For many years, Paul of Dairyland Expeditions organized and operated an ice climbing school and outdoor climbing site at the Ice Pit. 
In 2003, Paul announced his plan to retire from guiding and sell Dairyland Expeditions.
There was uncertainty as to what would become of the local ice-climbing crag
The Ice Pit.

Paul started by contacting a couple of regular Ice Pit climbers, wondering if there was any interest in forming an ice climbing co-op or club to take over the Ice Pit.
Those people contacted some of the other regular climbers from previous years.  They found that there was a general interest to keep The Pit alive, and try to make that great climbing spot available for the years to come, and improve on what was already started.

A small committee was formed in the Fall of 2003 to make it happen. 
Don Anderson represented the Northern Wisconsin climbers and Parimal represented the Illinois and Milwaukee Climbers in gathering information. Ron Long became our technical adviser with his years of experience in climbing, and setting up at The Pit.  Gina V. helped hunt down waivers, liability rider insurance, and gave another point of view.

Costs were nailed down: liability insurance, leasing the quarry, ropes & equipment, maintenance, state application fees, attorney fees (case of beer) and others. 
Members would be entitled to one vote, and the organization would be non-profit.  The organization would own all equipment.  Everyone would be asked to contribute both financially and with time:  pitching in on climbing days, Pit maintenance, or serve as a board member at some time.

That first year (Winter 2003-2004) the Midwest Ice Climbers, Inc. was born, and operated informally under the direction of Don Anderson.
By summer 2004 we recognized the need for a more formal structure, and elected our first board of directors with Ron Long as President.
The 2004-2005 climbing season saw organized work days and climbing days help, with members pitching in as their time and other commitments allowed.

Now, we have a strong membership committed to further improvements in The Pit.

Come join us, and watch us grow!

For more information, check out the "How to Join" link in the sidebar.