Exploring Falk Park, "a hidden gem" Register

Date and Time:
Fri, May 17, 2024; 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM 

Organized By: Great Waters Group

Location: 2013 W Rawson Ave, Oak Creek, WI; just off Rawson Rd exit from 1-94

Map | Directions

Event Organizers:
Dan McKinley
   dan.mckinley@gmail.com
   4144672911
Jacob Sanchez
   jacob.sanchez@milwaukeecountywi.gov

Jacob Sanchez, Trails Coordinator for Milwaukee County Parks, is collaborating with the Sierra Club’s GWG on an Outing at Falk Park on Friday, May 17th, from 3:00 PM to 5:00. Jacob suggested Falk Park for a variety of reasons that we will learn about as we hike on the roughly 2-mile trail.

Established through a gift by Mrs. Elizabeth Falk (The Falk Corporation, was founded by Herman Falk in Milwaukee in 1896), Falk Park expanded to over 200 acres in 2010 and preserved “some of the last remaining wetlands in the county.” Reviews on the “All Trails” app describe it as a “hidden gem,” highlighting -watching, spring wildflowers, and the ephemeral streams.
                                                                                                                  
Ephemeral streams in Wisconsin forests “are characterized by their intermittent flow, typically ceasing during dry periods. They reactivate after precipitation events (rain?) and play a crucial role in the ecosystem, contributing to the overall biodiversity of Wisconsin's natural communities. They are part of the distinct "natural communities" identified in Wisconsin, aiding in effective resource management and conservation efforts.” Protecting ephemeral streams is essential to safeguarding water resources, preserving wildlife habitats, and ensuring the overall health of Wisconsin's forests and ecosystems. For more information see: https://www.cleanwisconsin.org/ephemeral-waters/

Hikers who would like to continue conversations about Falk Park might meet afterward at an ephemeral beer garden in a county park TBD.

Level: Easy

Cost: None

Signup Instructions: Please register on Campfire before 5/16/2024

Bring: Long sleeve shirt, hat, and hiking boots

Additional Directions: Assume that mosquitoes will be active

Cancellation Policy: Heavy rain cancels

A good look at Falk Park