Free workshop scheduled Friday on wetland awareness

Free workshop scheduled Friday on wetland awareness

The Oneida County Land and Water Conservation Department invites the general public and environmental professionals to attend a complimentary Wetland Awareness Workshop this Friday,

July 10, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Kemp Natural Resources Station in Woodruff. 

This workshop is part of the department’s Spring into Summer event series.

Featured speaker Aaron Marti, water resources management specialist with the Wisconsin DNR, will present an overview of Wisconsin’s wetlands, highlighting their ecological importance, the many benefits they provide to people and wildlife, and the critical role they play in protecting water quality for future generations. 

Wetlands are among Wisconsin’s most valuable natural resources. Often referred to as “nature’s kidneys,” they naturally filter pollutants, reduce flooding by storing excess water, replenish groundwater, capture carbon, and provide essential habitat for hundreds of species of birds, fish, amphibians, mammals, and pollinators.

Healthy wetlands also contribute to cleaner lakes and streams, more resilient ecosystems, and stronger

communities.

Although wetlands are sometimes overlooked, they are indispensable to the health of Wisconsin’s landscape. By learning more about these remarkable ecosystems, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the important services wetlands provide every day and discover how thoughtful stewardship can help preserve these benefits for generations to come.

Following the indoor presentation, participants are invited to enjoy a lunch break. They should bring along their own lunch. 

After the break, the group will head outdoors for a first-hand guided walk through Kemp Natural Resources Station, where participants will explore several different wetland types. This field experience offers a unique opportunity to observe wetland ecosystems in their natural setting, identify characteristic plants and wildlife, and connect the morning’s presentation with real-world examples.

The workshop is designed for both the general public and environmental professionals who are interested in expanding their understanding of wetland ecology, conservation, and water resource protection. 

It is organized by the Oneida County Land and Water Conservation Department and offered free of charge as part of the DNR’s Surface Water Grant project.

Attendees should bring along their own lunch, comfortable walking shoes or boots suitable for uneven terrain, weather-appropriate clothing, and water and insect repellent, if desired.

For additional information or to register, contact the Oneida County Land and Water Conservation

Department at 715-369-7835 or email lwcd@oneidacountywi.gov.

The Kemp Natural Resources Station is located at 9161 Kemp Road.