Early Infrastructure Improvements Advance 20-Year Master Plan Upgrades at The Ridges

Strengthens visitor experience, education space, and volunteer support.

Baileys Harbor, Wis. (November 25, 2025) – Following the approval of The Ridges Sanctuary’s 20-year Master Plan in 2024, an important series of foundational projects known as Phase Zero were identified by Ridges staff and Board. These projects focus on infrastructure improvements that provide immediate impact on Ridges operations, support growing education programming, and address capacity challenges in current facilities.

Phase Zero Projects

1. Renovating the current North Campus restrooms (adjacent to the cabins) into a year-round facility – soon to be available for use.

2. Renovating the Kaye and Marshall Cabins for year-round use, as well as adding indoor/outdoor classroom space.

3. Constructing a new volunteer workshop.

This project has been made possible with generous funding from the Raibrook Foundation, Destination Door County’s Community Investment Fund, private donations and The Ridges Master Plan Implementation Fund.

“The Ridges is built on a legacy of education, preservation and ecological research,” says Katie Krouse, Executive Director of The Ridges Sanctuary. “Phase Zero strengthens that legacy by addressing the immediate needs that allow our mission to thrive. These improvements ensure we can welcome more learners, support our volunteers and offer a better experience for every visitor who explores the Sanctuary.“

Construction Progress

Work is now underway, with construction to be completed by next spring. Peil Construction is leading the restroom and workshop projects, while Ahnapee Construction is taking on enhancements at the cabins.

A lack of adequate space has been one of the primary challenges to providing impactful educational experiences at The Ridges. The sole classroom in the Nature Center and the historic Kaye and Marshall Cabins on our North Campus have accommodated education and programming since the Cook-Albert Fuller Nature Center opened in 2015. However, the lack of winterized facilities eliminates the opportunity for regular programming at the Cabins, leaving, for example, 18 Forest Days students without an official classroom in the winter months, and requiring 500 Natural Christmas attendees to share a singular port-a-potty.

As interest and demand in Ridges programs continues to grow, year-round restrooms and cabins will make our winter activities more accessible and enjoyable for all.

Volunteer service remains essential to The Ridges’ operations. The Wednesday Crew, a core group dedicated to the ongoing maintenance and preservation of the Sanctuary, will benefit significantly from the new volunteer workshop. The expanded space will support important maintenance projects as well as address additional tasks as operations expand.

Looking Ahead

Phase Zero projects serve as a precursor to major capital investments outlined in the Master Plan, including the development of a dedicated Education Campus and a new Research Station.