News from the Friends of Schmeeckle Reserve Winter/Spring 2017
’Round the Reserve 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, WI 54481 • 715-346-4992 • www.uwsp.edu/schmeeckle
Friends elect three board members Three new board members were elected at the Friends of Schmeeckle Reserve 2016 Annual Member Meeting in September. They are profiled below. If you are interested in becoming a board member, please contact Board President Jerry Lineberger at jerrylineberger@gmail.com or 715341-7802. Tim Taschwer: Tim grew up in central Wisconsin and in 1963 earned a B.S. degree at UWStevens Point with majors in natural resources, geography, and economics. “My first introduction to the area that has become Tim Taschwer Schmeeckle Reserve was in the fall of 1959 as an incoming freshman at Wisconsin State College. Even back then the location was used as an outdoor laboratory for biology and See Board, Page 2
Jerry Lineberger’s daughter Samantha and her husband, David, and their sons Isaac, left, and Milo recently enjoyed a visit to the Moses Creek overlook.
Making memories in Schmeeckle By Jerry Lineberger
Friends Board President One of the great joys of my life is visiting the wooden overlook along Moses Creek in Schmeeckle Reserve. The overlook was constructed near the conclusion of the Moses Creek restoration project five years ago. Our family and many others helped make a contribution to Schmeeckle Reserve for its construction in
Jerry Lineberger
honor of my late wife, Susan. She wanted to do something for the Reserve, and the overlook, designed by Schmeeckle staff and constructed by UWSP student staff, is a constant
See President, Page 2
President, From Page 1 reminder for us of Susan. We go there in the summer, winter, spring, and fall. We go to sit in the beautiful swing designed and carved by UWSP students. We go and have a picnic. My grandson loves to sit on the stump bench and look through the accessible binoculars mounted to the deck. I go there alone and just sit, listening to the runners going by on the path and to the birds overhead. It is a very special place in the Reserve for all of our family and friends.
Board, From Page 1 conservation classes. I have fond memories of those ‘hip boot’ days.” After graduation he worked in public relations and fundraising for Easter Seals Wisconsin. In 1977, he was named president and CEO for Easter Seals in New Mexico, where he served for 18 years. In 1995, he was named the first president and CEO of TKE Educational Foundation, the independent charitable foundation of Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity. He served in that role for 10 years, retiring in 2005. In 2014, Tim returned to Wisconsin and now lives in Plover. He immediately joined the newly formed Friends of Schmeeckle Reserve as a charter member. “It is my hope and desire that as a Friends board member, I will be able to contribute my energy and financial support in the improvement and preservation of the Reserve, a unique UWSP environmental study area and community asset.” 2
Almost everyone who is a Friend of Schmeeckle Reserve, whether in membership or in spirit, has a favorite place or memory of the Reserve. It is a gift to our campus and to our community. It is a gift not to be taken for granted. The purpose of the Friends group is to make sure that the Reserve, and all of the special memories and places it provides, continues to exist and thrive. Thank you for being a Friend of the reserve. Jerry Lineberger of Plover is president of the Friends of Schmeeckle Reserve Board of Directors. He can be contacted at jerrylineberger@gmail.com.
Darcie Howard: Darcie Howard is outreach program manager at the Wisconsin Center for Environmental Education based at UW-Stevens Point. She is responsible for leadership of the K-12 Energy Education Program (KEEP), Wisconsin’s K-12 Darcie Forestry Education Howard Program (LEAF), and the Wisconsin Green and Healthy Schools Program. In 2016, Darcie moved to Wisconsin from Billings, Montana, where she worked with Montana Audubon as center director for six years. She has over 15 years of leadership experience in environmental education, developing, managing, and facilitating nature and outdoor education centers in Ohio, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. In addition, she has significant fundraising and grant writing experience.
She received her bachelor’s degree in wildlife conservation from the University of Massachusetts–Amherst and her master’s degree in conservation and biodiversity biology from University of Leeds, England. Darcie enjoys hiking, birding, photography, camping, cooking, boating, and spending time with her family. Robby Abrahamian: Robby Abrahamian is the new UWStevens Point student board member. Robby, a senior, is originally from Fox Point near Milwaukee. He is double majoring in fisheries and water science and Robby Abrahamian political science and serves as the environmental and sustainability affairs director for the UWSP Student Government Association.
’Round the Reserve
Winners named in Writing, Art & Photo Contest Winners in the third annual Friends of Schmeeckle Reserve Writing, Art, and Photo contest were announced in late November. Winning entries were submitted by: Photography (landscape/scenery category): • First place, Jack Caulfield, Stevens Point. • Second place, Bob Mosier, Plover, and Chelsea Huckbody, Stevens Point (tie). • Third place, Emily Steinhorst, John Hartman, and Karolee Bulak, all of Stevens Point (tie). Photography (Close-ups) • First place, Brett Doran, Stevens Point. • Second place, Ian Vierck, Stevens Point. Writing • First place, Annie-Laurie Zanter, Stevens Point. Artwork • Participation awards, Tim Zeszutek and Tessa Mary Bruckhart, both of Stevens Point.
Jack Caulfield, a UW-Stevens Point student, submitted the first-place entry in the landscape/scenery photography category of the 2016 Writing, Art, and Photo Contest.
All winners received a certificate of recognition. Firstplace winners also received a $25 gift certificate to the Browse Shop, a gift shop in the Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center that features natural and cultural gifts. All contest submissions are posted on the Friends of
Schmeeckle Reserve website. Visit www.uwsp.edu/schmeeckle and click on “Friends of Schmeeckle Reserve” and “Arts Contest.” The Friends will host the arts contest again in 2017. Entries are due Nov. 1. See the contest website for the full details and entry form.
Welcome Your New and Renewing Friends! New Members: Thank you to the following members who have joined the Friends since Oct. 1, 2016. Richard and Mary Behm Jason Brown Matt Brown and Kristy SeBlonka Donna M. Desnoyer Karen Lindvall-Larson Andrew Sella Paul Skawinski Rick and Cindy Tielens Winter/Spring 2017
Renewing Members: Thank you to the following members who have renewed their Friends membership for 2016-17. Paul C. and Patti Adamski Timothy and Susan Halkowski Carly Hintz Wendell Nelson Susan Ollech & Keith, Isko, Allan Mark, and Sam
Additional Donations: Thank you to the following members who have made additional donations to the Friends since Oct. 1, 2016. Dawn Hietpas Christine and Nick Koeller Robert and Karen MacDonald Wayne McCaffery Bob and Mary Mosier Cynny and Jack Porter
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Upcoming Family Nature Programs Maple Syrup:Tap into Our Rich Culture Saturday, March 4, 1-2 p.m. When you think of maple syrup, what comes to mind? Pancakes, waffles, and French toast to name a few. Explore how maple syrup is made and why it is such an important part of Wisconsin’s culture. Secretive, Slithering Snakes Thursday, March 9, 6-7 p.m. Snakes are some of the most secretive and misunderstood creatures on Earth. Their mysterious habits can cause people to fear them, but they are a fascinating species. Head out to Schmeeckle Reserve to discover just what makes snakes so interesting, and maybe see a couple of them up close. Crows: Not Your Average Birds Thursday, March 16, 6-7 p.m. Have you thought of the common crow as just another black bird? Discover the truth behind those shiny black feathers as we delve into the secret life of crows and find out just how similar they are to us humans in this hands-on program. Transformation at Lake Joanis* Saturday, March 18, 11a.m.-12 p.m. Bring the family for a walk to discover the many changes of Lake Joanis as winter transitions into spring. Can a lake turn upside down? Come find out! Meet at the corner of Maria Drive and Michigan Avenue. A Surveying Pioneer: The Story of Joshua Hathaway Thursday, March 30, 6-7 p.m. Many of us love Schmeeckle Reserve, but do you know its origins? Meet Joshua Hathaway, a famous pioneer surveyor, who explored the beauty of central Wisconsin in the mid-1800s! Let’s complete his work by helping him survey Schmeeckle, describe the landscape, and set up camp before nightfall!
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Welcome Home, Woodcock! Saturday, April 1, 1-2 p.m. The American Woodcock (aka Timberdoodle) will return from its migration to enjoy spring and summer in Wisconsin. Discover what makes this bird the coolest bird around and help us try to attract a woodcock to the visitor center. Temperatures a Rising, Ducks a Flying* Saturday, April 8, 11a.m.-12 p.m. Are you more related to a duck that dabbles near the shore or one that dives deep into the lakes? Find out which duck is most like you as we meet some new friends along the Wisconsin River. Meet at Pfiffner Pioneer Park bandshell. April Showers Delight Thursday, April 13, 6-7 p.m. April showers bring us our first round of beautiful May flowers that are a wonder to the eye. Bring the family to wander along Schmeeckle’s plants. Explore how they provide a home and food for Schmeeckle’s animals. Healing Powers of Forests Saturday, April 15, 11a.m.-12 p.m. Ask not what you can do for the forest, but what the forest can do for you! Join us as we unearth the many healing properties of the woods in Schmeeckle Reserve. Flies and Bees and Wasps, Oh My! Sunday, April 23, 1-2 p.m. Welcome spring with three flowerloving insect groups. Explore the differences and similarities between Wisconsin flies, bees and wasps. Take a fun-filled hike at Schmeeckle to catch a glimpse of these mighty pollinators at work early in the year.
Family Nature Programs... The Friends of Schmeeckle Reserve is excited to sponsor this spring’s free family nature programs, presented by UWStevens Point students majoring in environmental education and interpretation. Each program features discovery activities and stories designed to involve all ages. Healthy snacks and beverages will be provided by the Friends organization. No reservations are required; just stop by and enjoy the fun! * All programs meet at the visitor center unless otherwise noted. = Dress for the weather!
Where Does Your Food Come From? Thursday, April 27, 6-7 p.m. Why is central Wisconsin a farming hotspot? Join us for a chance to dig into agriculture’s historic roots in the region and explore farming practices of today. Activities for all ages will inspire the farmer in each of us. From Tadpole To Toad Sunday, April 30, 1-2 p.m. What would spring be without happy, jumping frogs all over the place? Enjoy the warm weather by attending this “toadally ribbiting” program. Meet Jeffery the Wood Frog, and listen and call for our vocal friends. Enjoy your expedition into the world of croakers!
’Round the Reserve
Upcoming Family Nature Programs Take Nothing but Pictures, Leave Nothing but Footprints Sunday, May 7, 1-2 p.m. All animals, including humans, connect with the environment differently. Explore what helps you connect to the outdoors without taking away from nature. If you have a camera or old notebook, bring it along! Schmeeckle’s Salamanders* Tuesday, May 9, 6-7 p.m. Join us for an adventure as we go on a quest to find the hiding spots of salamanders. Discover why these cool critters are so misunderstood and often confused with lizards. Meet at the Student Memorial Area on Maria Drive, across from the UWSP athletic fields. Wetlands: Home Sweet Home!* Thursday, May 11, 6-7 p.m. Explore a wetland, the most amazing ecosystem on the planet! Moses Creek is a valuable home to many animals and is important to people too. Discover how we can help protect these special places. Meet at the Wood Lane trail entrance on the east side of the Reserve. The Sounds of Schmeeckle Saturday, May 13, 8-9 a.m. Discover the beautiful symphony of music in nature. The songs of our bird friends that inhabit Schmeeckle are a definite wonder to the ear. Be ready to share your favorite bird melody.
Winter/Spring 2017
Nocturnal predators and prey gathered for the campfire program at the fall 2016 Candlelight Hike Festival.
Soar with superheroes at the spring Candlelight Hike Festival Friday, May 5th, from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Who are the fastest, best camouflaged, and strongest residents of Schmeeckle Reserve? Walk torch-lit trails through the spring woods and around Lake Joanis and discover Schmeeckle’s most powerful superheroes. The Candlelight Hike will be Friday, May 5, from 7 to 9:30 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Friends of Schmeeckle Reserve. Walk trail loops lit by torches through the spring woods and along the lake. The campfire program, “Schmeeckle’s Superheroes,” will be presented at 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. at the campfire ring. Meet some of the most super organisms to live in
Schmeeckle such as the ant, stick bug, and water bear as we uncover their powerful adaptations. It’s a fun program for the entire family. Arrive early for a good seat. Other events all evening will include hands-on Discovery Stations, children’s crafts, and snacks. The event is free; donations of $2 per person or $5 per family are appreciated. All donations go to the Friends of Schmeeckle Reserve to support future programs. More than 2,600 community members met Schmeeckle’s “Nocturnal Predators” at last fall’s Candlelight Hike. Attendees generously donated $2,400 to the Friends. To see a video of the campfire program, visit www. youtube.com/SchmeeckleReserve 5
Why I Love the Reserve: Schmeeckle’s many benefits By Bill Berry Why do so many people love Schmeeckle Reserve? Many of the reasons are obvious, as we know from the Friends group’s annual Writing, Art, and Photo contest. Yes, good, old Schmeeckle sure is beautiful. Yes, in the words of its namesake, Professor Fred Schmeeckle, it is “an island of green in the city of Stevens Point.” A place to go for health and contemplation? Sure. A glorious glimpse of nature unvarnished? Check. Bill Berry Along with the obvious, Schmeeckle provides a whole range of other values, the kinds we don’t necessarily think about on a hike in the Reserve. These would include so-called ecosystem services, a fancy term for placing economic and social value on what a 280acre reserve provides. Schmeeckle serves as a major buffer from floods for the city of Stevens Point. It is natural, green infrastructure, the rage in some urban areas now, but just old Schmeeckle Reserve here. Let’s see, green infrastructure like Schmeeckle or costly gray infrastructure like concrete for flood control and drainage. What will it be? Now if someone asks, “What is green space good for?” you have a handy reply. 6
“Why I Love the Reserve” is a regular feature in the Friends newsletter. If you would like to be interviewed for this feature, or if you want to write a firstperson account, please contact Megan Espe at mespe@ uwsp.edu or 715-346-4992. Schmeeckle is a community asset for the physical health and contemplation opportunities it offers.
Natural areas like Schmeeckle are also natural water purifiers. We all benefit from that. And by virtue of its mostly undisturbed trees and prairies and wetlands, it captures and holds onto carbon, which in the air is a major contributor to climate change. In the ground, it helps to enrich the soil and its biotic community. Someday, perhaps, we’ll put a dollar value on carbon storage, and Schmeeckle will be eligible for carbon credits worth real money. Until then, it will just keep doing its job, helping reduce greenhouse gases and providing clean air for our community and the world. Yes, plants really do clean the air around us and beyond. Thanks, Schmeeckle. As long as we’re on the topic, what other ecosystem services does Schmeeckle provide? Well, habitat for a variety of pollinators. In the face of dramatic declines in pollinating insects, and for that matter some bird species, there are efforts all across the country to reintroduce native species for pollination. The U.S. Department
of Agriculture and companies like General Mills are paying farmers and other landowners to create patches of pollinator habitat. Good, old Schmeeckle has been doing this for decades. At no cost to anyone, thank you. Of course, there’s a dollar value to the mental and physical health that Schmeeckle supplies to the people of central Wisconsin, although it might be so great it would be hard to quantify. Certainly it’s much cheaper and better for society than alternative treatments. Yes, Schmeeckle provides economic and societal benefits even if we don’t think about them. Another nice thing about the reserve is this: It serves as a laboratory for student researchers in the UWSP College of Natural Resources and other colleges. Someday, perhaps, student researchers will help quantify and value all these services Schmeeckle Reserve provides to our community and the world. Until then, happy hiking. In fall 2016, Bill Berry of Stevens Point completed a three-year term on the Friends board, two of those years as board president. ’Round the Reserve
My buddy Cooper and I took our dads ice fishing on Lake Joanis in early February. It was a warm day, but the ice was still plenty thick for walking on. Cooper’s dad, Chris, used an auger to drill down through the ice and make holes. We got to scoop out the floating ice with special scoopers. Have you ever wondered what happens under the ice in the winter? Cooper and I got to look into the holes. It took a while for our eyes to adjust, but when they did we saw a whole other world. There were many green plants, bubbles, dirt, and rocks on the bottom. After drilling the holes, we put minnows on hooks and lowered them into the water on springloaded poles called tip-ups. The tip-ups stayed on top of the ice, and if a fish grabbed a minnow, a flag would pop up. While we waited for fish to bite, we explored the island. Lots of animals like birds and deer go to the island in the winter. Guess how we know deer walked across the ice to the island? We saw their poop, like round, brown marbles. Last winter, Cooper and I hung a wood duck house on a tree on Winter/Spring 2017
Schmeeckle kids ambassador Walden Buchholz, left, and his friend Cooper scoop ice out of an ice-fishing hole in Lake Joanis an early February outing.
the island. We decided to open it to find out if anyone had used it over the summer. We made an amazing discovery! It had been used by a wood duck family. We knew because there were broken eggshells in the nest, and one whole egg that never hatched. Wow! We cleaned out the box so another wood duck family can use the box this year. Wood ducks are the only ducks that can perch in trees. While we were checking birdhouses, we noticed one of the flags had popped up. We yelled, “tip up!” and ran (and slipped) to the hole to see what was on the line. We pulled in a northern pike! Northern pike are long, skinny fish that are greenish with light spots and lots of sharp little teeth. We all agreed this was a great catch and carefully took it off the hook at let it go back into the lake.
The boys discovered an unhatched wood duck egg.
My dad, Jim, said that Lake Joanis has many other types of fish too. Most common are bluegill, pumpkinseed, green sunfish, black crappie, and largemouth bass. University students who have studied the lake found 24 different species of fish that live there. Some, like goldfish, are pretty rare. Ice fishing in Schmeeckle with friends was so much fun. I can’t wait to try again in the summer. But I’ll have to find a new spot because getting to the island will be awfully tricky when the ice melts. 7
Parting View: 1971 Aerial View Land that would become part of Schmeeckle Reserve is shown in this 1971 aerial photo. The intersection of Division Street and North Point Drive is at the bottom left corner of the photo. Michigan Avenue through the Reserve and Lake Joanis had not been constructed yet. Reserve Street still ran north through the Reserve but was later discontinued and changed into the Granite Parkway Trail.
ADDRESS LABEL RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED 2419 North Point Drive Stevens Point, WI 54481
Friends of Schmeeckle Reserve