The Center was built as part of an economic diversification thrust of the City of Reedsport to promote the river and forest cultural and environmental resources of the area through exhibitory, educational programming, and dissemination of informational material about the local area. The City made the commitment to provide the facilities and the maintenance of the building.
The Umpqua Discovery Center is a 7,000 square foot facility consisting of two exhibit wings, a common entry area for both wings, a 50 seat theater / meeting / conference room, a bookstore / gift shop, rear exits onto a boardwalk area with interpretive signs, and a 20 foot observation tower on top of the building.
A 501-c(3) non-profit organization, "The Umpqua Discovery Center Treasure Chest, Inc." has been established to raise and manage funds for exhibits and educational programs. This non-profit organization allows for more flexibility when applying for grants and receiving private donations for these specific purposes.
The Umpqua Discovery Center Treasure Chest Board of Directors and Umpqua Discovery Center Experience Steering Committee planned, raised funds for, and contracted construction of, the all exhibits in the “Tidewaters & Time” Exhibit Wing, completed in FY 2000 / 2001, and “Pathways To Discovery – Exploring Tidewater Country” Exhibit wing, completed in FY 2005 / 2006.
In 2006, the UDC Treasure Chest secured funds for program development and additional interactive exhibits in the natural history wing. An Education Coordinator was hired by the UDC Treasure Chest and several new programs were created. OMSI was contracted to complete the new interactive exhibits, which were installed in 2008.
A volunteer group provides staffing for the Discovery Center gift shop; help with group tours, and special programs / activities.
The Center is visited by many school groups from around the state offering an external learning experience for local as well as other Oregon students and visitors of all ages. Open 7 days a week for 362 days a year (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's day).