Learn more about the animals and history of central
Wisconsin through nature programs offered this month at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens
Point’s Schmeeckle Reserve, including the annual Candlelight Hike Festival.
Taught by UW-Stevens Point students, the free programs
meet at the reserve’s Visitor Center, located at 2419 North Point Drive,
Stevens Point, unless otherwise noted. For more information, call 715-346-4992 or
go to www.uwsp.edu/cnr/schmeeckle.
Dress for the weather, as most programs are outdoors.
October programs include:
- Schmeeckle’s
Edible Plant Emporium, Thursday, Oct. 8, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Find edible plants
on a walk through the reserve and discover their cultural history and medicinal
value.
- Good
Night Schmeeckle, Thursday, Oct. 15, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Which animals are
getting ready to enjoy the night life? Find out on this hike through
Schmeeckle.
- Jordan
Park: A Stroll through Time, Saturday, Oct. 17, 1-2 p.m. Meet at Jordan
Park Nature Center, 8500 Jordan Road, east of Stevens Point, for a historic look
at those who once lived in a booming logging community.
- ’Bearly’
Different, Tuesday, Oct. 20, 5:15-6:15 p.m. Learn more about how central
Wisconsin’s black bears take care of their young, use their resources and their
similarities to humans.
- Skulls: A
Historic Bone-Chilling Review, Sunday, Oct. 25, 5-6 p.m. Discover how
animal skulls have been an iconic symbol for centuries, from Shakespearean to
Native American culture.
- 2015 Fall
Candlelight Hike Festival, Friday, Oct. 30, 6-9 p.m. Join in as Schmeeckle
Reserve explores “City Critters: Urban Wildlife at Schmeeckle” through family
campfire programs at 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Hear how animals such as white tailed
deer, raccoons and coyotes coexist with humans. Additional activities include
half-mile and one-mile walks along torch and jack-o’-lantern lit paths,
discovery stations with hands on activities and free crafts, snacks and door
prizes. The event is free, with a suggested donation of $2 per person or $5 per
family.