In 1941, when the United States was growing rapidly at the expense of its natural resources, Elizabeth and Caroline Upham decided to save their beloved childhood summer home from the hands of developers forever. These sisters laid the philosophical groundwork for Upham Woods with their stipulations of the land's use. They wrote: "These lands are to be used as an outdoor laboratory and camp for youth, such as 4-H clubs and other people cooperating with the University of Wisconsin in the advancement of conservation, of agriculture and rural culture." Since 1941, Upham Woods has been a place where people gather to explore and experience the natural world. Early on, programs with Ranger Mac and Marvin Hanson introduced 4-H and school groups to the unique geology and forest communities of the area. Nature study was a main component of the program. Today, the emphasis continues with even greater focus, as environmental issues have grown on a local and global scale. The activities at Upham Woods are designed to encourage youth leaders to address environmental issues with the goal being the development of caring and responsible stewards of the natural world and its inhabitants. Upham Woods' programming focuses on both the natural and cultural history of the Wisconsin River, with topics ranging from the French Voyageurs of the Fur Trade, to finding archeological artifacts from the 1800's Dell House, to exploring the sandstone caves of the Dells. Through Upham Woods' educational programming, youth obtain a unique view of how Wisconsin has changed ecologically and culturally. Youth are encouraged to explore Wisconsin's past to discover valuable lessons that will enable each of us to better plan for the future of Wisconsin and the world. Upham Woods is a model residential environmental education center, operated by the University of Wisconsin-Extension.