Central Wisconsin News

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point's Schmeeckle Reserve is offering a series of nature programs throughout March. These Family Nature Programs are free, open to the public, and led by students from UW-Stevens Point who are studying environmental education and interpretation. Participants should be prepared for outdoor activities and dress accordingly. The events will generally take place at the Visitor Center located at 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, unless specified otherwise.

The schedule includes various programs such as "Rocky Relationships with Wildlife" on March 7 from 6-7 p.m., where attendees can explore interactions with wildlife like raccoons and foxes. On March 8, two sessions are planned: "Nature Know-How" from 11 a.m.-noon focuses on survival strategies of creatures in Schmeeckle Reserve, followed by "If You Care, Should You Leave It There?" from 1-2 p.m., discussing human intervention in nature.

Evening activities include "Whiskers in the Dark" on March 8 from 7-8 p.m., offering an exploration of nocturnal life. Other events include "It’s a Possum Party!" on March 14 at 10 a.m., exploring possums through storytelling and crafts; "Leather: History of the Craft" later that day at 6 p.m.; and "Nature Journaling" on March 15 at 1 p.m.

On March 28, participants can attend "Super Squirrels" at 10 a.m., which involves reading and walking to learn about squirrels' roles in nature. That evening, "Build-A-Bird" from 6-7 p.m. will delve into traits of native birds of prey. The month concludes with two programs on March 29: "Lingering Monsters of Wetland Past" at 11 a.m., exploring myths related to wetlands, and "Fishy Senses" at 5 p.m., focusing on how fish adapt to ecosystems.

No registration is required for these events. For more information or special accommodations, contact the Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center via phone at 715-346-4992 or email schmeeckle@uwsp.edu.

Schmeeckle Reserve serves as a field station for UW-Stevens Point's College of Natural Resources. It aims to protect ecosystems while providing educational opportunities and recreational activities. More details can be found at www.uwsp.edu/schmeeckle.