We are now Hunt Hill Nature Center!

SARONA — After a June 10 vote by the membership, Hunt Hill Audubon Sanctuary will be formally changing its name to Hunt Hill Nature Center.

Over the years, confusion regarding the name created the drive for a simpler, more accurate choice. Independently owned and operated since 2017, the board felt that it was time to shed the old name for one that honors our history while also embracing and clarifying who we are today for new and old friends alike.

Hunt Hill Nature Center continues to be a nonprofit nature preserve and learning center, open to all, dedicated to fostering understanding, appreciation and protection of the environment. The facility protects nearly 600 acres of diverse Wisconsin habitats with 7 miles of trails that are free and open to the public. In addition to the natural beauty of the place, Hunt Hill also offers programs, events and activities for all ages.

Why change the name?

Accuracy: In January 2017, the National Audubon Society officially turned over ownership of Hunt Hill to the local Friends group. Since that time, we’ve operated completely independently and wanted a name that accurately represented that change.

Brevity: We found that the majority of people who spoke about us were not using our full name but various abbreviations of it. It was important to have a name that was descriptive yet short enough that people would remember and say it correctly.

Clarity: We found that many people misunderstood or just did not know what “Audubon” and “sanctuary” meant. It was our goal to have a name that would give people an instant and accurate idea of who we are.

Why Hunt Hill Nature Center?

Frances Andrews donated the property in 1954 and had the “hope that it would become a place that would bring folks an awareness of their natural surroundings which will cause them to realize the value and need of conservation of natural resources …” She gave the property in honor and memory of her mother, Mary Hunt Andrews, and her brother, William Hunt Andrews, and asked that it be called “Hunt Hill.”

Nature centers are areas of land set aside and managed for conservation of wildlife, flora, fauna or features of geologic or other special interest that also provide opportunities for study, research and public outreach. They are also places open to the public.

What’s next?

Over the next five months, we will be transitioning to our new name and logo with full integration by Jan. 1, 2025. During this time, the public will see our old name appear from time to time until the switch is complete. Those interested in learning more about our nonprofit can find us online at www.hunthill.org, by calling 715.635.6543 or visiting us at N2384 Hunt Hill Rd., Sarona.