Urban Ecology Center Announces Summer of Learning, Service and Sustainability in Milwaukee
Summer programs and Veolia rain barrel partnership support education and environmental stewardship
MILWAUKEE, WI (May 19, 2026) – The Urban Ecology Center (UEC) is inviting Milwaukee-area residents of all ages to connect with nature and each other this summer through an exciting range of hands-on learning experiences and volunteer opportunities that inspire environmental stewardship, strengthen community connections and support healthier urban ecosystems. From paddling the Milwaukee River and exploring wooded trails to discovering wildlife firsthand, UEC programs bring nature within reach through immersive, outdoor experiences. In addition, the UEC is partnering with Veolia to distribute 300 free rain barrels at no cost to qualifying applicants on a first-come, first-served basis, empowering residents to manage water more sustainably and care for Milwaukee waterways.
“The UEC is all about connecting the community and creating new shared experiences,” said Davita Flowers-Shanklin, Senior Manager of the Volunteer Program at the UEC. “Through hands‑on learning, volunteer opportunities and special community partnerships like our rain barrel program with Veolia, we’re excited to welcome residents of all ages into the parks and programs and work together toward a healthier, more resilient Milwaukee.”
Learning at the UEC
This summer, the UEC will offer a robust slate of summer camps where kids can explore the outdoors, make new friends, and get muddy. Kids will hike, build forts, catch critters, create art, and discover what makes nature so incredible. Programs for families and adults include exploring wooded trails along Milwaukee’s rivers and parks, searching for animal tracks and habitats, or wading into urban waterways to discover crayfish, tadpoles and aquatic insects; participants experience nature firsthand through guided, hands-on activities. These programs also include opportunities to paddle local waterways, bike city trails and learn outdoor skills like camping and navigation, creating an engaging mix of environmental education, recreation and exploration.
Volunteering at the UEC
In addition to summer learning, UEC is seeking volunteers to support environmental education programs, land stewardship and community engagement throughout the warmer months. Volunteers play a vital role in helping the UEC care for natural spaces, welcome visitors and deliver programming that serves thousands of community members each year.
Partnership With Veolia to Distribute Free Rain Barrels
As part of its commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience, UEC is partnering with Veolia to distribute more than 300 free rain barrels to qualifying residents and businesses located within the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District service area.
Rain barrels are a cost-effective way to manage water by capturing runoff from rooftops. In simple terms, a rain barrel connects to a home’s gutter downspout, collects rainwater during storms and stores it for later use, whether to water plants and lawns or to release slowly once the sewer system has capacity. A standard rain barrel can hold between 50 and 80 gallons of water, helping reduce runoff and support healthier waterways; in total, distributing 300 barrels has the potential to keep approximately 15,000 gallons of runoff out of the system when filled to capacity.
Through the Veolia partnership, approved applicants will be able to pick up their rain barrels from one of UEC’s three locations — Riverside Park, Menomonee Valley or Washington Park — during designated distribution times. The program is offered on a first-come, first-served basis and is limited to one barrel per household or business address to ensure broad community benefit.
“Rain barrels are a simple but powerful way for residents to help manage stormwater and protect local waterways,” said Paul Keppler, Vice President and General Manager, Veolia. “By partnering with the Urban Ecology Center, we’re proud to support practical, community-based solutions that reduce runoff at the source and complement broader investments in water infrastructure across Milwaukee.”
More information about the rain barrel program, including eligibility requirements and how to apply, is available at milwaukee.veolianorthamerica.com/rainbarrel.
As temperatures warm, UEC looks forward to working alongside residents, families and volunteers to learn, give back and take meaningful steps toward a healthier and more resilient Milwaukee. Whether through outdoor education, hands-on service or simple actions like managing stormwater at home, UEC encourages community members to get involved and help care for the city’s natural spaces.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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