The Random Lake Conservation Fair is back for its seventh year and continues to grow as one of the most anticipated events in the area. Set for Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Random Lake High School, the fair is free and open to the public, welcoming families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
Founded in 2017 by Random Lake teacher Mrs. Natalie Weeks, the Conservation Fair was inspired by her experience at the American Wilderness Leadership School in Wyoming, a professional development program hosted by Safari Club International. There, Weeks learned strategies for getting students outdoors and involved in wildlife conservation, while understanding the important roles hunting and fishing play in maintaining ecological balance.
“The idea for the fair started small,” says Weeks. “Our first year, we had just five or six booths and a few kids’ games. Now we’re looking at around 60 to 70 booths, with most vendors coming from our local area. It’s grown exponentially, and we’re so proud of what it’s become.”
Now in its seventh year, the fair serves as more than just an educational event, it’s a vibrant community celebration that supports environmental awareness, local vendors, and student opportunities. With support from presenting sponsors, Michels Corporation, the Wisconsin Chapter of Safari Club International, as well as gold sponsors Hartmann Sand & Gravel and the Random Lake Association, the event remains free to attend, drawing 500-600 visitors each year.
Highlights of the 2025 Conservation Fair Include:
Pineview Wildlife Rehabilitation Center’s live animal presentation at 11:30 a.m. in the front gym, featuring rescued teaching animals that can no longer live in the wild
Trout fishing tank, back by popular demand, where kids can try their hand at fishing
Touch of the Wild trailer, featuring taxidermy animals and hands-on exhibits
Make-and-take crafts with Lisa Masslich and Ms. Rathke
A wide variety of free kids’ games, a scavenger hunt, and bait-casting lessons
Local vendor booths offering handmade goods, including jewelry, bath products, home décor, tackle, honey, and more
Raffles to benefit outdoor education programs and the American Wilderness class
Free special-edition mugs for the first 100 attendees
Weeks plans and organizes the entire fair herself, with the help of student volunteers. “I wouldn’t be able to do this without my students. It’s become a tradition, not just for the community, but for the kids who help make it happen,” she says.
One of the fair’s main goals is to show people that they can make a difference by getting involved with local conservation groups. Whether it’s volunteering time or offering financial support, these organizations rely on community members to keep their work going. As Mrs. Weeks puts it, “If not you, then who?”
The long-term impact has already been felt. Weeks has seen students gain confidence, explore new interests, and even join clubs like the Hatchet Club or enroll in conservation-focused classes. “It’s cool to see kids stepping out of their comfort zones because they were exposed to something new at the fair.”
In addition to being a fun family outing, the fair also acts as a major fundraiser for Random Lake’s American Wilderness class, with major support from the local Safari Club International chapter. And while many vendor fairs charge admission, Weeks is proud to keep this one free, thanks to the continued generosity of sponsors and community partners.
This is a community event at its heart. Whether you're here for the animals, the outdoor skills, or the shopping, there’s something for everyone. And every visitor helps grow the impact of conservation in our community.
To learn more or get involved, visit www.randomlakeconservationfair.org.