On August 22, 2009, The Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin hosted a guided hike for 20 of its northern Wisconsin members at Van Vliet Hemlocks. Naturalist and author, John Bates, led the hike through the old growth forest and provided many interesting observations about the history and importance of the very few remaining hemlock and yellow birch forests in northern Wisconsin. After a picnic at the cabin of Barbara and Tom Olson, the members were taken on a pontoon boat ride to observe the Van Vliet Hemlocks parcel from the water. Once again, John Bates provided interesting information on the need for natural shorelines and the importance of woody debris in the water to support fish populations. Charlie Luthin, Executive Director of the Natural Resources Foundation, also participated in this event. The NRF has been very supportive of efforts to gain “state natural area” designation for this very special parcel.