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Explore Love Protect Events

Thank you for your remarkable dedication to Wisconsin’s lands, waters, and wildlife! You’ve made an extraordinary commitment to conservation across our beautiful state.

In appreciation of your generosity, you’re invited to attend the 2026 NRF Explore Love Protect (ELP) events!

Chiwaukee Prairie

Experience spring blossoms at the Chiwaukee Prairie with DNR Field Ecologist Sharon Fandel.

During a lunchtime presentation we’ll learn about this internationally recognized prairie, which was designated as a Ramsar Wetland of International Significance in 2015. The prairie represents a rare, undisturbed coastal landscape, features a unique ridge-and-swale topography that hosts over 400+ vascular plant species (including rare, threatened, and endangered species) and nearly 200 species of birds. The Lake Plain provides habitat for hundreds of native plant and animal species, including 63 state-protected and two federally-listed species.

After the presentation, we’ll caravan to the prairie for a low impact hike over uneven terrain.

The lunch will be picnic-style catering from Twisted Cuisine-Kenosha, including mini sandwiches, pasta salad, fruits, veggies, and desserts.

 

  • Location: Kemper Center-Kenosha and Chiwaukee Prairie State Natural Area
  • Date: Wednesday, May 20th, 2026 from 11:00am – 3:00pm
  • Cost: $25 per person includes lunch
    • RSVP: Space is limited for this event so register early!

    prairie along lake michigan

    Chiwaukee Prairie by Joshua Mayer

    Past ELP Events

    Southern Kettle Moraine Collaboration and the Bluff Creek SNA

    This event has passed.

    Join NRF as we announce our partnership effort in the Southern Kettle Moraine. Enjoy a hike before or after at Bluff Creek or on nearby trails near Whitewater Lake. Wisconsin DNR Southeast Region District Ecologist Peter Duerkop will talk about the Southern Kettle State Natural Areas. Then, NRF Executive Director David Clutter will provide an update on our landscape work and new Southern Kettle Moraine Collaboration. Lunch will be a Midwestern salad bar with homestyle BBQ. Hosted by NRF board member Lisa Gaumnitz. $25 per person.

     

    • Location: Kettle Moraine State Forest (Walworth County)
    • Date: Wednesday, September 24th, 2025 11AM-2PM
    a creek cutting through grassy field

    Bluff Creek State Natural Area by Joshua Mayer

    Driftless Luncheon and the Ridgeway Pine Relict

    This event has passed.

    Join us for a presentation on our work in the Driftless area and learn about the Ridgeway Pine Relict. Wisconsin DNR Field Ecologist Bridget Rathman will share an insider’s view. Enjoy the beautiful property of the Malcolm Stack Foundation outside Ridgeway. Red Barn catering will be providing a build-your-own sandwich bar. Hosted by NRF board members Linda Bochert and Jim Bennett. $25 per person.

     

    • Location: Ridgeway Pine Relict State Natural Area (Iowa County)
    • Date: Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 11AM-2PM
    tall trees and the edge of rocky outcropping in a forest

    Ridgeway Pine Relict State Natural Area by Thomas Meyer

    Naomi Hadley

    Naomi Hadley

    Donor Relations Coordinator

    (608) 409-3144
    Naomi.Hadley@WisConservation.org

    Naomi Hadley (she/her) helps promote increased awareness, affinity, and philanthropic support for NRF through engaging events, like the Great Wisconsin Birdathon, and activities that promote a culture of gratitude and continued donor engagement.

    Banner photo by Damian Vraniak.