Harrell Complex

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Harrell Complex, located in the state of Wisconsin, is a research center that is operated by the University of Wisconsin-Madison.


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Summary

The complex is home to various research facilities, including the Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, the Department of Biomedical Engineering, and the Morgridge Institute for Research. The Harrell Complex is also known for its collection of public art, featuring pieces such as "Bucky on Parade" and "Art on the Move."

Visitors to the Harrell Complex can enjoy exploring the various research facilities and learning more about the groundbreaking work being done in the fields of science and technology. The complex is also a great place to view public art, as well as attend cultural events and performances.

One interesting fact about the Harrell Complex is that it is named after John W. Harrell, who was a prominent businessman and philanthropist in the state of Wisconsin. Harrell donated $15 million to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, which helped to fund the construction of the complex.

The best time of year to visit the Harrell Complex is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and there are many outdoor events and activities to enjoy. However, visitors can also enjoy the complex during the fall and winter months, when there are indoor events and cultural activities taking place.

Overall, the Harrell Complex is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in science, art, and culture. With its impressive research facilities and collection of public art, the complex offers a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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