Discover autumn's natural beauty this October through programs at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point's Schmeeckle Reserve, including the annual Fall Candlelight Hike Festival.
Taught by UW-Stevens Point students, the free programs meet at the reserve's Visitor Center, located at 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, unless otherwise noted. For more information, call 715-346-4992 or go to www.uwsp.edu/cnr/schmeeckle. Dress for the weather, as most programs are outdoors.
October programs include:
- Save the Monarchs, Monday, Oct. 10, 5:30-6:30 p.m. One of Wisconsin's most recognized butterflies is disappearing. How can we save this species?
- A Leaf's Life, Tuesday, Oct. 11, 5:30-6:30 p.m. What happens to a leaf as it transitions from the green of spring to the colors of fall?
- Mushrooms Underground, Thursday, Oct. 13, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Explore mushrooms and how they benefit the forest at Schmeeckle Reserve.
- The Moses Creek Story, Saturday, Oct. 15, 1-2 p.m. Moses Creek in Stevens Point has been transformed over time. Learn how it was restored by meeting on Wood Lane on the east side of the reserve.
- The Mystery Behind Lake Joanis, Monday, Oct. 17, 5:30-6:30 p.m. How did Lake Joanis come to be? Find out by meeting at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Maria Drive.
- Legends of the Leaves, Tuesday, Oct. 18, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Ancient tales and secret knowledge of Native Americans are whispered through the bark of Schmeeckle's trees. Discover the stories they have to tell.
- Where Did They Go?, Thursday, Oct. 20, 5:15-6:15 p.m. Discover the state's rare species of plants, animals and habitats and how they can be protected from extinction.
- Natural Signs, Saturday, Oct. 22, 1-2 p.m. The wildlife of Schmeeckle Reserve leave behind clues that tell a story. Find out how to read them.
- The Green Circle Through Time, Sunday, Oct. 23, 1-2 p.m. Celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Green Circle by reflecting on its past and present. Meet at the Pfiffner Pioneer Park band shell and take an interactive walk along the trail.
- The Famed Red Fox, Tuesday, Oct. 25, 5:45-6:45 p.m. Explore the secret life of the cunning and stealthy red fox at Schmeeckle Reserve.
- Nighttime Senses, Thursday, Oct. 27, 5:15-6:15 p.m. Learn how nocturnal animals in urban and semi-urban settings adapt to survival in the dark.
- 2016 Fall Candlelight Hike Festival, Friday, Oct. 28, 6-9 p.m. Join in as Schmeeckle Reserve explores "Nocturnal Predators" with two different family campfire programs at 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Discover the nighttime activities of animals such as coyotes, owls, raccoons, opossums and bats. There is also half-mile and one-mile walks along torch and jack-o'-lantern lit paths, discovery stations with hands on activities and free crafts, snacks and door prizes. The event is free, with a suggested donation of $2 per person or $5 per family.
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