Events

Join us on Saturday, November 21, for our next expert speaker presentation. Emily Helm, the Natural Resource Program Coordinator for Waukesha County Parks, will be presenting on oak ecosystems! 

Oak ecosystems are distinctive and ecologically important natural communities of southeastern Wisconsin. From oak savannas to oak woodlands, these landscapes support a remarkable diversity of native plants, wildlife, and pollinators.

Discover what makes oak openings so special! Learn about the incredible variety of life they support and why active management is essential to keeping these landscapes open, healthy, and thriving. We’ll explore management techniques such as prescribed fire, invasive species control, and restoration of native vegetation, and how these practices can contribute to the long-term health and success of oak ecosystems.

Speaker background:  Emily Helm has more than nine years of experience in natural resource management across the Upper Midwest. Her work includes habitat restoration, ecological assessments, environmental education, and volunteer engagement. Before joining Waukesha County, Emily worked with the Urban Ecology Center, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and the Chicago Park District Natural Areas program. Her professional interests include rare plant communities and prescribed fire ecology, with a focus on preserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological integrity.

This meeting is free and open to the public; just let the front gate attendant know that you are there for Wild Ones.

We will be in a classroom two on the first floor of Schlitz Audubon Nature Center (past the lobby desk down the hallway to the left).