Nature Center, Inc. (TLNC).</p>
<p>1991</p>
<p>Title was transferred to TLNC, Inc. An architect drew up plans for a layout including an entrance roadway, parking area, building site and pond.</p>
<p>1993</p>
<p>Charles Newell Hall opened as a museum and community meeting place for education programs and special events.</p>
<p>1994</p>
<p>TLNC began offering school field trips. The response by the county schools was so enthusiastic that it soon became necessary to train volunteers as docents to guide children through TLNC.</p>
<p>1997</p>
<p>It soon became apparent a larger meeting space was needed and both TLNC and OVAS committed to the effort to build the present Environmental Education Center. Fundraising ensued to match the grant of a total of $60,000, available over a four year period, from Lake County Parks and Recreation Department. The grant was one of the capital improvements funded from the county&rsquo;s extra penny sales tax. More and more, Lake County schools realized the value of TLNC&rsquo;s student programs and, once again, TLNC responded. Fred Michels, president, enlisted donations and raised the matching funds and a building construction committee was created and chaired by Walt Gunkel, the new building was completed in 1997. Further fundraising and volunteer work completed and furnished the interior.</p>
<p>1999</p>
<p>Newell Hall had become the Newell Hall and Museum and another grant of $10,000 was obtained to further develop the museum&rsquo;s collection of mounted wildlife specimens native to central Florida. To accommodate the needs of the Lake County schools, a curriculum was written by a team of teachers for the TLNC school field trip program. The curriculum matched the Sunshine State Standards and TLNC&rsquo;s instructors began using it in the fall of 1999. Since then, the curriculum has been updated on an annual basis to remain current with the Lake County schools.</p>
<p>2000</p>
<p>A TLNC committee chaired by Bernie Yokel, drew up a Strategic Plan to keep on course and plan several years ahead.</p>
<p>2001</p>
<p>Until February 2001, everything at TLNC was done by volunteers. With funding for a part time Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator from the Lake County Water Authority, TLNC benefited from a professional staff person to guide the programs and volunteers.</p>
<p>2004</p>
<p>The Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator position expanded to a full-time post and two part-time positions were added an Administrative Volunteer Coordinator and an Outreach Volunteer Coordinator.</p>
<p>2005</p>
<p>When the economic recession hit in 2005, plans were terminated for a new Museum Building to replace the existing double wide trailer known as the Charles Newell Hall and Museum. This took place after architects, land planners, numerous committees, professional fund raisers were put to work under the guidance of Ron Macfarlane and president, Dr. Robert Hart.</p>
<p>2009</p>
<p>Under the leadership of Hugh Kent, president, a new Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors. The plan guides new programs and projects. Also, the Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator was upgraded to Administrative Director/ Naturalist.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>The Board of Directors adopted a long range Land Use Plan. This, along with the Strategic Plan, will be used to guide TLNC&rsquo;s growth into the future. Current building plans are to establish a loop road providing additional parking and better access to the property. At the same time, TLNC will tap into the City of Eustis sewer system, eliminating the two above ground septic tanks currently in use.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>Former naturalist retired and first Executive Director was hired.</p>
<p>Membership in TLNC is encouraged. TLNC functions separately from OVAS with its own officers and board. OVAS members have access to the facilities for meetings and events. Many supporters maintain membership in both TLNC and OVAS.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Throughout its history, TLNC developed through the efforts of many individuals and organizations. OVAS members, more than any others, provided fundraising and volunteers. The property was fenced, an access road was engineered and built, and nature trails were created. The Center is open to visitors and offers guided walks led by volunteers. The Kiwanis Clubs in Lake County built the first building, the picnic pavilion.</p>
<p></p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/eustis-fl/report/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-co-virtual-hatha-yoga-with-teri-mullen-online-co-111-12132024-46n842qg24q.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-HATHA-YOGA-CLASS-FOR-ALL">A Virtual Hatha Yoga Class for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 11:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-EUSTIS-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha" name="description"/>
<meta content="Trout, Lake, Nature, Center, Eustis, FL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="28.872299"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-81.681396"/>
'
$title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP'
$asset_version = '230831'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = ''
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/eustis-fl/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Eustis, FL</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/eustis-fl/things-to-do/">Places</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'Things to Do',
		'slug' => 'things-to-do'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to Things to Do',
	'slug' => 'things-to-do'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]
Code Context
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Trout Lake Nature Center</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>520 E County Road 44</div>
											<div>
							<span>Eustis</span>,
							<span>FL</span>
												<span>32736</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.troutlakenaturecenter.com/" target="_blank">Trout Lake Nature Center</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 352-357-7536</div>
				
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Trout+Lake+Nature+Center%2C+520+E+County+Road+44%2C+Eustis%2C+FL+32736" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>History</p>
<p>Trout Lake Nature Center History</p>
<p>The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha Valley Audubon Society (OVAS) members in 1985, the Center has become a thriving and vital place dedicated to environmental education and conservation.</p>
<p>1988</p>
<p>OVAS obtained land which had been part of the Haselton Dairy Farm during the 1960&rsquo;s, from Jean Lenkerd and Tom Haselton. With the addition of donated land from the City of Eustis in the form of a conservation easement, Trout Lake Nature Center became a reality.</p>
<p>1989</p>
<p>A Long Range Development Plan was drawn up. The decision was made by OVAS to incorporate the venture as a 501[c]3 non-profit corporation called Trout Lake Nature Center, Inc. (TLNC).</p>
<p>1991</p>
<p>Title was transferred to TLNC, Inc. An architect drew up plans for a layout including an entrance roadway, parking area, building site and pond.</p>
<p>1993</p>
<p>Charles Newell Hall opened as a museum and community meeting place for education programs and special events.</p>
<p>1994</p>
<p>TLNC began offering school field trips. The response by the county schools was so enthusiastic that it soon became necessary to train volunteers as docents to guide children through TLNC.</p>
<p>1997</p>
<p>It soon became apparent a larger meeting space was needed and both TLNC and OVAS committed to the effort to build the present Environmental Education Center. Fundraising ensued to match the grant of a total of $60,000, available over a four year period, from Lake County Parks and Recreation Department. The grant was one of the capital improvements funded from the county&rsquo;s extra penny sales tax. More and more, Lake County schools realized the value of TLNC&rsquo;s student programs and, once again, TLNC responded. Fred Michels, president, enlisted donations and raised the matching funds and a building construction committee was created and chaired by Walt Gunkel, the new building was completed in 1997. Further fundraising and volunteer work completed and furnished the interior.</p>
<p>1999</p>
<p>Newell Hall had become the Newell Hall and Museum and another grant of $10,000 was obtained to further develop the museum&rsquo;s collection of mounted wildlife specimens native to central Florida. To accommodate the needs of the Lake County schools, a curriculum was written by a team of teachers for the TLNC school field trip program. The curriculum matched the Sunshine State Standards and TLNC&rsquo;s instructors began using it in the fall of 1999. Since then, the curriculum has been updated on an annual basis to remain current with the Lake County schools.</p>
<p>2000</p>
<p>A TLNC committee chaired by Bernie Yokel, drew up a Strategic Plan to keep on course and plan several years ahead.</p>
<p>2001</p>
<p>Until February 2001, everything at TLNC was done by volunteers. With funding for a part time Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator from the Lake County Water Authority, TLNC benefited from a professional staff person to guide the programs and volunteers.</p>
<p>2004</p>
<p>The Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator position expanded to a full-time post and two part-time positions were added an Administrative Volunteer Coordinator and an Outreach Volunteer Coordinator.</p>
<p>2005</p>
<p>When the economic recession hit in 2005, plans were terminated for a new Museum Building to replace the existing double wide trailer known as the Charles Newell Hall and Museum. This took place after architects, land planners, numerous committees, professional fund raisers were put to work under the guidance of Ron Macfarlane and president, Dr. Robert Hart.</p>
<p>2009</p>
<p>Under the leadership of Hugh Kent, president, a new Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors. The plan guides new programs and projects. Also, the Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator was upgraded to Administrative Director/ Naturalist.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>The Board of Directors adopted a long range Land Use Plan. This, along with the Strategic Plan, will be used to guide TLNC&rsquo;s growth into the future. Current building plans are to establish a loop road providing additional parking and better access to the property. At the same time, TLNC will tap into the City of Eustis sewer system, eliminating the two above ground septic tanks currently in use.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>Former naturalist retired and first Executive Director was hired.</p>
<p>Membership in TLNC is encouraged. TLNC functions separately from OVAS with its own officers and board. OVAS members have access to the facilities for meetings and events. Many supporters maintain membership in both TLNC and OVAS.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Throughout its history, TLNC developed through the efforts of many individuals and organizations. OVAS members, more than any others, provided fundraising and volunteers. The property was fenced, an access road was engineered and built, and nature trails were created. The Center is open to visitors and offers guided walks led by volunteers. The Kiwanis Clubs in Lake County built the first building, the picnic pavilion.</p>
<p></p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/eustis-fl/report/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-co-virtual-hatha-yoga-with-teri-mullen-online-co-111-12132024-46n842qg24q.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-HATHA-YOGA-CLASS-FOR-ALL">A Virtual Hatha Yoga Class for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 11:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-EUSTIS-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha" name="description"/>
<meta content="Trout, Lake, Nature, Center, Eustis, FL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="28.872299"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-81.681396"/>
',
	'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Trout Lake Nature Center</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>520 E County Road 44</div>
											<div>
							<span>Eustis</span>,
							<span>FL</span>
												<span>32736</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.troutlakenaturecenter.com/" target="_blank">Trout Lake Nature Center</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 352-357-7536</div>
				
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Trout+Lake+Nature+Center%2C+520+E+County+Road+44%2C+Eustis%2C+FL+32736" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>History</p>
<p>Trout Lake Nature Center History</p>
<p>The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha Valley Audubon Society (OVAS) members in 1985, the Center has become a thriving and vital place dedicated to environmental education and conservation.</p>
<p>1988</p>
<p>OVAS obtained land which had been part of the Haselton Dairy Farm during the 1960&rsquo;s, from Jean Lenkerd and Tom Haselton. With the addition of donated land from the City of Eustis in the form of a conservation easement, Trout Lake Nature Center became a reality.</p>
<p>1989</p>
<p>A Long Range Development Plan was drawn up. The decision was made by OVAS to incorporate the venture as a 501[c]3 non-profit corporation called Trout Lake Nature Center, Inc. (TLNC).</p>
<p>1991</p>
<p>Title was transferred to TLNC, Inc. An architect drew up plans for a layout including an entrance roadway, parking area, building site and pond.</p>
<p>1993</p>
<p>Charles Newell Hall opened as a museum and community meeting place for education programs and special events.</p>
<p>1994</p>
<p>TLNC began offering school field trips. The response by the county schools was so enthusiastic that it soon became necessary to train volunteers as docents to guide children through TLNC.</p>
<p>1997</p>
<p>It soon became apparent a larger meeting space was needed and both TLNC and OVAS committed to the effort to build the present Environmental Education Center. Fundraising ensued to match the grant of a total of $60,000, available over a four year period, from Lake County Parks and Recreation Department. The grant was one of the capital improvements funded from the county&rsquo;s extra penny sales tax. More and more, Lake County schools realized the value of TLNC&rsquo;s student programs and, once again, TLNC responded. Fred Michels, president, enlisted donations and raised the matching funds and a building construction committee was created and chaired by Walt Gunkel, the new building was completed in 1997. Further fundraising and volunteer work completed and furnished the interior.</p>
<p>1999</p>
<p>Newell Hall had become the Newell Hall and Museum and another grant of $10,000 was obtained to further develop the museum&rsquo;s collection of mounted wildlife specimens native to central Florida. To accommodate the needs of the Lake County schools, a curriculum was written by a team of teachers for the TLNC school field trip program. The curriculum matched the Sunshine State Standards and TLNC&rsquo;s instructors began using it in the fall of 1999. Since then, the curriculum has been updated on an annual basis to remain current with the Lake County schools.</p>
<p>2000</p>
<p>A TLNC committee chaired by Bernie Yokel, drew up a Strategic Plan to keep on course and plan several years ahead.</p>
<p>2001</p>
<p>Until February 2001, everything at TLNC was done by volunteers. With funding for a part time Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator from the Lake County Water Authority, TLNC benefited from a professional staff person to guide the programs and volunteers.</p>
<p>2004</p>
<p>The Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator position expanded to a full-time post and two part-time positions were added an Administrative Volunteer Coordinator and an Outreach Volunteer Coordinator.</p>
<p>2005</p>
<p>When the economic recession hit in 2005, plans were terminated for a new Museum Building to replace the existing double wide trailer known as the Charles Newell Hall and Museum. This took place after architects, land planners, numerous committees, professional fund raisers were put to work under the guidance of Ron Macfarlane and president, Dr. Robert Hart.</p>
<p>2009</p>
<p>Under the leadership of Hugh Kent, president, a new Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors. The plan guides new programs and projects. Also, the Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator was upgraded to Administrative Director/ Naturalist.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>The Board of Directors adopted a long range Land Use Plan. This, along with the Strategic Plan, will be used to guide TLNC&rsquo;s growth into the future. Current building plans are to establish a loop road providing additional parking and better access to the property. At the same time, TLNC will tap into the City of Eustis sewer system, eliminating the two above ground septic tanks currently in use.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>Former naturalist retired and first Executive Director was hired.</p>
<p>Membership in TLNC is encouraged. TLNC functions separately from OVAS with its own officers and board. OVAS members have access to the facilities for meetings and events. Many supporters maintain membership in both TLNC and OVAS.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Throughout its history, TLNC developed through the efforts of many individuals and organizations. OVAS members, more than any others, provided fundraising and volunteers. The property was fenced, an access road was engineered and built, and nature trails were created. The Center is open to visitors and offers guided walks led by volunteers. The Kiwanis Clubs in Lake County built the first building, the picnic pavilion.</p>
<p></p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/eustis-fl/report/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-co-virtual-hatha-yoga-with-teri-mullen-online-co-111-12132024-46n842qg24q.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-HATHA-YOGA-CLASS-FOR-ALL">A Virtual Hatha Yoga Class for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 11:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-EUSTIS-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha" name="description"/>
<meta content="Trout, Lake, Nature, Center, Eustis, FL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="28.872299"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-81.681396"/>
'
$title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP'
$asset_version = '230831'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = ''
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/eustis-fl/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Eustis, FL</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/eustis-fl/things-to-do/">Places</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'Things to Do',
		'slug' => 'things-to-do'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to Things to Do',
	'slug' => 'things-to-do'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]
Code Context
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Trout Lake Nature Center</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>520 E County Road 44</div>
											<div>
							<span>Eustis</span>,
							<span>FL</span>
												<span>32736</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.troutlakenaturecenter.com/" target="_blank">Trout Lake Nature Center</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 352-357-7536</div>
				
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Trout+Lake+Nature+Center%2C+520+E+County+Road+44%2C+Eustis%2C+FL+32736" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>History</p>
<p>Trout Lake Nature Center History</p>
<p>The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha Valley Audubon Society (OVAS) members in 1985, the Center has become a thriving and vital place dedicated to environmental education and conservation.</p>
<p>1988</p>
<p>OVAS obtained land which had been part of the Haselton Dairy Farm during the 1960&rsquo;s, from Jean Lenkerd and Tom Haselton. With the addition of donated land from the City of Eustis in the form of a conservation easement, Trout Lake Nature Center became a reality.</p>
<p>1989</p>
<p>A Long Range Development Plan was drawn up. The decision was made by OVAS to incorporate the venture as a 501[c]3 non-profit corporation called Trout Lake Nature Center, Inc. (TLNC).</p>
<p>1991</p>
<p>Title was transferred to TLNC, Inc. An architect drew up plans for a layout including an entrance roadway, parking area, building site and pond.</p>
<p>1993</p>
<p>Charles Newell Hall opened as a museum and community meeting place for education programs and special events.</p>
<p>1994</p>
<p>TLNC began offering school field trips. The response by the county schools was so enthusiastic that it soon became necessary to train volunteers as docents to guide children through TLNC.</p>
<p>1997</p>
<p>It soon became apparent a larger meeting space was needed and both TLNC and OVAS committed to the effort to build the present Environmental Education Center. Fundraising ensued to match the grant of a total of $60,000, available over a four year period, from Lake County Parks and Recreation Department. The grant was one of the capital improvements funded from the county&rsquo;s extra penny sales tax. More and more, Lake County schools realized the value of TLNC&rsquo;s student programs and, once again, TLNC responded. Fred Michels, president, enlisted donations and raised the matching funds and a building construction committee was created and chaired by Walt Gunkel, the new building was completed in 1997. Further fundraising and volunteer work completed and furnished the interior.</p>
<p>1999</p>
<p>Newell Hall had become the Newell Hall and Museum and another grant of $10,000 was obtained to further develop the museum&rsquo;s collection of mounted wildlife specimens native to central Florida. To accommodate the needs of the Lake County schools, a curriculum was written by a team of teachers for the TLNC school field trip program. The curriculum matched the Sunshine State Standards and TLNC&rsquo;s instructors began using it in the fall of 1999. Since then, the curriculum has been updated on an annual basis to remain current with the Lake County schools.</p>
<p>2000</p>
<p>A TLNC committee chaired by Bernie Yokel, drew up a Strategic Plan to keep on course and plan several years ahead.</p>
<p>2001</p>
<p>Until February 2001, everything at TLNC was done by volunteers. With funding for a part time Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator from the Lake County Water Authority, TLNC benefited from a professional staff person to guide the programs and volunteers.</p>
<p>2004</p>
<p>The Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator position expanded to a full-time post and two part-time positions were added an Administrative Volunteer Coordinator and an Outreach Volunteer Coordinator.</p>
<p>2005</p>
<p>When the economic recession hit in 2005, plans were terminated for a new Museum Building to replace the existing double wide trailer known as the Charles Newell Hall and Museum. This took place after architects, land planners, numerous committees, professional fund raisers were put to work under the guidance of Ron Macfarlane and president, Dr. Robert Hart.</p>
<p>2009</p>
<p>Under the leadership of Hugh Kent, president, a new Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors. The plan guides new programs and projects. Also, the Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator was upgraded to Administrative Director/ Naturalist.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>The Board of Directors adopted a long range Land Use Plan. This, along with the Strategic Plan, will be used to guide TLNC&rsquo;s growth into the future. Current building plans are to establish a loop road providing additional parking and better access to the property. At the same time, TLNC will tap into the City of Eustis sewer system, eliminating the two above ground septic tanks currently in use.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>Former naturalist retired and first Executive Director was hired.</p>
<p>Membership in TLNC is encouraged. TLNC functions separately from OVAS with its own officers and board. OVAS members have access to the facilities for meetings and events. Many supporters maintain membership in both TLNC and OVAS.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Throughout its history, TLNC developed through the efforts of many individuals and organizations. OVAS members, more than any others, provided fundraising and volunteers. The property was fenced, an access road was engineered and built, and nature trails were created. The Center is open to visitors and offers guided walks led by volunteers. The Kiwanis Clubs in Lake County built the first building, the picnic pavilion.</p>
<p></p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/eustis-fl/report/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-co-virtual-hatha-yoga-with-teri-mullen-online-co-111-12132024-46n842qg24q.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-HATHA-YOGA-CLASS-FOR-ALL">A Virtual Hatha Yoga Class for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 11:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-EUSTIS-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha" name="description"/>
<meta content="Trout, Lake, Nature, Center, Eustis, FL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="28.872299"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-81.681396"/>
',
	'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Trout Lake Nature Center</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>520 E County Road 44</div>
											<div>
							<span>Eustis</span>,
							<span>FL</span>
												<span>32736</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.troutlakenaturecenter.com/" target="_blank">Trout Lake Nature Center</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 352-357-7536</div>
				
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Trout+Lake+Nature+Center%2C+520+E+County+Road+44%2C+Eustis%2C+FL+32736" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>History</p>
<p>Trout Lake Nature Center History</p>
<p>The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha Valley Audubon Society (OVAS) members in 1985, the Center has become a thriving and vital place dedicated to environmental education and conservation.</p>
<p>1988</p>
<p>OVAS obtained land which had been part of the Haselton Dairy Farm during the 1960&rsquo;s, from Jean Lenkerd and Tom Haselton. With the addition of donated land from the City of Eustis in the form of a conservation easement, Trout Lake Nature Center became a reality.</p>
<p>1989</p>
<p>A Long Range Development Plan was drawn up. The decision was made by OVAS to incorporate the venture as a 501[c]3 non-profit corporation called Trout Lake Nature Center, Inc. (TLNC).</p>
<p>1991</p>
<p>Title was transferred to TLNC, Inc. An architect drew up plans for a layout including an entrance roadway, parking area, building site and pond.</p>
<p>1993</p>
<p>Charles Newell Hall opened as a museum and community meeting place for education programs and special events.</p>
<p>1994</p>
<p>TLNC began offering school field trips. The response by the county schools was so enthusiastic that it soon became necessary to train volunteers as docents to guide children through TLNC.</p>
<p>1997</p>
<p>It soon became apparent a larger meeting space was needed and both TLNC and OVAS committed to the effort to build the present Environmental Education Center. Fundraising ensued to match the grant of a total of $60,000, available over a four year period, from Lake County Parks and Recreation Department. The grant was one of the capital improvements funded from the county&rsquo;s extra penny sales tax. More and more, Lake County schools realized the value of TLNC&rsquo;s student programs and, once again, TLNC responded. Fred Michels, president, enlisted donations and raised the matching funds and a building construction committee was created and chaired by Walt Gunkel, the new building was completed in 1997. Further fundraising and volunteer work completed and furnished the interior.</p>
<p>1999</p>
<p>Newell Hall had become the Newell Hall and Museum and another grant of $10,000 was obtained to further develop the museum&rsquo;s collection of mounted wildlife specimens native to central Florida. To accommodate the needs of the Lake County schools, a curriculum was written by a team of teachers for the TLNC school field trip program. The curriculum matched the Sunshine State Standards and TLNC&rsquo;s instructors began using it in the fall of 1999. Since then, the curriculum has been updated on an annual basis to remain current with the Lake County schools.</p>
<p>2000</p>
<p>A TLNC committee chaired by Bernie Yokel, drew up a Strategic Plan to keep on course and plan several years ahead.</p>
<p>2001</p>
<p>Until February 2001, everything at TLNC was done by volunteers. With funding for a part time Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator from the Lake County Water Authority, TLNC benefited from a professional staff person to guide the programs and volunteers.</p>
<p>2004</p>
<p>The Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator position expanded to a full-time post and two part-time positions were added an Administrative Volunteer Coordinator and an Outreach Volunteer Coordinator.</p>
<p>2005</p>
<p>When the economic recession hit in 2005, plans were terminated for a new Museum Building to replace the existing double wide trailer known as the Charles Newell Hall and Museum. This took place after architects, land planners, numerous committees, professional fund raisers were put to work under the guidance of Ron Macfarlane and president, Dr. Robert Hart.</p>
<p>2009</p>
<p>Under the leadership of Hugh Kent, president, a new Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors. The plan guides new programs and projects. Also, the Naturalist/Volunteer Coordinator was upgraded to Administrative Director/ Naturalist.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>The Board of Directors adopted a long range Land Use Plan. This, along with the Strategic Plan, will be used to guide TLNC&rsquo;s growth into the future. Current building plans are to establish a loop road providing additional parking and better access to the property. At the same time, TLNC will tap into the City of Eustis sewer system, eliminating the two above ground septic tanks currently in use.</p>
<p>2012</p>
<p>Former naturalist retired and first Executive Director was hired.</p>
<p>Membership in TLNC is encouraged. TLNC functions separately from OVAS with its own officers and board. OVAS members have access to the facilities for meetings and events. Many supporters maintain membership in both TLNC and OVAS.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Throughout its history, TLNC developed through the efforts of many individuals and organizations. OVAS members, more than any others, provided fundraising and volunteers. The property was fenced, an access road was engineered and built, and nature trails were created. The Center is open to visitors and offers guided walks led by volunteers. The Kiwanis Clubs in Lake County built the first building, the picnic pavilion.</p>
<p></p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/eustis-fl/report/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Eustis</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-co-virtual-hatha-yoga-with-teri-mullen-online-co-111-12132024-46n842qg24q.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-HATHA-YOGA-CLASS-FOR-ALL">A Virtual Hatha Yoga Class for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 11:00&nbsp;a.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-EUSTIS-FL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Florida Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Florida</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:FLAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/florida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Florida</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-florida-state-offices/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-EUSTIS-FL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpFL" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpflorida/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center - Eustis, FL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha" name="description"/>
<meta content="Trout, Lake, Nature, Center, Eustis, FL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/trout-lake-nature-center-eustis-fl.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Trout Lake Nature Center"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="History Trout Lake Nature Center History The history of Trout Lake Nature Center is one of dedication and volunteerism. Beginning as a vision of the Ocklawaha"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="28.872299"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-81.681396"/>
'
$title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP'
$asset_version = '230831'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = ''
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/eustis-fl/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Eustis, FL</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/eustis-fl/things-to-do/">Places</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/eustis-fl/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/eustis-fl/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'Things to Do',
		'slug' => 'things-to-do'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to Things to Do',
	'slug' => 'things-to-do'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118