Ranger Mac
Wakelin 'Ranger Mac' McNeel
1884-1958
Inducted 2006
"Statistics are dull. Kids prefer down-to-earth realism." – McNeel
The kind-faced gentleman pictured here was an early genius in mass media. Wakelin McNeel, "Ranger Mac,” reached an estimated 700,000 young people in Wisconsin with his Wisconsin Public Radio program, “Afield With Ranger Mac.” The program ran between 1933-54, reaching out to students in one-room school houses and big city schools alike with colorful but knowledge-filled messages about conservation and nature. The mere mention of “Ranger Mac” evokes warm memories among those who looked forward to his program each week.
Tracking Animals in Your Own Backyard!
There’s so much for kids to explore in nature, from bird watching to fossil hunting. The best part is that you don’t have to travel to a national park or exotic location to experience nature’s beauty. Discovering what lives and thrives in nature can be as easy as stepping out into your own backyard or…
Desert Hiking Safety Tips
Hiking in the desert can be a beautiful experience that creates memories that will last a lifetime. However, if you’re not adequately prepared for the harsher conditions of the desert, then you’ll get an entirely different set of memories. The desert is as dangerous as it is beautiful if you’re not prepared, and there are…
The Many Reasons to Spend Time in Nature
Do you often feel cooped up inside your home or office? The urge to feel the warmth of the sun and the cool breeze on your face becomes overwhelming. Getting outside into the fresh air can do a lot of good for a person. Next time you feel stressed or restless, get up and go…
