MADISON, Wis. — UW Credit Union has introduced two debit card designs celebrating Wisconsin’s state parks and Ice Age National Scenic Trail, while offering members free park passes and trail maps.
According to the credit union, the “Wisconsin Parks and Trails” cards feature the sandstone bluffs of Big Bay State Park on Madeline Island and a glacially carved section of the 1,200-mile Ice Age Trail.
UW Credit Union, which was chartered to serve the University of Wisconsin, said it is supporting the Wisconsin State Park System and Ice Age Trail Alliance by purchasing vehicle admission passes and trail maps for distribution to members.
What Members are Offered
New members who open a checking account and select either card design will receive a free 12-month Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission pass, valued at $28. Existing checking-account members can request a free digital Ice Age Trail map through the credit union’s mobile app or online banking platform. Codes will be available to the first 700 members who request one.
“A lot of what makes Wisconsin feel like home is right outside our doors, and we wanted to reflect that — not just as a design choice, but as an investment in the outdoor recreational spaces our communities love,” UW Credit Union Chief Marketing Officer Anne Norman said in a statement.
Norman said the idea originated when she gave state park passes to her children’s teachers and saw the positive response.
Images by Local Photographers
The card images were taken by Wisconsin photographers Michael Knapstein and Cameron Gillie. The designs join more than 20 card options available from UW Credit Union, including campus-themed cards. Existing members may change their card design through the credit union’s mobile app or at a branch.
Melissa Pierick, director of marketing and community relations at the Ice Age Trail Alliance, said the partnership marks the first time the organization has featured its imagery on a debit card.
“We’re excited that UW Credit Union is honoring the Trail, which is an amazing resource for the state,” Pierick said.
Missy VanLanduyt, recreation partnerships section chief at the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, said the credit union’s investment provides members with an opportunity to explore Wisconsin’s state parks, forests and recreation areas.
The Wisconsin State Park System is funded through pass sales and camping reservations rather than tax revenue, according to UW Credit Union.
About UWCU
UW Credit Union reported nearly $7 billion in assets, 395,000 members and more than 900 employees. It operates 36 branches and more than 100 ATMs, serving University of Wisconsin communities and other markets across the state.
