Directors are essential to nature centers
March 11, 2001

What is there about nature centers that keeps their directors (and founders) enthusiastically involved for over a quarter of a century?

Recently a group of dedicated naturalists met at the Woodland Dunes Nature Center.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss common interests and problems.

Preservation of land is always a top priority. Some areas are government owned and operated, privately owned lands such as Woodland Dunes are preserved by those interested in saving irreplaceable landscapes, with no goal of personal gain.

Using the facilities for educational purposes is a primary purpose for all nature centers.

Public use, recreational and educational, as advisory headquarters for wildlife problems such as where and how to take care of injured creatures, are the valuable purposes of a nature center.

And yes, funding for projects and land acquisition play an important role for those in charge.

Ida and Ty Bauman of the Bay Beach Wildlife Center are celebrating their 30th year as the directive persons of this city-owned sanctuary.

Under their tenure a marsh has become a vital institution with continual additions and projects, and many attractions for visitors.

Jim Anderson of the Mosquito Hill Nature Center, located outside of New London, has 26 years of directorship.

This is an Outagamie County-owned center with many interesting displays indoors and acres and trails to explore.

A butterfly house, featuring live insects, is available during warmer weather. Jim was accompanied by naturalist Steve Petznik.

Doug Hartman is the director at the Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve and West Shores Interpretive Center. It is located near Suamico and offers educational and recreational opportunities.

David Kuckuk is the director of Maywood, located in a city of Sheboygan park. In 1998 David raised over $50,000 for improvements at the center by hiking the 2,000 miles of the Ice Age Trail with his husky, Yukon.

Pledges, and sponsors provided the funds. He is available for slide shows covering the walk. Call (920) 459-3906 for more information.

Mike Brandel has headed the Gordon Bubolz Nature Preserve located near Appleton for 26 years.

This is a privately owned center featuring year-round educational and recreational programs as well as preserving important landscapes. A prairie and pond are featured.

Woodland Dunes representatives included Bernie Brouchoud, executive director, Corrine Knab, administrative director, Jim Knickelbine, assistant director, and Winnifred Smith, charter member and columnist.

Woodland Dunes is also a privately owned center, with the original purpose of preserving irreplaceable local landscapes.

No personal gain is involved in these acquisitions. Concern for saving areas for the future and education for appreciation are the goals.