Since 1909, we have been an integral part of Central New York.
Friends of Rogers
The Friends of Rogers Environmental Education Center, known simply as the Friends of Rogers, is a 501(c)(3) that is responsible for the operation of the 600 acres, five facilities, and seven miles of trails at Rogers Center. Led by a devoted board of directors from the community, and staffed with some of the most talented environmental scientists and educators in the region, we operate this unique community asset for Central New York.
By looking for new ways to engage our community, school systems, and local businesses, we are able to weave our programs into everyday activities and remind our community that nature touches every aspect of our lives and well-being.
Our operating agreement with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation allows us to work in partnership with NYS to deliver on our mission: to provide outstanding educational opportunities that excite, inspire, and motivate people of all ages and abilities to enjoy, understand, appreciate, and protect our natural environment.
Passive Recreation
With green space and pavilions, outdoor grills and picnic tables, 600 acres and 7 miles of trails, Rogers Center is a beloved community resource for the region.
Explore our full offering of upstate New York ecosystems, wildlife habitat, and cultural heritage. Free to the public and accessible all year round.
In the winter season, we offer cross country skis and snowshoes for rent to use on our trails.
Environmental Education
Rogers Center is home to the longest- standing environmental education facility and programming in the state. We offer an array of programs to our local school systems that are aligned with NYS teaching standards, Next Generation Science Standards and Common Core, and are rooted in the exploration and appreciation of the outdoors.
We offer many public programs, ranging from family excursions and talks with experts to habitat restoration and community science.
Ecosystem Restoration
Our world is experiencing its sixth great extinction. As a consequence of climate change and unsustainable land use practices, our fellow species are struggling to stay alive. We see ourselves as stewards of the land, and place great emphasis on the cultivation of wildlife habitat, restoration of native ecosystems, and scientific tracking of biodiversity.
Rogers Center programs run all year long.
Every year, Friends of Rogers staff and board provide programming for free or reduced cost to the public.
Friends of Rogers also host four seasonal events for the community: Winter Living Celebration; Earth Day; Fall Festival, and Animals of Halloween.