Located on the highest mountain in West Virginia, the 400-acre Spruce Knob Mountain Center is the heart of The Mountain Institute´s work in conservation and education in North America. Its Mountain Learning Program exposes more than 1000 high school students a year to Appalachian culture, mountain eco-systems, and outdoor adventure; and its Teacher Education Program attracts high school science teachers from around the United States for its week-long, experience-based training courses in mountain ecology and curricula development. Weekend education and adventure programs also are offered at Spruce Knob; and for 20 years TMI´s West Virginia Scholars Academy has provided more than 300 high school juniors with a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of their state, to develop pride and self-esteem about their heritage, and to consider their important role in the future of Appalachia.

Working with local landowners, non-profit organizations, and government agencies, The Mountain Institute is part of a unique collaborative effort to restore and preserve Blister Swamp, one of the last remaining Balsam Fir/Red Spruce wetland ecosystems in North America.

Refer to Program Summaries for more information