Asheville Reporter

A new report outlines the significant and far-reaching economic impact of the WNC Nature Center and its nonprofit support organization, Friends of the WNC Nature Center, on the City of Asheville and Buncombe County.

A recent Riverbird Research economic report, initiated by the Friends of the WNC Nature Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the mission of Asheville’s wildlife park, examines both the Center’s and Friends’ beneficial impact on the local economy.

“As part of the City’s Community and Regional Entertainment Facility Department, the WNC Nature Center is uniquely positioned as both a draw for tourists visiting the area and a regional gem for our local community,” says Kate Frost, Executive Director of the Friends. “This economic study shows the positive impact of our marketing, visitation, and general existence on this region.”

The report highlights contributions through direct visitor dollars and economic operations in support of the park. It was estimated that combined efforts made a $23 million economic contribution to Buncombe County in 2023.

The report notes that visitors and related activities:

- Supported nearly 220 jobs within the Nature Center and indirectly in the wider community;

- Boosted County GDP by $13.5 million;

- Generated roughly $3.1 million in tax revenues.

The WNC Nature Center also serves as a cornerstone for environmental education and wildlife conservation.

“We are proud to be a place where people can come together to learn about and appreciate the incredible biodiversity of our region,” said Chris Gentile, Director of the WNC Nature Center. “Our mission goes beyond education and conservation; we aim to create meaningful connections between our visitors and nature.”

The 42-acre center has been contributing to Appalachian conservation for decades. Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, it hosted nearly 193,000 visitors in 2023 alone.

Showcasing diverse wildlife native to Appalachia allows visitors to connect with nature personally — whether watching river otters or sighting black bears.

As it grows, ongoing community support enables expansions like Gateway to Southern Appalachians featuring new attractions such as a butterfly garden.

Established in the 1970s, open year-round with over 60 animal species including river otters, black bears, red wolves, cougars; accredited by Association of Zoos & Aquariums with national recognition for its programs.