Wrangell Institute for Science and Environment, better known simply as WISE, is a locally based nonprofit organization with the mission of providing science and environmental education, supporting scientific research, and sharing the natural wonders of Alaska's Copper River Basin.
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Warm thanks to Ray Voley at AKWild1 for producing this video.  His vision for the project, patience with our diverse team, and eye for beauty are fantastic.
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Upcoming WISE Events

Upcoming WISE Events!
​Please call the WISE office at (907) 822-3575 for details.

Saturday, May 10, 9am to 11am
Pippin Lake Birdwatching Mile 82.2 Richardson Highway.
1/2 Mile south of the Edgerton Highway/Richardson Intersection.  Look for signs on the west side of the highway to find the spot!  
All ages and skill levels welcome.  Binoculars and spotting scopes will be available to borrow, and we will have free bird guides for everyone to take home.  Rubber boots and warm clothes recommended!  Local birder Danny Rosenkrans will be sharing his enthusiasm and knowledge.

Youth Environmental Summit (YES) May 27-29. For youth 1st through 8th grade.  Kenny Lake Community Hall.  For more information contact Native Village of Gakona, 907 822-5777

Thursday, June 12, 10am
Liberty Falls Trail  Hike  Mile 23.5 Edgerton Highway. Learn about Leave No Trace principles as we head up through the forest to lichen-covered rock ledges.  This hike is only about 2 miles round trip, but it's fairly steep.  The views at the top are worth every step!

Tuesday, July 8  
Crystalline Hills Trail Hike . Mile 34 McCarthy Road.

July 22-25
Geology Camp with Wrangell Mountains Center
Ages 12-16  We will visit McCarthy, take the the Mill Tour in Kennicott, and then backpack into the mountains for 2 nights of camping and a day of exploring the Root Glacier. Limited space, sign up before July 1 by calling or emailing the WISE office.  (907) 822-3575, or [email protected]

Tuesday, July 29, 10am
Nature Journaling and Hike at Wellwood, Kenny Lake

Saturday, August 2  National Public Lands Day at Paxson Lake Campground.  

August 6-8  Aquatic Ecology Camp, Silver Lake
Ages 10-14  Sign up before July 15 by calling or emailing the WISE office, (907) 822-3575, [email protected]

A Glimpse at our 2024 Youth and Community Programs

About Our Name

​WISE is a nonprofit organization founded in 2000 with the mission of providing science and environmental education for Alaska's Copper River Valley.  Our full name, Wrangell Institute for Science and Environment, references the nearby Wrangell Mountains, a symbol of the place we serve.  Science, Environment, and the word Institute were included to show our educational focus.  The happy combination of letters giving the acronym "WISE" was a positive factor in the final selection of the name.  
    WISE has no connection or affiliation with the former BIA school known as Wrangell Institute.

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Wrangell Institute for Science and Environment (WISE)
As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, WISE depends on community support. If you, your family, or your community benefit from WISE's services, consider donating to WISE or volunteering with us, or signing up for our mailing list!