ELKINS, W.Va. (WVDN) – How do ancient seashells impact the water that you drink? How do bats save farmers billions of dollars a year? The answers lie underground. Discover them for yourself at the Appalachian Forest Discovery Center’s exciting new exhibit! The museum will celebrate the grand opening of its 2025 season on Saturday, May 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with a special presentation at 1 p.m.
The immersive exhibit, “Beneath Our Feet: The Hidden World of Caves and Karst,” sheds light on the important role and multitude of caves within the Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area (AFNHA). Expect to find a replica cave with a simulated crawl space for the daring, interpretive panels for the curious, and unique artifacts that reveal how karst landscapes and cave ecosystems support drinking water supplies, agriculture, and biodiversity.
Karst terrain, which underlies much of the region, is responsible for nearly 40% of U.S. drinking water and hosts unique subterranean life critical to the health of above-ground communities.
The Appalachian Forest Discovery Center is located in the Darden Mill at 101 Railroad Ave, Elkins, and is open to the public with free admission Thursdays through Sundays through the end of October.
New for the 2025 season, the Discovery Center will feature regular hands-on activities and educational programs. Watch the AFNHA website and AFDC Facebook page for updates on these “Discovery Time” programs. If your organization would like to schedule a Discovery Time activity for learners of all ages at the AF Discovery Center, please reach out to Jeffrey Pryor at jeffrey@afnha.org or 304-636-6182.
The Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area conserves, interprets, and promotes forest heritage to enhance landscapes and communities in the highlands of West Virginia and Maryland. AFNHA works with partners to accomplish this through community development, conservation, celebrating cultural heritage, and creating opportunities for transformational experiences. To learn more, see www.appalachianforestnha.org. AFNHA is a member of the National Heritage Area System.
