Billerud and Wood County, Wisconsin partner to preserve and enhance CERA Park

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – Billerud announced that its subsidiary, Consolidated Water Power Company (CWPCo), has entered into a lease agreement with Wood County, Wisconsin, effective Jan. 1, 2025, to manage Central Wisconsin Employees’ Recreation Association (CERA) Park. This partnership ensures the park’s long-term preservation and accessibility for the benefit of the entire community.
Nestled on 60 scenic acres along the north shore of the Wisconsin River in Wood County, Wisconsin, CERA Park has been a beloved destination for recreation and relaxation since the 1970’s. The park features a variety of amenities, including boating, fishing, swimming, camping, sports facilities, and picnic areas, making it a favorite gathering spot for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and visitors alike.
“We’re thrilled to join forces with Wood County to manage CERA Park, a place that holds so many memories and possibilities for our community,” said CWPCo Power Director Martin Burkhardt. “With activities for all ages and interests, CERA Park is truly a treasured gathering place for outdoor activities, family celebrations and community events.”
Looking to the future, CWPCo and Wood County, Wisconsin, are pursing the potential transfer of park ownership to the County to develop it for use as a permanent public park. This initiative would preserve key amenities, such as a boat launch and dock, shoreline fishing piers, 62 campsites and picnic sites, while ensuring the park remains open to the public annually from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
“We are thankful Wood County has resources to invest in making significant improvements to the park, ensuring it continues as a safe, welcoming and vibrant public recreational space for generations to come,” said President, Billerud North America Doug Schwartz. “This partnership underscores Billerud’s commitment to being a responsible corporate neighbor and highlights the importance of public-private collaborations in creating sustainable, thriving communities.”
“We are excited to add this beautiful park to our County Park System,” said Wood County Parks and Forestry Department Director Chad Schooley. “By transferring ownership of CERA Park, Billerud and CWPCo are helping us expand opportunities for recreation, environmental stewardship and community engagement. We are deeply appreciative for their dedication to our shared vision.”
The transfer of ownership is subject to obtaining necessary approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which is anticipated in 2026.