George W. Mead Wildlife Area

Nestled in the valley of the Little Eau Pleine River, the George W. Mead Wildlife Area contains over 33,000 acres of wetlands, forests and grasslands. Mead’s diverse habitats harbor an abundance of wildlife; 273 documented species of birds, a variety of North American mammals, as well as reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Such diversity ensures that with each visit there is something new to discover. With over 80 miles of internal roads and dikes, along with 3 easy walking trails around the Center, Mead offers visitors an opportunity for an immersive outdoor experience. Mead contains resources that touch the lives of every citizen in Wood, Portage and Marathon Counties. The George W. Mead Wildlife Area's education goal is to increase public understanding, appreciation, support, and enjoyment of wildlife.

The George W. Mead Wildlife Area hosts numerous events, groups, and individuals at the Stanton Mead Education and Visitor Center. The center is open to the public Tuesday-Friday for wildlife viewing, education, and questions about the property. We offer free use of field bags (containing binoculars and identification guides), binoculars, hiking poles, mobile, lightweight stools to use while hiking, snowshoes, and an All-Terrain Wheelchair. While the visitor center has open/closed hours, the wildlife area itself is open for recreation (and a multitude of other uses) 24/7, 365 days a year. Throughout the year, we host numerous free, family-friendly public events such as a Decoy Expo, Kite Festival, Wildlife Art Gallery, Summer Fun at the Mead programming, and more. We also provide free educational programming for over 30 local school groups throughout the school year. We partner with organizations such as the ODC, Boys and Girls Club, Women Actively Enjoying the Great Outdoors, Stevens Point Area Homeschool Group, and more to provide appropriate, relevant, and fun environmental-based programming. All of these programs are planned, prepared, and delivered by our two Education team staff members and volunteers.