{"id":1210,"date":"2026-05-23T19:10:43","date_gmt":"2026-05-23T19:10:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/test-uwsp-multi.pantheonsite.io\/schmeeckle-reserve\/?page_id=1210"},"modified":"2026-05-25T18:52:23","modified_gmt":"2026-05-25T18:52:23","slug":"interpretive-consulting","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/interpretive-consulting\/","title":{"rendered":"Interpretive Consulting"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"bannerheight400 hero-bwnb bpcc blockspacebottom overlay-image-container\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/header_interp_consulting.jpg)\"><div class=\"smaller-banner\"><div class=\"bannerheight400 bpcc smaller-banner-image-container site-width\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/header_interp_consulting.jpg)\"><\/div><\/div><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"imgforsmallscrn\" src=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/header_interp_consulting.jpg\"\/><\/div><div class=\"heroNavBar blockspacebottom\"><a href=\"#planning\" class=\"heroNavBarButton\"><div class=\"hh-mobile-textwidth\">Interpretive Master Planning <span class=\"sublabel\"><\/span><\/div><\/a><a href=\"#media\" class=\"heroNavBarButton\"><div class=\"hh-mobile-textwidth\">Media Design <span class=\"sublabel\"><\/span><\/div><\/a><a href=\"#workshops\" class=\"heroNavBarButton\"><div class=\"hh-mobile-textwidth\">Workshops and Training <span class=\"sublabel\"><\/span><\/div><\/a><a href=\"#project_list\" class=\"heroNavBarButton\"><div class=\"hh-mobile-textwidth\">Project List <span class=\"sublabel\"><\/span><\/div><\/a><a href=\"#gallery\" class=\"heroNavBarButton\"><div class=\"hh-mobile-textwidth\">Photo Gallery <span class=\"sublabel\"><\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Schmeeckle Reserve Interpreters is an interpretive consulting team based at UW-Stevens Point. We provide interpretive services to nature centers, parks, scenic byways,\u00a0and other heritage sites nationally and internationally.\u00a0Our team has a broad range of expertise and experience assisting\u00a0agencies and organizations to achieve their interpretive goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our connection to Schmeeckle Reserve and UW-Stevens Point makes our team\u00a0unique.\u00a0Team members\u00a0plan and teach interpretation courses in the College of Natural Resources, bringing our experiences into the classroom and helping to train the next generation of interpretive professionals. We also manage an interpretive facility on campus, the Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center, and supervise students in the day-day operation of running a natural area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All proceeds from our interpretive consulting projects directly fund Schmeeckle Reserve and students in the environmental education\/interpretation program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our team specializes in:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Interpretive Master Planning:<\/strong> Comprehensive plans to document the visioning process and\u00a0guide the development of interpretive facilities, trails,\u00a0site plans,\u00a0exhibits, outdoor media, publications, wayfinding, digital media, and other interpretive elements.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Interpretive Media Design:<\/strong> Research, writing, image acquisition, graphic design, and fabrication of unified interpretive signs, exhibits, and publications that effectively share your stories.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Interpretive Workshops and Training:<\/strong> Custom-tailored workshops and sessions that provide training in all aspects of interpretation. Click here for more info.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Contact Jim Buchholz, director and consulting team lead, at 715-346-4992 or <a href=\"mailto:schmeeckle@uwsp.edu\">schmeeckle@uwsp.edu<\/a> to discuss your interpretive project needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:13px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:13px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"planning\">Interpretive Master Planning<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"735\" src=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/interp_south_denali.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1367\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.3605729077686521;width:434px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/interp_south_denali.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/interp_south_denali-300x221.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/interp_south_denali-768x564.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Interpretive Master Plan developed for the South Denali Visitor Center, Alaska<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Interpretive master plans are essential tools that guide the development of visitor services at a site or facility. To create a meaningful and useful document, planners must immerse themselves in the stories of the site. Our team spends a significant amount of time onsite, talking with stakeholders, interviewing visitors, and inventorying resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Interpretive Master Plans document the entire planning process, from vision to conceptual designs. The final plans we develop vary in content and depth. Most will include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Mission and goals analysis (written and unwritten)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Visitor studies (existing and information we gather during the process)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tangible resource inventory with associated intangible meanings<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Theme and message development (the big ideas and the stories to tell through interpretation)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conceptual facility development\/architectural program (visitor flow, space designation and size, visitor experience, building materials, sustainable features)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conceptual site development (trail systems, surfaces, roads, parking, landscaping, wayfinding)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Interpretive media and program concepts (purpose, measurable objectives, descriptions, illustrations)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The plans are designed to be visually attractive to facilitate stakeholder discussions and encourage fundraising. Clients also receive the original digital files of the plan for future printing and high quality digital photographs taken during the planning process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>View examples of our past Master Planning projects in the <a href=\"#project_list\">Project List<\/a> section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:13px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:13px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"media\">Media Design Projects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"686\" src=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/interp_dccb.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1378\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.4577151005297222;width:402px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/interp_dccb.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/interp_dccb-300x206.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/interp_dccb-768x527.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Interpretive kiosk produced for the Door County Coastal Byway, Wisconsin<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Our team can help move your project from conceptual ideas to reality. We offer full design services for media and publications, and coordinate services with other design and fabrication companies to preserve the original vision of the project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Schmeeckle Reserve Interpreters offers conceptual media planning, research, inscription writing, graphic acquisition, design and layout, and fabrication services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Conceptual Media Plans<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Conceptual media designs are major components in any <a href=\"https:\/\/www3.uwsp.edu\/cnr-ap\/schmeeckle\/Pages\/consulting\/master_planning.aspx\">interpretive master plan<\/a> that we develop. For sites that don&#8217;t require a full master plan, we can develop a conceptual media plan that fits&nbsp;your mission, audience, resources, and themes. Our team will develop innovative ideas and techniques for sharing your stories, from interactive exhibits and tactile signage, to engaging object theaters and discovery rooms. Documenting your concepts is important before handing off the project to a fabricator.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Media Design\/Fabrication Services<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Our team has expertise in researching, writing, and designing interpretive signage, experience hubs, sculptures, brochures, booklets,&nbsp;audio&nbsp;units,&nbsp;and other media. We strive to show the story visually with engaging graphics and minimal text. We also coordinate with several fabrication companies to make the entire process seamless.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Exhibit Research\/Inscription Writing\/Graphic Acquisition<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Although we are unable to offer complex exhibit design, we do provide services to research the stories, write concise and readable inscriptions, and acquire high quality images that will be incorporated into exhibits. We work closely with exhibit fabricators throughout the process to ensure that the final product is true to your vision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>View examples of our work in the <a href=\"#project_list\">Project List<\/a> and <a href=\"#gallery\">Photo Gallery<\/a> sections.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:13px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:13px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"workshops\">Interpretive Workshops &amp; Training<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/interp_workshop.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1397\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.4992721535621978;width:248px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/interp_workshop.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/interp_workshop-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/interp_workshop-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sign vandalism workshop held at the National Association for Interpretation conference in Cleveland, OH.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Our team provides interactive workshops, courses, field trips, and other training opportunities to enhance the profession of interpretation. Workshops are designed around the skills and interests of each audience.<br><br>Depending on the needs of the group, training sessions can range from an hour to several days. Some topics include: personal interpretation, media planning and design, exhibit planning and design, nature and visitor centers, theme development, byways interpretation, wildlife interpretation, trail planning.<br><br>Training sessions are designed to be interactive and hands-on, highlighting practical ideas and encouraging participant discussion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>View examples of our past workshops and training sessions in the <a href=\"#project_list\">Project List <\/a>section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:13px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:13px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"project_list\">Project List<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Our team strives to produce the highest quality and most comprehensive interpretive plans and products to meet the needs of our clients. We strongly encourage you to contact any of our past clients to determine if our team can be of benefit to your interpretive projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Browse through our past master planning projects, media design projects, and workshop sessions below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"uwsp-accordion blockspacetop blockspacebottom\"><div class=\"accordion\" id=\"\"><div class=\"panelcontainer nofirst\">\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">Master Planning Projects<\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Springfield Area Addendum: Illinois Historic Route 66: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong> (December 2022). Updated resources, audiences, themes, and interpretive recommendations for the Springfield region in Illinois in preparation for the Route 66 Centennial. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/Ill_Route66_Springfield.pdf\" data-type=\"attachment\" data-id=\"1427\">View plan.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hugo Sauer Nursery and Research Field Laboratory: Historic Report and Interpretive Trail Signage<\/strong> in Rhinelander, Wisconsin (2019-2023): Research, writing, and photo acquisition for a USDA Forest Service General Technical Report interpreting a historic federal and state nursery. Research, writing, design, and fabrication of a 3-sign interpretive trail kiosk and 8 trailside exhibits. <a href=\"https:\/\/research.fs.usda.gov\/treesearch\/67000\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">View the report<\/a>. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/Hugo_Sauer_media.pdf\" data-type=\"attachment\" data-id=\"1426\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Click here to view the signs.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Iowa Byways: Interpretive Master Planning<\/strong> (2015-2018): Large-scale planning project for the Iowa Byways program that included the development of interpretive master plans for 10 byways in the state over the course of\u00a0four years, along with a statewide summary report that documents unified design and messaging. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/Iowa_Byways_Summary_Report.pdf\" data-type=\"attachment\" data-id=\"1416\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">View summary report.<\/a>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Lincoln Highway Heritage Byway: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong>, Iowa (March 2018): Part of the larger Iowa Byways project; planning of interpretive experiences along a 460-mile stretch of the nation&#8217;s first transcontinental highway.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Glacial Trail Scenic Byway: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong>, Iowa (March 2018): Part of the larger Iowa Byways project; planning of interpretive experiences along a 36-mile loop through\u00a0a scenic glacial landscape in northwest Iowa.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Delaware Crossing Scenic Byway: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong>, Iowa (January 2018): Part of the larger Iowa Byways project; planning of interpretive experiences along a 36-mile loop in the Maquoketa River valley.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Historic Hills Scenic Byway: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong>, Iowa (November 2017): Part of the larger Iowa Byways project; planning of interpretive experiences along a 110-mile route rich in history.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Iowa Valley Scenic Byway: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong>, Iowa (August 2017): Part of the larger Iowa Byways project; planning of interpretive experiences along a 77-mile route that celebrates the Amana Colonies and Meskwaki Settlement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Grant Wood Scenic Byway: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong>, Iowa (March 2017): Part of the larger Iowa Byways project; planning of interpretive experiences along a 75-mile route connected to the nationally renowned artist.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>River Bluffs Scenic Byway: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong>, Iowa (March 2017): Part of the larger Iowa Byways project; planning of interpretive experiences along a 109-mile route through limestone bluffs in northeast Iowa. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/River_Bluffs_IMP.pdf\" data-type=\"attachment\" data-id=\"1420\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">View plan.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Driftless Area Scenic Byway: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong>, Iowa (September 2016): Part of the larger Iowa Byways project; planning of interpretive experiences along a 100-mile route in the rugged &#8220;Driftless Area&#8221; of northeast Iowa. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/Driftless_Area_IMP.pdf\" data-type=\"attachment\" data-id=\"1424\">View plan.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Western Skies Scenic Byway: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong>, Iowa (July 2015): Part of the larger Iowa Byways project; planning of interpretive experiences along a 142-mile route through the rural landscape of western Iowa. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/Western_Skies_IMP.pdf\" data-type=\"attachment\" data-id=\"1423\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">View plan.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Loess Hills National Scenic Byway: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong>, Iowa (July 2015): Part of the larger Iowa Byways project; planning of interpretive experiences along a 405-mile route through the nationally recognized loess hills of western Iowa. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/Loess_Hills_IMP.pdf\" data-type=\"attachment\" data-id=\"1417\">View plan.<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Door County Coastal Byway: Interpretive Master Plan and Experience Hubs<\/strong> in Wisconsin (February 2014). Planning of interpretive experiences along a 66-mile scenic byway and designing 12 experience hub kiosks installed in byway communities. Door County Coastal Byway Council.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The Ridges Sanctuary: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong> in Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin (January 2013). Planning for a new educational facility and trail system at a Door County nature preserve. The Ridges Sanctuary, Inc. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/Ridges_plan.pdf\" data-type=\"attachment\" data-id=\"1419\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">View plan.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The Teller Wildlife Refuge: Master Conservation Education and Interpretive Plan<\/strong> in Montana (July 2011). Planning of education and public interpretation for a private wildlife refuge in the Bitterroot Valley of Montana. The Teller Wildlife Refuge, Inc. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/Teller_plan.pdf\" data-type=\"attachment\" data-id=\"1422\">View plan.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Addendum to the Illinois Historic Route 66: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong> (February 2010). Plan includes detailed conceptual ideas for five additional northern Illinois communities along the Route 66 National Scenic Byway. Illinois Route 66 Heritage Project. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>South Denali Visitor Center Complex: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong> in Alaska (August 2009). Planning for visitor center, trail system, and base facility. Alaska Department of Natural Resources.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rib Mountain State Park: Conceptual Master Plan for an Education and Interpretive Center<\/strong> in Wausau, Wisconsin (July 2009). Friends of Rib Mountain State Park. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Illinois Historic Route 66 National Scenic Byway: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong> (2008). Planned interpretive opportunities along the Route 66 National Scenic Byway, a 400-mile segment from Chicago to St. Louis with 90 communities. Illinois Route 66 Heritage Project. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/Ill_rt66_IMP.pdf\" data-type=\"attachment\" data-id=\"1428\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">View plan.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Addendum to the Illinois Lincoln Highway Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong> (2007). Illinois Lincoln Highway Coalition. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lost River Cave and Valley: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong> in Bowling Green, Kentucky (2006). Friends of the Lost River, Inc. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/LRC_plan.pdf\" data-type=\"attachment\" data-id=\"1418\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">View plan.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Great River Road Visitor Center: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong> in Prescott, WI (2005). City of Prescott. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/GRR_plan.pdf\" data-type=\"attachment\" data-id=\"1425\">View plan.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mead Wildlife Area Education Center: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong> in Milladore, WI (2005). Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong> (2004). Interpretive master plan and building redevelopment for in Sanibel, FL. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/SCCF_plan.pdf\" data-type=\"attachment\" data-id=\"1421\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">View plan.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Illinois Lincoln Highway National Scenic Byway: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong> (2004). Illinois Lincoln Highway Coalition. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Planners for <strong>Arkansas River Valley Nature Center<\/strong> at Fort Smith (2003), <strong>Crowley\u2019s Ridge Nature Center<\/strong> at Jonesboro (2002), and <strong>Delta Rivers Nature Center<\/strong> at Pine Bluff, AR (2001) as contracted with Arkansas Game &amp; Fish Commission. Lead development of these regional environmental centers. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Crater of Diamonds State Park: Interpretive Master Plan<\/strong> (2001).\u00a0 Arkansas State Parks. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">Media Design Projects<\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Visit the <a href=\"#gallery\">Photo Gallery<\/a> section to view images of the media described below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hugo Sauer Nursery and Research Field Laboratory: Historic Report and Interpretive Trail Signage<\/strong> in Rhinelander, Wisconsin (2019-2023): Research, writing, and photo acquisition for a USDA Forest Service General Technical Report interpreting a historic federal and state nursery. Research, writing, design, and fabrication of a 3-sign interpretive trail kiosk and 8 trailside exhibits. <a href=\"https:\/\/research.fs.usda.gov\/treesearch\/67000\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">View the report<\/a>. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/05\/Hugo_Sauer_media.pdf\" data-type=\"attachment\" data-id=\"1426\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Click here to view the signs.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ruffed Grouse Habitat: Interpretive Trail Signage<\/strong> in Tomahawk, Wisconsin (2021). Research, writing, design, and fabrication of an interpretive wayside exhibit that describes the importance of coppice harvests to Ruffed Grouse, along with constructing 4 totem-style cedar posts that mark different harvest areas in Treehaven.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pope Lake State Natural Area:\u00a0Interpretive Sign<\/strong> in Waupaca, Wisconsin (2020).\u00a0Research, writing,\u00a0design, and\u00a0fabrication of\u00a0an interpretive sign\u00a0that\u00a0introduces\u00a0visitors\u00a0to\u00a0a natural\u00a0area that is part of Hartman Creek State Park.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Door County Coastal Byway: Interpretive Master Plan and Experience Hubs<\/strong> in Wisconsin (February 2014). Planning of interpretive experiences along a 66-mile scenic byway and designing 12 experience hub kiosks installed in byway communities. Door County Coastal Byway Council.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Illinois Route 66 National Scenic Byway: Experience Hubs<\/strong> (May 2012): Designed and coordinated fabrication of 13 interpretive orientation kiosks with lighted community names and audio units along the Illinois Route 66 National Scenic Byway. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Illinois Route 66 National Scenic Byway: Wayside Exhibits <\/strong>(September 2010). Designed and coordinated fabrication of 28 themed wayside exhibits along the Illinois Route 66 National Scenic Byway. Many included tactile Passport Stations and audio units that featured stories from the road.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Black Kettle National Grassland: Interpretive trail signage<\/strong> (2007). Interpretive trail signage planning, design, and fabrication. Cheyenne, Oklahoma. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Central Wisconsin Environmental Station: Interpretive signage<\/strong>\u00a0(2006).\u00a0Interpretive trail signage planning, design, and fabrication for in Amherst Junction, WI.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hamus Nature Preserve: Interpretive signage and wayfinding<\/strong> (2006). Interpretive panel and wayfinding signage development for preserve in Marshfield, WI. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Great River Road Visitor Center: Wayside exhibits <\/strong>(2006). Outdoor wayside exhibit design and fabrication for in Prescott, WI. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mead Wildlife Area Education Center: Indoor and outdoor exhibits<\/strong> (2006). Outdoor wayside exhibit and indoor history exhibit design and fabrication for in Milladore, WI. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Illinois Lincoln Highway: Aurora wayside exhibits <\/strong>(2005). Interpretive panel development for the City of Aurora, Illinois along the Illinois Lincoln Highway. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>National Ice Age Trail: Hartman Creek State Park kiosks <\/strong>(2004). Interpretive panel development for two kiosks located in Hartman Creek State Park, WI. Ice Age Park &amp; Trail Foundation. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Crowley\u2019s Ridge Nature Center: Final exhibit plan: <\/strong>Final interior and exterior exhibit planning, included inscription writing, graphic acquisition, and video scripting for nature center in Jonesboro, AR as contracted with Split Rock Studios, St. Paul, Minnesota. 2004. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Whitefish Dunes State Park: Final exhibit plan <\/strong>(2002). Final interior exhibit plan as contracted with with Split Rock Studios, St. Paul, Minnesota. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Schlitz Audubon Nature Center: Conceptual exhibit plan<\/strong> (2002). Milwaukee, Wisconsin.\u00a0 <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lorance Creek State Heritage Preserve Boardwalk Trail<\/strong> (2001). Arkansas National Heritage Commission\/MESA<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-create-block-uwsp-accordion-section\"><summary class=\"accordion-heading\">Workshops and Training Sessions<\/summary><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>&#8220;Mission: Possible? Planning and installing changeable interpretive signs&#8221;<\/strong> (1.5 hours). Explored different types of inexpensive changeable sign options and provided hands-on opportunities for audience to fabricate their own. National Association for Interpretation Conference, St. Augustine, Florida. December 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>&#8220;2023 Wayside Olympics&#8221;<\/strong> (1 hour). Provided opportunities for audience to \u201cjudge\u201d wayside exhibits based on design and message criteria. National Association for Interpretation\u00a0Conference, Little Rock, Arkansas. November 2023.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>&#8220;Step Over the Line; Vandalize a Sign!&#8221;<\/strong> (1.5 hours). Analyzed types and reasons for vandalism. Participants vandalized various sign materials to determine which were most resistant and fixable. National Association for Interpretation, Cleveland, Ohio. December 2022. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>&#8220;Interpretive Design for Amphitheaters&#8221;<\/strong> (1 hour). Traced the evolution&nbsp;of amphitheaters&nbsp;in parks, showcasing&nbsp;the planning process and&nbsp;illustrating good design principles. National Association for Interpretation Conference, Denver, Colorado. November 2019.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>&#8220;Second Star to the Right: Developing Interpretive Plans that Guide the Way&#8221;<\/strong> (1 hour). Using Peter Pan as inspiration, participants were invited to enter the &#8220;Neverland&#8221; of interpretive planning by sharing several case studies, &#8220;Tinker Bell tips,&#8221; and &#8220;Tick-Tock pitfalls.&#8221; National Association for Interpretation Conference, Spokane, Washington. November 2017.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>&#8220;Intergenerational Programming: How Do Participants Interact?&#8221;<\/strong> (1 hour). This graduate presentation provided insight into research&nbsp;that analyzed whether mixed-age participants in a nature-based program would affect their&nbsp;behavior in time spent&nbsp;outside. National Association for Interpretation Conference, Corpus Christie, Texas. November 2016.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201c2016\u00a0Wayside Olympics\u201d<\/strong> (1 hour). Provided opportunities for audience to \u201cjudge\u201d wayside exhibits based on design and message criteria. National Association for Interpretation\u00a0Conference, Corpus Christie, Texas. November 2016.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cThe Meanings of Meanings&#8221;<\/strong> (1 hour). Meaning-making is central to interpretation. This &#8220;round table&#8221; presentation offered different perspectives of &#8220;meaning-making&#8221; by characters from a diversity of disciplines throughout time. National Association for Interpretation Conference, Virginia Beach. November 2015. Watch a video of the session below!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"display: flex; justify-content: center; margin-bottom:20px\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube-nocookie.com\/embed\/nD33aX6Fx5k?si=cBnef1rbTfWEu63Q\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>\u201cPilgrimage to the Past: Discovering Interpretation\u2019s Guiding Roots&#8221;<\/strong> (1 hour). Character interpretation session that traced the evolution of the interpretive profession from the ancient role of guiding. Chosen as one of a few sessions to be offered in a webinar format. National Association for Interpretation Conference, Reno, Nevada. November 2013. Watch a video of the session below!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"display: flex; justify-content: center; margin-bottom:20px\"\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube-nocookie.com\/embed\/BAEnnbSiaIA?si=_ri0q6U_9_C9_yC6\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>&#8220;Interpreting Iowa\u2019s Scenic Byways&#8221;<\/strong> (1 day). Topics included: Fundamentals of byway interpretation, connecting resources to stories, interpretive planning, and interpretive media options. Explored various mobile technology applications. Ames, Iowa. September 2013.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cWayside Olympics for Byways\u201d<\/strong> (1 hour). Focused specifically on developing effective wayside exhibits along scenic byways and trails. National Scenic Byways Conference, Minneapolis, Minnesota. August 2011. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201c2010&nbsp;Wayside Olympics\u201d<\/strong> (1 hour). Provided opportunities for audience to \u201cjudge\u201d wayside exhibits based on design and message criteria. National Association for Interpretation, Las Vegas, Nevada. November 2010.&nbsp; <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>&#8220;Searching for the Mother Road-Planning Interpretive Experiences on Route 66&#8221;<\/strong> (1 hour). Described the interpretive planning process for the Illinois Route 66 National Scenic Byway. National Association for Interpretation, Hartford, Connecticut. November 2009. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cInterpreting Iowa&#8217;s Scenic Byways&#8221;<\/strong> (2 days). Topics included: Fundamentals of byway interpretation, byway interpretive planning, byway media options, byway facilities and exhibits, and working with consultants. Included a field experience to Reed\/Niland Corner interpretive site. Ames, Iowa. October 2009. Click here to see workshop presentations and documents <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cCreating Better Visitor Centres&#8221;<\/strong> (2 days). Topics included: Fundamentals of interpretation, planning for interpretive centres, media for interpretive centres, and designing and developing successful centres. Included a field experience to Great Orme Country Park Visitor Center. Interpret Wales, Llandudno, Wales. October 2008. Click here to see workshop presentations and documents <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cStep Over the Line: Beat a Sign&#8221;<\/strong> (1 hour). Analyzed types and reasons for vandalism. Participants vandalized various sign materials to determine which were most resistant and fixable. National Association for Interpretation, Wichita, KS. November 2007.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cPlanning Byway Facilities\u201d<\/strong> (1 hour). National Scenic Byways Conference, Baltimore, MD in May, 2007 <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201c2006&nbsp;Wayside Olympics\u201d<\/strong> (1 hour). Provided opportunities for audience to \u201cjudge\u201d wayside exhibits based on design and message criteria. National Association for Interpretation, Albuquerque, NM. November 2006. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cArtifacts, Objects, and Interpretation\u201d<\/strong> (2 hours). National Association for Interpretation, Mobile, AL. November 2005. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cInterpretive Media Workshop\u201d<\/strong> (4 days). U.S. Forest Service University, Jacksonville, FL. March 2005. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cEnhancing Interpretive Services\u201d<\/strong> discussion (3 hours). International Wolf Foundation, Minneapolis, MN. December 2004. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cPower of Objects\u201d<\/strong> presentation (2 hours). National Association for Interpretation at Grand Rapids, MI. November 2004. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cInterpretive Media Workshop\u201d<\/strong> (3 days). U.S. Forest Service University, Cincinnati, Ohio. March, 2004. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cInterpretive Technology\u201d<\/strong> presentation (1 hour). National Association for Interpretation at Sparks, NV. November, 2003. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cInterpretive Centers\u201d<\/strong> workshop (2 days). Included analysis of several visitor centers in Scotland. Scottish Natural Heritage, Battleby Centre, Scotland. September\/October, 2003. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cInterpreting Byways\u201d<\/strong> workshop (16 hours of instruction in 4 sessions). National Scenic Byways Conference, Albuquerque, New Mexico. May, 2003. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cNational Scenic Byways Interpretation\u201d<\/strong> workshop (4 days). Stevens Point, Wisconsin. September, 2002. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cHistoric National Road Theme Development\u201d<\/strong> workshop (2 days). National Scenic Byways, Richmond, Indiana. September, 2002. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cNational Scenic Byways Interpretation\u201d<\/strong> workshop (4 days). Logan, Utah. August, 2002. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cGreat River Road Interpretation and Theme Development\u201d<\/strong> workshop (3 days). National Scenic Byways\u2013Mississippi Corridor Commission, St. Louis, Missouri. May, 2002. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cSigns, Trails and Wayside Exhibits\u201d<\/strong> workshop (4 days). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Training Center, West Virginia.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/details>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:13px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:13px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"gallery\">Photo Gallery<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Click the button below to view photo galleries of media products that were planned and designed by Schmeeckle Reserve Interpreters (external link to Flickr).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<a class=\"uwspbtn uwsp-btn-solid-gold\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/73021735@N02\/collections\/72157692867024120\/\" target=\"_blank\">Interpretive Media Gallery <i class=\"fa-solid fa-circle-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/a>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:29px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Or scroll through the pictures below to see some of the Outdoor Interpretive Signs that our team has helped produce..<\/p>\n\n\n\n<a data-flickr-embed=\"true\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/73021735@N02\/albums\/72157695494320562\" title=\"Outdoor Interpretive Signs\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/live.staticflickr.com\/1821\/28310262307_5fe38e4053_b.jpg\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" alt=\"Outdoor Interpretive Signs\"\/><\/a><script async src=\"\/\/embedr.flickr.com\/assets\/client-code.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Schmeeckle Reserve Interpreters is an interpretive consulting team based at UW-Stevens Point. We provide interpretive services to nature centers, parks, scenic byways,\u00a0and other heritage sites nationally and internationally.\u00a0Our team has a broad range of expertise and experience assisting\u00a0agencies and organizations to achieve their interpretive goals. Our connection to Schmeeckle Reserve and UW-Stevens Point makes our [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1210","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1210","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1210"}],"version-history":[{"count":47,"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1210\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1444,"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1210\/revisions\/1444"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/schmeeckle-reserve\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1210"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}