Geographicallyspeaking, “Greater Milwaukee” encompasses eight counties in southeastWisconsin: Dodge, Jefferson, Milwaukee, Racine, Ozaukee, Walworth, Washingtonand Waukesha. The “Greater Milwaukee” in name of the community developmentorganization the Greater Milwaukee Foundation is not just a geographical reference, it also pertains to the organization's mission: to create a greater Milwaukee.
To celebrate itscentennial, the Greater Milwaukee Foundation has been unveiling a gift to thecommunity each month in 2015. In July, for instance, funds were allocated tothe Milwaukee County Zoo to acquire a male and female snow leopard. Other giftshave included free public transportation for a day, a weekend of activities atthe Milwaukee Art Museum and free concerts by the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.
The GMF has justannounced August’s gift to the community: one day (Saturday, August 22) of freeaccess to six sites that celebrate Milwaukee’s natural environment by way of education,conservation and adventure. Jeremy Podolski, Manager of Marketing andCommunications for the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, had this to say about theAugust gift:
“The Foundationworks with many philanthropic donors who represent a cross-section of thecommunity. Many of these donors support environmental causes – landrestoration, stewardship, conservation, etc. By providing a gift to thecommunity that reflects these issues, we are reflecting our donors’ interestsas well as showcasing some of the community’s finest assets.
Wisconsiniteslove the outdoors. Our natural surroundings add immeasurably to our quality oflife and give our region its unique character. There are many great resourcesin the community but, for different reasons, not everyone is able to takeadvantage of them. Providing free access for even one day allows many people totry things for the first time and to learn something new about the community.”
The six sitesand a preview of their August 22 offerings are as follows:
Mequon NaturePreserve
8200 W. CountyLine Road, Mequon, WI 53097
Hours: 9 a.m. to5 p.m. (trail access: dawn to dusk)
Threehighlights:
- Nature’s obstacle course for walkers or runners
- Unique activity and enrichment stations
- Up-close with critters, including Louise, the famous resident tortoise
RiveredgeNature Center
4458 County RoadY, Saukville, WI 53080
Hours: 9 a.m. to5 p.m. (trail access: dawn to dusk)
Threehighlights:
- Recreational tree climbing
- Geocaching
- Fairy & gnome house building
SchlitzAudubon Nature Center
1111 E. BrownDeer Road, Milwaukee, WI 53217
Hours: 9 a.m. to3 p.m. (trail access: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Threehighlights:
- BioBlitz – observe and learn from scientists in action – in partnership with Milwaukee Public Museum
- Ponding and guided nature hikes
- Raptor meet and greet
Urban EcologyCenter
Hours: 9 a.m. to5 p.m. (all branches)
MenomoneeValley Branch, 3700 W.Pierce St., Milwaukee, WI 53215
Threehighlights:
- Birding on the bridge
- Hands-on beekeeping workshop
- Reptile and amphibian feeding
RiversidePark Branch, 1500 E.Park Place, Milwaukee, WI 53211
Threehighlights:
- Open climb on outdoor climbing wall
- Kayak outing to Village Park for adults
- Self-led science activities for kids
WashingtonPark Branch, 1859 N.40th St., Milwaukee, WI 53208
Threehighlights:
- Canoeing on the lagoon
- Guided fishing lessons for kids and families
- Water safety classes
