Meet the Naturalists
Ashley (Ash) Goldbeck
Lead Naturalist/Nature Center Coordinator
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 both on and off-site. She 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 main 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.
Raelyn (Rae) Skog
Naturalist
Working alongside Ash, we now have a part-time Naturalist on staff! Prior to this position, Rae worked at Willow River State Park as DNR staff and as a volunteer for our organization.
She developed a strong love for this park and all that it has to offer. Rae graduated from UW-River Falls in 2022 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Conservation and minor in Outdoor Education. She enjoys spending any time she gets outdoors, whether if its traveling, hiking, kayaking, or teaching others the importance of outdoor education and the role the environment plays in our daily lives.
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