Waukesha County Environmental Education Activity Guide: May - August 2022 by WaukeshaCountyParks

Environmental Education

ACTIVITY GUIDE MAY - AUGUST 2022

Youth • Families•Adults •Scouts •Volunteers • 4-H

Table of Contents At A Glance........................................ pages 4 - 5 Special Events................................... pages 6 - 7 Scheduled Programs.......................... pages 8 - 15 Retzer Nature Center..................... pages 8 - 11 Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium...... pages 12 - 15 Conservation in the Parks................... pages 16 - 17 Scout Programs................................. pages 18 - 21 Pick-A-Program................................. pages 22 - 25 Donate & Volunteer........................... pages 26 - 30 UW-Extension & 4-H........................... pages 32 - 33 Park System Information.................... pages 34 - 36 All programs are held at Retzer Nature Center unless otherwise noted and are subject to change without notice. Staff may photograph programs, events, and classes for promotional material such as, but not limited to, brochures, advertisement of events, website, etc.

Retzer Nature Center S14 W28167 Madison Street, Waukesha, WI 53188 262-970-6680

www.waukeshacountyparks.com Now offering virtual programs for your convenience! We know every situation is different, and we plan to continue providing educational programs and experiences that help connect all of us with our environment. Find our Pick-A-Program options on pages 22-25 and look for this symbol for virtual programs! 2

This spring and summer, the Waukesha County Park System has so many opportunities for individuals and families to enjoy nature, no matter your age or ability. I invite you to experience everything new that’s going on at Retzer Nature Center, including the interacting with features on the Discovery Trail and walking along the new boardwalk. You can also attend our Wednesday Outdoor Classroom programs and Planetarium shows all summer; watch pollinators in action in the Children’s Garden; and participate in Boy Scout Merit Badge Programs in June. We also continue our work protecting and enhancing green spaces throughout the Parks System, as we work to reforest our Monches Property and restore native prairie at Nashotah Park. You are invited to enjoy those areas, or make a donation to your Parkland Conservation Fund. If you would like to get involved in our parks and our programs, we have robust volunteer programs and interesting seasonal job opportunities. Don’t forget to check out our full range of spring and summer activities, including beer gardens, swimming, golf, fishing and more. Please read through this guide to learn about everything available for you to explore. These programs can help us: • Create opportunities for everyone to explore the outstanding natural resources in the Waukesha County Park System • Protect the county’s lakes and streams by informing citizens on how property management decisions impact water quality • Better understand how our actions impact the environment and how we can work collaboratively to conserve our unique natural resources through a variety of science-based programs • Increase the quality of material recycled from households and businesses to reduce our environmental impact • Protect the quantity and quality of groundwater resources in the county by promoting water conservation and groundwater infiltration Enjoy the great outdoors in Waukesha County!

Paul Farrow, Waukesha County Executive

MAY

at a glance

Wee Wonders

Retzer Spring Bird Count

Home MakeoverGreen Edition: Muskego Public Library

Planetarium

Lunar Eclipse Party

Planetarium Show Camera Club Mtg. Sunset Meditation & Night Hike

Morning Bird Hike

Wee Wonders Planetarium Show

Morning Bird Hike

Outdoor Classroom Planetarium Show Dargatz Talk Sunset Meditation & Night Hike Outdoor Classroom Planetarium Show

Planetarium Shows

Planetarium Shows Habitat Restoration Workday at Menomonee Park

Morning Bird Hike

Planetarium Shows

Morning Bird Hike

Planetarium Shows

Learning Center Building and Planetarium Closed for Holiday

JUNE Outdoor Classroom Planetarium Shows Camera Club Mtg. Freshwater Mussel Monitoring Training at Mukwonago Park

Water Connects Us All: Waukesha Public Library

Wee Wonders Moonlight Date Night

Outdoor Classroom Planetarium Shows Wee Wonders Outdoor Classroom Planetarium Shows

Planetarium Shows

Morning Bird Hike

Planetarium Shows

Morning Bird Hike

Habitat Restoration Workday at Fox River

Planetarium

Scout Merit Badge Shows Registration Dargatz Play Party Deadline & Book Launch

Outdoor Classroom

Scout Merit Badge Scout Merit Badge Scout Merit Badge Scout Merit Badge Scout Merit Badge Planetarium Shows Bee-utiful Planting for Pollinators

See pgs. 8-10 4

See pg. 11

See pgs. 11-15

Planetarium Shows

See pgs. 18-21

JULY

at a glance

Planetarium Shows

Learning Center Building and Planetarium Closed for Holiday

Outdoor Classroom Planetarium Shows Camera Club Mtg.

Splash and Cash: Sussex Pauline Haas Library

Pop-Up Beer Garden Planetarium Laser Shows

Wee Wonders Wee Wonders

Planetarium Shows Pop-Up Beer Garden Planetarium Laser Shows Planetarium Shows

Outdoor Classroom Planetarium Shows

Planetarium Shows

Outdoor Classroom Planetarium Shows

Planetarium Shows

Outdoor Classroom Planetarium Shows

AUGUST Outdoor Classroom

Planetarium Shows

Planetarium Shows Camera Club Mtg.

Wee Wonders

Wee Wonders Outdoor Classroom Planetarium Shows

Moonlight Date Night

Planetarium Shows

Outdoor Classroom Planetarium Shows

Snapshot Day: Various Locations State-Wide

Outdoor Classroom Planetarium Shows

Planetarium Shows

Outdoor Classroom Planetarium Shows

See pgs. 6-7

See pgs. 8-10

See pg. 11

See pgs. 11-15

See pgs. 18-21 5

at Retzer Nature Center Fri., July 8, 2022: Sat., July 9, 2022:

4 - 9 PM 3 - 9 PM

FEATURING

7/8 only:

Pop-up Professionals Your chance to ask questions at this interactive table!

Laser Shows

7/8 & in the Planetarium 7/9: with music including Zeppelin, Beatles, U2 and more! Tickets: https://hdplanetarium.ticketleap.com/

Learn More: www.waukeshacounty.gov/popupbeergardens 6

Retzer Beer Garden Laser Shows

purchase tickets at https://hdplanetarium.ticketleap.com Friday, July 8, Choose your time: 4:30 pm- LaserMania

1) Mortal Kombat Theme- the Immortals 2) Blue- Eiffel 65 3) Smooth- Santana 4) Men In Black- Will Smith 5) Man, I Feel Like A Woman- Shania Twain 6) That’s the Way It Is- Celine Dion 7) Time Warp Medley with various artist- Blue Suede Shoes, Yakity Yak,Satisfaction, Stop, in the Name of Love, Whole Lotta Love, Stayin Alive, What I Like About You, Let’s Go Crazy 8) Desert Rose-Sting 9) Attack of the Radioactive Hamsters From a Planet Near Mars-Weird Al Yankovic 10) Mixed Bizness- Beck 11) Under the Milkyway-The Church 12) Livin’ La Vida Loca-Ricky Martin 13) All the Small Things-Blink 182

5:30 pm- Laser U2

1) Where the Streets Have No Name 2) I Will Follow 3) Beautiful Day 4) Sunday, Bloody Sunday 5) October 6) The Fly 7) Mysterious Ways 8) Pride 9) Zoo Station 10) With or Without You 11) Desire 12) New Year’s Day

6:30 pm- Laser Vinyl (A classic rock Experience)

1) Back In Black-AC/DC 2) Karn Evil 9-ELP 3) Jump- Van Halen 4) Bohemian Rhapsody- Queen 5) Carry On My Wayward Son- Kansas 6) Rock-n-Roll All Night- Kiss 7) Dream On- Aerosmith 8) Rock-n-Roll Band- Boston 9) Separate Ways- Journey 10) One of These DaysPink Floyd

7:30 pm- Laser Zeppelin

1) Song Remains the Same 2) Over the Hills and Far Away 3) Good Times, Bad Times 4) Immigrant Song 5) No Quarter 6) Black Dog 7) Livin’, Lovin’ Maid 8) Kashmir 9) Stairway to Heaven 10) Whole Lotta Love 11) Rock -n- Roll

8:30 pm- Laser Pop

1) Pop- N’Sync 2) Get This Party Started- Pink 3) Beatles Medley- The Beatles 4) I’m A Believer- Smashmouth 5) Desert Rose- Sting 6) Beach Boys Medley- The Beach Boys 7) Cosmic Thing- The B52’s 8) Digital Get Down- N’Sync 9) Kryptonite- 3 Doors Down

Saturday, July 9, Choose your time: 3:30 pm- Laseropolis

1) Karn Evil 9- Emerson, Lake & Palmer 2) Head Over Feet- Alanis Morrisette 3) Rock Lobster- the B-52’s 4) Firestarter- Prodigy 5) Under the Milkyway- the Church 6) Papua New Guinea- Future Sounds of London 7) Spiderwebs- No Doubt 8) Foreplay- Boston 9) Champagne Supernova- Oasis 10) End of the World (As We Know It)- REM 11) Torn- Creed 12) Smells Like Teen Spirit- Nirvana 13) One of These Days- Pink Floyd

4:30 pm- Laser Country

1) Ain’t Going Down (Till the Sun Comes Up)- Garth Brooks 2) Me and My Gang- Rascal Flatts 3) Ring of Fire- Johnny Cash 4) AllAmerican Girl- Carrie Underwood 5) Always On My Mind- Willie Nelson 6) The Devil Went Down to Georgia- The Charlie Daniels Band 7) Good Lord Willing- Little Big Town 8) All My Ex’s- George Strait 9) Crazy- Patsy Cline 10) How Am I Doin’?- Dierks Bentley 11) Chicken Fried- Zac Brown Band 12) God Bless the USA- Lee Greenwood

5:30 pm- Laser Spirit

1) Summon the Heroes- John Williams 2) Beautiful Day- U2 3) Music- Madonna 4) Beatles Medley -The Beatles 5) Reach- Gloria Estefan 6) Santorini- Yanni 7) Birds Fly- Icicle Works 8) Carry On Wayward Son- Kansas 9) Patriotic Medley- Aaron Copland & Lee Greenwood (Fanfare For the Common Man, America the Beautiful, God Bless the USA)

6:30 pm- Laser Rock

1) Crazy Train-Ozzy Osbourne 2) Juke Box Hero- Foreigner 3) Ramble On-Led Zeppelin 4) Suffragette City- David Bowie 5) Long Distance Runaround- Yes 6) La Grange- ZZ Top 7) From the Beginning-Emerson, Lake, & Palmer 8) Tonight, Tonight, Tonight- Genesis 9) YYZRush 10) Ace of Spades- Motörhead

7:30 pm- Pink Floyd: The Dark Side of the Moon

1) Speak to Me 2) Breathe 3) On the Run 4) Time 5) The Great Gig in the Sky 6) Money 7) Us and Them 8) Any Colour You Like 9) Brain Damage 10) Eclipse

8:30 pm- Laser Beatles

1) Magical Mystery Tour 2) I Wanna Hold Your Hand 3) Twist & Shout 4) A Hard Day’s Night 5) Nowhere Man 6) Help! 7) Yesterday 8) Octopus’ Garden 9) Revolution 10) Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band/ A Day In The Life

July 8-17 only! Any laser show can be booked for parties. Call 262-970-4139 for more information or to book.

Retzer Nature Center

SCHEDULED PROGRAMS Unless otherwise noted, these programs are held at Retzer Nature Center. For more information or to register visit www.waukeshacountyparks.com.

Sunset Meditation Planetarium Shows & Retzer-led Night Hikes

Wednesdays, May 4 and 18 8:00-8:30 p.m.- Sunset Meditation Planetarium Show 8:30-9:15 p.m. - Peaceful Night Hike $10 per person and recommended for ages 10+ Registration is limited to 60 and is required at least 24 hours prior to the program (No walk-ins will be permitted) Come unwind under the dome of the Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium and meditate for your mental health! View a planetarium show of an amazing sunset as you travel from the Grand Canyon to the North Pole, then relax under a night sky filled with stars with glimpses of the Northern Lights under the dome. After the show, take a quiet hike outside with a naturalist and discover tranquil sights and sounds of Retzer Nature Center (weather permitting).

Home Makeover: Green Edition

Tuesday, May 17, 7 - 8 p.m. at Muskego Public Library, S73W16663 W Janesville Road, Muskego, WI 53150 Free and recommended ages 18+ Registration is required at (262) 971-2100 Join Waukesha County experts as we learn ways to give your home a “green” makeover to be more environmentally friendly and save you some money in the process!

Teaching Off Trail: Utilizing the Power of Play, presented by Peter Dargatz

Wednesday, May 18, 6:30-8 p.m. inside Retzer Nature Center Free and recommended for ages 18+ Seating is limited to 100 guests. Registration is recommended, but not required. For a number of reasons, play is on the verge of extinction in not only our classrooms, but in our home lives as well. Yet, time and time again, research proves play is essential to healthy social, emotional, physical, and academic development. So why is play disappearing? And more importantly, what can we do about it? Join teacher and author, Peter Dargatz, and explore the power of play.

Pla N

Play Party Book Launch with Peter Dargatz

Saturday, June 18, 10-11 a.m., Retzer Nature Center Discovery Trail Free and recommended for children ages 4-8 (must be accompanied by an adult) Registration is recommended, but not required. Join award-winning book author and teacher Peter Dargatz for a play presentation and introduction to natural play stations at Retzer. Birding, insect sweeping, nature paintbrushes, trail mix, create-a-critter, and “loose parts” will all be part of the fun. Additionally, a book sale and signing will conclude the event. Visit www.peterdargatz.com for more information.

Bee-utiful Planting for Pollinators

Wednesday, June 22, 6:30 p.m. inside Retzer Nature Center Free and recommended for ages 18+ Registration is recommended, but not required. While wildlife gardening is now one of the biggest gardening trends, the decline of pollinators and other insects still remains urgent. Local expert Jennifer Lazewski will provide information on how to help pollinators thrive and create refuge for them, and how to enhance local food productivity by adding native plants to urban and suburban yards.

Bo pe

Water Connects Us All

Tuesday, June 7, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Waukesha Public Library, 321 Wisconsin Avenue, Waukesha, WI 53186 Free and recommended for ages 18+ Join Waukesha County experts at the Waukesha Public Library as we use an interactive model to see how water becomes polluted as it moves across the landscape. Learn ways we can all help to keep water clean. Walk away with actions you can take to make a difference!

Splash and Cash

Thursday, July 7, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Sussex Pauline Haas Library, N64W23820 Main Street, Sussex, WI 53089 Free and recommended for ages 18+ Registration opens June 13 at https://phplonline.org/adults/events-for-adults/ Come learn how (and why) it is good to collect rainwater for reuse with Jayne Jenks, Conservation Specialist with Waukesha County. This class will have plenty of action as we put together a rain barrel, see how it works and learn some basics about installation. You will be ready to save money by installing your own rain barrel at home.

Snapshot Day

Saturday, August 20, 9 a.m. - Noon Free and recommended for ages 13+ Join in this statewide search for invasive species. See locations and sign up online at: https://wateractionvolunteers.org/event-page/aquatic-invasive-species-snapshot-day-2022/

Wee Wonders Various Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. $4 per child per class Ages 2 - 4 Registration is required at least 24 hours prior to the program This monthly program is an opportunity for nature exploration and discovery for children. Wee Wonders offers hands-on experiences about a variety of nature topics. Each child must be accompanied by an adult. Each program includes an outdoor experience; please dress for the weather. Please register at least 24 hours prior to the program. (Walk-ins are welcome, space permitting. Please call ahead and arrive no later than 9:15 a.m.)

Wiggly Worms at Work

Tuesday, May 10 & Wednesday, May 11

Explore the life of a worm and the places they live as we dig up a few of these wiggly creatures to hold and enjoy. We will then make worm homes for our new friends!

Hoppin’ Fun

Tuesday, June 14 & Wednesday, June 15

Hop on down to the pond to find frogs and their friends in the water. Children (with their parents’ help) will use nets to catch these amazing animals for a close-up look and discovery adventure. Dress for mud!

Water Play

Tuesday, July 12 & Wednesday, July 13

It’s time to get busy watering! Children will use our misting bottles and take a journey around the garden and trails to help out our growing plants. We may get a little wet on our walk, so please dress appropriately.

Wee Rock n’ Roll

Tuesday, August 9 & Wednesday, August 10

Join us as we go on a rock hunt! We will explore the colors, textures, sizes, and shapes of different rocks. We will be digging for rocks, so please dress appropriately.

Ben Goss Bird Club Meetings resume on September 18, Third Sunday of the month Recommended for ages 11+, Registration not required Benjamin Goss Bird Club provides an opportunity for those interested in an active study of birds and their habitats. The public is invited to attend an in-person meeting (resuming in September), join the meeting virtually, or keep in touch through the club’s Facebook Discussion Group. For more information, visit www.gossbirdclub.org.

Morning Bird Hikes

Fridays: May 6, 13, 20, 27; June 3, 10, all from 7 - 8:30 a.m. Recommended for ages 8+, Registration not required Join us as we scout areas of Retzer to see how many different types of birds we can find on an easy, 1.5 mile walk. No expertise is needed, and all skill levels are welcome. If groups of 10 or more plan to attend, please contact Retzer Nature Center in advance. Bring your own binoculars or borrow ours (limited quantity); cameras are also welcome. Hikes are held rain or shine, so dress for the weather and meet in the parking lot area nearest the Learning Center building.

Retzer Spring Bird Count

Sunday, May 8, 7 a.m. - 12 p.m. Recommended for ages 8+, Registration not required Join us to scout all areas of Retzer Nature Center for year-round and migrating bird species during the annual Retzer Spring Bird Count. All skill levels are welcome. Bring your own binoculars or use Retzer’s (limited quantity available.) Meet by 7 a.m. in the parking lot area nearest the Learning Center building.

Retzer Camera Club Wednesdays: May 4, June 1, July 6, August 3 Recommended for ages 16+, Registration not required The Camera Club meets monthly with instructional programs, sharing/critiquing of members’ photographs, discussing equipment and technique, and providing opportunities for taking photographs at Retzer Nature Center and other nature areas. Open to the public! To learn more, visit www.retzercameraclub.blogspot.com or find them on Facebook.

Retzer Nature Center’s

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM

Select one-hour programs on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. in May, June, July and August $4 per student (free for adults and young siblings not yet in 4K) 20 children maximum; Ages: Elementary students 4K and up Registration is required at least 24-hours prior to program (no walk-ins)

Get outdoors with a naturalist and explore during our Outdoor Classroom series. These programs focus on seasonal topics and incorporate hands on discovery and sensory exploration for your elementary age learner. Each program is one hour in duration. Students must be accompanied by an adult. Programs will be mostly outdoors, so dress for the weather. Indoor activities may be incorporated in case of inclement weather. Program descriptions available online.

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May 18: Spring Birds

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May 25: Wonderful Wetlands

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June 1: Pond Exploration

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June 8: Recycle Raccoon’s Adventure Hike

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June 15: Crystal’s Clean Water Adventure

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June 22: Citizen Science- Butterflies

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June 29: Nature Exploration

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July 6: Art in Nature

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July 13: Secrets of Stream Life

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July 20: Colors in Nature

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July 27: Nature Exploration

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August 3: The Heat Is On- Water Exploration

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August 10: Nature Exploration- Prairie

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August 17: Nature Exploration- Things with Wings

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August 24: Nature Exploration- A-Z

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August 31: Citizen Science- Snakes

Pair your program with a Planetarium show. See next page.

Book Now! www.waukeshacounty.gov/enveduhub

Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium

WEDNESDAY PROGRAMS Tickets: https://hdplanetarium.ticketleap.com Show trailers: http://sdwone.us/planetarium

Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium (inside Retzer Nature Center) Wednesdays in May, June, July and August at 11 a.m., and starting in June, also 1 p.m. $4 per person (free for children ages 2 and under) 90 seat capacity, walk-ins welcome, space permitting Families, caregivers, home school groups, scout troops, 4-H and more…supplement your learner’s education experience with a planetarium show at Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium. Each program is 45-60 minutes in duration. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Private show reservations are available for community groups, private parties, corporate events, or scout groups. For more information or to register a group, call 262-970-4139.

Program Offerings (May - Aug.): Show descriptions by title can be found online at: https://sdw.waukesha.k12.wi.us/planetarium

Wednesday Morning 11 a.m. Public Shows in May

May 4: One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure May 18: Nine Planets and Counting May 11: Constellations: Adventures Connecting Earth & Sky May 25: The Solar System Show

Wednesday Morning 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Public Shows in June, July, August Date & Theme 11 a.m. Show 1 p.m. Show June 1- Geology............Did An Asteroid Really Kill the Dinosaurs?..........Our Violent Planet June 8- Life....................Space Aliens: Looking for Life in the Universe....The Sun: Our Living Star June 15- Culture............Stargazers of Africa ...........................................SkyTellers: The Myths, The Magic, and The Mysteries of the Universe June 22- Time................It’s About Time: Cosmic Cycles We Live By..........Mexica Archaeoastronomy: Between Space and Time June 29- Exploration....CapCom Go: The Apollo Story............................Satelix July 6- Space Travel......Rusty Rocket’s Last Blast....................................The Secret of the Cardboard Rocket July 13- Moon................Max Goes to the Moon.......................................Zodiac: The Stars, the Moon, & the path of the Sun July 20- Colors...............On the Blue Planet.............................................Cosmic Colors: Adventures along the Spectrum July 27- Earth................Amazing Planet.................................................Dynamic Earth August 3- Adventure....Little Draggy’s Adventure...................................One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure August 10- Sun..............Beyond the Sun.................................................Sunstruck August 17- Flight..........Dino Soars! Change Over Time...........................Flight Adventures August 24- Alphabet....A to Z Astronomy! From 3 to 103........................IBEX- Search for the Edge of the Solar System August 31- Science.......Defying Gravity..................................................Cosmic Recipe: Setting the Periodic Table Pair your planetarium show with an outdoor education program! See previous page.

Book Now! https://hdplanetarium.ticketleap.com

Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium

SCHEDULED PROGRAMS All shows are held at the Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium located inside Retzer Nature Center. Private show reservations are available for community groups, private parties, corporate events, or scout groups. For more information or to register a group, call 262-970-4139. The Planetarium has a 90-seat capacity and is wheelchair accessible. Pre-purchase of tickets online is highly recommended, especially for special event shows and those with limited seating. If unsold seats are available, they can be purchased online or will be available at the door up to the time of the show.

Tickets: https://hdplanetarium.ticketleap.com Show trailers: http://sdwone.us/planetarium

Children’s Planetarium Shows Rusty Rocket’s Last Blast

Saturdays: May 7, 14, 21, 28 11 a.m., $5 per person After decades of teaching the basics of rocket physics, Rusty Rocket has decided this will be his last blast. Still, there is one final mission to command: an introductory tour of the solar system for a new class of rocket rookies, focusing on the wide variety of planetary environments. He also emphasizes the immense distances between the planets and using cars and jets for comparison.

Beyond the Sun

NEW

Saturdays: June 4, 11, 18, 25 11 a.m., $5 per person While Celeste is fighting off sleep in her room by reading a book on astronomy, she receives an unexpected visit from Moon. Together, they will enjoy a journey through the Universe to discover what exoplanets are and how they can be detected. They observe rogue planets, oceanic worlds and super-Earths. Moon tells her about exoplanet hunters, who observe the sky in search of planets like Earth. Many adventures are yet to come. But first, she needs some rest. Celeste drops off to sleep waiting for the next visit of the Moon.

A to Z Astronomy! From 3 to 103

NEW

Saturdays: July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 11 a.m., $5 per person Explore the depths of space in a wild ride through the universe! Appealing to all ages, this family romp through the galaxies includes a roller coaster ride on our huge dome, a strange stop at a black hole by Mr. Shakespeare, a talking letter with a jelly-bean universe, and a trip to Egypt to explore hieroglyphs- the origins of our letters.

Dino Soars! Change Over Time

NEW

Saturdays: August 6, 13, 20, 27 11 a.m., $5 per person Perhaps the most astounding discovery about dinosaurs is that they are still around today - and not just in the movies. Birds are living dinosaurs! Follow the story of Malkia, a museum paleontologist, as she explores fascinating connections between birds and dinosaurs.

Special Showing: Children’s Laser Shows Legends of the Night Sky: Perseus and Andromeda

Saturday, July 9 at Noon, $5 per person; and Wednesday, July 13 at Noon, $4 per person

Legends of the Night Sky: Orion

Wednesday, July 13 at 2 p.m., $4 per person; and Saturday,July 16 at Noon, $5 per person

General Public Planetarium Shows Presentación en Español: ¡CapCom Go! La historia de Apolo

El sábado 7 de mayo, a las 2:30 p.m. $5 por persona El 20 de julio de 1969, 600 millones de personas en todo el mundo se reunieron para presenciar un momento histórico y un gran logro para la humanidad, que fue transmitido en vivo desde la Luna. “Este es un pequeño paso para el hombre y un gran paso para la humanidad” dijo Neil Armstrong. El mundo celebró cuando los astronautas dieron sus primeros pasos en la Luna. Pero pocas personas estaban conscientes del enorme esfuerzo que les había costado para poder llegar hasta ese momento. Estos astronautas del Apolo 11, eran solamente 2 personas de las casi 400,000 personas que habían trabajado durante diez años para lograr este objetivo. Pero, ¿cómo lo hicieron? ¿qué se necesitó para llevar a los humanos a la Luna? Temas: la historia, la luna, los humanos, la astronáutica, la exploración espacial

Out There: The Quest for Extrasolar Worlds

Saturdays: May 7, 14, 21, 28 1 p.m., $5 per person For thousands of years, mankind thought that the Earth was the center of the Universe. Thanks to our curiosity, imagination and urge to explore, we now know that planets like our Earth are nothing special in the cosmos. The Sun is just one ordinary star among hundreds of billions in our galaxy, the Milky Way. With the world’s most powerful telescopes, we are able to explore more and more of the Universe. A huge diversity of different worlds is out there, just waiting to be discovered.

Space Opera

NEW

Cosmic Colors: Adventures Along a Spectrum

Saturdays: July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 1 p.m., $5 per person Enjoy a wondrous journey through the world of color and beyond! Discover why the sky is blue, why Mars is red, and the reason why many things are the color that they are. Tour the interior of a plant leaf, voyage through a human eye, then step into the invisible as you investigate x-rays by taking on a monstrous black hole. Explore the world of infrared in a roaring fire, and even discover what may have been the actual color of a dinosaur. Explore the amazing rainbow of cosmic light through Cosmic Colors, an original production of the Daniel M. Soref Planetarium in cooperation with the Great Lakes Planetarium Association.

The First Stargazers

Saturdays, August 6, 13, 20, 27 1 p.m., $5 per person Journey back in time to explore how the first stargazers experienced the sky above. Your guide is Nashira, a friendly time traveler who has visited Earth many times before. Witness the very first stargazer making a Moon calendar out of animal bone 30,000 years ago. Discover the ancient pyramids of Giza and their alignment to the skies. See stunning digital re-creations of the Parthenon, Alexandria Library, Stonehenge and Abu Simbel Temple and be inspired by the first stargazers who laid down the foundations of modern day astronomy.

Saturdays: June 4, 11, 18, 25 1 p.m., $5 per person The discovery of a flying disc beneath the earth allows passengers to take off from the Earth and visit an entire solar system. The ambient recreates the interior of an alien spaceship where a voice facilitates the journey and provides information on each galactic stop. Space Opera is therefore an artistic, philosophic, scientific and cinematic experience all at the same time and indeed a unique experience of its kind. The journey in Space Opera is designed and harmonized entirely with Gustav Holst’s The Planets, Op. 32, which is one of his most beloved and admired works.

Planetarium Special Events Advance online registration for all events is highly recommended: https://hdplanetarium.ticketleap.com FULL MOON SPECIAL- Under the Moonlight Date Nights

Tuesday, June 14 at 7 p.m.; Wednesday, July 13 at 7 p.m.; Thursday, August 11 at 7 p.m. $20 per couple (only need to purchase ONE ticket per couple) Recommended for ages 18+ On these full moon nights, treat your special someone to a fun-filled evening of exploration throughout our elegant universe at the Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium. The beauty of the full moon and the night sky brings out the romantic side in all of us. Explore the current night sky with your date in the comfort of the planetarium. Moon pies and Tang will be provided.

Back to the Moon for Good!

This show opens with the first era of space exploration in the late 1960s and early 1970s. We see what that era of landers and orbiters taught us about our nearest neighbor including the discovery of the Moon’s origin, composition, structure, and the accessibility of raw materials on its surface. The Google Lunar XPRIZE is designed to democratize space and create new opportunities for eventual human and robotic presences on the Moon. We see the engineering and innovation steps taken by the international distributed teams competing to land a spacecraft on the Moon and vue for additional prizes. We highlight the human spirit of competition and collaboration as teams take on this audacious challenge. Who will win the $30 million Google Lunar XPRIZE? The audience is taken through a successful launch, landing and lunar surface travel. The show ends with a stunning glimpse of a plausible scenario for our future on the Moon.

July 8-17 only! Book a private laser show for parties! Call 262-970-4139 for more information or to book.

Cub and Girl Scout Programs To request a private scout program for your troop/den, please visit www.waukeshacounty.gov/EnvironmentalEd to submit a request form.

Tiger: Sky is the Limit

Daisy: Space Science Explorer

Enjoy a star talk, the Star Signs planetarium show and exploring jobs in astronomy.

Listen to a star talk, explore the planetarium show Max Goes to the Moon, and learn how to make and use a sundial.

Wolf/Bear: Space Exploration Examine space exploration through the CapCom Go! The Apollo Story show.

Webelo: Adventures in Science Study the night sky by taking an extensive six-hour time lapse tour of the night sky, where you will sketch and draw some of the major constellations of that season, and watch Zociac: The Stars, the Moon and the Path of the Sun. Add-on options available.

Brownie: Space Science Adventurer Watch The Little Star That Could planetarium show and listen to a local star talk.

Junior: Space Science Investigator Listen to a star talk, investigate the planetarium shows Four Paths of the Sun and Two Small Pieces of Glass, and do a night sky scavenger hunt.

More Scout Programs on pgs. 18 - 21 15

CONSERVATION IN THE PARKS BECOME A VOLUNTEER! Help create healthier natural areas throughout Waukesha County!

Take part in stewardship projects or help collect data within your community to assist with local conservation efforts. • No prior experience is necessary. • Attendance at a training program is required and equipment will be provided. • Depending on the project, volunteers may work independently or with trained personnel.

TAP/CLICK BELOW TO REGISTER FOR AN UPCOMING PROGRAM!

waukeshacounty.gov/conservationintheparks 16

Citizen Science Programs Wetland Monitoring Strap on some boots and survey for sensitive species that inhabit local wetlands. Reptile Conservation Collect data on turtles, snakes, and lizards that live in the park system‘s natural areas. Bird Conservation Waukesha County boasts 72 eBird hotspots! Grab some binoculars and help document breeding and migratory birds using the park system‘s vital natural areas during spring, summer, and fall. Wildlife Nest Box Monitoring Monitor or build nest boxes for raptors, mammals, ducks, and songbirds. Build and install new nest boxes, providing crucial habitat for wildlife. Mammal Monitoring From otters to meadow voles, document what mammal species live in our parks and greenways. Invertebrate Monitoring Join staff and experienced invertebrate enthusiasts to learn about essential pollinators and flying insects. Asian Clam Monitoring Join staff as we survey local rivers in search of invasive Asian Clams. No experience necessary and come prepared to get wet.

MAKING SURE THAT COMMON SPECIES REMAIN COMMON, AND THAT RARE, THREATENED, AND ENDANGERED SPECIES ARE PROTECTED.

Stewardship Projects Habitat Restoration Workdays Work with staff and volunteer Site Stewards to remove invasive species from our natural areas. Our workdays focus on the globally-imperiled oak ecosystems within Waukesha County. Rare Plant Conservation Help staff look for and monitor populations of rare, threatened, or endangered plant species. Actively collect and propogate native plant seeds and report new invasive species. Photo Point Monitoring Track the progress of restoration projects by capturing photographs at designated photo points throughout the park system.

SUPPORTED BY

#Wi l dIn Wa u ke sh a #Di sc ov e rYou rPa rks 17

SCOUT PROGRAMS Cub Scout Programs To request a program for your den/pack, please visit

www.waukeshacounty.gov/EnvironmentalEd.

Additional school programs that can be modified for Scout groups can be found in the Waukesha County Environmental Education School Guide. Programs must be paid in full at the time of registration. Minimum of 10 Scouts per program required. Programs must be scheduled to begin at or before 4:30 p.m.

Tiger

Tigers in the Wild Adventure 1 hour program $5 per Scout (Minimum of 10 Scouts) Enjoy the outdoors while identifying different plants and animals and the signs they have left behind as we hike the trails. Requirements 1-4 and 6-7 will be completed during this program.

Wolf

Paws on the Path Adventure 1.5 hour program $6 per Scout (Minimum of 10 Scouts) Join a naturalist on a hike to identify birds, insects, and other animals along the trails. We will watch and record interesting items we find as we hike. Requirements 1 - 6 will be completed during this program.

Bear

Fur, Feathers & Ferns Adventure 1.5 hour program $6 per Scout (Minimum of 10 Scouts) During your visit to Retzer Nature Center we will hike the trails and learn how to identify signs of mammals, birds, insect and plants. We will observe wildlife from a distance and plants close up! Requirements 1, 2, 4, and 5 will be completed during this program.

Webelos

Into the Wild Adventure 1.5 hour program $6 per scout (Minimum of 10 Scouts) Learn about bird flyways, wild creatures in their habitats, and identify local animals. Identify components of the food chain and how humans have changed the balance of nature. As we take a hike along wetlands, we will learn about the role of aquatic ecosystems. Requirements 4 - 9 will be completed during this program.

Webelos

Into the Woods Adventure 1.5 hour program $6 per Scout (Minimum of 10 Scouts) Join a naturalist on a hike to identify native trees and plants, their many uses and their importance to our ecosystem. Identify useful things made from wood. Use growth rings to tell a tree’s life story and learn about the function of tree bark. Requirements 1 - 4 and 6 - 7 will be completed during this program.

Open to all: Scout Animal Adaptations Hike

1.5 hour program $6 per Scout, per program (Minimum of 10 Cub Scouts) Meet the Retzer teaching animals! Make observations and see how an animal’s physical and behavioral traits can help it to survive as we explore the concepts of habitat and survival. Head outside to the Retzer Trails where we will look for animals, evidence of animals and explore how animals use their adaptations to survive in the wild.

Boy Scout Merit Badge Days Join us for a week of merit badges June 20-24—come to one or all! Merit Badge workshops are for children in grades 5 and up that are enrolled in the Boy Scouts of America program. Check-in at 8:15 a.m. Pick up at 4:00 p.m. Snacks provided, participants provide their own lunch. Fee: $35 per badge. Registration is limited. Register online by June 17, 2022. For more information or to register, visit www.waukeshacounty.gov/meritbadge

Date

Merit Badge

Class Will Cover

Prerequisites

Monday, June 20 Tuesday, June 21

Bird Study Space Exploration

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10 1 (a,b,c,d), 3 (a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, I,), 4 (a, b, c), 5a, 6a, 6b 2 Water B; 2 Food B; 2 Community A & B; 2 Energy A; 2 Stuff C; 3b; 4A &C; 5b, 6 1, 2, 3, 4(b), 4(c), 4(d), 4(e), 4(g), 5

1, 2, 8a OR 8b, 9, 11 2, 5b, 5c, or both, 7, 8 1, 2 Water A, 2 Food A, 2 Energy B or C, 2 Stuff A, 3a, 5a NONE

1a-c, 2a-d, 4a-c, 5a-c, 6a-b, 7a & d

3a-c, 4d, 5d &e, 6c & d

Wednesday, June 22 Sustainability Thursday, June 23

Nature Study

Friday, June 24

Soil & Water Conservation

Prerequisites must be complete prior to final card signing: Prerequisites must be complete prior to final card signing for the bluecard to be complete at the end of the day. Waukesha County will not provide merit badge counselors after August 31 to complete blue cards. After August 31, scouts are responsible for finding a merit badge counselor to finish incomplete cards. View complete merit badge requirements: www.scouting.org/merit-badges

Scout Project & Volunteer Opportunities GIRL SCOUT GOLD/SILVER AWARD & BOY SCOUT EAGLE PROJECT OPPORTUNITIES We welcome Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts alike for considering completing their projects with the Waukesha County Park System. Volunteer opportunities for individual Scouts and for Scout groups are also available. If interested, visit our Scout Project and Volunteer Information pages, and complete the appropriate Interest Form: https://www.waukeshacounty.gov/landandparks/park-system/ScoutProjectInformation/ https://www.waukeshacounty.gov/parkvolunteers

SCOUT PROGRAMS Girl Scout Programs To request a program for your troop, please visit www.waukeshacounty.gov/EnvironmentalEd. Additional school programs that can be modified for Girl Scout groups can be found in the Waukesha County Environmental Education School Guide. Programs must be paid in full at the time of registration. Minimum of 10 Girl Scouts per program required. Programs must be scheduled to begin at or before 4:30 p.m. .

Daisy

Between Earth and Sky Journey 1 hour program $5 per Girl Scout (Minimum of 10 Girl Scouts) Daisy Girl Scouts will have a hands-on sensory experience as they complete a scavenger hunt discovering different colors, shapes, and textures along Retzer Nature Center’s trails. Eco Learner Badge 1 hour program $5 per Girl Scout (Minimum of 10 Girl Scouts) Nature gives us many gifts. Daisy Girl Scouts will learn some ways to give back by protecting nature. We will learn how to be prepared before going outdoors, play a wildlife game, observe plants and animals within a “nature circle”, and learn how to protect nature from trash.

Brownie

Bugs Badge 1.5 hour program (offered May – October) $6 per Girl Scout (Minimum of 10 Girl Scouts) Brownie Girl Scouts will talk to a bug specialist, see bugs in action, explore bug homes and take a bug walk. Hiker Badge 1.5 hour program $8 per Girl Scout, includes snack. (Minimum of 10 Girl Scouts) Brownie Girl Scouts will choose a Retzer hiking trail, try out hiking skills including map reading, learn how to be prepared, eat a healthy snack on the trail, and have fun with an outdoor scavenger hunt. Eco Friend Badge 1.5 hour program $6 per Girl Scout (Minimum of 10 Girl Scouts) Find out how to treat outdoor spaces with kindness and teach others how they can too. Brownie Girl Scouts will take a hike, find houses in nature and learn how to keep animal homes safe, learn how to build and safely put out a fire, and practice being kind in outdoor spaces.

Junior

Animal Habitats Badge 1.5 hour program $6 per Girl Scout (Minimum of 10 Girl Scouts) Junior Girl Scouts will learn about animal habitats in Wisconsin, investigate animal habitats at Retzer Nature Center, create animal houses for Retzer animals, and learn about endangered habitats and how to protect animal habitats. Flowers Badge 1.5 hour program (offered May - August) $6 per Girl Scout (Minimum of 10 Girl Scouts) Discover that there’s more to flowers than just good looks. Junior Girl Scouts will uncover the science of a flower, go on a flower hunt, learn how flowers help people and animals, and make a flower craft.

Cadette

Trees Badge 1.5 hour program $6 per Girl Scout (Minimum of 10 Girl Scouts) Find out all about trees: from the shade to the science, the fruit to the forest, and the legends to the lumber. Cadette Girl Scouts will observe different tree species, learn about the amazing science of trees, discuss logging, clearcutting and deforestation, learn how Waukesha County Parks cares for its trees, and make a tree project.

Open to all: Scout Animal Adaptations Hike

1.5 hour program $6 per Scout, per program (Minimum of 10 Girl Scouts) Meet the Retzer teaching animals! Make observations and see how an animal’s physical and behavioral traits can help it to survive as we explore the concepts of habitat and survival. Head outside to the Retzer Trails where we will look for animals, evidence of animals and explore how animals use their adaptations to survive in the wild.

You don't have to be a school to book a private program at RNC! Retzer and Planetarium programs are open to families, homeschool groups, scout groups, 4-H groups, adult groups and organizations. View our School Guide and pages 24-25 for even more opportunities for private bookings.

Children should be within two grade levels of each other for best experience. Minimum attendance is required.

Book a program with the Waukesha County Environmental Education Team! www.waukeshacounty.gov/EnvironmentalEd 21

PICK-A-PROGRAM Unless otherwise noted, the following programs are free for Waukesha County community groups/organizations and can be hosted at Retzer Nature Center or your public space. Visit www.WaukeshaCounty.gov/EnvironmentalEd to request a program.

= Available as virtual program by request

Recycling: Up Close and Personal

Recommend for ages 16+ 45 minutes We use a lot of finite resources. Discover the numbers behind consumption on a global and nationwide scale and how you can reduce this number. Find out what happens to many of these materials and how recycling helps us manage much of what we consume. Minimum of 15 participants required.

Food Safety

Recommended for ages 8+ 30 - 60 minutes Become aware of food safety and the consequences of mishandling food. Hand washing is emphasized and interactive activities are available.

Green Cleaning Workshop

Recommended or ages 16+ 45 minutes Available in spring/fall We strive to keep our homes clean and healthy, but sometimes use toxic chemicals to do so. Is there a safer way? Find out what common household ingredients can be used to keep your home healthy, clean, and safe. Minimum of 15 participants required.

Groundwater: Our Buried Treasure

Recommended for ages 8+ 30 - 60 minutes Discover how the ground provides clean water for us to drink. Learn how that water can become contaminated and how to eliminate the dangers. Leave with actions you can take at home to keep your water safe.

Home Composting for Healthy Soils

Recommended for ages 16+ 45 minutes Available in spring/fall Learn how to create and use your own compost. Look at different bin styles to build or buy. Understand how compost works to improve the health of your soils for lawns and gardens. Minimum of 15 participants required.

Home Makeover: Green Edition

Recommended for ages 16+ 45 minutes Whether you’re looking to green your home, your lawn, or your wallet – we’ll cover them all! Learn ways to live a comfortable and sustainable lifestyle from recycling right to simple lawn care. Minimum of 15 participants required.

I Live in a Watershed

Recommended for ages 8+ 45 minutes Our watershed model provides a hands-on, interactive demonstration of the sources and effects of runoff pollution. Learn about the watershed you live in and see how it connects…all the way to the ocean! By the end of this program, you will understand what a watershed is, how it functions and how you are part of it.

Nature Connection for Seniors, Service Clubs, and Special Needs Groups

60 minutes: $4 per person Recommended for ages 18+ Join a Retzer Teaching Naturalist for a hands-on experience that engages and connects participants with the natural world. Topics include: Animal Ambassadors, Prairie Above & Below, Plants & Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds, Animal Skull Exploration, Owls (mounted specimens) and Insect Exploration. Call 262-896-8007 with traveling program inquiries.

Rent a Garden Plot

Recommended for ages 18+ Extension Waukesha County manages a rental garden located just east of Northview Road and Grandview Boulevard in the City of Waukesha. Garden plots are available for rental on a yearly basis to Waukesha County residents, sizes are 20’ by 20’ and 30’ by 30’. For pricing, availability, and more information, visit www.waukeshacounty.gov/UWEX/HORT/ or call 262-548-7775.

Rain Gardens and Rain Barrels

Recommended for ages 18+ 60 minutes Rain barrels have been used for many generations. Discover how they can actually help restore a more natural water flow while saving you money. Not only will we explore how to install rain barrels, but we will learn about the benefits of rain gardens too! Rain gardens and rain barrels can be a beautiful solution to water pollution.

Understanding Water Resources

Recommended for ages 8+ 45 minutes Discover where your water comes from, where it goes after you use it, and the difference between storm sewers and sanitary sewers. In this interactive presentation we will also discuss the Waukesha water issue, learn about watersheds, and how your actions impact our waters.

Volunteer Service Project

Recommended for ages 8+ Assist park system staff individually or as a group. Volunteers may assist with seasonal natural land management, species conservation, special events, or Retzer Nature Center animal and aquarium care. For more information, or to submit a Volunteer Interest Form, visit us at: www.waukeshacounty.gov/parkvolunteers

Recycling at Work

Held at your work place Recommended for ages 16+ 30 minutes Waukesha County Recycling and Solid Waste staff will share their expertise with your employees through a 30 minute interactive presentation. Your employees will leave with an understanding of what is recyclable, what the recyclables become, and how their actions effect the bottom line of businesses. Minimum of 15 participants required. Presentation requests can be made by emailing recycling@waukeshacounty.gov or calling (262) 896-8300 and can be customized based on your needs!

PICK-A-PROGRAM

Summer Camp | Preschool | Daycare | Summer School | Parent Groups Request programs online at www.waukeshacounty.gov/EnvironmentalEd (under General Public - Youth) or call 262-970-6680 for more details and availability of the following programs at Retzer Nature Center. Don’t see what you want? We can customize a program to fit your needs.

Retzer Nature Center Field Trips 1 hour program: $3.00 per student (Minimum of 10, maximum of 60) Retzer Nature Center’s Cancellation Policy

Programs must be booked at least 10 days prior to program dates. Fees must be paid at the time of booking or 30 days before program date. If payment is not received at least 30 days in advance, the program will be cancelled. If you cancel a program within 30 days of the program date, we reserve the right to forfeit the program fee or issue a credit instead of a refund. Credit must be redeemed within the same calendar year unless otherwise noted.

Nature Storytime Hike

Ages 4 - 6 1 hour This program focuses on reading and roaming! Naturalists will share a story and lead indoor and outdoor hands-on explorations designed to complement the program topic and story. • Pond Adventure • Insect Investigation • Life in a Shell (turtles, insects, eggs & seeds) • Terrific Trees (trees, seeds, nuts & leaves) • Camouflaged Critters • Things with Wings (birds, butterflies, bees & bats)

Navigating Nature

Ages 5 - 12 1 hour Work together to navigate to nature stations on the Retzer trails. We will observe frogs, skunk cabbage, insects, flowers and more as we make new discoveries while navigating nature!

Down at the Pond

Ages 5 - 12 1 hour Discover what lurks in the pond as we explore with nets to scoop up mud-covered critters. This interactive program gives children a close-up examination of the pond’s ecosystem. One chaperone per four children is recommended for children age 6 and younger. Program availability dependent on pond’s water level.

Insect Investigation

Ages 5 - 12 1 hour Explore the insect world using sweep nets to sample varied insect communities at Retzer. Get a close-up look at these 6-legged creatures using hand lenses and magnifying glasses.

Land and Water Discovery

Ages 5 - 12 1 hour Can’t decide between insect or pond programs? Enjoy a combination offer that features components of both!

Art in Nature

Ages 5 - 12 1 hour Nature creates unique artwork all around us with beautiful colors, interesting patterns, and unusual textures. During this program, we will look for artistic inspiration on the Retzer Trails and create an art piece or nature journal to record the art we found in nature.

Animal Adaptations - Indoor Program

Ages 5 - 13 1 hour Enjoy a visit from the Retzer teaching animals! See how an animal’s physical and behavioral traits can help it to survive as we explore the concepts of habitat and adaptation. Select your topic, choose from: • Retzer Animal Ambassadors • Reptiles & Amphibians

• Insects • Birds

Traveling Programs Traveling programs are limited to a 30 minute radius of Retzer Nature Center. Other distances subject to approval and fee increase.

$125 per program

(Maximum of 30 children)

Add-Ons:

$75 per additional program within the same visit

Nature Storytime

Ages 2 - 3 and Ages 4 - 6, 1 hour Our Naturalist will visit you, share a story and bring a variety of hands-on nature objects for the children to explore. • Insect Investigation • Life in a Shell (turtles, insects, eggs & seeds) • Terrific Trees (trees, seeds, nuts & leaves) • Camouflaged Critters • Things with Wings (birds, butterflies, bees & bats)

Animal Adaptations

Help Protect

Your Parks

WAUKESHA COUNTY

PARKLAND CONSERVATION FUND

The Parkland Conservation Fund helps protect, restore, and enhance greenspaces throughout the Waukesha County Park System. This stewardship fund focuses on wildlife habitat restoration and improvements to natural areas. Donations are an investment in local natural resources, public lands and parks for generations to come.

PROJECTS IN NEED!

Nashotah Park Native Prairie Restoration

Staff is now 50% done with the second phase of the restoration of old agricultural fields at Nashotah Park. Converting these fields into native prairie habitat will provide habitat for birds, pollinators, and other insects.

50% DONE

Help us reach our goal!

Monches Property Restoration

Phases 1 and 2 are now complete! We are continuing to plant trees and shrubs to restore this area. Help us reach our goal!

DONATE NOW:

WAUKESHACOUNTY.GOV/PARKLANDCONSERVATION

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS! Perfect for students, groups, and teachers! Volunteering with Parks and Land Use is a great opportunity for individuals and groups to enjoy the outdoors while giving back:

• • • • • • • • •

Park Maintenance (weeding, painting, trail woodchipping) Invasive Species Control / Removal Adopt-A-Trail Program Adopt-A-Drain Program Park Clean Up / Litter Pick up Retzer Nature Center Special Events Citizen Science Programs Stewardship Projects Scout Project Information

Submit an Interest Form! www.WaukeshaCounty.gov/parkvolunteers 27

We Couldn't Do It Without

YOU!

Retzer Nature Center is a treasure located in the heart of Waukesha County. It’s legacy dates back to 1973 when Mrs. Florence Retzer bequeathed her farm to the County Parks System to be utilized as a public park to “conserve the scenery, nature life and wildlife, leaving the land unimparied for the enjoyment of future generations.” The generous support of countless donors, volunteers, and caring members of the community have helped develop, maintain and support the Nature Center. You, too, can be part of this continuing legacy by supporting the Nature Center in various ways:

DISCOVERY TRAIL PROJECT

The first two phases of Discovery Trail project are complete and offer an accessible paved trail at Retzer Nature Center featuring “Exploration Stations” for outdoor education, sensory-based play experiences, and STEM activities for families and school groups. Fundraising continues for phase 3 of the project to enhance and expand features on the trail for all ages and abilities.

LEAVE YOUR MARK PROJECT

Leave your

MARK

Leave your mark on the new boardwalk at Retzer Nature Center. Recognize friends, family, yourself, your business, or a special event or memory while supporting our efforts to improve the educational and recreational enjoyment of our visitors.

FRIENDS OF RETZER NATURE CENTER

When you donate to The Friends of Retzer, your contribution will be used to help preserve the natural beauty and serenity of the Retzer Nature Center, maintain and expand its facilities, support environmental education programs and teach our community about the importance of being responsible stewards of the world in which we live.

www.waukeshacounty.gov/retzernaturecenter 28

Retzer Nature Center

Discovery Trail Project Waukesha County Department of Parks and Land Use strives to enhance and expand access to natural resources and environmental education for all ages and abilities. We are asking for your help because everyone deserves the opportunity to connect with nature and explore our world.

Donate Today www.waukeshacounty.gov/DiscoveryTrail

$5,000 Monarch Butterfly

$2,500

Green Darner Dragonfly

• Extra Large logo on trail donor • Large logo on board (11” x 7”) trail donor board • Participation in (7” x 5”) feature trail event • Participation in • Certificate of feature trail event Thanks • Certificate of • Three social media Thanks tagged posts

$1,000 Dog-day Cicada

• Medium logo on trail donor board (5.25” x 3.5”) • Participation in feature trail event • Certificate of Thanks

Looking for other ways to support this project? More giving levels available online!

All levels of support are accepted and appreciated. Every bit helps build barrier-free access to nature!

$500

Rusty Patched Bumble Bee

$250

Common Eastern Firefly

• Name listed on • Small logo on trail donor board trail donor board (3.35” x 2”) (4.25” x 2”) • Certificate of • Certificate of Thanks Thanks

All contributors over $250 will be recognized on a donor board displayed on the Discovery Trail. Thank you in advance for your support!

www.waukeshacounty.gov/DiscoveryTrail

In 2017 the Planetarium completed a major technology upgrade that converted the technology used to digital-full dome-video, and Astronomy programming expanded to include Biology, Health, Weather Systems, and Chemistry. The planetarium is now turning its attention to needs in its reception, student laboratory, and pre- and post-show areas. The project plan includes creating spaces which will simulate an outer space environment where students and visitors can be challenged with rotating, hands-on exhibits, experiments and encouraging scientific exploration.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/see-your-name-in-the-stars *Donors that contribute $250 or more will have their names printed within a night sky graphic on dark ceiling panels in the Planetarium exhibit hall.

The “Friends” of the Planetarium was formed in January of 2000. It is a community organization for anyone interested in astronomy, space exploration and the effective use of the planetarium. It is also a support group for the ongoing activities, outreaches and the spread of science education to our community. Friends memberships run from the 2022 Spring Equinox (Sunday, March 20th) to the 2023 Spring Equinox (Monday, March 20, 2023).

Volunteer Service Project

Volunteer Teacher Naturalist Training

Recommended for ages 18+ Retzer Nature Center offers an apprenticeship program to become a Volunteer Teacher Naturalist who can assist Education Naturalist staff with environmental education programs for school groups, scouts, and the general public. There is no registration deadline; we welcome new volunteers year-round.

For more information, or to submit a Volunteer Interest Form, visit us online at: www.waukeshacounty.gov/parkvolunteers 30

EXPLORE OUR

CHILDREN'S GARDEN

Check out the life cycle of plants and insects, look for pollinators and explore with your senses!

See how you can landscape with beautiful native plants that benefit wildlife. Come to the garden at Retzer Nature Center to look, gently touch, smell and enjoy!

SEARCH how do I dispose of ... in Waukesha County? how do I dispose of a tv how do I dispose of paint how do I dispose of household hazardous waste how do I dispose of scrap metal how do I dispose of batteries how do I dispose of electronics

These items never belong in your recycling cart! 31 31

Yard or Garden Questions? Contact the Horticulture Helpline. This free service allows you to speak with a trained UW-Madison Extension Master Gardener volunteer regarding plant, bug, or soil questions. For more information, email uwex1@waukeshacounty.gov or call 262-548-7779.

Soil Questions? Having soil problems? Tired of guessing about additives for your lawn or garden? A soil test will tell you what nutrients your plants or lawn need and will recommend the amount of fertilizer (N-P-K) to add to your soil. It will also tell the current pH of your soil and an analysis of the amount of organic matter in your soil. For more information, visit www.waukeshacounty.gov/uwex/hort/st or call 262-548-7775.

Plant or Plant Insect Questions? Let UW-Madison Extension Horticulture Educators identify your outdoor and indoor plant samples and outdoor plant insects. There is a $5 charge per sample. Call 262-548-7775 or e-mail lboyer@waukeshacounty.gov before bringing in any samples to the office to confirm office hours as well as plant/insect submission procedures.

515 W Moreland Blvd Admin G22 | Waukesha, WI 53188 www.waukeshacounty.gov/UWEX 32

Find your SPARK!

WAUKESHA COUNTY 4-H Education (Hands On Learning) Youth-Adult Partnerships Explore Personal Interests Leadership and Life skills Be Yourself and Develop Confidence Give Back To Your Community

University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension Waukesha County 4-H provides educational and enrichment activities for youth ages 5k-19. Some projects include : STEM, Wood Working, Photography, Arts & Communications, Cake Decorating, 50+ more! Connect with Waukesha County 4-H @waukeshacounty4H @waukeshaco4H @waukeshacountyyouthdevlopment

To join, volunteer, or explore 4-H visit: https://www.waukeshacounty.gov/UWEX/4H/ For questions: Please contact the 4-H Program Educator, alyssa.holliman@wisc.edu.

20 22 Annual Park Stickers Vehicle license plate numbers required for purchase.

Park Entrance Stickers Regular Two (2) Vehicle Package**

Disabled Veteran / Former POW* Two (2) Veteran Vehicle Package**

Senior (Age 60 Yrs. or older, proof of age required.) Two (2) Senior Vehicle Package**

3500

5500

1700

2900

1700

2900

Lake Access Stickers

One (1) Vehicle

Two (2) Vehicle Package**

9000

13500

Prices subject to change. *Details on disabled veteran qualifying criteria available online. **Package Stickers available for vehicles registered to the same residence. 1-Vehicle Stickers cannot be upgraded to a Package after original purchase.

New System in Waukesha County Parks!

Park entrances are monitored by an Automatic License Plate Reader System. Please provide accurate license plate numbers when purchasing stickers or daily passes.

BUY ONLINE:

34 www.waukeshacounty.gov/parkentry

Waukesha County Park System Q

145

Ashipp Ashippun un Lake Access Access

Menomonee Park

Bugline Trail

175

W W

K W

Nashotah Park

164 YY

16 16

Ryan Park

Lake Country Trail

Naga-Waukee Park & Lake Access

Nemahbin Lake Access

190

Pewaukee Lake Access

Glacial Drumlin State Trail

School Section Lake Access Access

Moor Downs Golf Course

18 O

59 164

New Berlin Trail D

Minooka Park

Fox River Park

H C

Eble Ice Arena 94

Retzer Nature Center

Expo Center

Fox Brook Park 164

Naga-Waukee War Memorial Golf Course

Naga-Waukee Ice Arena

164

I L N

Muskego Park

Mukwonago Park LO

Parks

Lake Access

Fox Brook Park Fox River Park Menomonee Park

Pewaukee Lake Nagawicka Lake Nemahbin Lake School Section Lake Ashippun Lake*

Annual Park Sticker grants entry at these parks:

~ Dog Exercise Area

Minooka Park

~ Dog Exercise Area

Mukwonago Park ~ Dog Exercise Area

Muskego Park Naga-Waukee Park Nashotah Park ~ Dog Exercise Area

Ryan Park

Annual Lake Access Sticker grants access at these lakes:

*No Lake Access Sticker required

Nature Center

Retzer Nature Center* *No Park Sticker or Daily Fee required

Golf Courses

Moor Downs Golf Course Naga-Waukee War Memorial Golf Course

Ice Arenas

Eble Park Ice Arena Naga-Waukee Park Ice Arena

Expo

Waukesha County Exposition Center

wa uke sha cou nty parks. com 35

Follow Us! @WaukeshaCountyParks @RetzerNatureCenter @WaukeshaCountyRecycles @WaukeshaCountyParks @WaukeshaCoParks @WaukCoRecycles