Awards

We hold ourselves to high standards as we seek to conserve our land’s diverse habitats and provide meaningful experiences and environmental education for all. The Center has been honored to receive the following awards recognizing excellence in organizational management, environmental education, visitor experience, venue rentals, and conservation.

2024 – 2026: The Knot – Best of Weddings 
2019, 2024, 2025: Green & Healthy Schools Wisconsin – Sugar Maple Level
2018 – 2025: Charity Navigator 4-star Rating, the highest rating an organization can receive
2025: The Business Journal – Great Places to Work
2025: North Shore Chamber of Commerce – Best Hospitality Award, Nonprofit of the Year, Outstanding Customer Service (Chamber & Community Choice Winner) 
2025: Shepherd Express Best of Milwaukee – Best Nature Center
2025: Milwaukee Magazine – Best of Milwaukee Reader’s Choice: Hiking, Best of the Burbs: Day Outing 
2024: The Business Journal – Women of Influence Award – Helen Boomsma
2022: Milwaukee Magazine – Best Wedding Venue 
2020: MMSD Fresh Coast Guardians – Green Luminary Award for Sustainability
2019: U.S. Department of Education – Green Ribbon Schools
2018: Milwaukee Lifestyle Reader’s Choice Award – Best Family-friendly Nature Center