This is a "two-fer." Learn about maple trees and building a campfire.

The MacKenzie Center has been teaching students about the sugarbush for decades. A typical Maple Program starts with exploring the signs of spring and learning the basics of tree biology. Once students understand how to identify a healthy sugar maple tree, they are able to select a tree and tap it with their small group. After their buckets are hung, the group will travel back through time to learn different methods of processing sap, as some Native American tribes and Pioneers may have done. Finally, the groups will see how we process sap today at the MacKenzie Center to make what we call “MacKenzie Gold.”

After the morning spent learning about maple trees and syrup, we'll eat lunch in the lodge.

**Bring your own lunch.**

Once our bellies are full, we'll head back outdoors to learn about fire building. A typical fire buidling program begins with the science behind building a fire. Students will learn different starting and sustaining techniques. 

Geared toward 4th through 12th graders, however, all grades are welcome. 

This is an outdoor activity. Dress for the weather.

Masks are optional for visitors. MacKenzie instructors will be masked.

Registration is open from Monday, January 17th at noon to Monday, Jauary 24th at 9:00am. 

**Read about ticket availablity below!** 

(The Mackenzie Center requires final numbers to be in very early. This activity is in March.)

Important

This event has a hard cap of free tickets. The first 30 WISE students and one chaperone per family will have no charge. If you go to register on or before Monday, Jauary 24th at 9:00am, and it is full, it means that only non-free tickets are available. Each ticket is $15. It can be withdrawn from your allotment, however, if your allotment is spent, cash or check will be required upon arrival. Simply email Kari to get $15 tickets. (kari_prokop@nekoosa.k12.wi.us)

Guests are welcome to attend at $15 per person, cash or check upon arrival.

For your information and to make wise decisions:

Another Sugarbush activity is being set up. It will be in Merill and consist of only learning about tapping trees and making syrup. This event should have no cap and should be free to all.