CLSPIA President Madelene Lyon signs the contract for the new outdoor education pavilion at Clear Lake State Park. Courtesy photo.

KELSEYVILLE – On Aug. 23, the Clear Lake State Park Interpretive Association (CLISPIA) signed a contract with the California Conservation Corp to build an outdoor education pavilion.

Led by CLSPIA President Madelene Lyon, the board of directors has been raising funds to build this unique structure for more than three years.

The cooperation of the financially struggling California State Parks with CLSPIA and the local community has finally paid off. The contract has been signed and the groundbreaking ceremony is set.

The outdoor education pavilion has long been a dream of the volunteers and staff at Clear Lake State Park.

This structure will allow the hundreds of children and adults who already explore the Visitor Center museum and trails of Clear Lake State Park to enjoy more outdoor activities in an open-sided, sheltered area. The ability to observe creekbed organisms under microscopes, participate in ancient cultural activities, explore local flora and fauna will become a reality for students and other park visitors.

Groundbreaking will take place on Oct. 4 at the “Wild Affair In Your Park” celebration.

This groundbreaking event will showcase local wines, cuisine, musical talent and the outdoor adventures that the future pavilion will provide.

“In the 22 years that I worked at Clear Lake State Park, I have been dreaming of this type of outdoor education classroom,” said retired Ranger Val Nixon. “I am very excited about expanding the environmental education programs at Clear Lake State Park. I look forward to volunteering with the children's programs and using this facility. ”

For reservations for A Wild Affair in Your Park please call 279-4395.

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