About the Science Center

The Howard B. Owens Science Center was named after Howard B. Owens, an entomologist and scientist, who was devoted to the education of young people in Prince George’s County Maryland through science clubs, science fairs, and field trips.

His wife, Anna Belle Owens Darwin [1919-2001] taught botany at the University of Maryland for twenty-six years and conducted nature hikes for the National Park Service. Anna Belle was an early pioneer in promoting protection of the environment. The nature trail at the Howard B. Owens Science Center was dedicated to her in June 2001. She was a dedicated supporter of the Prince George’s Area Science and Engineering Fair from its inception in 1948. She was an active member of the Prince George’s Science Fair Association. Mrs. Darwin could be frequently found on the Howard B. Owens Science Center grounds working in the flower beds to provide examples of a variety of plant life.

The Anna Belle Nature Trail Guide is a teaching aid for the staff of the Howard B. Owens Science Center, a division of the Prince Georges County Public School System. It can also be used by visitors to the Science Center who walk on the Nature Trail. The “Guide” provides background information on each of the 30 stations on the nature trail. Wetland and forest plants, butterfly and hummingbird plants, herbs and vegetables which are present on the Nature Trail are described. Insects that aid in the decomposition of leaf litter and fallen trees into soil are described.

Poison Ivy is prevalent throughout the nature trail and visitors are asked to stay within the boundaries of the walking paths. Collection of flowers, vegetation and other natural materials is permitted only while accompanied by a member of the Science Center Staff. Visitors are urged not disturb the animal nesting boxes and to avoid contact with wildlife.