Sustainability
Project North is about preserving the environment. We want to be on the cutting edge of sustainable festivals.
In support of that, attendees can expect to be immersed in environmentally conscious education and sustainable practices including: complying with a single-use plastic ban, using biodegradable food containers and utensils, properly disposing of food and drink waste to prepare for composting, refilling reusable water bottles, and much more.
SUSTAINABILITY PRESENTATIONS
Throughout the weekend, you will find educators giving presentations inside the Eco Village. A variety of topics will enlighten audiences Friday and Saturday.
ECO VILLAGE
Another important aspect of this immersion is Project North’s dedication to environmentally conscious education. The weekend will welcome experts in sustainable practices to share their knowledge through demonstrations, presentations and informational booths.
Project North Eco Village runs from 12:00pm - 5:00pm on Friday, September 27 and 10:00am - 5:00pm on Saturday, September 28. The village, happening outdoors in the heart of downtown Rhinelander, welcomes individuals, organizations and businesses that would like to promote their sustainability practices. Village participants will be responsible for providing their own tent, table, chairs and anything else they may need for their display. Each booth space is 10’x10’. Registration fee is $25.* Space is limited.
If you are interested in having a booth at the Project North Eco Village, please contact Traci Stinebrink: environment@projectnorth.org or click the button below and complete the form.
NATURE HIKE
Allowing ourselves to experience the natural world helps us understand it, appreciate it and protect it.
As part of Project North’s commitment to environmentally conscious education, immerse yourself into nature and join local naturalist and educator Jenny Sadak for a free (with your festival wristband), guided nature hike on the beautiful Nicolet College campus. During the one mile loop hike, Jenny, who holds a degree in environmental science, will help you take a closer look into Northwoods ecology. Join us on Saturday, September 28 at 11:00am or 2:00pm.
This hike is considered moderate, with some terrain. All hiking will be done on a developed trail. Hikers should wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather. As you enter the Nicolet College campus, look for the College’s signs and maps to guide you to the trailhead, which is located across from the Northwoods Center. There is parking located at the trailhead.
These hikes are limited to 20 people per hike. For any of those interested for either the 11:00 or 2:00 hikes, please sign up at the Project North table in the Eco Village.
The hikes will be canceled if the weather becomes severe.
WISCONSIN RIVER EXPERIENCE
Friday, Sept. 27, 10 am to 2 pm
Add some quality outdoor time to your visit to the Project North Festival by joining us on this guided paddle down a scenic section of the Wisconsin River just north of Rhinelander. Once a veritable highway for Native Americans, fur traders, and lumberjacks traveling up and down the river, the waters flow quieter now. Look up to see a bald eagle. Check the bank for playful otters who call the river home. Maybe a whitetail deer will come down for a drink. The river is rich with life.
Participants should have some experience paddling a canoe or kayak. Plan on being on the water for about two to three hours, depending on the pace we travel. Kayaks and canoes are available for rent. Note that late September weather in Northern Wisconsin is variable. Sometimes warm, other times on the cool side. Dress accordingly.
Meet at McNaughton Bridge - From the village of McNaughton located 5 miles north of Rhinelander along Hwy. 47, travel east on Bridge Road for approximately two-thirds of a mile to the boat landing. We’ll take out at the Apperson Boat Landing. A shuttle back to your car will be provided.
Guides: Terry Rutlin and Dan Clausen
INTIMATE MUSICAL EXPERIENCES
Friday, Sept. 27, 1 pm
Artist, teacher and owner of Amy’s Art Studio & Gallery has a passion for live painting with music. Amy Ackley Anderson has performed at several festivals, art, and music events. She will take the stage to live paint while award winning local singer songwriter, Traci Stinebrink performs at the piano. This intimate musical experience will happen on the EcoVillage Stage on Friday at 1:00pm.
CAROLYN JO STARLING
Saturday, Sept. 28, 10 am
Carolyn Jo Starling, though short in stature, belts it like Bonnie Raitt and Janis Joplin. Inspired by the singing styles of these musicians, she sings Blues, Rock and Folk. Carolyn recently moved to Eagle River with her husband and 2 young girls and is hoping to share her music with the community. She often sings with her band, Carolyn Jo and Company and will be joined by her lead guitarist Father, Gary Weber who has been influenced by musicians like Eric Clapton. She is excited to be a part of Project North due to her background in outdoor and environmental education at Northland College in Ashland WI. Catch her set on the Eco Village stage on Saturday at 10am.
FREE BICYCLE VALET
Where: Inside the old Hext Theater building, 25 S. Brown Street.
Project North will be providing a free bicycle valet for festival attendees inside the old Hext Theater building, 25 S. Brown Street. Attendees will place their bicycle in a holding area and receive a numbered valet ticket. A matching stub will be placed on the bicycle for easy identification upon return. Lost your ticket? Don't worry! Stubs will also have the owner's last name and phone number on them. Simply show a photo ID to claim your bicycle. Phone numbers will be used if bicycles are remaining after the festival has completed. Locks aren't provided, but feel free to bring your own if you wish!
Bicycle Valet will be available during the following times:
Friday: 12Noon-8pm
Saturday: 9:30am-8pm
Sunday: 10am-12pm (If needed, retrieval only)
ZERO WASTE
Thanks to our generous compost collectors Hsu's Growing Supply, we'll be composting food and drink waste and using biodegradable food containers and utensils from Eco Products.
All vendors and attendees will also be complying with a single-use plastic ban and refilling reusable water bottles.
TRAVEL GREEN
The Wisconsin Department of Tourism proudly recognizes Project North through the Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce as a certified member of its Travel Green Wisconsin program. With a longstanding conservation and environmental legacy, this program furthers Wisconsin’s commitment to sustainability. Throughout the festival, Project North will be promoting and using sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.