Berks Nature is the leading agent for the conservation of the environment in Berks County.
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit conservation organization, Berks Nature has been serving the Berks County community since 1974. Land preservation, water protection, trail management, community gardens, education programs, State of the Environment, Eco-Camp and our valued partnerships are at the center of Berks Nature’s work every day.
We hope you join us by becoming a Champion of Nature. You’ll enjoy exclusive benefits, while supporting programs that help connect people to nature and maintain the natural beauty of Berks County.
THE NATURE PLACE PUBLIC HOURS
FREE TO VISIT!
Please note our updated hours starting on February 1st, 2025
Open Tuesdays and Saturdays 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
CLOSED the rest of the week.
Berks Nature is seeking candidates for the following positions:
Preschool Substitute Teacher
Fall 2026 Interns
Details below in our News in Nature section!
Starting in 2026, The Nature Place – Reading’s own nature center – is now included on BARTA’S Route 9 schedule. This vital link now provides routine, reliable transportation from the heart of Reading directly to the nearly 90-acre Angelica Creek Park and back to the BARTA Transportation Center on Franklin Street.
With nature access now integrated into the city’s infrastructure, the benefits of our great outdoors are finally just a bus ride away!
News in Nature
Current events and updates from Berks Nature
A new landscaping movement is gaining traction as homeowners slowly realize their monoculture lawn of green grass may be more trouble than it’s worth. And I get it; who wants…
Angelica Creek is not your average city park. When the City of Reading purchased the land in 1915, the park was a 12-acre lake impoundment - the legacy of the…
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: Berks Nature Fall 2026 Internships
(April 9, 2026)
We strive to offer our interns a well-rounded learning experience. An interest in the environment and stewardship is a must, and there is often work to do outdoors. Berks Nature also manages a nature preschool and hosts numerous field trips and events. Working with children and the public is a priority.
Good writing skills, communication skills, interpersonal skills, and a genuine appreciation for working with diverse audiences are all necessary.
As a charitable organization we are unable to provide compensation for an intern’s time. In some cases, students can receive school credits.
Click here to read the full position description.
Click here to complete the application form.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Application Instructions:
To apply, please send your completed application form, resume and letter of interest to English Dawson at english.dawson@berksnature.org.
Trail Work Notice – Neversink Mountain Preserve
(Friday, November 21, 2025)
Met-Ed will be performing utility work within the area marked in red on the map. This work includes tree trimming and site grading to prepare for the installation of new powerline poles.
Work Schedule:
Start Date: Monday, November 24, 2025
Anticipated Completion: Friday, December 19, 2025
Start Date: Monday, November 24, 2025
Anticipated Completion: Friday, December 19, 2025
During this time, please avoid the work area. The following trails will be affected and may be fully or partially closed:
-
South 9th Street Connector
-
Neversink Trail
-
West Woodland Trail
Please note: These closures will prevent users from completing the full Neversink Loop. Plan your visit accordingly.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation as this work is completed.
NOW HIRING: Berks Nature Preschool Assistant Teacher (Substitute)
(September 10, 2025)
A Berks Nature Substitute Preschool Assistant Teacher is responsible for the health, safety and overall well-being of children ages 3-6 years of age. They will perform activities that ensure the safety, involvement, and creativity of each individual child in the group. They will also work cooperatively with the lead teacher to discuss and aide in the implementation of daily plans in accordance with the curriculum.
Berks Nature Preschool spends the majority of their school day outside exploring in nature. The Substitute Assistant Teacher will spend their days outdoors in all weather.
Compensation: $17.50 – $18.50 per hour (based on experience)
Click here to read the full position description.
Click here to download the application form.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Application Instructions:
To apply, submit a completed application, cover letter, and resume along with contact information to Human Resources at hr@berksnature.org or mail to Human Resources at Berks Nature, 575 St. Bernardine Street, Reading, PA 19607.
”I didn't want to let even one day go by without thanking [the Berks Nature staff] for a wonderful morning. Everyone loved learning about your sustainability, history, and walking through the nature habitats. It was one of our best planned and organized tours; professional and so informational... It was a perfect day.
Berks Encore staff about their tour of The Nature Place campus with Berks Nature
”Thank you so much for having the 7th grade students of Kutztown visit the Burkholder farm. This opportunity was an incredibly eye opening experience for all involved. Teaching about farming practices, sustainability, clean water and buying locally is one thing, but actually seeing it in action is what changes the mind frame.
Kutztown Middle School teacher about their farm tour with Berks Nature
