Trekking the Retzer Nature Center with the Sierra Club

August 21, 2023  |  Topics: Places

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By Dan Buckler

Photography by Eddee Daniel

When I visit natural spaces teeming with life, I am first and foremost thankful for Creation and the ability to experience it. But I also recognize that most (if not all) places on Earth that we hold dear exist because of the efforts of countless people who have given of their labor and treasure to see them thrive.

A recent Sierra Club visit to the Retzer Nature Center in Waukesha had me reflecting on legacy and gratitude for all of those past decisions that resulted in the preservation of such a delightful place. I reflected on the tens of thousands of trees and shrubs the Retzer family had planted; on the donation of the property to, and acceptance by, Waukesha County to become a park; on the skillful minds and hands of all those who have stewarded its land, its visitors, its books, and its policies.

There’s a lot to be thankful for, and to appreciate. There are over 450 acres of rolling hills at Retzer, allowing the hiker to survey a range of habitats present in southeast Wisconsin. Prairies, oak woodlands, mixed hardwoods, and even a rare fen greet the fortunate guest.

But that’s the mile-high perspective. So much of the joy found in places like Retzer comes in small moments or delicate revelations. Like the stark change in floral composition a small shift in topography made. Or the bewilderingly gnarly branches of an old bur oak tree.

These and innumerable other experiences are possible due to efforts undertaken in the past; because, despite the odds, many people and institutions were able to row in unison. We all have an awesome duty and privilege to row as well, and perhaps more of our lands and waters can flourish for all creatures, great and small.

For more information about Retzer Nature Center go to our Find-a-Park page.

Related stories:

Snakes alive! Citizen Science snake surveys at Retzer Nature Center

Fifty Scarecrows Are Among Autumn Delights at Retzer Nature Center

Dan Buckler is an Urban Forester with the Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources. Eddee Daniel is a board member of Preserve Our Parks. Retzer is a Waukesha County Park and the Waukesha County Parks Dept. is a project partner of A Wealth of Nature.

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