Marshfield, WI (OnFocus) A remodeling project is in the works for the 60 year-old lodge at Marshfield School Forest, benefiting students and trail users alike.
Initial fundraising is complete for the project and work is scheduled to begin in November. Once finished, the structure will have a modernized classroom, kitchen, and overnight accommodations, as well as a handicap accessible bathroom. Electrical and plumbing will be upgraded.
The plan also includes addressing the needs of the pond through weed control, stocking fish, and the installation of a new aerator.
Ultimately, the renovations will attract more users and visitors, said Mark Zee, Marshfield School Forest Director.
The lodge was built in 1958 followed by a 3-acre pond in the 1960s. Use has expanded since that time to include a cross country ski trail system in 1992 and a single track mountain bike trail in 2015. Over 2,000 students visit for educational activities throughout the school year and around 100 during the summer.
School Forest can also be rented by organizations and is generally open to the public for a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, hunting, and bird watching.
As a result of the remodel, the Marshfield Area Ski Touring Foundation will have unlimited access to the northwest wing for fee collection and registration, plus use of the new handicap accessible bathroom.
The fundraising goal for the project was $140,000, which has now been reached. However, donations are still welcome in order to fund additional aspects of the project that were lower priority. This includes new flooring for the entire space and replacement of the kitchen appliances.
Proceeds were raised partially from two logging projects in 2015 and 2018 which generated $70,000. An additional $2,500 was donated by MASTF, $10,000 from FFA, $20,000 from FFA Alumni, $10,000 from a local business, and a $10,000 Farm Technology Days grant.
Those wishing to make a contribution to the project and be recognized on the donor board can email Mark Zee at [email protected] or call 715-305-9257. They can also print out and mail the form available at this link: School Forest Donation
Author: News Desk
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