OFS Honors Earth Day Through Hands-On Learning

On Wednesday, April 30, Operation Fresh Start (OFS) celebrated Earth Day 2025 alongside Dane County Parks, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and the Wisconsin DNR with a full day of hands-on exploration and outdoor education at Token Creek County Park. For the young people and staff who participated, it was more than just a day in the woods — it was a chance to discover new careers, overcome fears, and see themselves as part of the future of conservation. 

OFS participants and staff take a group photo with Dane County Parks, Wisconsin DNR and US Fish & Wildlife at Token Creek County Park.

Participants rotated through several interactive stations, getting up close with bumble bees and birds, climbing trees, practicing prescribed burns, riding in a bucket truck, learning about stream health, electrofishing, carbon sequestration, and restoring native prairies. The day was built to be immersive — a reflection of OFS’s belief that learning by doing builds confidence, curiosity, and community. 

Legacy Participant Reactions 

“I loved learning about the different things other conservation programs do,” said Aiden, a Legacy participant. “It got me interested in this career. My favorite part was the limb walk and scaling the tree. The burns got me interested, too — how they (Dane County Parks) burn the brush and use the ash for nutrients. I also enjoyed how they (DNR) cared for the stream and fish.” 

Aiden holds a white sucker that was caught via electrofishing by Wisconsin DNR officials.

That spark — the realization that this could be a career path — was echoed by many throughout the day. 

“It opened my eyes to things I’ve never seen before,” said Michael. “It definitely makes me think about what I want to do in conservation.” 

For Ari, the day offered both inspiration and personal growth. 

“I almost called out of work because of my (medical) boot, but I’m glad I didn’t. I got over a lot of my fears. I loved the fishing station and using the drip torch."

"It exposed me to careers I didn’t know I’d like — like the planting and the bee work. It was a 10/10 experience.” 

For David, it was a chance to bring his energy and curiosity outdoors: 

“I’m not afraid of heights. I always take the chance to climb. I’m in construction now, but that experience made me interested in conservation work. The forestry folks were really cool to talk to.” 

David showcases his tree-climbing skills.

Staff Experiences 

For Jake, OFS Conservation Academy Supervisor, the best part was seeing young people try everything. 

“Everyone was in a good mood and putting their best foot forward,” he said. “It was fun to watch them explore and realize, ‘I didn’t even know this was a job.’

And seeing our grads, like Nick, now teaching others — that’s full circle.” 

Legacy and Conservation Director Cory reflected on how far the event has come: 

“Five years ago, we reimagined our Earth Day celebration to blend education, service, and exposure to conservation careers. Thanks to partners like Dane County Parks, the DNR, and USFWS, it's become one of our most impactful experiences. At OFS, we believe that time in nature is a powerful tool for youth development — and this event shows young people they belong in the conservation movement.”

That sense of belonging was powerful for staff, too. 

“I realized how much I appreciate what our conservation participants contribute to the community,” said Nicole, CareerPoint Coordinator.

“Being lifted in the bucket truck and climbing trees with the crew made me nervous, but I trusted the operators. I felt like I was truly part of the group.” 

Nicole ready to be lifted by the bucket truck. 

Full Circle Moment 

One of the day’s most powerful highlights was seeing three former Conservation Academy participants — Marcus, Alec, and Nick — return as leaders. Now working with Dane County Parks, they led stations and shared their expertise with the next generation of conservationists. Marcus and Alec engaged participants in hands-on learning about bumblebee species and the critical role of pollinators, while Nick guided participants through the tree-climbing station. Their presence was a living example of growth, mentorship, and the lasting impact of opportunity. 

Former OFS participants, Marcus (left) and Alec (right), teach about pollination.

The Earth Day event wrapped up with smiles, stories, and plenty of dirt under fingernails — proof of a full day of discovery and connection. With increased interest in OFS’s Conservation Academy already rolling in, it’s clear that Earth Day at OFS continues to grow not just plants and prairies, but futures. 

“This isn’t just a workday,” Cory said. “It’s a celebration of what’s possible when young people feel seen, supported, and inspired in the outdoors.”

Special thanks to our event partners: Dane County Parks, Wisconsin DNR, U.S. Fish & Wildlife, and our incredible topic presenters and staff. Your dedication made this Earth Day unforgettable. 

To see more photos from the event, click this link.