SHEBOYGAN – Visitors to Kohler-Andrae State Park can take part in birding, insect exploration, outdoor cooking, astronomy and search-and-rescue demonstrations during a series of public programs scheduled around the Labor Day holiday period.
The activities are open to the public and include opportunities to learn from naturalists, educators and volunteer organizations, according to a community announcement.
A Wisconsin vehicle admission pass is required for all events. Passes can be purchased online or at the park office using a debit or credit card.
Kohler-Andrae State Park is at 1020 Beach Park Lane in Sheboygan.
A Discovery Bird Walk is scheduled from 8 to 10 a.m. Sept. 1 at the Black River Trails parking lot, P1.
Master Naturalists Janet and Andy Raddatz will lead participants in observing birds and other wildlife throughout the park. Organizers said walks can last two to three hours depending on activity in the area.
The program is open to ages 12 and older. Children must be accompanied by an adult and pets are not allowed. Some binoculars will be available for participants to borrow.
Organizers recommend bringing water, sunscreen and insect repellent, along with long pants, long sleeves and closed-toe footwear.
Naturalist Phyllis McKenzie will lead an Insect Safari and Monarch Tagging program from 8 to 10 a.m. Sept. 5 near the campground entrance west of parking lot P4.
Participants will search for pollinators, Monarch butterflies and other insects found along the Lake Michigan shoreline. If Monarchs are located during the outing, some may be tagged as part of the program, according to the announcement.
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Participants are encouraged to bring water and sun protection.
Pie Iron Cooking is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sept. 5 at the park amphitheater near parking lot P4.
Jon Riemann, known as the Pudgy Pie Guy, will demonstrate pie iron cooking techniques and discuss the history of campfire cooking, sandwiches and pie irons.
Participants will have an opportunity to prepare their own pie iron creations, including sweet and savory options. Organizers recommend bringing a beverage.
"Universe in the Park" will take place from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Sept. 5 at the Sanderling Nature Center.
Jodie Kiyokawa will present a program on astronomy, including current and upcoming celestial events and scientific research. The presentation is expected to last about 30 to 40 minutes.
Weather permitting, attendees will then have an opportunity to view the night sky through a telescope. The presentation is geared toward ages 8 and older, while telescope viewing is suitable for ages 4 and older.
Great Lakes Search & Rescue K-9 Inc. will present a K-9 Search & Rescue program from 4 to 5 p.m. Sept. 6 at the Sanderling Nature Center.
The event will begin with a presentation about how specially trained dogs assist with locating missing people and recovering evidence.
If weather conditions allow, attendees will be able to watch the dogs demonstrate their skills outdoors. Pets are not permitted at the program.
This story was produced by reporter Nida Tazeen, [email protected], with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
This article originally appeared on Sheboygan Press: Join nature programs at Kohler Andrae State Park Sept. 1-6