Earth Week Finale to Feature Grand Opening of New Interactive Environmental Learning Center at Retzer Nature Center
The Friends of Retzer Nature Center’s Annual Earth Week Celebration Finale concludes week-long Earth themed activities on Saturday, April 28 at Retzer Nature Center. The Finale event is offering free exhibits, programs, and activities for all ages from 5 a.m.-9 p.m. Retzer Nature Center is located at S14W28167 Madison Street, Waukesha.
“The Earth Week Finale is a great opportunity for residents to learn about the environmental and economic benefits of conservation,” said Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow. “Not only does closing the loop conserve natural resources, it provides tax relief and job growth in Waukesha County.”
Visitors will get a first-hand look at the newly renovated Environmental Learning Center during its Grand Opening from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The new space incorporates displays on recycling, waste reduction, and water conservation into the existing ecology exhibits.
While traveling the new exhibit space, visitors will explore how their actions matter and what they can do to keep our planet safe and clean. The hands-on Materials Recovery Facility area will allow visitors to manually sort recyclables to be shipped to the remanufacturing facility.
Other family-friendly activities and events are scattered throughout the day. Visitors can take part in family birdwatching, hiking, children’s crafts, planetarium shows, a community mural art project, live music, Master Gardener representatives, and an evening campfire complete with s’mores.
“What makes the Earth Week Celebration Finale so enjoyable is seeing our visitors have fun while learning Earth-friendly strategies that can be done at home,” said Larry Kascht, Retzer Nature Center Supervisor.
Full event schedule available below.
About Earth Day
The very first Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970 to make people aware of the importance of keeping our planet healthy and clean. On Earth Day, people made promises to help the environment and make positive changes in their community. More information is available at www.earthday.org.
About the Waukesha County Park System
Waukesha County’s Park System demonstrates stewardship while providing recreational and educational opportunities. For more information, visit our web site at www.waukeshacountyparks.com or follow @WaukeshaCoParks on Twitter or like us on Facebook
The Friends of Retzer Nature Center’s Earth Week Celebration Finale Schedule of Events April 28, 2018
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Program
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Time
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Details
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Jack Young Memorial Earth Watch*
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5 a.m. – Noon
(In half hour or more shifts)
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Observe nature by quietly recording the sights, sounds, smells & wildlife activities going on! Equipment provided. *Register by April 25.
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Planetarium Show: “Perseus and Andromeda”
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8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
(Show runs every half-hour)
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The skies shine with beautiful laser light to tell the story of how Perseus saved Andromeda from Cetus, the mighty Sea Monster.
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Grand Opening of Interactive Environmental Education Exhibit
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10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
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Engage in recycling, water resources, composting exhibits, and more. Enjoy fun activities and prizes for all ages!
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Family Activities and Crafts
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10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
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Kids of all ages will enjoy a variety of crafts and activities including: Water Bug Life Cycle Adventure and Community Mural Art Project!
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Family Bird Watch Hike
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10 – 11:30 a.m.
(Meet by main entrance)
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Learn the do’s and don’ts of birding and participate in this guided hike.
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Master Gardener Station
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10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
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UW-Extension Master Gardeners will be on hand to demonstrate and answer questions.
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Volunteer Service Project*
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Noon – 3 p.m.
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Join Retzer Nature Center staff in volunteer projects, which include invasive species removal and spreading wood chips on trails. Must be 14 years of age or older.*Register by April 20.
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Trees & Wildflowers Hike
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2 – 3 p.m.
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Enjoy a guided hike through the woods, prairie, and hills of the Nature Center. Discover the tree and wildflowers of spring.
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Family Concert
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3 – 5 p.m.
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Enjoy Tom Pease’s fun and zany family-friendly show.
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Campfire Songs & S’mores
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5 – 7 p.m.
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Relax around the fire with classic tunes and a delicious treat.
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Magical Mystery Tour Twilight Hike
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Approx. 7:15– 9 p.m.
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Enjoy a guided hike into Brown’s Fen to catch a glimpse of the American Woodcock and other night animals. Bring your flashlight.
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