New Glarus Woods State Park
Interpretive Programs

Discovery Backpacks

The Friends of New Glarus Woods State Park have created a series of learning experiences for children to enjoy outdoors. Thanks to a grant from the Wisconsin Environmental Education Board (WEEB), the friends have designed, researched, and created four original programs about trees, birds of prey (raptors), insects (bugs!), and birds of Wisconsin.

Backpack. books, bugs, and more
Each program comes a separate backpack .
credit

Each program includes lesson plans, materials, equipment and activities for families and teachers to use with children as they explore New Glarus Woods. For example, the Birds Discovery Backpack includes binoculars, two bird field guides, a New Glarus Woods map, ideas for bird landscape plantings, a lesson plan/activities booklet, and more. The Insect Discovery Backpack contains insect models, an insect holder with magnifying glass, photographs, activities book and more. All programs are designed for children but can be enjoyed by all ages.

Four sets, each set consisting of four Discovery Backpacks, were completed. One set is at New Glarus Woods State Park.

Children and adults with backpack and books
Children gather around backpacks that Friends of New Glarus Woods gave the Blanchardville library.

The other three backpacks were given to public libraries in New Glarus [exit DNR], Monticello [exit DNR] and Blanchardville [exit DNR]. The libraries are part of the South Central Library System [exit DNR], linked with libraries in seven counties—Adams, Columbia, Dane, Green, Portage, Sauk and Wood. The backpacks will be available to borrow through any local library in the system.

Amphitheater Programs

Fun and educational programs are offered during the week and on weekends. They are held, depending on the subject, at the Chattermark Amphitheater or at the shelter. Check bulletin boards or the park office for a schedule.

Junior Ranger/Wisconsin Explorer

The Junior Ranger and Wisconsin Explorer program is a series of free booklets packed with fun and educational activities designed for kids and their parents to complete to earn a certificate and colorful patch. Ask for the booklets at the Park Office.

For more information, ask:

New Glarus Woods State Park
W5446 County Highway NN
P.O. Box 805
New Glarus WI 53574.
(608) 527-2335

(608) 527-2335

Last Revised: Friday April 11 2008