Chapters in Wisconsin

Walking tour with views of late spring ephemerals and various woodland forbs. The month is a transitional month dependent on Mother Nature but there are likely to be carpets of toad lilies, wild geranium, spring phlox and pussy toes among other special appearances. It is a paved campground trail with some additional wood chipped hiking trails with pleasant views of the adjacent wetland. Lisa Oddis will guide the tour. Gear needed- this is rain or shine, bug spray, hiking or mud boots are recommended. Family friendly event. This is a Waukesha County park so a daily or annual park pass is needed. If you are interested in carpooling, email [email protected] or visit Facebook. Park at Family Camp Ground  

Identifying Bugs in the Wild 
Instructor: Dr. Paul Whitaker
Format: Blended 3-part course
Dates/Times: virtual Monday, June 15, 2026, 7-8 pm, virtual Wednesday, June 17, 7-8 pm, and in person Saturday, June 20, 12-4 pm
Location: UW Stevens Point
Elective (6 hours)
Description: The overall goal of this course is to help you feel better equipped to identify insects associated with plants and to understand plant-insect interactions. You’ll need to spend some time outside of class to complete a modest collection of insect specimens and/or photographs. The virtual sessions will cover basic entomology content, including insect body structure, life stages, life cycles, and ecology. They will also give an overview of diversity of insects associated with land plants and introduce the insect (or photograph) collection project. Weather permitting, the in-person class will begin with an insect walk on the UWSP campus, allowing you to practice various insect collecting techniques. In the lab, we’ll use a variety of live and preserved insects to practice insect rearing and identification.

An email with specific details will be sent to you approximately 2-5 days before the first day of the course.

Learn more about the Wisconsin Native Plant Certification Program.

The farm is the winner of the 2024 Aldo Leopold Conservation award. Enjoy a tour showcasing conservation and climate-friendly farming practices. Tree plantings, ponds, pollinator habitats, and bird havens will be highlighted. The location is 34 miles (45 minute drive) from the WILD Center. Carpooling is recommended. 

What does it take to plant and care for a native planting? Are you new to native plants? 

Native plants are sold as a low maintenance option but sometimes, they don't feel low maintenance. Let's talk about what the type of work it takes to install, maintain and grow habitat in your yard.

Butterflies of Wisconsin: Ecology, Identification, and Conservation
Instructor: Dr. Skye Bruce
Format: Blended 2-part course
Dates/Times:
Virtual Saturday, June 20, 2026, 6-8 pm
In person Sunday, June 21, 2026, 12-2 pm
Location: UW Madison Arboretum
Elective (4 hours)
Description: This course offers a comprehensive exploration into the science of Wisconsin’s native butterflies, focusing on their identification, ecology, and conservation. Through detailed study, participants will delve into the intricate life cycles of butterfly species and the critical role of host plants in their development and survival. The curriculum is designed to equip learners with the skills to identify key butterfly species and understand the selection and cultivation of appropriate host plants, reinforcing the symbiotic relationship between flora and fauna in local ecosystems. Additionally, the course addresses the pressing threats to native butterfly populations and their habitats, from habitat loss to climate change, and discusses scientific strategies for conservation and population support. By combining fieldwork with classroom learning, participants will gain practical and theoretical knowledge, preparing them to contribute effectively to conservation efforts and promote biodiversity within their communities. Recommended book: Butterflies of the North Woods by Larry Weber.

An email with specific details will be sent to you approximately 2-5 days before the course.

Learn more about the Wisconsin Native Plant Certification Program.