Water. It’s what make Wisconsin, Wisconsin.  Whether it’s our next door neighbor, Lake Michigan, the Milwaukee River basin, or the countless wetlands across the state, water shapes our lives.

Join us, as we explore and learn more about each of these unique and beautiful features during our Summer Water Series! Three Saturdays, three mornings, three different experiences on our local waterways.  Come for one, or all three.  Our goal is to provide an opportunity for you to learn and discover, first hand, more about our local waterways, how they are connected, and how they impact our communities.

Light refreshments will be served after each workshop.

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The Edges of Lake Michigan

Saturday, June 23 | 8:00 – 10:00 a.m. - RAIN OR SHINE!

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center

$12

REGISTER HERE

Lake Michigan-Huron, the largest freshwater lake in the world, is both a treasure and a mystery due to its vastness.  Guided by Don Quintenz, we will walk to the lakeshore where you will learn many of the wonders and important features this world-significant lake brings to humanity.  Learn about the geologic as well as human history of the lake, as well as share perspectives on how it is changing, and what we can do to help preserve its vital role now and for the future.  Like the oceans, people erroneously think the vastness of our Great Lakes makes them immune to the effects of human interference.  In the event of inclement weather, Elementary Education Manger Jessy Knox will take participants through some enlightening activities that illustrate the magnitude of the Lake and interconnectedness of the Lake’s biotic community.

Ecology on the Milwaukee River

Saturday, July 28 | 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. - RAIN OR SHINE!

Milwaukee Rowing Club Boathouse

$20 UEC members; $25 non-members

REGISTER HERE

Spend the morning on the water as you paddle down the Milwaukee River with the Urban Ecology Center. The Milwaukee River plays an vital role in our region’s watershed. Learn about the river’s diverse ecology and Milwaukee’s storied history with this important ribbon of water. All from the vantage point of a canoe! We’ll meet at the Milwaukee Rowing Club Boathouse and start our paddling journey there. Registration and non-refundable payment required by 5pm the day before the event.

Wetlands Restoration

Saturday, August 11 | 8:00 – 10:00 a.m. - RAIN OR SHINE!

Mequon Nature Preserve

$12

REGISTER HERE

Mequon Nature Preserve, located just north of Milwaukee, is 444 acres of mesic forests, prairies, wetlands and agricultural fields. Tour the wetlands of this mosaic landscape with Executive Director Kristin Gies. Wetland restoration, begun in 2004, continues on an annual basis. On this tour, you will see ponds in all stages of restoration, including Mequon Nature Preserve’s most established wetland system with 12 species of fish, the newest and largest pond spanning 4 acres and a recently reconstructed wetland which flows into the Little Menomonee River. The tour will culminate at the top of the 40-ft lookout tower where nearly all of the Preserve’s wetlands are visible. Plan on walking approximately two miles for this experiential learning adventure.