an experiment in progress
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Bisbee Backyard Project
A Regenerative Learning Ecosystem
The Bisbee Backyard Project (BBP) is a visionary initiative of the Bisbee Science Exploration & Research Center (BSERC), in partnership with the City of Bisbee and the Bisbee Unified School District. Together, we are transforming eight acres of a former school campus into one of the most unique outdoor science, nature, and community learning destinations in the Southwest. Inspired by the remarkable biodiversity of Arizona's Sky Islands, the BBP will blend environmental education, conservation, recreation, and economic development into a vibrant public space where curiosity comes alive.
Visitors of every age will explore interactive science exhibits, an observatory and solar viewing platform, demonstration gardens, renewable energy displays, wildlife habitats, and hands-on discovery experiences that reveal the fascinating science all around us. Teachers will find an outdoor classroom unlike any other. Families will enjoy beautiful gathering spaces and neighborhood parks. Tourists will discover the natural wonders that make Bisbee and the Sky Islands internationally significant. Most importantly, the Bisbee Backyard Project will inspire future scientists, conservationists, innovators, and lifelong learners while strengthening our community and creating a destination that will benefit generations to come.
Bringing the Bisbee Backyard Project to life is an exceptional team of nationally recognized designers, planners, engineers, and interpretive specialists. Together they are creating a destination that celebrates the beauty, science, culture, and ecology of Arizona's extraordinary Sky Islands while reflecting the character and creativity of the Bisbee community. Our design team includes SALT Landscape Architecture, Wilder Landscapes, Chiodo Design, Muser Collective, and PSOMAS.
100% Schematic Design Presentation
The Bisbee Backyard Project is in full swing! We have finished the 100% schematic designs, and are incorporating all of the input from our workshops with local community groups and specialists into the final design development. We are so grateful for everyone's participation and cannot wait to show you more of our plans! Follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter to get the most up-to-date information about this project or email Thora at thora.colot@gmail.com with any questions - we would love to hear from you!
Meet Our Team!
Thora Colot
Project Manager/Executive Director, Bisbee Science Exploration & Research Center
Thora Colot has spent her professional career working in organizations dedicated to engaging the public through educational experiences. From her work at the Smithsonian Institution, the Phillips Collection and the National Archives, she has successfully led teams to create exciting spaces that invite visitors to enjoy themselves while benefiting from educational activities. After discovering Bisbee, and this unique area of the “sky islands” of southeastern Arizona, she is excited to be able to work closely with the community to transform an underutilized area into a spectacular and engaging “Bisbee Backyard” that everyone can benefit from and be proud of.
"I strive to expand the definition of quality educational experiences by creating meaningful, innovative and engaging interactions with places, art and artifacts. I seek to transform K-12 students, enrich lifelong learners and create positive change in the culture of education, while improving quality of life."
Funded By:
Discretionary Funds from Raul Grijalva
