Youth Science Discovery Days
POTATO SCIENCE DISCOVERY DAY
Rhinelander Agricultural Research Station: 4181 Camp Bryn Afon Rd., Rhinelander
Friday, June 12, 2026
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
For youth entering grades 4–12 (with a parent/guardian)
Youth in grades 4-12 with a parent/guardian are invited to a completely free, hands-on afternoon of agricultural discovery at the Rhinelander Agricultural Research Station, featuring the Wisconsin Spudmobile, Wisconsin’s one-of-a-kind mobile potato-science classroom! Participants will explore eight interactive exhibits inside the Spudmobile, dive into potato nutrition and technology, and try real plant-breeding activities at hands-on demo tables. Participants will also enjoy a guided wagon tour through active research plots to see potato breeding in action, learn about pollinators, and discover how UW-Madison scientists have advanced potato genetics for more than 50 years. With knowledgeable farm managers leading the day, free on-site parking, snacks provided, and the entire program held outdoors, this is a unique opportunity for young learners to experience the science, innovation, and excitement behind Wisconsin agriculture. Space is limited so sign up soon! This event is sponsored by the UW-Madison College of Agricultural Life Sciences and Oneida County 4-H.
What to Bring:
- A refillable water bottle
- Layered clothing, shoes or boots that potentially can get muddy, a hat, rain gear or bug spray – just in case
- A sense of curiosity and readiness for outdoor fun!
Location:
Rhinelander Agricultural Research Station 4181 Camp Bryn Afon Rd, Rhinelander, WI 54501.
Space is limited to 50 youth and adults, so don’t wait to sign up. Join us for a unique opportunity to learn, explore, and get your hands a little dirty while discovering the science behind Wisconsin’s potatoes.
Tentative Schedule
1-1:15 p.m.: Welcome & Introduction
1:15-2:30 p.m. Group A: The Field Tour (wagon) – a guided wagon ride through the research plots. Students will see breeding in action, learn about growth stages, and visit the pollinator plot to discuss why bees and other pollinators are vital to agriculture.
1:15-2:30 p.m. Group B: The Spudmobile Experience – This mobile classroom features eight interactive exhibits that cover everything from potato nutrition and varieties to the advanced technology used in modern Wisconsin farming.
2:30-2:45 p.m. Snack & Rotate: both groups
2:45-4 p.m. Group A: The Spudmobile Experience
2:45-4 p.m. Group B: The Field Tour (wagon)
4 p.m.: Wrap-Up & Departure
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE RHINELANDER AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH STATION
WILDLIFE, WOODS, & WATER EXPLORATION DAY
Kemp Natural Resources Station: 9161 Kemp Rd., Woodruff
Saturday, June 13, 2026
9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
For youth entering grades 4–12 (with a parent/guardian)
Youth in grades 4-12 and their parent/guardians are invited to a free, full‑day outdoor adventure in natural resources at UW-Madison’s Kemp Natural Resources Station in Woodruff! Participants will explore northern Wisconsin’s forests, wildlife, and waterways through three immersive, age‑based learning stations: Wildlife Ecology, Entomology, and Freshwater Mussels/Aquatic Species. Guided by experts at this premier research and teaching facility, participants will investigate animal habitats, study insects up close, and discover the hidden world of aquatic ecosystems—all while learning how scientists conserve and manage Wisconsin’s natural resources. With free on‑site parking, lunch provided, hands‑on activities, and plenty of time outdoors, this program offers an engaging, science‑rich experience designed to spark curiosity and deepen young people’s connection to the natural world. Space is limited so sign up soon! This event is sponsored by the UW-Madison’s College of Agricultural Life Sciences and Oneida County 4-H.
What You’ll Do:
Participants will rotate through three interactive, hands‑on stations, each led by natural resource experts.
- Wildlife Ecology: Track, observe, and learn how animals survive and thrive in northern forests
- Entomology: Get up close with the incredible insects that keep ecosystems running
- Freshwater Mussels & Aquatic Species: Discover the hidden life beneath Wisconsin’s waters
- Nature craft and activity – offered by Oneida County 4-H
Lunch & Logistics:
- A deli-style lunch (sandwiches) is provided and will be served indoors. Please let us know if you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions as soon as possible. Participants are free to bring their own lunches if they’d like to. Please be mindful of participants who may have allergies to nuts.
- Most activities take place outside
- Please bring:
- Refillable water bottle
- Layered clothing, shoes or boots that can potentially get muddy or wet, a rain coat or umbrella, hat, and bug spray – just in case
- Free on‑site parking
Location:
Kemp Natural Resources Station 9161 Kemp Rd, Woodruff, WI 54568
Space is limited to 60 youth and adults, so early registration is encouraged. Join us for a full day of exploration, science, and outdoor adventure in one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful natural resource stations.
Tentative Schedule
9:00 am – Arrive at Kemp, check-in
9:30 am – Opening welcome, go over schedule for the day, break into groups
9:45-11:15 am:
Group A: Wildlife Ecology
Group B: Entomology
Group C: Freshwater Mussel/Aquatic Species
11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. – Lunch & 4-H Nature Craft
12:15-1:45 p.m.:
Group A: Entomology
Group B: Freshwater Mussel/Aquatic Species
Group C: Wildlife Ecology
1:45-3:15 p.m.
Group A: Freshwater Mussel/Aquatic Species
Group B: Wildlife Ecology
Group C: Entomology
3:15-3:30 pm – Wrap up, depart
LEARN MORE ABOUT KEMP NATURAL RESOURCES STATION
Questions? Need clarification? Contact Oneida County 4-H Staff:
Anne Williams, Oneida County UW-Extension 4-H Program Educator
Phone: 715-365-2762 Email: apwilliams@wisc.edu
Oneida County 4-H Facebook
I’m here to help!
Contact me with any questions or concerns.
Jessica Young, Extension Oneida County, Office Manager
Phone: 715-365-2750