The Michael Forsberg Funk WPA Gallery

A couple of years ago, the Funk School Community Center board started discussions about how we could capitalize on and get the word out about the hidden gem that is the Funk Waterfowl Production Area. It was decided to remodel one of the classrooms into a gallery/exhibit room. This room would be used to house photos and art work related to nature and the waterfowl that inhabit the area. Since the Funk WPA is a stopping place for the endangered whooping cranes, emphasis would be put on these majestic birds. 

To help spread the word, the FSCC initiated the first Crepes & Cranes aka pancake feed in the spring of 2024. A program was given by the US Fish and Wildlife Service and pancakes were enjoyed by all. In 2025 at the second annual Crepes & Cranes, Michael Forsberg, a nationally renowned conservationist and photographer enthralled a crowd of over 100 with his presentation about whooping cranes.

At this event the newly remodeled room was ready for display. It housed ten Michael Forsberg prints with one of the prints being an award winning image of whooping cranes dancing at the Funk WPA. The center was able to purchase the ten prints to have on permanent display. The exhibit room is also home to several bird mounts donated by the Lloyd Erickson family and the Fish & Wildlife. The plan is to have rotating gallery shows and educational workshops for young and old in the exhibit room.

The funds raised from give2GROW 2025 will be used to further enhance and support the operation of the Michael Forsberg Funk WPA Gallery.