Upham Woods new facility opens in time for the start of the summer season

Contact: Justin Houghman, justin.hougham@wisc.edu or Matthew Call, matthew.call@wisc.edu

A grand opening celebration of the newly completed research and education center at Upham Woods is scheduled for May 15, 2021 from 1-3 p.m.

The opening of the Upper Dells Education and Research Center at Upham Woods coincides with the both the beginning of its summer programming and its upcoming 80th Anniversary.

“Our new space provides for a larger reception area so groups can more easily get situated when arriving. There are also two classrooms, a conference room and offices that will provide more functionality for programming,” said Justin Hougham, Upham Woods Director and associate professor at UW-Madison.

The $3 million project was several years in the planning, design and construction. The learning and welcome center will connect to the current lodge and become the main entrance of the campus.

The Grand Opening Celebration will include opening remarks, guided tours of the building and site tours – weather permitting.

“Upham Woods really is a version of the Wisconsin Idea, outdoors. We bring opportunities for science education, leadership, team building and natural history alive through in-person experiences on the land,” said Hougham. “The new learning center is part of a larger strategic plan for further improvements that allow Upham Woods to continue to provide environmental and leadership educational opportunities.”

Later this year, Upham Woods will celebrate its 80th Anniversary with a community event open to the public. Details about this event will be announced later in the summer.