HONOLULU – Gov. Linda Lingle has released a $500,000 capital improvement grant to the Hawai'i Nature Center to build an environmental and recreational center at the Wailua Reservoir on Kaua'i.

The planned 3,000 square-foot facility will provide Kaua'i school children, residents and visitors with educational programs and outdoor nature experiences, and include an educational learning center with classrooms, a community meeting space and recreational area, according to a news release from the governor's office.

Hawai'i Nature Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating Hawai'i's youth about wise stewardship of the islands and preserving our natural resources. This includes school programs for students in grades K-6 with lessons focused on science-based principles.

The Kaua'i facility is estimated to cost $4.5 million. To cover remaining costs, the organization will be launching a capital campaign and applying for additional federal and foundation funding.

Design of the facility is to begin in July 2008 and be completed a year later. Construction is scheduled to commence in September 2009 and be completed in December 2011.