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History

The Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center (JMDC), located in Jurupa Valley, California, was established in 1964 by Sam and Ruth Kirkby, who were passionate about fostering a love for earth sciences in children and the community. Initially known as the Jurupa Mountains Cultural Center, the facility spans 82 acres and offers hands-on educational programs in geology, paleontology, and archaeology. Visitors can explore life-size dinosaur replicas, participate in fossil digs, and engage in activities like rock collecting and gold panning. 

In 2019, JMDC expanded its offerings by incorporating the Roynon Collection, a significant fossil collection amassed over 75 years by Keith Roynon, further enriching its educational resources. Despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to temporary closures, the center has remained a vital educational hub, adapting with new programs and renovations to continue its mission of promoting scientific curiosity and environmental stewardship.

In July of 2025, JMDC became part of the Jurupa Area Recreation and Park District. This new partnership will bring added to support of JMDC to help foster its core values, increase piblic  awareness, and provide support for future facility improvements.  

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