In June, Upham Woods hosted 4-H camps, attracting participants from diverse counties such as Grant, Iowa, Lafayette, Winnebago, Walworth, Washington, Monroe, Richland, Vernon, La Crosse, and Crawford. Upham Woods provided a captivating setting for a range of engaging activities and educational experiences. 4-H campers had the opportunity to explore the natural surroundings, take part in immersive programs, and foster a sense of camaraderie with fellow campers. From picturesque landscapes to hands-on learning, Upham Woods offered a memorable and enriching retreat for all who attended.

Field trip for the Natural Resources Foudation of Wisconsin(NRF)

On June 10, 2023, we spent 4 hours canoeing and hiking with the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin (NRF). This experience allowed us to deeply learn about the ecology, geology, and cultural history of the Upham land. At Upham Woods, we hold a deep commitment to preserving and protecting Wisconsin’s lands, waters, and wildlife. We are grateful for our partnership with NRF, which is dedicated to safeguarding natural resources in Wisconsin through funding, collaboration, and fostering connections. Over the years, NRF has been instrumental in supporting Upham Woods by funding various projects and initiatives, such as our shoreline restoration work. We are proud to be actively involved in conservation efforts, and our partnership with NRF serves as a testament to our shared mission. 

Middle School Conservation Camp

Upham Woods was also dedicated to educating and inspiring youth about the importance of conservation. Throughout the Middle School Conservation camp, we focused on immersing middle school students in Wisconsin's rich natural environment, offering engaging activities and unique learning opportunities. From exploring native wildlife to participating in conservation projects, campers gained a deeper understanding of forest and wildlife biology. We aim to offer all campers hands-on experiences and expert guidance. Campers eagerly took part in conservation projects, actively contributing to the preservation of our natural resources. 

To ensure an enhanced experience for campers and visitors, Upham Woods Outdoor Learning Center has been busy with construction and maintenance projects this June. Our volunteers and staff built new stair boxes, dug run-off channels, and tampered gravel,  improving accessibility and safety for all. We express our deepest gratitude to Walworth County 4-H for their generous funding and support.

As we continue to enhance our facilities, we are also excited to announce the addition of new mattresses, ensuring comfortable accommodations for our guests. Upham Woods welcomes further contributions and donations to support our ongoing efforts in providing exceptional outdoor education experiences. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of those who visit Upham Woods.

In June, Upham Woods also designed and hosted events that specifically welcomed participants with disabilities or trained people to adapt outdoor events for people living with disabilities. In the adaptive kayak training with Hoofer Outdoor Club, Outdoor UW staff were trained to assist individuals with disabilities to use kayak equipment and to rescue people who fall into the water, giving people with disabilities maximum independence. In Area 13 4-H Camp, we had 2 ASL interpreters to help everyone have access to the camp. In the Walworth 4-H camp, a youth used our beach wheelchair to access the water which we purchased through the Dean’s Innovation Grant. 

We are excited to announce that we are working with local 4-H members to host an ASL day camp this year! This event is being planned by Deaf/Hard of Hearing youth who communicate with ASL. August 13 from 9:30 am-4 pm. $10. Sign up today!

Join us this August for Nature’s Navigators STEM Camp! Open to autistic youth in grades 6–12, Nature’s Navigators embraces neurodivergence and the associated unique thinking and learning of autistic youth through flexible teaching strategies.

We will hold an Open House celebration on August 5th at the Upham Woods Outdoor Learning Center. We invite you to come and celebrate the partnership between Access Ability Wisconsin and Upham Woods with activities including test driving all-terrain wheelchairs, archery, outdoor survival skills, and an opportunity to meet our beloved Upham Woods turtles. 

Adaptive Kayak Training with Hoofer Outing Club

An inside look with the Accessibility Intern!

If you care deeply for the work and mission of Upham Woods and want to help provide a sustaining source of support in the future, consider creating a legacy gift by including the University of Wisconsin Foundation and specifying a restricted gift to Upham Woods in your estate plans. You may prefer to include in your will or trust a sum of money, a percentage of your estate, a specific asset, a work of art, or a piece of real estate that you wish to give. For more information on how to leave a bequest, contact Molly Schmidt, Senior Director of Development, Division of Extension at 608-224-9843, email Molly.Schmidt@supportuw.org, or click the button below.