Making Connections
Officially known as the Fox Cities Environmental Learning Campus at Bubolz Nature Preserve , the nonprofit has been connecting people with nature for almost 50 years by providing meaningful experiences for the community through education , recreation , and conservation .
According to Tuma , executive director of the Preserve since 2010 , the organization averages 80,000 visitors every year , including students who come to the 725-acre site to be part of summer / winter camps , clinics , field trips , geocaching , and a variety of hands-on learning opportunities . The public is welcome on 8.5 miles of trails and invited to join an abundance of creative offerings including
“ Glow in the Snow ” nighttime crosscountry skiing , “ Maple Syrup Saturday ” sap harvesting and pancake breakfast , “ Romp in the Swamp ” family celebration of autumn , and “ Friday Night Flights ” that combine Wisconsin craft beverage sampling with a chance to learn about Wisconsin birds of prey .
Accommodating such participation has proven to be no small feat , however . After lengthy consideration and forethought , the Preserve recently partnered with a team of experts to replace their small , outdated center with a state-of-the-art facility that has yielded positive impacts for the Preserve , the community , and the natural environment .
Welcome to the Lodge
Designed by Ayres ’ architectural group , the Lodge opened its doors at Bubolz Nature Preserve in February 2018 to favorable reviews from patrons and staff who have found that the two-story , 18,000-square-foot building clearly takes its cues from nature .
The Lodge makes an architectural statement with sustainable , locally sourced materials ; vaulted ceilings and large windows that introduce light and a sense of openness ; a double-sided stone fireplace for warmth and rustic appeal ; ample display spaces for nature exhibits and art ; and fitting natural details throughout including a white cedar root chandelier .
4 | TRENDS Ingenuity , Integrity , and Intelligence .