MAKE A COMMITMENT TO NATURE

Become a Prairie Woods Member

Become a Member

Prairie Woods exists because people in this community care about nature, education, and protecting this land for future generations. 

As a member, you help give kids a place to explore, take their first canoe trip, try archery, rock climb, walk through prairie grass, dig in the pond, and learn about mammals, birds, and trees.

New in 2026: You can become a Prairie Woods member for as little as $5/month.

Memberships are processed as donations and can be made as a monthly or one-time annual gift.

Top 3 Reasons to Become a Member

Exclusive Access

Members enjoy insider access to our stunning natural trails, invitations to special events, plus sweet perks like discounted equipment rentals. This means more opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor adventures at your own pace.

First Rental Free

Dive into the great outdoors with a membership and your first equipment rental is on us! Choose from cross country skis, snowshoes, kicksleds, kayaks, canoes, or fat tire bikes. Because the only thing better than a nature adventure is a free one!

Support a Great Cause

By becoming a member, you’re actively supporting our mission to provide outdoor education and environmental awareness to youth and the community. Your membership fees contribute to valuable programs and help maintain the beauty of Prairie Woods for future generations.

Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center Members

Prairie Woods exists because of the individuals and families who choose to support it each year. We’re grateful to our members who help care for this land and make our programs possible.

We’re honored to recognize our members here. If you prefer to remain anonymous, you may let us know or select the anonymous option when making your gift.

Names are listed alphabetically as provided by each member. Updated March 2026.

— ❧ —

April Clark 
Beth & Jerry Fischer 
Betty Rustad 
Bob & Judy Snook
Brian Gieseke 
Craig Voorhees
David Moody 
David Petersen 
Don & Mary Polfliet
Eric Christensen
Fred and Kathy Hund 
Gary Fried 
Gary Lierman 
Harold Orcutt
Jack Behr
Jim and Terry Tetzloff 
Joel and Cathy Halbritter 
John Lindstrom 
Jon and Pamela Melander 
Kathy & Rick Gauger 
Kayla Holmgren 
Kirsten Palan 
Larry Lohn 
Lenore R. Schaffnit 
Lori and Craig Holmgren 
Mark Ranney 
Mary Ann Gerberding 
Mary Catherwood 
Mary Knott 
Mitch Clark 
Pamela Haverly 
Rachel Mitchell 
Randy & Deb Klein
Robert & Patricia Kaiser 
Ron Erpelding 
Ronald Noyes
Sarah Dumke
Scott Glup 
Steve & Allison Garry 
Steve Leitch 
Tami Lieberg 
Terry & Margaret (Peg) Peterson 
Thomas Gilbertson 
Tom & Mary Struwve 
Tom Cherveny 

 

Member list updated January and July.

MEMBERSHIP LEVELS

SENIOR/YOUNG PROFESSIONAL ($35)

An affordable option for the young or young at heart who crave wild adventures. Membership for one adult (age 25 and under or 62+).
indiv membership

INDIVIDUAL ($50)

For the solo explorers paving the way through nature's wonders. Membership for one adult.
family membership

FAMILY ($65)

A membership fit for the whole family of nature-loving adventurers. Membership for one or more adults and youth.
Ways to Give and support Prairie Woods Planned gift

NATURE STEWARD ($250)

For those dedicated to preserving the prairie, wetlands, and their inhabitants. With this generous donation, you'll receive a family membership.
34 ft canoe

ADVOCATE ($500)

Make a substantial impact as an advocate supporting the growth of Prairie Woods. Your significant contribution includes a family membership.
lifetime membership

LIFETIME ($1,250)

A timeless commitment to nurturing the beauty of the natural world. A one-time donation makes a lasting impact. As a token of our gratitude, enjoy a lifetime family membership.

NATURE STEWARD ($250)

For those dedicated to preserving the prairie, wetlands, and their inhabitants. With this generous donation, you'll receive a family membership.

ADVOCATE ($500)

Make a significant impact as an advocate supporting the growth of Prairie Woods. Your significant contribution includes a family membership.

LIFETIME ($1,250)

A timeless commitment to nurturing the beauty of the natural world. A one-time donation makes a lasting impact. As a token of our gratitude, enjoy a lifetime family membership.

Why Become a Member?

People become Prairie Woods members because they care about this place. They walk the trails, bring their kids here, attend programs, and want Prairie Woods to exist for future generations.

Membership is how our community takes care of Prairie Woods together. Your support helps care for the land, maintain trails, and provide environmental education programs year-round.

Membership FAQ

A membership is a monthly or annual gift that provides steady, year-round support for Prairie Woods’ land, trails, and environmental education programs. 

Many Prairie Woods supporters attend events, register for programs, or make donations during the year. Membership is the way individuals and families provide steady, year-round support that helps care for the land and sustain Prairie Woods. Prairie Stars is our largest annual fundraiser, while membership provides ongoing support throughout the year. 

Yes. You can choose a monthly or annual membership. 

Yes, memberships automatically renew each year or each month, depending on the option you choose. You can update or cancel at any time. 

Yes. You can change or cancel your membership at any time by contacting Prairie Woods or using the link in your email receipt. 

Yes. Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center is a non-profit and tax-exempt 501(c)3 organization. Our tax ID number is 41-1366265, and your gift is tax-deductible within the guidelines of U.S. law. Please keep your donation thank you receipt as your official record. We’ll send it to you upon successful completion of your donation. We appreciate your support! 

Prairie Woods may recognize members on our website or in publications unless anonymity is requested. 

There are many ways to support our mission! We accept gifts from your IRA, Donor Advised Fund, and stock gifts. Make a donation in honor or in memory of a family member, friend, or loved one. Review all the options

Email prairiewoods@prairiewoodselc.org or call (320) 354-5894


Thank you for your support!