Names are an important part of how we know, relate to, and remember a place.

We are excited to share that the Nature Center at Pia Okwai is the name we’ll be using now to recognize the river along the nature center and the name it has always had. Pia Okwai, which means “big river/flow” in Newe Taikwa (the Shoshone and Goshute language), holds important collective memories for many of our Indigenous relatives of this place. It reminds us of the history of this river and the knowledge many local Indigenous groups hold about our environment that carries on today through language and culture.

As a community-based nature center, recognizing this name is one part of our efforts to be in good relations and learn from the first people of this place. Follow along in the coming weeks as we share the story about the research, relationship-building, and processes that have helped guide this decision. You can also learn more by visiting our blog. Link in bio!