Our rural community of Medford (population 4,500) is located in central Wisconsin, which is a treasure chest of natural resources!

46 percent of this state is covered by lush, green forests, which complement the 15,000 crystal blue lakes dotting the landscape. Wisconsin terrains vary greatly due to past glaciations. While driving along, you will pass through rugged, rocky bluffs, sandy outwash plains, rolling grasslands, and wetlands areas.

Most Distinctive Sound (.mp3 file): Cows. Dairy farming plays a crucial part in the economy of Medford, WI. Wisconsin's premium pasture land has earned it the title of "America's Dairyland."

The Sound of Human/Environment Interaction (.mp3 file): Chain Saw. Nearly half of Wisconsin is covered by forest. Residents interact with this environment by harvesting trees for firewood and other wood products. Listen to the "Br…Br… Brrooom" of the chainsaw as this local Medford resident cuts firewood. His harvest will be burned to keep him and his family warm on cold Wisconsin winter nights.

The Sound of Change (.mp3 file): Pine Line Trail. The sounds of snowmobiles and 4-wheelers float in the air as these machines move along the "Pine Line Trail." This 28-mile (45-kilometer) stretch of railroad bed was abandoned due to economic decline in the area. It was originally used to haul pine logs from this area to communities in southern Wisconsin. This trail is now used recreationally by bikers, hikers, and owners of off-road recreational vehicles.

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