Wehr Words Summer 2026

A Place For All Seasons, A Place For Everyone

Summer 2026

Learn about our slithery neighbor- the Garter Snake.

Director’s Message Each year, as we turn the season from spring to summer, we look forward to adding new faces to our team through Wehr’s Summer Internship Program. We are committed to inspiring current and future generations to love and value the natural world, and one of the most meaningful ways we can impact the next generation of emerging conservation leaders is through training. Wehr interns have gone on to become leaders at area nature centers such as Neighborhood House, Schlitz Audubon, Milwaukee Public Museum, and as teachers and scientists. Learn more about past interns in this Friends of Wehr Blog.

We are pleased to announce that our longstanding Environmental Education Internship program has been named in honor of Paul Brings, who served as Wehr’s UW Extension Nature Education Agent from 1977 to 1989. In his role as Education Director, Paul launched the Nature in the Parks program, an outreach effort that has brought nature education to thousands of school children for over 40 years. After retiring, Paul joined the Friends of Wehr Board, serving as a member and president for 20 years.

We’re proud to honor his legacy by naming our internship program the Paul Brings Environmental Education Internship. Paul believed in mentoring the next generation of environmental stewards. It’s only fitting that his name will continue to inspire those just beginning their journey. Thank you to Friends of Wehr—and to all of you—for supporting this important work.

We are excited to welcome Halia Beutel as the 2026 Nature Education Director Paul Brings, 1977 Paul Brings Environmental Education Intern.

We asked Halia why they chose Wehr to complete their summer internship.

“I have always been a huge lover of nature and want to do my part to make the world we all live in a better place. I think teaching everyone, especially future generations, about the environment and how it works is so important. I’m excited to bring my unique skills and knowledge into every part of this internship and to start doing what I’ve always wanted to do! Most of all, I’m just so excited to work with such an amazing organization!”

We also welcome Tarynn Lassiter, 2026 Diversity in Conservation Intern, through the Natural Resources Foundation. We asked Tarynn why pursuing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field of conservation is important.

“Inclusion in conservation is important to me because it allows for a variety of perspectives to be heard. The idea of ‘role models’ comes to mind. As a child, there were so many things about nature I had no idea about, because there was no one in my life who could lead by example.

Even now, there is a deficit in knowledge about the environment and human impacts on it.”

Tarynn Lassiter

Paul Brings with intern Halia Beutel

Halia and Tarynn will support environmental education this summer, helping with camps held in partnership with Milwaukee Public Schools, Indian Community School, and the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts, as well as assisting with family programs, land stewardship, and community science efforts at Wehr.

We believe investing in young conservation leaders is really an investment in the future of our communities, our environment, and the generations still to come. Through mentorship, education, and shared experiences in nature, we continue the legacy of leaders like Paul Brings—creating opportunities for all people to connect with and care for the natural world. Thank you for being part of this important work and for helping Wehr inspire curiosity, stewardship, and a sense of belonging for everyone who walks our trails.

Friends of Wehr The Friends of Wehr Board of Directors is a volunteer group supporting Wehr Nature Center through mission-based leadership, strategic governance, fundraising, and fiduciary oversight to ensure organizational sustainability. I am very honored to introduce our new Friends of Wehr board members.

Michelle Dluzak brings decades of experience in counseling and education, Jacob Waterworth contributes extensive leadership and operational expertise, and Brandon Henander offers valuable nonprofit compliance experience and a passion for local history and the outdoors. Together, they bring a diverse set of skills and perspectives that will help support the growth and future of Wehr Nature Center.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Cindy Lorentzen, Friends of Wehr President

Relax and unwind at this magical outdoor evening event at Wehr Nature Center!

Browse 30 local vendors offering jewelry, clothing, desserts, handmade goods, whimsical yard art, and so much more.

Tuesday, July 7, 5-8 pm

Purchase drinks and delicious food from food trucks, and don’t miss your chance to win big with our raffle featuring vendorsupplied items—all supporting the Friends of Wehr Nature Center.

Proceeds help expand accessible, inclusive programming and support restoration of natural areas.

Fee (Includes 2 beverages) $8 per person; $5 for FOW members Pay at the door or Register here: Midsummer’s Night Market

Tree and Shrub Sponsorship Event Support Wehr Nature Center’s restoration efforts while leaving a lasting impact!

Our Tree & Shrub Sponsorship event opens in the last week of August, allowing you to sponsor native plantings that will help restore the landscape between the amphitheater and the lake. Thanks to the hard work of our staff and volunteers, invasive species have been cleared from our wetland, and the site is ready to thrive again. We’re inviting you to be part of the next chapter.

By sponsoring a native tree or shrub, you’ll help create essential habitat for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife-while directly supporting Wehr’s land restoration efforts.

Join Us for Planting Day:

Saturday, September 26 9-11 am Donors are invited to help plant their sponsored tree or shrub alongside staff and volunteers.

Thank you for helping us restore and protect Wehr’s natural spaces! Visit the website for details and to make your donation.

Milwaukee Milkmen Game benefiting Friends of Wehr Tuesday, August 4, 6:30 pm Franklin Field 7035 S Ballpark Drive Franklin, WI 53132 Join us for a fun night and support the Friends of Wehr Nature Center by grabbing tickets to the Milkmen vs Railcats Game. “Swing” by the Friends of Wehr table and find out how you can support our mission.

Ticket sales support Friends of Wehr Nature Center.

Purchase your tickets today!

Cider Sunday

Sunday, October 4, 11:30 am – 4:30 pm Join us for Cider Sunday, Friends of Wehr Nature Center’s largest and most beloved fundraiser!

This cherished fall tradition supports our mission to provide access to nature for all, with proceeds benefiting environmental education programs and land stewardship across southeastern Wisconsin.

A Day Full of Fall Fun

There’s something for everyone to enjoy: Try your hand at the cider press

Live music by The Bluegrass Allstars Scenic trails filled with vibrant autumn colors Story Stroll + Leaf Hunt & Hike Apple desserts, fresh apples and seasonal treats Local food vendors Homemade cider beer from the Milwaukee Beer Barons Kids activities, crafts, face painting and more

Raffle baskets and 50/50 raffle Whether you come for the cider, the colors, or the community—Cider Sunday is a celebration you won’t want to miss.

FREE for Friends of Wehr members; $8 for non-members Children 2 and under are free.

No additional parking fee.

Become a Sponsor

Sponsoring Cider Sunday is a meaningful way to support environmental education, connect with our community, and showcase your business— with visibility before, during, and after the event.

Contact mhoppe@friendsofwehr.org or call 414-257-5022.

Tickets available at the door or skip the line by purchasing online.

20th

ary

vers i n n A

Sunday, September 13, 12-4 pm

Bugs Rule!

Creep, crawl, and flutter your way to fun at Wehr’s 20th Annual Bug Day! Join us for a buggy bonanza as we celebrate the tiny creatures that help keep our planet buzzing. Whether you love ladybugs, dig dung beetles, or are just a curious critter-lover, there’s something for everyone!

Event Highlights: g Live Insect Zoo – Meet amazing bugs from all over the world—touch a tarantula, greet a giant roach, and more!

g Larvae Land – Special play zone just for little bug lovers with hands-on fun and insect-themed games. g Bug Discovery Walks – Grab a net and go exploring! Hunt for bugs in ponds, prairies, and woods. g Pollinator Power – Discover how to make your backyard a buzzing paradise for butterflies and bees. g Creepy Crawly Café – Feeling brave? Try a crunchy cricket or chocolate-covered bug snack! g Ask an Entomologist – Ever wonder why fireflies glow or how ants carry so much?

A real bug scientist is here to answer it all!

Come dressed as your favorite bug and join the fun!

Wings, antennae, and buggy smiles welcome!

Calling all Bug Day Kids!

Help Us Celebrate 20 Years of SixLegged Fun. Share your Bug Day stories and photos with us here.

$7 per person (non-member) $5 per person (Friends of Wehr member) Free for children ages 2 and under Pay at the door or buy your tickets online starting July 1!

Halloween Haunts October 15, 16 & 17, 6-8:30 pm A Haunting Tradition for 38 Years “So magical for small children” “We love the fun, interactive family experience” “Great family fun... and educational!”

Celebrate Halloween in nature this year.

Our Enchanted Forest combines Halloween fun with nighttime nature to create a one-of-a-kind evening for families. Space is limited, and tickets must be purchased in advance Online sales open Monday, September 21, at 9 am.

Friends of Wehr members at the family level or higher can purchase tickets starting Monday, Sept. 14, at 9 am.

$16 per person; $12 for Friends of Wehr members

Visit our website for more information.

Donors Thank You!

Your contributions to the Friends of Wehr are appreciated and always used with careful consideration.

Anonymous Mary Benes-Malone Marsha Berenson Ted & Kathy Bosch Joe Bruno Jacci Buehl Mitch Calkins Carrie Candee Sally Carlson Devan Clark Lynn Crawford Cathy Drexler Julie Emery Harold Haase Stephanie Helm Margaret Hirschfeld Brett Hoffman Robert Koebert Tom Kowalski Stephanie Kopet Leann Kotowski John Kreznar Nina Kuda Cynthia and Bryan Lorentzen Tim and Tracy McCollow Mary Jo Nietupski Gregory Osborne Pledgeling Foundation Audrey and Frank Reineck Jan Raz Donna Rehbeck Christos Reppas Jason Rohloff Cheryl Schwark Mary Shearer Gary and Connie Smieja Trish Smith

Dave Soike Kathleen Toohey Donn Vaught Kelly Walker Jacob Waterworth Jonathan Wichmann John Wierschem Nancy Wojnarowicz

Kathi Glick Pete & Terry Koch Mary Beth Terhaar Steven Tischer

Debra McRae Scholarship Fund for Environmental Studies

In Honor of Susan Jensen

Pamela Gotch

In Memory of Zoltan Kekesi Steven and Jeanne Giving Fund In Honor/Memory of Greg Joers Anonymous Ted and Kathy Bosch Paul Brings Emma Fritsch Gail Brodersen-Heins Leslie Hermann Lynn Horne Carolyn Kutz Lenore Lenten Cynthia & Bryan Lorentzen Trish Smith Mark Yanisch

In Honor/Memory of Elizabeth J. Kowalski James Drosen James Gmeiner Joanne Hardtke Mary Ann Kampe Stephanie Kopet John Mann

In Honor/Memory of John Bochniak Judy Dunfrund

Lola Bags LS Creative Clay Oakwood Lane Crafts Origaminoshi Phoenix Design Gifts and Decor Pink Geranium Polished Patina Serenity Soap Works Stone Crete The Fancy Bird Turtle’s Quilts & Crafts Wear Nature Designs Zig Zagity

In Honor/Memory of Tom Neiman Paula Irish Paul Hugo Meadows of Stone Crest HOA Michael Soike

Midsummer’s Night Market Sponsors

Avenue Wine and Liquor Krause Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc. Pick N’ Save

Outdoor Classroom

Cynthia and Bryan Lorentzen

In-Kind

Mary MacLaren Muskego Feed & Seed Sendik’s Franklin

Midsummer’s Night Market Raffle Vendor Donors A Joyful Piece, LLC Art by Karen Beaded Creations Bee That Jewelry Blank Slates Button Flowers by Becky Cassandra’s Pressed Flowers Country Bumpkin Baking, LLC Dance Around the Moon Daybreak Goods Eco Evie Apparel Elegant Dahlia Essentially Jen Forever Chocolate Grape Twine Creations Inspired Art Jodi B Art

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.

Make sure to stop at the Nature Store after your outdoor adventure. We have new shirts, local honey, kids’ field guides, bird-benefiting coffee, and a whole lot more.

by Wehr’s own M ariette Nowak

And….we have Sweet Summer News!

Pete’s Pops has arrived at the Nature Store! Stop in to see which six delicious flavors we’ve chosen and treat yourself to a refreshing, all-natural popsicle.

The Nature Store is open daily from 10 am-2 pm, and 100% of the proceeds benefit the Nature Center.

Better yet? Friends of Wehr get 10% off everything year-round.

WEHR WORDS - Editor: Bev Bryant Contributors: Bev Bryant, Carly Hintz, Cindy Lorentzen, Sophia Detweiler

FRIENDS OF

WEHR

NATURE CENTER

Volunteers Volunteers Celebrated at Recognition Event The volunteer efforts in 2025 were truly outstanding, with more than 16,300 hours contributed across Wehr Nature Center. From removing invasive garlic mustard and building boardwalks to teaching programs and organizing beloved events like Cider Sunday, volunteers make everything we do possible.

In April, we gathered at Boerner Botanical Gardens to celebrate our dedicated volunteers and recognize the impact they make at Wehr. Special recognition was given to the three volunteers who contributed the most hours in 2025. Together, Jim Wroblewski, Mary Joas, and Susan Jensen volunteered for more than 1,400 hours! The event included trivia, appetizers, and desserts, a presentation on the health of Mallard Lake, and time spent connecting and celebrating together.

Help Needed for Cider Sunday and Halloween

Autumn at Wehr means two favorite traditions are just around the corner: Cider Sunday and Halloween Haunts! This year marks the 40th anniversary of Cider Sunday, and we are excited to celebrate this milestone with the community.

It takes over 200 volunteers to put on events like Cider Sunday and Halloween Haunts, and we’d love to have your help! Opportunities include carving pumpkins, leading hikes, acting, face-painting, serving food, and much more. Church groups, businesses, families, and individuals are all welcome to volunteer. To get involved, please contact sophia.detweiler@milwaukeecountywi.gov.

New Volunteers Welcome!

Are you interested in finding out more about joining Wehr’s volunteer crew?

Visit https://friendsofwehr.org/volunteer/ to find out more and fill out an application.

Or contact Sophia Detweiler, Volunteer Coordinator, at sophia.detweiler@milwaukeecounty wi.gov or by calling 414-425-8550. We’d love to meet you!

Local Students Award Scholarship

Congratulations to our 2026–2027 Debra McRae Environmental Studies Scholarship recipients! This year, we received an incredible 18 applications. It is always inspiring to learn about so many passionate young people committed to protecting our environment. We are proud to announce this year’s recipients: • Lilia Hurtado, West Allis Central H.S., UW-Milwaukee • Christina D’Amato, Brookfield East H.S., UW-Madison • Paing Zay Hein Hamilton HS. Marquette Univ.

Paing Hein, Deb McRae, Christina D’Amato, Lilia Hurtado The Debra McRae Scholarship supports graduating high school seniors pursuing degrees in environmental science or related fields. Recipients are selected based on their academic achievements, environmental involvement, and community impact. This scholarship is a meaningful way to honor Debra McRae’s extraordinary leadership upon her retirement as Wehr’s Director while investing in the next generation of environmental stewards.

Support the Scholarship Fund Donations to the scholarship fund are fully tax-deductible and directly support future environmental leaders. You can give online using this link or mail a check to Friends of Wehr with “Scholarship Fund” in the memo. Thank you for helping us grow the future of environmental leadership!

Wehr Astronomical Society Get to Know Wehr’s Community Organizations

Connect with a community of people who share your passion for nature at one of the clubs that call Wehr home.

We’ll feature one organization in each newsletter this year.

Wehr Astronomical Society (WAS) Founded in 1981 Meets at Wehr on the second Tuesday of the month, February-June, September & November from 7-9 pm. Meets on the 1st Tuesday of October.

Visit their Facebook page to see the schedule of activities

What does the Wehr Astronomical Society do?

WAS is a group of amateur astronomers that promotes the casual study of astronomy through education and outreach.

Members offer public telescopic viewings (see July calendar for upcoming session). Monthly meetings focus on topics that range from the origin of Black Holes to how to purchase and use backyard telescopes. Their speaker schedule regularly includes experts from local universities, editors/writers for Astronomy magazine, and even NASA! Club members Gene & Charlotte DuPree (left) and Todd Weiler share views of sunspots

Viewing the solar eclipse

Who should come to a Wehr Astronomical Society meeting?

“Anyone who is curious about space and loves looking at our sky”, says Club Treasurer Charlotte Dupree. “We are open to astronomers of all levels, ages, and abilities.” Non-members are welcome to attend meetings and viewing sessions, but President Todd Weiler encourages folks to become members. “Our membership fee is only $15 a year and helps support community astronomy and education.”

What a member says:

Member and club secretary Jaynie Kutka shared, “I love that I learn something new each meeting. I’ve learned how to observe and use telescopes alongside members and connected with the larger astronomy community through national conferences.

We have a great time together!”

NASA Scientist Dr. Michelle Thaller presents her work on Black Holes

© Klemen Vrankar

Critter Close Up Common Garter Snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) Lifespan: 2-5 years in the wild, but they may live up to 20 in captivity!

Favorite Foods: Worms, insects, slugs, frogs, toads, and small fish.

Predators: Weasels, mink, shrews, raccoons, skunks, snakes, birds of prey.

Family Life: Garter Snakes lead surprisingly social lives. Mating occurs soon after snakes emerge from hibernation in March/April. Males follow the scent of females in heat and push and jostle each other to earn their chance to mate with her. Watch a video.

Mother garters incubate their eggs internally, giving birth to 10 to 80 young in July or August.

Females do not feed their young, but offspring often stay close by after birth. In fact, scientists have discovered that female garter snakes have close, ongoing social associations with other females, sharing basking and hibernation sites over many years. Snakes have friends!

Hawk with snake ©Adam Chuck

Female garter snake entwined in a “mating ball”.

Snake Signs: Snakes leave few signs behind, but you may find shed skin caught in logs and rocks.

Garter snakes are social ©Bruce Schulz

Fun Facts About Garter Snakes: Snake of a Different Stripe There are 5 species of garter snakes found in Wisconsin. Besides the Common Garter, Wehr is also home to the Butler’s Garter Snake (Thamnophis butleri), a species of special concern. The Butler’s Garter Snake has 3 distinct cream stripes along its body.

Garter snake shedding skin

Seeing Snakes at Wehr: Garter snakes prefer forest edges, wetlands, and grassy areas. They are often seen basking on the rock walls near the building and the wetland boardwalks.

©Brooke Gilley

A Snake Slumber Party Garter Snakes are social hibernators, with hundreds sharing the same underground hibernacula.

Huddling together helps keep the snakes warm.

Butler’s Garter Snake

Special Stink and Saliva Garter Snakes have two special chemical weapons. They release a musky-smelling substance when caught by a predator (or handled by a person). The pungent, oily liquid helps to dissuade predators from eating them.

Scientists have recently discovered that garter snakes possess a neurotoxic venom in their saliva. They “chew” the chemical into their prey to subdue them.

Don’t worry!

The venom is too weak to affect humans.

A snake’s tongue is their best sense ©Bruce Schulz

How to be a Good Neighbor to Snakes • Let them Live: Garter Snakes pose no danger to people or pets and provide important pest control. Please don’t kill them!

• Keep them Safe: Don’t use glue or sticky traps to catch mice or insects. They catch and kill snakes and other beneficial predators.

JULY Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

1

Programs offered by an affiliated organization are listed in orange.

Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

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For more information call 414-425-8550

Happy 4th of July!

The Visitor Center is Closed.

Enjoy the trails!

All programs & events subject to change.

Parking fees may apply.

Wehr Birders 8-10 am

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Guided Forest Bathing 9-11 am Wehr Birders 8-10 am

Little Wonders for Twos 9:30-10:30 am

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Midsummer Night Market 5-8 pm

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Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am

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Fireside Friday: Firefly Fun 7-9 pm

Little Wonders for Threes 11 am-noon

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SPARK! 1-2:30 pm

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10

Friday Afield 2-4 pm

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Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am

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NatureNauts 9:30-10:30 am

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26

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Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am

July Highlights

All Abilities Open House Sunday, July 26, 11 am-2 pm

Join us for an inclusive Open House celebrating Wehr Nature Center’s commitment to providing equitable access to the outdoors for people of all ages and abilities. Enjoy summer picnic snacks from local vendors, meet local and statewide partners in accessibility, and try out adaptive equipment designed to meet the needs of all physical and cognitive abilities. This event is designed as a showcase to empower people of all abilities to love and value the natural world.

This event is free, but you will need to register by clicking here.

Parking for Persons with Disabilities is free in honor of the 36th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am

All Abilities Open House 11-2 pm

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Nature Journal Club 10 am-12:30 pm Moth Night For Adults 7:30-9:30 pm

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NatureNauts 1-2 pm

Wehr Birders 8-10 am

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Wehr Camera Club 9-11 am

Solar Viewing with WAS 1-3 pm

SPARK! 10-11:30 am

Wehr Birders 8-10 am

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Operation Recon Nature 5-6 pm

24 Flow Yoga

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9-10 am Teen Conservation Club 12-2 pm Operation Recon Nature 3-4 pm

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July Programs Click on a program for more information and to register.

SPARK! Nature programs for adults with

Every Sunday, 8-10 am

Wonder of Wetlands

Toddlers should hop, leap, and jump over to Wehr for an hour of froggy fun. We will learn frog talk, hop like frogs, and read a froggy story. Children will meet some live amphibians and visit the pond to look and listen for frogs.

A program for toddlers to enjoy with their favorite adult.

*New* Nature Journal Club

Wehr Birders

memory loss and their care partner

Tues., July 14, 1-2:30 pm Wed., July 15, 10-11:30 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 A program for adults with memory loss and their care partners 40% of all plant and animal species live or breed in wetlands! are welcome. No fee or registration is required.

This includes some tiny wacky water creatures you’ve never Guided Forest Bathing Walk seen. We’ll dive in and explore these incredible ecosystems and Sunday, July 5, 9-11 am visit Wehr’s very own wetland.

Unplug, slow down, and de-stress from your daily routine.

No fee, but registration is required.

A certified forest bathing guide will lead you through sensorybased invitations designed to relax, restore, and deepen your Moth Night for Adults relationship with the natural world.

Saturday, July 18, 7:30-9:30 pm Fee: $35 per person (Includes Parking); $25 for FOW members Moths rule the night! Participate in Moth Night, Online registration is required two days before the program a Community Science event during National Moth Week. Explore the diverse and marvelous world of Moths and discover how their Little Wonders Froggy Fun adaptations make them masters of the dark. After an indoor Monday, July 6 presentation, we will go outside to monitor moth bait stations and For 2-year-olds, 9:30-10:30 am record our findings.

For 3-year-olds, 11 am-12 pm

Midsummer Night Market

Tuesday, July 7, 5-8 pm See page 3

Friday Afield

Friday, July 10, 2-4 pm Join us at Warnimont Park (Warnimont Dog Exercise Area - (6100 S Lake Dr, Cudahy, WI 53110)

for an ecology walk where we’ll learn, observe, and ID native flowers! On our walk, you’ll also learn about the characteristics of the native plant community that we will explore.

Fee: $10 per person; © Melissa Schwartz $7 for Friends of Wehr members Online registration required by the morning of the program.

Fireside Friday

Firefly Fun

Friday, July 10, 7:30-9:30 pm

Discover the fascinating secrets of fireflies.

We will hike to the prairie to search for fireflies and then return to the campfire to enjoy S’mores.

Recommended for families with children 5 years and older

Daytime Sky Viewing Saturday, July 11, 1-3 pm

Members of the Wehr Astronomical Society will share views of the Sun through telescopes fitted with solar filters. Visitors can learn about sunspots and how to view our nearest star safely.

No fee or registration required. Cloudy skies will cancel the program.

Program audience key: Kids/Families; Adults; Special Event

Saturdays, July 18, August 15, Sept.19, 10 am-12:30 pm

Join the Milwaukee Nature Journal Club as we explore our local landscape together. Whether you are a seasoned nature journaler or you are curious about giving it a try, all levels of experience are welcome.

We are a supportive group of folks finding connection through our love of exploring the wonders of nature right here in Milwaukee.

No fee; Registration required by emailing MKEnaturejournalclub@gmail.com.

NatureNauts

Hail the Snail & Hug the Slug Sun., July 19, 1-2 pm Mon., July 20, 9:30-10:30 am

Slide into this slippery world as we go on a forest “ Slug Hunt”. Meet snails and slugs up close, discover why they’re special, and then make a craft snail to take home.

No “yucks” allowed for this slimy fun.

Operation Recon Nature for Adults

Friday, July 24, 5-6 pm

Operation Recon Nature for Families Saturday, July 25, 3-4 pm

Veterans from all service branches - Active Duty, Reserve, and Retired personnel are invited to attend monthly walks at Wehr Nature Center to share camaraderie and experience seasonal nature happenings. Families are invited to join their Veteran on Saturday.

No fee but online registration is required. Contact holly.walz@ milwaukeecountywi.gov with questions.

Flow Yoga in the Amphitheater Saturday, July 25, 9-10 am

Join us for a 60-minute, all-level, all-abilities vinyasa flow class in partnership with The Barefoot Haven in Greendale. Grab some friends and enjoy your morning in a serene nature-based setting.

Learn more and register at: https://www.thebarefoothaven.com/ schedule Fee: $15 per session

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.

AUGUST Sunday

Wehr Birders 8-10 am

Monday

Tuesday

2

3

Wednesday

4

5

Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am

Thursday Tai Chi Walking 10-11 am

Friday

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Saturday

7

1

8

Wehr Birders 8-10 am

9

10

11

Little Wonders for Twos 9:30-10:30 am

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19

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Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am

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Nature Journal Club 10 am-12:30 pm

Little Wonders for Threes 11 am- noon Wehr Birders 8-10 am

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SPARK! 1-2:30 pm

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Guided Forest Bathing 9-11 am Wehr Birders 8-10 am

Friday Afield 2-4 pm

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Brews and Botany 4-6 pm

Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am

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NatureNauts 9:30-10:30 am

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NatureNauts 1-2 pm

Wehr Birders 8-10 am

SPARK! 10-11:30 am

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Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am

Tai Chi Walking 10-11 am

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The Visitor Center is closed.

Enjoy the trails.

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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.

August Highlights

Brews and Botany Saturday, August 22, 4-6 pm

Plants give us drinks that make our mornings bearable and our evenings more enjoyable. Join us for an evening that will quench your curiosity about the botany behind your Brews. Sample unique beverages from local businesses that are expanding our palettes with innovative plant-based drinks. Explore flavorful craft beer, kombucha, coffee, and tea – all available in a beautiful natural setting paired with live music and artisanal food trucks.

The evening includes: • Over six different samples of alcoholic and non-alcoholic • Botanical trivia about your favorite drinks • Live acoustic music in a beautiful natural setting This event is rain or shine. All are welcome; however, you must be 21 or older to sample alcoholic beverages. $25 per person (parking included), $20 for Friends of Wehr members

Operation Recon Nature 5-6 pm

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Flow Yoga 9-10 am

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Teen Conservation Club 12-2 pm Operation Recon Nature for Families 3-4 pm

August Programs Click on a program for more information and to register.

Hike for Health

SPARK! Nature programs for adults with

memory loss and their care partner Monarch Magic Every Wednesday through November, 10:30-11:30 am Tues., August 18, 1-2:30 pm Hike along with this group that walks Wehr’s trails together for Wed., August 19, 10-11:30 am camaraderie, exercise, and fun. Meet in front of the Visitor Center.

From metamorphosis to migration, No fee or registration. join us as we discover the amazing Guided Forest Bathing Walk life journey of the monarch butterfly.

Sunday, August 9, 9-11 am No fee, but registration is required.

Unplug, slow down, and de-stress from your daily routine.

Friday Afield A certified forest bathing guide will lead you through sensoryFriday, August 21, 2-4 pm based invitations designed to relax, restore, and deepen your Join us at Rainbow Airport (10007 S 76th St, Franklin, WI 53132) relationship with the natural world. for an ecology walk where we’ll learn, observe, and ID native flowFee: $35 per person (Includes Parking); $25 for FOW members ers! This hike will be off-trail through various wetlands to one of Online registration is required two days before the program Milwaukee County’s only remnant prairies! Waterproof boots, bug/ Little Wonders tick spray, and a walking stick are highly recommended.

Water is Wonderful Fee: $10 per person; $7 for Friends of Wehr members Monday, August 10 Online registration required by the morning of the program.

For 2-year-olds, 9:30-10:30 am For 3-year-olds, 11 am-12 pm NatureNauts Water is not only essential for Beetlemania life,it’s fun! Children will discover the Sunday, August 23, 1- 2 pm joys of scooping, pouring, splashMonday, August 24, 9:30- 10:30 am ing, and measuring water as we Beetles swim, fly, and crawl everywhere play at Wehr’s temporary “water and are one of the most common park”. We will hear a story about the animals on Earth. NatureNauts will meet wonders of water, create a sparand touch a bunch o’ beetles, go on a kly wave bottle, and eat a watery beetle search, and make their own craft snack. beetle that really flips.

A program for toddlers to enjoy with their favorite adult.

Nature Journal Club

Sat., August 15, 10 am-12:30 pm See page 11 for details

Tai Chi Walking

Thursdays, August 6, 27, September 10, 24, 10-11 am

Tai Chi Walking is a gentle, mindful practice that combines the flowing principles of Tai Chi with natural walking.

Participants move with slow, deliberate steps, coordinated breath, and relaxed posture—often described as “meditation in motion.” This accessible practice supports balance, joint mobility, and overall strength while promoting relaxation, focus, and emotional wellbeing. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

No fee or registration required. Weather permitting Program audience key: Kids/Families; Adults; Special Event

Flow Yoga in the Amphitheater Saturday, August 29, 9-10 am

Join us for a 60-minute, all-level, all-abilities vinyasa flow class in partnership with The Barefoot Haven in Greendale. Grab some friends and enjoy your morning in a serene nature-based setting.

Learn more and register at: https://www.thebarefoothaven.com/schedule Fee: $15 per session

Operation Recon Nature for Adults Fri., August 28, 5-6 pm

Operation Recon Nature for Families Sat., August 29, 3-4 pm

Veterans from all service branches - Active 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 online registration is required.

Contact holly.walz@milwaukeecountywi.gov with questions.

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.

SEPTEMBER Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

1

Wednesday

Saturday

4

Our Visitor 7 8 9 Tai Chi Walking 10 Center is Closed Wehr Astronomical Hike for Health 10-11 am 10:30-11:30 am Enjoy The Trails! Society 7-9 pm

11

Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am

2

Friday

3

Programs offered by an affiliated organization are listed in orange.

1

Thursday

5

For more information call 414-425-8550 All programs & events subject to change.

Parking fees may apply.

6

Wehr Birders 8-10 am Guided Forest Bathing 9:30-11:30 am

Wehr Birders 8-10 am

13 Little Wonders 14

15

20

22

Bug Day 12-4 pm

Wehr Birders 8-10 am Autumn Equinox 9:30-11 am NatureNauts 1-2 pm Wehr Birders 8-10 am

Shine Bright Through the Night Walk 3:30-8 pm

Snapping turtle lays eggs 2018

SPARK! for Twos 1-2:30 pm 9:30-10:30 am for Threes 11 am-noon Halloween Haunts Tickets on Sale to FOW Members 9 am

27

Advanced Master Naturalist: Fungi 12:30-4:30 pm

21

Halloween Haunts Tickets on Sale to Public 9 am NatureNauts 9:30-10:30 am

28

Little Wonders for Twos 9:30-10:30 am

12

Wehr Camera Club 9-11 am

16

17

Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am SPARK! 10-11:30 am WI Metro Audubon Society 7-9 pm

23

Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am

Tai Chi Walking 10-11 am

24

Friday Afield 2-4 pm

Operation Recon Nature 5-6 pm

18

25

19

Flow Yoga 9-10 am Nature Journal Club 10 am-12:30 pm Bat Night for Adults 7:30-9:30 pm

26

FOW Shrub and Tree Planting Event 9-11 am Teen Conservation Club 12-2 pm

29

30

Hike for Health 10:30-11:30 am

Little Wonders for Threes 11 am-noon

September Highlights

Bat Night for Adults

Saturday, September 19, 7:30- 9:30 pm

Discover the fiction, folklore, and facts about bats, nature’s only truly flying mammal.

Join us for some “bat math”, hold bat artifacts, and hear live bats on the walk. Learn how you can participate in Community Science projects to help your neighborhood bats.

We will start inside and then use acoustic sensors during an hour-long “Bat Walk” through Whitnall Park.

Fee: $12 per person; $10 for Milwaukee County Residents; $7 for Friends of Wehr members Online registration is required two days before the program.

Friday Afield Friday, September 18, 2-4 pm

Join us at Sanctuary Woods for an ecology walk where we’ll learn, observe, and ID native flowers! On our walk, you’ll also learn about the characteristics of the native plant community that we will explore.

9480 W Watertown Plank Rd, Wauwatosa, WI 53226 Fee: $10 per person; $7 for Friends of Wehr members Online registration required by the morning of the program.

September Programs Click on a program for more information and to register.

Guided Forest Bathing Walk

Flow Yoga in the Amphitheater Saturday, September 19, 9-10 am

Join us for a 60-minute, all-level, all-abilities vinyasa flow class in A certified forest bathing guide will lead you through sensory-based partnership with The Barefoot Haven in Greendale. Grab some invitations designed to relax, restore, and deepen your relationship friends and enjoy your morning in a serene nature-based setting. with the natural world. Rev. Jennifer Miller from Serenity Now Global Learn more and register at: https://www.thebarefoothaven.com/ schedule Fee: $15 per session will conclude our walk with a 30-min sound bath.

Fee: $35 per person (Includes Parking); $25 for FOW members Nature Journal Club Online registration is required two days before the program September 19, 10 am-12:30 pm See page 11 for details.

Sunday, September 6, 9:30-11:30

Shine Bright Through the Night Walk

Saturday, September 12, 3:30 pm

Hosted by Wehr Nature Center in support of MAACO This accessible 2-mile fundraiser walk along Wehr’s trails supports the mission of Michelle’s Action Angels Community Outreach to help people with disabilities live fulfilling lives.

Registration includes: a Nature Walk, Sensory Space, Creature Meet, Children’s Nature Craft, Games, Cake, Music… and more!

Available for purchase: BBQ, 50/50 Raffle, and Bucket Raffle

Bug Day

Sunday, September 13, 12-4 pm See page 5

Little Wonders

Spiritual Ecology Through the Seasons Autumn Equinox

Sunday, September 20, 9:30-11 am

Celebrate the Autumn Equinox with us.

The values of Spiritual Ecology (Interconnectedness, Compassion, Service, Reverence, and Reciprocity) will be taught to help us honor the season and deepen our connection to nature. Some aspects of our practice will include meditation/guided imagery, time outdoors, and nature journaling.

NatureNauts Super Snakes

Sunday, Sept. 20, 1-2 pm Monday, Sept. 21, 9:30 - 10:30 am

Slither over to Wehr to learn why snakes really are super. NatureNauts will learn about snake adaptations, make a craft snake, and meet a live snake. Join us for all the scaly fun.

Advanced Master Naturalist

Wiggly Worms

Monday, September 14 For 2-year-olds, 9:30-10:30 am For 3-year-olds, 11 am-12 pm

Worms are wonderful! Tots will get a chance to dig for their own worm, make some wormy art, and even eat a worm (gummy, of course!). We will read Wonderful Worms by Linda Glaser and go on an outdoor worm search.

A program for toddlers to enjoy with their favorite adult.

SPARK! Nature programs for adults with

memory loss and their care partner

School Days

Tuesday, Sept. 15, 1-2:30 pm Wednesday, Sept. 16, 10-11:30 am

Fungi: Introduction to a Curious Kingdom Sunday, September 27, 12:30-4 pm

Fungi are fun! Specialists from the Wisconsin Mycology Society will help you discover the diversity of the Fungi Kingdom. Learn major fungal groups, basic fungi identification, fungal ecology, and intro to common Wisconsin species. The workshop includes a copy of The Beginner’s Guide to Mushrooms by Bunyard & Tavis.

Fee: $45 per person. $40 for Friends of Wehr members Pre-registration is required 2 days before the program

Little Wonders Falling Leaves

Monday, September 28 Take a step back in time and experience For 2-year-olds, 9:30-10:30 am life in a one-room pioneer school. We’ll use For 3-year-olds, 11 am-12 pm slates and slate pencils, play pioneer games, Celebrate the beauty of autumn and learn about classroom “discipline”. with your toddler as we learn No fee, but registration is required. all about trees. We will read Fall Leaves Fall by Zoe Hall, use our bodies to make a tree, take a leafcollecting walk, and enjoy a leafy snack.

Program audience key: Kids/Families; Adults; Special Event A program for toddlers to enjoy with their favorite adult.

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.