Youth Science Discovery Days

Thought bubbles on green background with the following text: The UW-Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) is partnering with Oneida County 4-H and will be hosting a two-day summer event for youth participants entering grades 4-12 (public/private/homeschool). Each event day offers a unique experience to youth participants and their parent/guardian! Please register for both days if you would like to attend each unique experience (it is NOT required to attend both days). Each event has a separate registration form that is required to attend.

Flyer with program information specified below.

POTATO SCIENCE DISCOVERY DAY

Photo of a sign stating University of Wisconsin Madison Agricultural Research Station College of Agricultural & Life Sciences.

Rhinelander Agricultural Research Station:

4181 Camp Bryn Afon Rd
Rhinelander, WI 54501

Friday, June 12, 2026

1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

For youth entering grades 4–12 (with a parent/guardian)

Non-Member Registration Instructions

Get ready for an afternoon of hands-on discovery at the UW–Madison Rhinelander Agricultural Research Station, home to more than 50 years of potato breeding innovation! This is your chance to step behind the scenes at the famous “UW Lelah Starks Potato Breeding Farm” and explore how scientists grow, test, and improve one of Wisconsin’s most iconic crops.

What to Expect:

Dive into natural resource management, including soil and water science
Explore the world of plant genetics and potato breeding
Meet the farm managers who help shape the future of Wisconsin agriculture
Enjoy outdoor activities on 235 acres of research fields
Wagon ride and snacks included!

What to Bring:

A refillable water bottle
Layered clothing, hat, 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 40 youth, 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.: Arrive and check-in

1:15-1:30 p.m.: Opening welcome, go over schedule for the day, break into groups

1:30-2:40 p.m. Group A: Natural resource management (soil and water)

1:30-2:40 p.m. Group B: Plant science (potatoes!)

2:40-2:50 p.m. Snack & Rotate: both groups

2:50-4 p.m. Group A: Plant science (potatoes)

2:50-4 p.m. Group B: Natural resources management (soil and water)

Snacks will be provided.

One parent or guardian MUST attend with participant.

This event takes place outdoors on rough terrain.

Two farm managers will lead the programs.

Free on-site parking.

For youth entering grades 4-12 (public/private/homeschool).

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE RHINELANDER AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH STATION

WILDLIFE, WOODS, & WATER EXPLORATION DAY

Photo of green house with stilts sitting on a lake surrounded by trees. It states 'Welcome to Kemp Station".

Kemp Natural Resources Station:

9161 Kemp Rd, Woodruff, WI 54568

Saturday, June 13, 2026

9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

For youth entering grades 4–12 (with a parent/guardian)

Non-Member Registration Instructions

Step into one of northern Wisconsin’s most unique outdoor classrooms at the UW–Madison Kemp Natural Resources Station in Woodruff. With 231 acres of forest, shoreline, and research spaces—including rare old‑growth stands—Kemp is the perfect place for curious young explorers to dive into the science of our natural world.

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

Each station lasts 1.5 hours and is tailored to age groups for the best learning experience.

Lunch & Logistics:

Lunch is provided and will be served indoors. Please let us know if you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions as soon as possible.
Most activities take place outside
Please bring:
- Refillable water bottle
- Layered clothing, rain coat or umbrella, hat, or 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.