Arts, Sciences and Education Commons 011
820 Campus Drive
Big Rapids, MI
(231) 591-5387
[email protected]
FAQ
A large portion of our specimen collection was generously donated by our two major donors:
Roger Card
Roger Card is a Ferris State University Alumnus ('63) from the Construction Management Program. After graduation, he built a successful construction business in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.
As Roger's business grew, so did his devotion to traveling the world. An avid outdoorsman, Roger was deeply interested in experiencing diverse environments and cultures. This would lead him to visit 52 countries throughout the world. From these travels, Roger has written two books, A Hunter's Journey and Safari Sidetracks.
In 2000, Roger generously donated his specimen collection along with funds to construct the original Card Wildlife Education Center (2000). He has remained a consistent donor, supporter, and friend of the facility. Ferris State University is forever grateful for his vision in helping establish the wildlife center.
Currently, Roger and his wife Margo live part-time in Canadian Lakes, Michigan and part-time in Mexico.
George F. Riley
George F. Riley was a long-time resident of Farmington Hills, Michigan. He was a successful businessman and an avid outdoorsman.
As a young man, George enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he gained valuable knowledge in electronics. Using these skills, he grew a successful business in electronics and communication. In 1998, George sold Clover Electronics to Ameritech, now known as AT&T.
Already an enthusiastic sportsman and beloved family man, George became a generous philanthropist. Upon the sale of his business, The Riley Foundation was established and continues to fund numerous educational outdoor youth programs and natural spaces throughout Farmington and Farmington Hills.
Ferris State University is forever grateful for the generous donation made to The Card/Riley Conservation and Wildlife Education Center where we are committed to sharing George's passion for nature and wildlife conservation and education.
Our museum is completely FREE to visit! If you are looking to support us, we do accept donations online or in our donation box at the museum.
If you are interested in a large-group guided tour, then we do ask that you schedule ahead of time so we can ensure we are prepared for you. You can find out more about tours using the link below:
If you have a small group, you do not need to schedule ahead of time. You can request either a guided or a self-guided tour at the welcome desk.
There are metered parking spots throughout campus, the closest being in Lot 5H to the right of the campus entrance. For more parking information, visit the Parking Services page.
The Card/Riley Center is accepting limited specimen donations. Only Michigan Specimens will be considered and must be in great condition, well preserved, and a full body mount.
If you are interested in donating specimens to our museum, please email us at [email protected].
We currently have postcards, air plants, ornaments, books, and paintings for CASH SALE ONLY and while supplies last.
Visitors are also welcome to take a free sticker and seed packet after their visit.
We have a special Nilfisk vacuum with gentle features making it great for cleaning the specimens and displays as needed. Swiffer dusters are also very helpful!
In addition to our cleanings, once a year our display builders (who also are experts in taxidermy) come through to fix and clean all our specimens and displays.
None of our current specimens are extinct, however, we do have a Pere David's Deer which is extinct in the wild.
Other Resources