Retzer Nature Center Earth Day Event Features Grand Opening

WAUKESHA, WI — The Friends of Retzer Nature Center’s Annual Earth Week Celebration Finale concludes week-long Earth-themed activities on Saturday, April 28, including the grand opening of their new Environmental Learning Center.

The Finale event is offering free exhibits, programs, and activities for all ages from 5 a.m.-9 p.m. Retzer Nature Center is located at S14W28167 Madison Street, Waukesha.

“The Earth Week Finale is a great opportunity for residents to learn about the environmental and economic benefits of conservation,” said Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow. “Not only does closing the loop conserve natural resources, it provides tax relief and job growth in Waukesha County.”

Visitors will get a first-hand look at the newly renovated Environmental Learning Center during its Grand Opening from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The new space incorporates displays on recycling, waste reduction, and water conservation into the existing ecology exhibits.

Other family-friendly activities and events are scattered throughout the day. Visitors can take part in family bird watching, hiking, children’s crafts, planetarium shows, a community mural art project, live music, Master Gardener representatives, and an evening campfire complete with s’mores.

The Friends of Retzer Nature Center’s Earth Week Celebration Finale Schedule of Events April 28, 2018

Jack Young Memorial Earth Watch 5 a.m. – Noon (In half hour or more shifts) Observe nature by quietly recording the sights, sounds, smells & wildlife activities going on! Equipment provided. *Register by April 25.

Planetarium Show: “Perseus and Andromeda” 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (Show runs every half-hour) The skies shine with beautiful laser light to tell the story of how Perseus saved Andromeda from Cetus, the mighty Sea Monster.

Grand Opening of Interactive Environmental Education Exhibit 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Engage in recycling, water resources, composting exhibits, and more. Enjoy fun activities and prizes for all ages!

Family Activities and Crafts 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Kids of all ages will enjoy a variety of crafts and activities including: Water Bug Life Cycle Adventure and Community Mural Art Project!

Family Bird Watch Hike 10 – 11:30 a.m. (Meet by main entrance) Learn the do’s and don’ts of birding and participate in this guided hike.

Master Gardener Station 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. UW-Extension Master Gardeners will be on hand to demonstrate and answer questions.

Volunteer Service Project Noon – 3 p.m. Join Retzer Nature Center staff in volunteer projects, which include invasive species removal and spreading wood chips on trails. Must be 14 years of age or older.*Register by April 20.

Trees & Wildflowers Hike 2 – 3 p.m. Enjoy a guided hike through the woods, prairie, and hills of the Nature Center. Discover the tree and wildflowers of spring.

Family Concert 3 – 5 p.m. Enjoy Tom Pease’s fun and zany family-friendly show.

Campfire Songs & S’mores 5 – 7 p.m. Relax around the fire with classic tunes and a delicious treat.

Magical Mystery Tour Twilight Hike Approx. 7:15– 9 p.m. Enjoy a guided hike into Brown’s Fen to catch a glimpse of the American Woodcock and other night animals. Bring your flashlight.

Submitted Photo, Published With Permission