The Friends of Schmeeckle host several programs and events throughout the year. Explore upcoming events below.
"Trick or treat" yourself to an afternoon of storytelling as we explore the history and significance of All Saints Day and its creepy cousin, Halloween! We will unmask the origins, cultural connections, and folklore of these unique autumn traditions. Dress for the weather! Presented by Pearse Meighan and Veranica Petrach.
Plants are more than just background scenery—they’ve been our food, medicine and tools for generations. Explore Schmeeckle through a guided walk and hands-on activities to root out the fascinating ways people have used plants traditionally and today. Dress for the weather! Presented by Gretchen Bruegger.
Take a hike into the secret world of trees. Find out how they interact with their communities, who they are friends with and what they discuss in their private conversations. Dress for the weather! Presented by Ada Hage.
As the leaves come off the trees, fall is fully underway! Explore the hidden intricacies of autumn leaves through the creation of an art piece using found materials. All abilities and experience levels are welcome to join the fun, and all art supplies will be provided. Presented by Hazel Vandemark.
Prepare yourself for an adventure through time as we delve into the history of this island of green. From the glaciers that shaped the landscape, to the loggers and farmers who tamed it and its return to the woodland we love today, we will uncover the story of Schmeeckle Reserve. Dress for the weather! Presented
From the squirrels in their branches to the bugs in their bark, oak trees are teeming with life. Explore how the roots, trunk, limbs and leaves of the mighty oak create a home for the animals of Schmeeckle Reserve. Dress for the weather! Presented by Milana Meisner.
Rest your wings while you help a Schmeeckle naturalist and a Common Nighthawk see eye to eye on what it means to go by the name “Hawk.” Weigh in on the best hunting methods, nesting grounds and camouflage as we find out more about this special bird. Presented by Em Sinclair and Brandon Smith.
Brrr… it’s getting cold out there, so let’s grab our coats! Discover how our Wisconsin mammals kit themselves out to endure and survive our bitter winters. Presented by Renée Mcsherry.
Did you know that Stevens Point is known as the Gateway to the Pineries? Join us on Tuesday, November 25th as we discover how people in the past used these trees to provide for their families. Meet at the Menzel Pavillion before taking a walk through the woods. Uncover how pine trees can meet the
Bears: a furry friend or fearful foe? Mosey on over to learn about the adaptations needed to help a bear thrive! We'll explore a bear's toolkit for survival through hands-on investigation. Presented by Aleda Chambers and Isa Medrano.
Begin creating artwork, taking photos, and writing for the annual arts contest! Categories include Artwork of a medium of your choice (paintings, sculptures, etc.), Writing in the form of an essay, poem, story, etc., Photography with images being high resolution and suitable for print and digital display, and our newest category Digital Art. For more
Follow the wolf, coyote, and fox tracks to learn more about the wild members of the dog family who call Wisconsin home. Using our senses, observation skills and hands-on exploration, we will discover what our canine residents need to survive. Dress for the weather! Presented by Isa Medrano.