Formed in 2005 to help protect and promote the Marsh, the Friends set their sights, literally, skyward.

In 2006, soon after formally becoming an entity, the Friends started to raise money to construct the State of Wisconsin’s tallest wooden observation tower. The kickoff began by hoisting local media and interested citizens up 100’ in a fire truck bucket. Fundraising started by collecting spare change in buckets at local events. However, progress soon began in earnest when many large donations from local foundations and employers became a reality.

In 2008, the Friends applied for and were granted official non-profit status to help further the fundraising efforts, but soon after, the economic downturn of the time period took its toll on donations. Fortunately, the local construction company, Jos. Schmitt & Sons, found it in their heart to build the Tower with the promise of the Friends repaying them as they could.

With much fanfare, the Tower opened to the public Christmas Day 2009 and stands at an impressive 80’ above the surrounding landscape offering expansive views of the jewel that is the Broughton Sheboygan Marsh Park & Wildlife Area.

In 2020/2021 the Friends of the Sheboygan Marsh (Friends) raised $2M in funds to construct a multipurpose educational facility.  The Kohler Center for Marsh Education is truly suited to foster a conservation ethic in our future generations at the Sheboygan County Broughton Marsh. The building itself is a learning tool for both energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. The facility serves students, families, and many additional organizations throughout the community and beyond.  The Friends believe the building will plant a seed in the community that will bring to life their mission of protecting and promoting the Sheboygan County Marsh.

 In 2024, the Friends began helping to raise funds for a boardwalk project to allow both visitors and students to actually get out into the Marsh rather than just viewing it from afar.

Friends of the Marsh website

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