More Than Green Space: How Schmeeckle Reserve Supports Sustainability, Education, and Community Well-Being
Rylee Gaustad Environmental Science and Management
Kat Vogeltanz (Not Pictured) Community Sustainability
Established in 1984, Schmeeckle Reserve is a 280-acre protected natural area at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point that operates as an integrated framework of community (ecological, social, human, cultural, built, and political) assets. Through this framework, we conducted content analysis and interviews with local organizations and community members, complemented by the collection and analysis of institutional and programmatic data, to better understand how Schmeeckle fulfills this role within its community. As a natural asset, we found evidence indicating that the Reserve promotes water filtration, maintains biogeochemical cycles, and supports carbon storage, collectively enhancing local climate resilience. As a human, social, and built asset, it functions as an outdoor laboratory and experiential learning environment, preserving native habitats, restoring degraded landscapes, managing invasive species, and supporting over 200 bird species. Three solar panel arrays contribute to renewable energy production and offset most of the Visitor Center’s energy consumption. More than 20,000 student hours are dedicated annually to research, restoration, and environmental education. Community events such as the Candlelight Hike convene thousands of participants, strengthening environmental awareness and social cohesion. Results further indicate that Schmeeckle promotes human, cultural, and political assets by enhancing community wellness through five miles of trails, diverse outdoor recreation opportunities, and accessible infrastructure, including boardwalks and an accessible fishing pier. Collectively, the study demonstrates that Schmeeckle functions as a living lab, where community assets intersect to support biodiversity, student learning, community engagement, and community resilience.
Advisors: Hadi Veisi, Ph.D.
Subject Area: Sustainable Communities
Type: Poster
75
UW-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources
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