Overview:
Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory (SNCO) is a nonprofit dedicated to environmental education, wildlife conservation, and astronomy experiences in Central Oregon. With a wide range of programs — from daily public visits and camps to memberships, events, and observatory experiences — they needed a website that was engaging, easy to navigate, and simple for staff to manage.

Their existing WordPress site had become difficult to maintain, inconsistent in layout, and challenging for visitors to navigate — especially on mobile devices.

Challenge:
SNCO serves a diverse audience: families, tourists, educators, donors, and members — each visiting the site with different goals. However, the website struggled to guide users efficiently or highlight the organization’s full scope of offerings.

We needed to:

• Simplify navigation across programs, events, and memberships

• Improve mobile usability and overall site clarity

• Create a more cohesive, welcoming visual experience

• Make content updates easier for staff

• Ensure the site could scale with seasonal programs and events

Solution:

Strategic Platform Migration to Squarespace

We transitioned the site from WordPress to Squarespace to provide a more stable, intuitive platform for long-term management. The new system allows staff to easily update content, add events, and manage pages without relying on plugins or custom development.

Improved Site Structure & Navigation

The site was reorganized to better reflect how visitors actually engage with SNCO — separating educational programs, observatory experiences, events, and support opportunities into clear, logical pathways. This makes it easier for users to find what they’re looking for and take action.

Visual Refresh & Consistent Design System

We introduced a cleaner layout, improved spacing, and consistent design elements to create a more polished and professional feel while preserving SNCO’s approachable, nature-focused identity. The updated design enhances readability and better showcases photography and educational content.

Mobile Optimization & Accessibility

Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory’s new website is easier to navigate, easier to manage, and better aligned with their mission. Visitors can quickly understand what SNCO offers, plan their visit, and engage with programs — while staff benefit from a streamlined platform that supports ongoing updates and growth.

See their self-managed website now! www.snco.org