Where can you find archery, treasure hunts, paddling, and monarch tagging all in one place? Horicon Marsh!

Contact(s): Liz Herzmann, DNR wildlife conservation educator, 920-387-7893

HORICON, Wis. – Summer is fading fast-it’s time to head to Horicon.

See the marsh from below the cattails during a Guided Paddle! Looking to boost your insect knowledge? Stop in to tag some monarchs, catch some dragonflies, or scoop some water bugs. You’ll find all these activities, and more, at the Horicon Marsh in August. Or, if you’re looking for some indoor fun, check out the Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center’s new Explorium.

Here are more ideas:

• Tuesday, August 7, 10-11:30 a.m. – Back to Basics: Stop, Look, Listen and Create – Take a moment to sit, look and listen to the amazing marsh. Then create your picture using natural materials such as berries, pollen and mud. Youth program.
• Wednesday, August 8, 10-11:30 a.m. – Archery Opportunity to use NASP equipment for target archery. Equipment will be provided. Please arrive at the designated start time so we can train you on proper shooting techniques before we open the range. Youth program but adults will be allowed to shoot as well when time allows.
• Tuesday, August 14, 10-11:30 a.m. – Back to Basics: Treasure Hunts Join us for an all-natural scavenger hunt. Bring back what you find and we’ll fill up our natural jar of wonder. Youth program.
• Wednesday, August 15, 10-11:30 a.m. – Junior Wildlife Biologist: Wetland Water Did you know that the insects living in the water are some of the most important wildlife in a marsh? Come explore the water and see what critters you can find! Nets and buckets provided. Youth program.
• Friday, August 17, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. – Guided Paddle Join wildlife educator Liz Herzmann and Bird Club President, Jeff Bahls on a guided canoe or kayak of Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area. Pre-registration required and $15 fee per person. Free to Friends of Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center Members. Limit of 15 participants. The 6.5-mile paddle takes approximately 3-4 hours depending on wind conditions. No bathroom facilities. Previous paddling experience is required. Must provide own kayak/canoe, paddle, PFD. Contact Liz Herzmann at 920-387-7893 or elizabeth.herzmann@wisconsin.gov for information.
• Tuesday, August 21, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. – Butterflies and Dragonflies Did you know there are more than 3,000 species of dragonflies worldwide? Take a walk and see how many species of dragonflies and butterflies you can spot.
• Thursday, August 23, 10-11 a.m. – Stories at the Marsh: Nature’s True Colors Stories and a fun activity: Best for ages 1-10.
• Thursday, August 30, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. – Monarch Tagging We will start with a presentation on monarch biology and why and how we tag them. Then head outside to catch monarchs and watch as DNR staff tag these magnificent migrants as they start their journey to Mexico. Butterfly nets provided but feel free to bring your own as well. Great for kids of all ages. Meet in the auditorium for a short presentation and then be ready to go outside.

The Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center is located between Horicon and Mayville on Highway 28. For a detailed list of all Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center special events, please visit the Friends of Horicon Marsh website at www.horiconmarsh.org