The Ridges Celebrate Anniversary with Special Programs and Events

Dr. George Archibald will be the keynote presenter at “A Diamond in the Rough.”

2012 marks the 75th anniversary of The Ridges Sanctuary, Wisconsin’s first Land Trust. To commemorate this important milestone, The Ridges is hosting a number of special programs and events.

On July 19 at 7 pm, author and naturalist Roy Lukes will give a special Lake Lessons presentation, “A Natural & Cultural History of The Ridges” at the Baileys Harbor Town Hall. Lukes was The Ridges first manager and chief naturalist from 1964 until his retirement in 1990. Admission to the program is free, but donations are welcome.

On July 28, the public is invited to attend “A Diamond in the Rough,” The Ridges 75th anniversary event.

“After we purchased the Sandpiper property, “said Steve Leonard, “one of our board members pointed out that our campus had taken on the shape of a diamond. That got the staff thinking about all the wonderful natural areas in the state – how they’re all ‘diamonds in the rough’ – and, suddenly, we had the name for our 75th anniversary celebration.”

A reception will be held from 5 – 7 pm at the Baileys Harbor Town Hall. Guests can enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and beverages under the big tent on the Town Hall grounds. At 7:30 pm, Dr. George Archibald, co-founder of the International Crane Foundation, will give the keynote presentation, “Water, Cranes and Conservation Around the World.”

Tickets for the reception are $15 per person. Tickets for the keynote presentation are $10 per person. Space is limited. For reservations call 920.839.2802.