Who We Are
The Friends of Willow River & Kinnickinnic State Parks is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation founded in 1990. The Friends are a network of volunteers who have “adopted” the State Parks. We work with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to organize and fund supplemental park programs, projects, and events. ​
Our Mission:
To enhance the Parks’ natural environment and engage visitors through recreation, education, and conservation.
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Our Impact:
•Fund a full-time Naturalist -- for school groups, the public, etc.
•Willow River Nature Center -- utilization and maintenance, plus capital campaign for replacing small, decades-old structure
•Year-round educational and recreational programming -- engaging events for visitors of all ages
•Interpretive stewardship and citizen science projects -- blending public parks with individual engagement
•Equipment purchases -- for maintenance, trail development, ski grooming, etc.
•Year-round volunteer opportunities -- connecting people with the Parks to fulfill our broader mission ​​
Board of Directors
Our Naturalists
For the last 20+ years, Ash has spent many of her days hiking, fishing, kayaking, mushroom foraging and exploring both Willow River and Kinnickinnic State Parks. Now, her two young children tag along with her and enjoy the beauty and activities that both parks have to offer. Ash organizes and runs educational classes, programs and events for the Friends Group and manages the Nature Center.
Ash holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Conservation from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. She has a passion for providing exceptional environmental education to the public and groups of all ages. Her focus at the park is encouraging wise use of natural resources and respect towards wildlife and the environment in order to advance the quality of life for future generations.