Events

Curious about how scientists monitor wildlife in the field? Join Milwaukee Riverkeeper and our partners at Restoring Lands for a hands-on introduction to snake surveying at Spirit Lake Preserve.

This beginner-friendly program offers a chance to step into the world of field research—no prior experience needed. Together, we’ll hike approximately one mile along a dirt trail, stopping at a series of “snake boards.” These simple shelters create favorable conditions and potential cover for snakes, allowing researchers to consistently monitor their presence over time.

Along the way, you’ll learn how to identify different species and what they can tell us about ecosystem health, how data is recorded, and how this work supports broader habitat restoration efforts. Healthy habitats—especially those connected to wetlands, lakes, and rivers—play an important role in protecting water quality and supporting biodiversity across the Milwaukee River Basin.

• Shoes for hiking
• Dress for the weather