MADISON — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages the public to explore Wisconsin with a Natural Resources Foundation (NRF) field trip.

The Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin is a nonprofit that protects our state’s lands, waters and wildlife and connects all people with nature.

This year is the 31st season of Natural Resources Foundation field trips, and 275 trips are scheduled from April through early November. Field trips are expert-led adventures that explore Wisconsin in a variety of ways, from paddling in Door County to steep, off-trail hiking in Green County. These trips often offer a behind-the-scenes look at Wisconsin’s natural treasures, many of which are not usually open to the public.

Some examples of the 275 field trip opportunities include:

Frogs and Toads of Sandhill Wildlife Area

● Introduction to Foraging

● Effigy Mounds at Nitschke Mounds Park

● Birding the Cedarburg Bog: Canoe and Hike

● Namekagon River: Wood turtles and Wildflowers

● Seeds for Pollinators at Dewey Heights State Natural Area

The entire field trip list is available in the Natural Resources Foundation Field Trip Guidebook. Each trip is labeled to indicate the physical demand and if it is family-friendly. The annual tradition is open for all ages and abilities, including 24 trips accessible for standard wheelchairs.

“We just want people to get out and explore Wisconsin,” said Christine Tanzer, NRF Field Trip Program Director. “Not only is it a joyful thing to do, and good for you – it also starts people thinking about all the conservation work going on around them and how they can help.”

Registration is only available online starting April 4, 2024 and is only open to for Natural Resources Foundation members. Those interested are encouraged to sign up soon, as trips can fill up quickly. Field trips are non-refundable and expected to run rain or shine. No dogs are allowed on trips.