We seek to secure the natural environment and learning center at Retzer Nature Center for the enjoyment of future generations of young and old throughout Waukesha County and Southeastern Wisconsin.
Annually, more than 25,000 people visit the Retzer Nature Center to hike the 450+ acres, visit the learning center, and participate in environmental education programs. Through project funding support and volunteer initiatives, we proudly embrace the crowning achievements and continued goal of restoring Retzer’s natural setting to its former state.
The Friends of Retzer Nature Center, Inc. is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging, perpetuating, and promoting the work of conservation and natural resource education. Our team of volunteers seek the involvement of the community in the form of financial and volunteer support to work toward the continued growth and improvement of Retzer Nature Center.
Some of our projects include:
- Local and International Field Trips
- Prairie Underground Exhibit
- Skywatch Platform and Fire Pit
- Teaching Pond Restoration
- Adventure Trail Improvements
- Indoor Animal Enclosure Displays
- Support of Retzer Events
- New Educational Trail Signage
- School Program Support
- Citizen Science Equipment
- Planetarium Equipment Upgrade
- Monitor for Educational Programming
About the Retzer Nature Center
The nature center site was originally the retirement home of John & Florence Retzer. It was the wish of Florence Retzer that the Waukesha County Park System develop the land as a nature center. Shortly after Florence passed in 1973, work began to fulfill her dream. The Retzer Nature Center is now part of the Waukesha County Parks system.
