Pick-A-Program ................................pages

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

Consumption by the Numbers

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: life in a shell, plants & pollinators, birds, insects, and animal exploration. Call 262-896-8007 with traveling program inquiries.

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.

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!

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.

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

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