Management and funding
The centre is run by a non-profit organisation, Green Upo Friends, that is committed to preserving the natural state of the Upo Swamp.
The organisation conducts environmental awareness campaigns in order to teach people about the dangers of pollution and the problems of illegal fishing and hunting. The centre emphasizes the importance of loving and respecting nature.
Founded/opened
The centre was founded in October of 1997 and opened to the public that same year.
Description
The main building contains the Upo Nature Learning Centre which teaches people about the ecology of the area. This includes a study on the trees and the aquatic life of the swamp. There are walks around the swamp to allow visitors to observe the habitat in its natural state.
Key species/features
There are 145 different species of birds in the swamp area. over 30 species are residential, 31 are summer migratory visitors, 45 winter migrants and 39 travelling species.
The swamp also is home to 42 species of fish, 14 species of mammal and 20 species of reptiles and amphibians.
General
The centre aims to inform the public about the importance of preserving the Upo Swamp area through multi-media presentations in the main building and hands-on sessions. In particular it teaches young children to respect the environment and understand the importance of co-existing with it.
During the summer the centre has a festival that allows people to enjoy the environment during the good weather with live jazz.
Interpretation and Exhibits
There are several trails that lead students and the general public around the grounds. These teach people about the different parts that make up the swamp and ensure its survival. Access is allowed to the swamp area to look at the wildlife. There is a multi-media room in the main building that shows a presentation about the area.
Formal (school and university) learning
There are programs for the vasious schools in the area which allow them to experience the centre. teachers are provided with information in advance to help them prepare their students for the visit.
Informal (general public) learning
There are several brochures available that show the area in detail. Books about the swamp and local environment are available in the main building.
Professional
Professional colleagues visit the centre from all over Korea and the staff are very keen to meet peers from around the world. A monthly newsletter is published to keep members informed about the swamp and the centre.
Staffing
There are 3 members of staff at the centre. Ms Young Oak Seo is the manager who takes care of daily affairs.
Contacts
Ms Young Oak Seo, Manager
Kyung Nam Province, Chang Nyeong District, Leebangmyun Anri 1390-1, Korea
T: 055 532 8989 F: 055 532 8919
E: seoyoungf@yahoo.com