Fox Cities CVB Awards Grant to Heckrodt Wetland Reserve for Children's Canopy Walk

The Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau has awarded a $40,000 grant to Heckrodt Wetland Reserve in Menasha for the completion of its Children’s Canopy Walk.

“Heckrodt's Children's Canopy Walk will provide visitors and locals with a unique outdoor experience sure to please children of all ages and families. We applaud the organization for its vision and execution on this beautiful project,” FCCVB Executive Director Pam Seidl said.

The canopy walk is an upward expansion of Heckrodt’s “World Beneath Your Feet” outdoor environmental education engagement area. This multi-level canopy nature walk and play area gives youth the opportunity to view and learn about nature and habitats of animals, trees, birds, and other wildlife from a birds-eye view. It includes elements such as a treehouse, slide and rope bridge.

“The Children’s Canopy Walk is designed to engage the hearts and minds of everyone that visit. It is the perfect area to create memories, connect with nature and become inspired,” Heckrodt Director of Development Chris Langenfeld said.

In addition to the Children’s Canopy Walk, Heckrodt has more than 91.5 acres of forested wetland, cattail marsh, open water, created prairie, open field, and upland forest habitats for exploring on its miles of trails, birdwatching or wildlife viewing. There is also a nature center onsite. All are free and open to the public year-round.

Heckrodt is one of the countless nature preserves, parks and outdoor recreation areas in the Fox Cities to explore and enjoy.

Since its inception in 1986, the FCCVB has awarded more than $8 million in grants through its Tourism Development Grant program. Grants have ranged from $1,000 to $1,000,000 in value. In addition to the Children’s Canopy Walk, grants have supported projects such as wayfinding signage, trail development, arts and cultural venues and exhibits, large-scale events and sports development projects.