Become one with nature Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center focuses on getting people back in touch with the environment
ABOVE: Pam Steinhaus, 52, a visitor services manager at Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center near Thomson, talks about the many activities available along the Mississippi River Refuge. TOP: A wolf is displayed next to an owl at the center.
Story By Kacie Klinge & Photos by Philip Marruffo For Carroll County Living
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hese days, almost everyone has a smartphone capable of giving them information about almost any topic. But is there a difference between reading about something and experiencing it first hand? Pam Steinhaus, 52, a visitor services manager at Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center, thinks so. “It’s a reality that we feel like we need to go to zoos to see wildlife when there’s a refuge right out here, outside of our back door. ... We’re losing touch,” she said. “Coming to a place where you can actually see and do is where people really get to learn.” Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center has been around for 92 years and sits on 35 acres of sand prairie. The center promotes environmental education and conservation of the Mississippi River, with a focus on hands-on educational experiences when it comes to nature and wildlife. The facility achieves this by offering a variety of nature-related activities. “[After visiting], most people say, ‘Wow. I can’t believe it took me so long to get here,’” Steinhaus said. Some of the activities include monthly bird walks, golf cart tours and movie days. There are also self-led activities, such as bird watching, hiking, biking, canoeing, hunting and fishing. All of the activities are free to participants. Continued on page 28
We invite you to stop by and enjoy a multi-level shopping experience SM-ST5897-0822
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