A non-profit organization formed in the mid-1980s with a key goal of enlisting public involvement in the activities and future direction of the Forest. Also, to provide financial support for programs and activities. The Friends have funded prairie plantings, playground equipment, invasive species control, construction of trail shelters and maintenance buildings, natural landscaping, interpretive signage, educational equipment, and other projects. Sponsoring worthy causes involves the Friends with the Earth Day cleanup, candlelight ski / hike, as well as the Saturday Evening Events program.
Fostering public appreciation for all that the Northern Unit offers, and nurturing a dedicated volunteer corps, the Friends are currently fundraising for exhibit replacement at the Henry Reuss Ice Age Center and State Natural Area invasive species control. The Board meets quarterly and invites you to attend our programs and meetings. Review our web pages and then contact Roger Clark, agent of the friends, or Jackie Scharfenberg, Forest Naturalist via email to get involved: