Learn how earlier springs can throw nature out of sync-pg 6
Spring is bustling with activity at Wehr Nature Center. We are proud to highlight the new Feeder Cam which can be seen on the Wehr Nature Center and Friends of Wehr websites. This project allows for 24/7 access to the bird feeders – making nature accessible right in your living rooms or mobile devices.
Our own Land Manager, Jeff Veglahn was recently honored with a certification granted to less than 500 people in the world. He is recognized as a Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP) by the Society of Ecological Restoration which highlights his expertise in the ecological restoration field. If you see him, please join us in congratulating him!
Brooke Gilley, Naturalist, and Certified Forest Bathing Guide has recently added to her certifications and is now recognized as a Spiritual Ecology Facilitator. As such, we are excited to announce a new set of Ecological Spirituality classes, a practice that recognizes the connection between humans and Nature. This small group 6-part series starts in June and meets outdoors every other Friday evening through August. Learn more by visiting our FOW blog.
This spring, we are welcoming input from families who speak different languages through a Nature Connection Survey. This short survey aims to understand the barriers to engaging in center programming. It is translated into Arabic,English, Hmong, and Spanish. Visit https:// www.wehrnaturecenter.com/accessibility/ to access the survey between now and May 1st.
Lastly, we are partnering with the Beer Barons of Milwaukee to host a first-ever beer and cider-making workshop on Sunday, June 29 featuring ingredients preserved from the Friends of Wehr’s Cider Sunday event (the first Sunday in October). Save the date and sign up early as space will be limited.
Other events you won’t want to miss:
Reptile Day - Sunday, June 8th, 12-4 pm
Brews and Botany - Saturday, August 2nd, 4-6 pm
Embrace the healing power of nature this spring, Carly Hintz
Bug Day - Sunday, September 14th, 12-4 pm
Halloween Haunts - Thursday-Saturday, October 16, 17, and 18th, 6-8:30 pm
Friends of Wehr
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
As we march into spring and the reawakening of nature, it is a great time to think about Friends of Wehr spring events and “save the date” on your calendar.
Everyone is invited to the Friends of Wehr Annual Meeting on Sunday, April 6th, at 11:30 am at Boerner Botanical Gardens. Attend this meeting to learn about 2024 accomplishments, get a financial overview, elect Friends of Wehr board members (only Friends of Wehr members can vote), and ask questions.
Shopping the Friends of Wehr Native Plant Sale Fundraiser, May 31 and June 1, 10 am-3:30 pm supports nature and the Friends. Other ways to support Wehr include becoming a Friends of Wehr member, volunteering, shopping at the Nature Store, and telling your family/friends/colleagues about this special place.
If you haven’t done so already, please renew/upgrade your annual Friends of Wehr membership or purchase a membership as a gift for family and friends. Membership perks include: free parking, discounts on selected programs and events, a 10% discount in the Nature Store, free Cider Sunday admission, priority registration for the Halloween Haunts event, and more.
For more information about Friends of Wehr and our upcoming fundraising events, visit our website at www.friendsofwehr.org. Please follow the new Friends of Wehr Facebook group, and Instagram for updates, stories, videos, and photos. With gratitude for your support, Cindy Lorentzen, Friends of Wehr President
Ladies Night Out
Friends of Wehr Native Plant Sale Fundraiser
Saturday and Sunday, May 31 & June 1, 10 am to 3:30 pm
Whether you want to help support monarchs, pollinators, and birds, or just brighten up your garden, the Friends of Wehr Native Plant Sale has just what you need. You will find native plants suitable for sun to shade and wet to dry. The over 100 different plant choices offer a rainbow of colors and perennial bloom times from spring through fall. For those who do not know what to choose or find too many choices overwhelming, the popular Pollinator Party Pack of 16 plugs will be offered again this year. Check out the website for What’s New for 2025 and information on many of our plant offerings. Don’t forget to consider planting grasses and sedges. They not only add support for flowering perennials but also add texture, and shades of green, as well as food and shelter for many pollinators and birds. Volunteers will be available to help with plant selection and growing conditions.
For the best selection please pre-order. Pre-order forms can be downloaded at: https://friendsofwehr.org/plantsale/ and must be received by April 23.
DONATE A PLANT TO HELP NATURE AT WEHR
You can support restoration efforts by adding a donated plant(s) to your pre-order or in-person purchase. The bees, birds, and other wildlife at Wehr will thank you (and we will too)!
Tuesday, July 8, 5-8 pm “Fun, Fabulous
Finds with Friends!”
Relax at our enjoyable outdoor evening event featuring 30 local businesswomen offering jewelry, clothing, handmade cards and other items, whimsical yard art, and much more. A fantastic raffle with vendor-supplied items will support the Friends of Wehr as they help expand accessible, inclusive programming and restoration of natural areas. Visit the website for details
WEHR WORDS - Editor: Bev Bryant
Contributors: Jeff Veglahn, Mary Gaub, Carly Hintz, Cindy Lorentzen
Milwaukee Journal
Donors
Thank You!
Your contributions to the Friends of Wehr are appreciated and always used with careful consideration.
Anonymous
AARP Wisconsin
Thomas and Patricia Agazzi
Linda Bay
Marsha Berenson
Carol J. Block
Suzanne Borowski
Deb Bozewicz
Donna Braunreiter
Gary Brummeyer
Ken Buchholz
Michael Buran
Martha Cargile
David Carlson
Kathleen Caveney
Terese Chelstowski
Kathleen Clark
Barb Collier
Joanne Cortez
Lori Craig
Dawn Crowbridge
Jessica De La Rosa
Bonnie DeAngelo
Liz Deger
Maria Dewald
Tom Diamond
Ann and Dan Diliberti
Judy and Wooly Dimmick
Wendy Donahue
Peter Drenzek
David Eberhardy
Ralph and Judy Faja
Kathy Fisenne
Jennifer Flaherty
Mary Frami
James Fuhrman
Christine Furness
Susan Gambetta
Gregory Gebel
Lawrence Gold
Harold Haase
Judith Hansen
Susan Henkel
Patricia Ann Hessler
Roger Hoene
Kenneth Hutnick
Susan Jensen
Christopher Johnson
Frank Jones
Aaron Kapellusch
Zoltan Kekesi
Robert Koebert
Amy Koenigs
Kohls Department Store
James Kolacki
Sue Kopf
Doug Kowalski
Mary Koziboski
Christopher Kurth
Jaynie Kutka
Susan LaRoque-Wishowski
Jayne Larson
Kathy Lawrence
Ramona Lenger
Bruce Lindgren
Amber Lonza
Jim Lubner
Allen and Sharon Marifke
Kimberly McConnell
Dennis McCormack
Laura McIntyre-Kelly
Jeanne Meyer
Michelle’s Action Angels
Fred Mikolajewski
Rada Milisavljevic
Ron Miller
Michele Mitchem
Chrysa Murphy
Natural Resources Foundation
Mary Netzer
Gladys O’Mahen
Gregory Osborne
Dianne Pardee
Ashley Parker
Gayle Pawlak
Elizabeth Peltier
Deb Peterson
Richard Phillips
Edward Pings
Charlie Presta
Jose Perez Quiles
Kathleen Reese and Joe Bartz
Michael B Rick
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Jean Rosenwald
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Carlen Schenk
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Dave Soike
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Robert Surprenant
Sandra Tesmer
Elizabeth Tess
Laurel Tippe
Kathleen Toohey
Michael Trudeau
Ed Trummer
UHG
Ellen Ullenberg
Donn Vaught
Richard Wade
Barbara Wallner
Jerome Weis
Jonathan Wichmann
Keelie Witzel
Nancy Wojnarowicz
Chris Young
Mary Zaborski
Mark D Zalewski
Cecelia Zettel
Shen Zhang
Wende Zinda
Scott Zunker
Spring has sprung at the Nature Store! We have gardening sleeves, vegetable stakes, rain gauges, native landscaping guides, and more for planting season. Coming Soon - we will be selling seed packets for Wisconsin native flowers packaged by Prairie Futures. Stop in often this spring to shop.
Giving First Anonymous
Ed and Dawnn Behrendt
Beverly Budny
Scott Cherek
Michelle Corbett
Deborah Dakich
Christina DeCheck
Pamela Galasinski
Mark Gaub
Carol Howard
Jean Kovac
Cynthia Lorentzen
Daniel Martin
Dan Mertes
Diana Hendrickson Petre
Joyce Radtke
William Rogalinski
Dean Roth
Marilyn Runge
Marie Sandin
Joanne Schilz
Ken Schoberg
Women and Girls in Science Sponsor
We Energies Foundation, Inc.
Wehr’s 50th Anniversary
Harold and Jean Kacanek
Teddy Porada
In-Kind
Kristin Ligas
Mary MacLaren
Kaye Martin
Wild Birds Unlimited
Stephanie and Grant Simmons
Deanna Sommerfeld
Sarah and David Stokes
Karen Szews
Amy Thrasher
Catherine Vonada
Barbara Wallner
Sally Waraczynski
Marilyn Weyher
Rita Wiskowski
Chris Zeitler
Thank you to Jackie Crivello’s Wild Birds Unlimited for their continuing support in keeping our feeders full and our birds happy. Wild Birds Unlimited located at 4454 S. 108th St. Greenfield.
Volunteers
Great Whitnall Park Clean-up
Saturday, April 26, 9 am-noon
Join us to make an impact at Wehr Nature Center and throughout Whitnall Park by joining the Great Whitnall Park Clean-up. We will provide gloves, bags, and buckets for the clean-up, but feel free to bring your own. Together we can make a huge difference in the health of our environment. Registration by calling 414 425-8550 is encouraged so we have your supplies ready. Current Wehr volunteers should sign up on Volgistics. All volunteers should meet at the visitor center at 9 am to receive your assigned area, equipment, and instructions. This program is open to all ages and abilities. If you’d like to request accommodations, please contact our Access & Inclusion Coordinator Emily Brown at Emily.Brown@milwaukeecountywi.gov.
Don’t Take Weeds for a Walk
A Big Lift—Combating Wehr’s Invasive Species
Last year, Wehr Nature Center took 2nd place in the Garlic Mustard Pull-a-Thon competition sponsored by the Southeast Wisconsin Invasive Species Consortium (SEWISC). In 2025 we are determined to take the title back!
A Pull-a-Thon is a friendly competition and fundraiser that brings people together to positively impact their environment. The goal is to pull as much garlic mustard and Dame’s rocket as possible by the end of June and raise funds to support the work of SEWISC and the competing teams.
We need your help to reach our goal of raising $1000 and pulling 5,000 pounds! Volunteers are invited to join Wehr’s STEW Crew on Wednesday mornings from 9-11 am. Do you know a corporate or church group, or other team that would be interested in helping? Contact Jeff Veglahn at jeffrey.veglahn@milwaukeecountywi.gov. Even if we don’t win the competition, you will have helped to maintain a native environment for all the plants, animals, and visitors at Wehr. Thanks for your support!
Managing invasive species on a 220-acre urban nature preserve can be challenging, to say the least. Constant disturbance from stormwater run-off, concentrated populations of wildlife, and people walking off trails allow weeds such as garlic mustard and Dame’s rocket to get a foothold in our natural areas. Like other “weedy” species, these invaders do best in “open” soil, using their quick growth rates and abundant seeds to spread and outcompete the slower-growing native plants. Keeping invasive plant seeds out of natural areas is much easier than removing them once established and you can be part of this solution when you visit Wehr by using our new Boot Brush Stations. These stations will be added to multiple trail entrances this spring. They will be secured to trail marking posts or future wayfinding trail maps at convenient locations. Stopping to clean your shoes as you enter a trail will remove potential weed seeds mixed in dirt and mud on your soles. Not only does that protect Wehr’s natural spaces, but it also protects other natural spaces you might visit.
For more information on these boot brush stations or invasive species, please contact Wehr’s Land Manager at jeffrey.veglahn@milwaukeecountywi.gov or 414-425-8550. Thank you!
New Volunteers Welcomed
Are you interested in finding out more about joining Wehr’s volunteer crew? Looking for a fun place to perform a corporate day of service? Visit https://friendsofwehr.org/ volunteer/ to find out more and fill out an application or contact Mary Gaub, Volunteer Coordinator, at mary.gaub@milwaukeecountywi.gov or call 414-425-8550. We’d love to meet you!
A Shifting Spring Season
Spring is a fickle season in Wisconsin. It teases us with warm days, only to disappear, and when it truly arrives, it doesn’t linger long. You might miss the subtle shifts climate change is causing to this ephemeral season, but data shows that spring in Milwaukee is 3.7°F warmer on average now than in 1970. While a warmer, earlier spring feels wonderful after a Wisconsin winter, phenological observations show that this warming trend is knocking nature’s important interactions out of rhythm.
Noticing Nature’s Rhythms
Phenology is a record of observations of when plants bloom and leaf out and the timing of animal migrations, nesting, and breeding. It helps us describe nature’s calendar andis critical to understanding how climate shifts impact natural systems. It is one of the most powerful lines of evidence of global climate change.
SPRING WARMING
UW-Madison professor Aldo Leopold, hailed as the father of wildlife ecology, kept meticulous records of phenological events in Sauk County, Wisconsin, starting in 1936. His daughter, biologist Nina Leopold Bradley, continued his work into the 2000s. Her analysis of the over 61 years of phenological observations showed two-thirds of plants and birds recorded are returning two to three weeks earlier in spring. Listen to Nina tell this important climate story in this video. Wehr’s volunteer Phenology Group has kept similar records on flowers and birds at the nature center since the early 1970s. While we haven’t completed a detailed data analysis, a preliminary study showed similar results.
Species Out of Sync
Nature depends on thousands of intricate, well-timed interactions between species. For instance, plants need insect pollinators to be active when they are flowering, and pollinators rely on plentiful plant pollen and nectar for food during their period of growth and reproduction. Native plants and insects have adapted the timing of emergence, flowering, and reproduction to coincide over the last 18,000 years of stable climate, but these relationships are now getting out of sync due to climate change. Some plants are leafing out and blooming earlier in spring, cued by warming soil to begin growth,but many native bees, which respond to day length for when to emerge, are not making the same shift. This mismatch can be detrimental to both pollinator partners.
The early onset of the growing season not only impacts springblooming plants, it can also advance flowering in mid-late summerblooming plants. This is throwing off the timing of our endangered Rusty Patched Bumble Bee that relies on these late-season wildflowers to provide nutrition for males and newly emerged queens in late summer.
Pollination is not the only interaction that is getting out of rhythm. Ninety percent of birds feed insects to their offspring during breeding season, so nesting season needs to be in sync with peak insect populations. However, those populations are emerging and peaking earlier due to early spring warm-up. Birds, especially those that migrate long distances to their breeding grounds, are not keeping pace with the change. This mismatch can reduce the survival of chicks, contributing along with many other stressors to the 30 percent decline in North American bird populations since 1970. Watch this video to learn more about the disruption of nature’s clock.
Sneezing Season is Getting Longer
Humans are not immune to the impact of warmer, earlier springs. If you suffer from pollen allergies, you may have noticed your symptoms are worsening and lasting longer. Increasing CO2 levels in the atmosphere are causing windpollinated plants such as trees, grasses, and ragweed to produce more allergy-inducing pollen. We are also experiencing 23 more frost-free days a year on average than 30 years ago, making allergy season last longer. Learn more about the impact of climate change on allergies in this video and article.
Freeze-free
Allergy Season Is Getting Longer
MILWAUKEE
Freeze-free season = consecutive days between the annual last and first occurance of minimum temperatures above 32˚F. Source NOAA(ACIS)
Why is the climate changing?
When we burn fossil fuels like oil, gasoline, coal, and natural gas, we release large amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere. This rampant CO2 accumulates in the upper atmosphere, acting like a thick, heat-trapping blanket. It holds extra heat inside our atmosphere, causing temperatures to rise and disruptions in our global weather system. Learn more at Facts About Climate Change. What Can You Do?
•Help scientists monitor changes in nature. Join Wehr’s weekly Phenology Group, become a Bumblebee monitor, or participate in national programs like Project BudBurst or Nature’s Notebook.
•Plant native trees, shrubs, and flowers in your yard to create critical habitat for bees, birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. Join the Homegrown National Park movement and the Garden for Wildlife Initiative
•Don’t know how to start a conversation? Share these stories of local climate impacts with people in your life. Watch How To Talk About Climate Change or Talking About Climate Change
•Reduce your use of fossil fuels. Weatherproof your home and choose energy-efficient appliances and vehicles.
•Support conservation efforts at Wehr and other natural areas by donating, volunteering, and advocating for their protection.
Your actions make a difference!
Journeys in Spiritual Ecology Workshop
Fridays: 6-7:30 pm June 6, 20 • July 11, 25 • August 8, 22
Are you looking to deepen your connection with the natural world and build a community with like-minded individuals? Together we will explore Spiritual Ecology as one pathway to enriching your kinship with the Earth. Participants will learn about the five values of Spiritual Ecology:
Our first session will be an introduction to Spiritual Ecology and then we will focus on one Spiritual Ecology value per session learning about the various ways you can incorporate them into your own practice.
Fee: $60 for all sessions, $42 for Friends of Wehr members
Brew Workshop
Sunday, June 29, 1-4 pm
Join Beer Barons of Milwaukee for an afternoon of brewing beer using two different brewing methods. Learn the difference between extract and all-grain brewing - how to mash, sparge, and turn malted barley and hops into a delicious beer. Sample products brewed by members of the Beer Barons and a hard cider crafted from last year’s Cider Sunday event! Participants will learn the science, art, and culinary aspects of brewing from a knowledgeable host.
This event will be outdoors and held rain or shine.
Age: Adults or teens; must be 21 or older to consume alcohol
Fees (includes parking): $25 per person
$20 for Milwaukee County residents
$15 for Friends of Wehr members
Reservations guarantee a spot.
Walk-ins are welcome as space allows.
APRIL
Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am
Wehr Birders 8-10 am
Friends of Wehr
Annual Meeting 11:30 am
Wehr Birders 8-10 am
Nature Wizard for Families 1-2:30 pm
Guided Forest Bathing Walk 1-3 pm
Happy Easter!
Little Wonders for Twos 9:30-10:30 am
Wehr Astronomical Society 7-9 pm
Little Wonders for Threes 11 am-noon SPARK! 1-2:30 pm
Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am
Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am SPARK! 10-11:30 am
WI Metro Audubon Society 7-9 pm
1:30-3 pm
Birding Beyond the Feeder: Bird ID 8 am-12 pm Frog Frolic for Families 6:30-8:30 pm
Wehr’s Visitor Center is closed. Enjoy the trails.
Wehr Birders
8-10 am
Wehr Birders 8-10 am
Bluebirds nesting 2014
NatureNauts 9:30-10:30 am
Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am
Plant Sale PreOrder Forms Due 4:30 pm Free Parking Thursday
Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am
Operation Recon Nature - Veterans 5-6 pm
Programs offered by an affiliated organization are listed in orange For more information call 414-425-8550
NatureNauts 1-2 pm
APRIL HIGHLIGHTS
Birding Beyond the Feeder: Bird ID
Saturday, April 19, 8 am-noon
The migrants are coming! Learn basic bird identification using behavior, field marks, shape, and more, then test your new skills on a hike. Binocular and field guide/bird app information included-bonus pre-class hike at 7 am. Accessible options available; contact carol.howard@milwaukeecountywi.gov or 414-425-8550. Ages 13 and older. Fees: $20 per person; $17 for Milwaukee County residents; $15 for Friends of Wehr members Reservations guarantee a space. Walk-ins are welcome as space allows.
Wehr Birders
Every Sunday, 8-10 am Join us for a morning bird hike led by fellow birders. We meet every Sunday in front of the visitor center. All levels of experience are welcome.
Great Whitnall Park Clean-up 9 am-noon Flow Yoga 9-10 am
Operation Recon Nature for Families 3-4 pm
All programs & events subject to change. Parking fees may apply.
No fee or registration is required. A $5 parking fee applies to non-members
April Programs
Click on the title of a program for more information and to register.
Little Wonders
Goose Chase
Monday, April 7
For 2-year-olds, 9:30-10:30 am
For 3-year-olds, 11 am-12 pm
Waddle over to Wehr to welcome Canada geese back to our pond. We’ll meet an independent gosling in Rebel by John Schoenherr, paint with feathers, and take a walk to hunt for geese. A program for toddlers and their favorite adult
Nature Wizard for Families
Soil Secrets
Sunday, April 13, 1-2:30 pm
Have you ever really noticed the ground beneath your feet? Soil makes your breakfast (and lunch and dinner) and we can’t live without it. Join us at Wehr to gain a greater appreciation of this critical resource. Work as a family to dissect a soil sample to discover the ingredients that make it healthy and then join a naturalist on a discovery walk to see soil in action. $7 per family; $5 for Friends of Wehr members Reservations guarantee a space. Walk-ins are welcome as space allows.
Guided Forest Bathing Walk
Sunday, April 13, 1-3 pm
Unplug, slow down, and de-stress from your daily routine. Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, a certified forest bathing guide will lead you through sensory-based invitations designed to relax, restore, and deepen your relationship with the natural world. Fee: $35 per person (Includes Parking); $25 for FOW members Online registration is required two days before the program
SPARK! Nature programs for adults with memory loss and their care partner
Elegant Eggs
Tuesday, April 15, 1-2:30 pm
Wednesday, April 16, 10-11:30 am
Birds aren’t the only ones that come from eggs. We’ll explore the beauty and elegant design of nature’s most perfect package.
No fee but registration isrequired
Frog Frolic for Families
Saturday, April 19, 6:30-8:30 pm
Calling all frog lovers. Hop over to Wehr and celebrate spring with these amazing amphibians. We will meet some Wisconsin amphibians up close and then stroll to Wehr’s vernal pond to listen for the sweet sound of frogs chorusing.
Recommended for families with children ages 5 and older.
Flow Yoga
Saturday, April 26, 9-10 am
Give yourself the gift of self-care in a beautiful, serene setting at Wehr. Join our special monthly yoga series co-hosted by a Barefoot Haven yoga and wellness studio instructor. Participants at all levels and all abilities are welcome in this 60-minute indoor, vinyasa flow class. To reserve your space, pre-register online at https://www.thebarefoothaven.com/schedule.
Fees: $15 per person to Barefoot Haven
Operation Recon Nature for Veterans
Friday, April 25, 5-6 pm
Veterans from all service branches - Active Duty, Reserve, and Retired personnel are invited to attend monthly walks held at Wehr Nature Center. For approximately 1 to 1 1/2 hours, we will travel on the trails of Wehr Nature Center to share camaraderie and experience seasonal nature happenings.
Operation Recon Nature for Families
Saturday, April 26, 3-4 pm
Veterans and their families are invited to attend monthly walks held here at Wehr Nature Center. We will have spring-time fun on the trails of Wehr Nature Center experiencing and observing seasonal nature happenings.
Free but pre-registration is required.
Contact Holly at: holly.walz@milwaukecountywi.gov for questions.
NatureNauts
Frog Songs
Sun., April 27, 1 - 2 pm Mon., April 28, 9:30 - 10:30 am
Hop over and discover why springtime means frogs. Learn different frog songs, walk to the pond, and meet a live frog and toad up close. Make your own froggy craft to take home. A program for 4 - 6-year-olds with an adult
Program audience key: Kids/Families; Adults; Special Event
Fees: $12 per person; $10 for Milwaukee County residents; $7 for Friends of Wehr (FOW) members, unless otherwise noted. A $5 parking fee applies for non-FOW members. Online registration at least two days prior to the program is required.
Programs offered by an affiliated organization are listed in orange For more information call 414-425-8550 All programs & events subject to change. Parking fees may apply.
Wehr Birders
8-10 am
Nature Wizard for Families 1-2:30 pm
Wehr Birders 8-10 am
Guided Forest Bathing Walk 1-3 pm
Wehr Birders 8-10 am
Wehr Birders 8-10 am
Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am
Bird Friendly Coffee Part of Brew City Bird Festival 7-8 pm
Little Wonders for Twos 9:30-10:30 am Little Wonders for Threes 11 am-noon Wehr Astronomical Society 7-9 pm Birding Beyond the Feeder: Birding By Ear 9:30-12 pm
Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am
Fridays Afield 2-4 pm
Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am SPARK! 10-11:30 am
Nighttime Sky Viewing at Overlook 8-11 pm
Yoga in the Amphitheater 9-10 am
NatureNauts 1-2 pm NatureNauts 9:30-10:30 am SPARK! 1-2:30 pm Operation Recon Nature for Veterans 5-6 pm FOW Native Plant Sale 10 am-3:30 pm Operation Recon Nature for Families 3-4 pm
MAY HIGHLIGHTS
Remember and Honor
Wehr Visitor Center is closed. Enjoy the trails.
Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am
Free Parking Thursday
Advanced Master Naturalist
Wisconsin Rare Plant Monitoring Program Training Saturday, May 3, 10 am-3 pm
Are you interested in plant conservation in Wisconsin? Join a group of dedicated volunteers who conduct rare plant surveys. Your data will help assess plant population trends for state and national conservation efforts. Survey techniques include: estimating large plant populations, assessing habitat conditions, and using GPS to locate and mark rare plant populations. Basic plant ID is NOT provided. For more info go to: https://wiatri.net/inventory/rare plants/volunteer/about.cfm Open to the public; provides continuing education hours for WI Master Naturalists. Fee: $10 for required materials Online registration is required two days before the program
Global Big Day Bird Count
Saturday, May 10, 7 am at Wehr
It’s BIG! Over 7725 species were counted last year in the world’s largest bird count and research project. Join naturalists at Wehr or bird anywhere for as long as you want and record your sightings in eBird. Accessible options available; contact carol.howard@milwaukeecountywi.gov or 414-425-8550. No fee or registration is required.
May Programs
Click on the title of a program for more information and to register.
Nature Wizard for Families
Wild Blossoms
Sunday, May 4, 1-2:30 pm
Join us to explore the rainbow of wildflowers popping up along Wehr’s trails and take a guided walk to discover our native wildflowers and the creatures that depend on them. Fee: $7 per family; $5 for FOW members Reservations guarantee a space. Walk-ins are welcome as space allows.
Little Wonders Pretty Petals
Monday, May 5
For 2-year-olds, 9:30-10:30 am
For 3-year-olds, 11 am-12 pm
Bring your little sprout to Wehr to enjoy the beauty of spring flowers. We will read Planting a Rainbow by Lois Ehlert and go on a wildflower walk to find rainbow colors in nature.
A program for toddlers and their favorite adult
Bird Friendly Coffee-
Conserving Birds One Cup at a Time
Part of the Brew City Bird Fest
Friday, May 9, 7-8 pm Optional bird walk: 5:45-6:45 pm
Sponsored by WI Metro Audubon Society and Wehr Birders
Join us for an evening with ornithologist Greg DuBois of the Illinois Audubon Society to learn about the connection between your cup of coffee and bird conservation. Greg will discuss coffee consumption and production and explain how we can protect our migratory birds through the Smithsonian Bird Friendly certified coffee and cocoa program. Before the presentation, we’ll sample bird-certified coffee from the Friends of Wehr Nature Store. The event is free, but pre-registration is required on Eventbrite.
Guided Forest Bathing Walk
Sunday, May 11, 1-3 pm
Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, a certified forest bathing guide will lead you through sensory-based invitations designed to relax, restore, and deepen your relationship with the natural world.
Fee: $35 per person (Includes Parking); $25 for FOW members Online registration is required two days before the program
Friday Afield
Friday, May 16, 2-4 pm
Join us at The Hunger Task Force Farm for an ecology walk to enjoy the native plants and to learn about the restoration work happening in their oak savanna and prairie Fee: $5 per person FOW Members; $7 per person Non-Members Online registration is required.
Birding Beyond the Feeder
Birding by Ear
Saturday, May 17, 9:30-12 pm
Beginners and experienced birdwatchers are invited to learn to identify birds by their songs and calls. We’ll use ornithologist tips and tricks to learn 10-ish species and test new skills with live birds on the trails.
Fees: $20 per person; $17 for Milw. Co. residents; $15 for FOW members Reservations guarantee a space. Walk-ins are welcome as space allows.
NatureNauts
Super Salamanders
Sun., May 18, 1-2 pm Mon., May 19, 9:30 - 10:30 am
Discover the secrets of our super salamanders. Enjoy a reading of The Salamander Room, make a salamander craft, and meet a real salamander up close. A program for 4 - 6-year-olds with an adult
SPARK!
Nature programs for adults with memory loss and their care partner
Warblers & Wildflowers
Tues., May 20, 1-2:30 pm Wed., May 21, 10-11:30 am
Colorful blooms and birds spring up at Wehr every day in May. We’ll exercise our bodies and sense of wonder exploring near the visitor center. No fee but registration is required.
Nighttime Sky Viewing
Friday, May 23, 8-11 pm
Location: Overlook parking lot on the east side of Mallard Lake Look through a telescope and learn about the night sky with experts from the Wehr Astronomical Society. Cloudy skies cancel the event. Free. No registration is required.
Flow Yoga in the Amphitheater
Saturday, May 24, 9-10 am
Join us for a 60-minute, outdoor all-level vinyasa flow class in partnership with The Barefoot Haven in Greendale. Learn more and register at: https://www.thebarefoothaven.com/schedule Fee: $15 per session
Operation Recon Nature
Friday, May 30 5-6 pm for Veterans Saturday, May 31, 3-4 pm for Veterans and their Families
Veterans from all service branchesActive Duty, Reserve, and Retired personnel are invited to attend monthly walks at Wehr Nature Center. For approximately 1 - 1 1/2 hours, we will travel on the trails of Wehr Nature Center to share camaraderie and experience seasonal nature happenings. Families are invited to join their Veteran on Saturday. No fee but registration is required. Please register on our website so we may contact you in preparation and in case of cancellation. Questions? Email holly.walz@milwaukeecountywi.gov
FOW Native Plant Sale
Program audience key: Kids/Families; Adults; Special Event
Sat., May 31 10 am-3:30 pm See page 3 for details
Fees: $12 per person; $10 for Milwaukee County residents; $7 for Friends of Wehr (FOW) members, unless otherwise noted. A $5 parking fee applies for non-FOW members. Online registration at least two days prior to the program is required.
Wehr Birders
8-10 am
FOW Native Plant Sale
Wehr Birders
8-10 am
Reptile Day
Wehr Birders
8-10 am
Nature Wizard for Families
1-2:30 pm Little Wonders for Twos 9:30-10:30 am Little Wonders for Threes 11 am-noon
Wehr Birders
8-10 am
Noon - 4 pm NatureNauts 9:30-10:30 am
NatureNauts 1-2 pm
Wehr Birders 8-10 am
Guided Forest Bathing 1-3 pm
Brew Workshop 1-4 pm
JUNE HIGHLIGHTS
Reptile Day
Sunday, June 8, Noon - 4 pm
lays
Juneteenth! Wehr’s Visitor Center is closed. Enjoy the trails. Friday Afield 2-4 pm Flow Yoga in the Amphitheater 9-10 am
Free Parking Thursday
Nighttime Sky Viewing 8:30-11:30 pm
Discover the world of reptiles and amphibians! Meet colorful snakes, wondrous turtles, and strange lizards and salamanders. See dozens of species on display and enjoy a guided hike to look for turtles and listen for frogs. Learn ways to live harmoniously with our misunderstood and scaly wild neighbors. Kids will enjoy reptile-themed crafts. Join us for all the scaly fun.
Fee: $5.00 per person
Parking: $5 per car
Nature Wizard for Families
Fishy Fathers Sun., June 15, 1-2:30 pm Celebrate this Father’s Day with fabulous fish fathers. We’ll learn about scaly super dads, seahorses, and sunfish, meet Wehr’s resident bluegills, and explore Mallard Lake in search of fish nests. Fee: $7 per family; $5 for Friends of Wehr members Reservations guarantee a space. Walk-ins are welcome as space allows
June Programs
FOW Native Plant Sale
Sunday, June 1 10 am-3:30 pm See page 3 for details
Journeys in Spiritual Ecology Workshop
Fridays, June 6,20; July 11, 25; August 8, 22
Time: 6-7:30 pm See page 8 for more information.
Pop-Up Nature
Bodacious Bumblebees
Saturday, June 7, 1-3 pm
Come explore Wehr’s other “bee.” You’ll learn how to ID a Bumblebee vs a Honeybee and enjoy a self-guided scavenger hunt. Recommended for ages 5 and older
Operation Recon Nature
Fri., June 13, 5-6 pm for Veterans
Sat., June 14, 3-4 pm for Veterans and their Families
Veterans from all service branches - Active Duty, Reserve, and Retired personnel are invited to attend monthly walks held at Wehr Nature Center. For approximately 1 to 1 1/2 hours, we will travel on the trails of Wehr Nature Center to share camaraderie and experience seasonal nature happenings. Families are invited to join their Veteran on Saturday. Questions? Email holly.walz@milwaukeecountywi.gov
No fee but registration is required. Please register on our website so we may contact you in case of cancellation.
Little Wonders Fish Tales
Monday, June 16
For 2-year-olds, 9:30-10:30 am
For 3-year-olds, 11 am-12 pm
Fish are fascinating and fun! We’ll read Fish Eyes by Lois Ehlert, dip a pole into our imaginary fishin’ hole, and look for bluegills in the pond.
SPARK! Nature programs for adults with memory loss and their care partner
Fish Tales
Tues., June 17, 1-2:30 pm
Wed., June 18, 10-11:30 am
Do you have a whopper of a fish tale to share? We’ll swap fish stories, meet Wehr’s resident bluegills, and venture to the pier to spy a fish or two. No fee but registration is required
Friday Afield
Friday, June 20, 2-4 pm
Join us at Cudahy Nature Preserve for an ecology walk through one of Milwaukee County Park’s old-growth forests. We’ll see the native plants of a southern mesic and riparian forest.
Fee: $5 per person FOW Members; $7 per person Non-Members Online registration is required.
Click on the title of a program for more information and to register.
Flow Yoga in the Amphitheater
Saturday, June 21, 9-10 am
Join us for a 60-minute, outdoor all-level vinyasa flow class in partnership with The Barefoot Haven in Greendale. Learn more and register at: https://www.thebarefoothaven.com/ schedule Fee: $15 per session
NatureNauts Terrific Turtles
Sunday, June 22, 1-2 pm
Monday, June 23, 9:30-10:30 am
Come out of your shell to meet real turtles up close. Enjoy a short walk and search for wild turtles, make a craft turtle, and discover all the turtle fun.
A program for 4 - 6-year-olds with an adult
Nighttime Sky Viewing
Friday, June 27, 8:30-11:30 pm
Location: Overlook parking lot on the east side of Mallard Lake Look through a telescope and learn about the night sky with experts from the Wehr Astronomical Society. Personal telescopes are welcome but not required. Cloudy skies cancel the event. Free. No registration is required.
Milwaukee County Parks Bumble Bee Monitoring Program Orientation
Saturday, June 28, 9:30-noon
Wisconsin is home to 20 species of native bumblebees. Monitors help gather data on bumble bees in natural areas around the county using their smartphone or camera. The workshop will introduce you to monitoring methods and bee identification. Register by emailing Parks Community Science by Thurs., June 26.
Guided Forest Bathing Walk
Sunday, June 29, 1-3 pm
Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, a certified forest bathing guide will lead you through sensory-based invitations designed to relax, restore, and deepen your relationship with the natural world. Fee: $35 per person (Includes Parking); $25 for FOW members Online registration is required two days before the program.
Brew Workshop
Sunday, June 29, 1-4 pm
Join Beer Barons of Milwaukee for an afternoon of brewing beer. See page 8 for details.
Program audience key: Kids/Families; Adults; Special Event
Fees: $12 per person; $10 for Milwaukee County residents; $7 for Friends of Wehr (FOW) members, unless otherwise noted. A $5 parking fee applies for non-FOW members. Online registration at least two days prior to the program is required.
Friends of Wehr Fundraiser
Native Plant Sale Pre-order Form
Form must be received (NOT POSTMARKED) by Wednesday, April 23 -- Some plants for sale only by pre-order
Pre-ordering does not guarantee availability on pick up dates due to growing conditions at the time Pick up and payment will be at the in-person sale Saturday-Sunday, May 31-June 1, 2025
Pricing: As stated below, except that tax and a 5% discount
Name: for Friends of Wehr members will be added at the sale
Ordering: Enter # (not or X) of pots, plug trays, Party Packs,
Phone:
Email: and plant donations in box. Return all pages even if blank. To
Check to get pre-order form emailed next year ensure the accuracy of the order we place for you, do not put
Payment: due at the time of pick up at the sale any notes, $ amounts, highlighting, or other marks on the form. by cash, check, or charge. NO PRE-PAYMENTS
Email form to: carol.howard@milwaukeecountywi.gov OR mail/bring form to: 9701 W College Ave, Franklin WI 53132
Check out the Plant Sale FAQs and other information on our website: https://friendsofwehr.org/plantsale
