Pete and Linda Claussen, long-time supporters of Ijams Nature Center, have funded the nonprofit nature center’s purchase of a one-acre inholding property on Dunn Street adjacent to Mead’s Quarry.

The land, which was privately owned and offered to Ijams as a first right of refusal, is an important addition because it connects Ijams Nature Center properties and protects the inholding from future commercial development.

“The gift of land is eternal,” Ijams Executive Director Amber Parker said. “We are so grateful that Linda and Pete recognized the importance of bringing this property under the stewardship of Ijams. Their immense generosity has created a lasting legacy for Ijams and this community,  and we appreciate this and all of the other ways they have supported Ijams over the years.”

Parker said plans are to remove a derelict house that sits on the land and replace it with an outdoor education pavilion that will be used for programs as well as a rental space.

“This space allows Ijams to add a much-needed outdoor classroom without disturbing any of the natural areas within the Ijams 315-acre footprint,” she said.

“The property is in a shady hollow between Tharp Trace Trail and Island Home Avenue. It’s a central but quiet location and will be the perfect setting for an outdoor shelter for summer camps, classes and family picnics.”