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Wisconsin Land Trust News

The Nature Conservnacy WI turns 50 — 02/04/2010
Preserving Wisconsin, one parcel at a time. The Nature Conservancy turns 50, with mostly positive reviews.... Full Article at The Isthmus »
Waukesha County Land Trust expands wildlife refuge — 02/04/2010
The Waukesha County Land Conservancy is seeking a $40,000 grant from the state Knowles-Nelson Stewardship program to help pay for the purchase of 40 acres in the Town of Ottawa.... Full Article at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - Blog »
Protecting the Natural Beauty of SW Wisconsin — 01/27/2010
LA CROSSE, Wisconsin (WXOW)- Some of the scenic beauty of our area is due to the efforts by the Mississippi Valley Conservancy, a regional land trust.... Full Article at WXOW LaCrosse »
Brainstorming on site of the former landfill generates ideas — 01/22/2010
About 20 people attended a brainstorming meeting at the site of the former Somerset landfill on Thursday, Jan. 14.

Members of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Village of Somerset, Town of Somerset, Somerset Fire/Rescue, Department of Nat... Full Article at New Richmond News »
Bird Habitat Preserve adds 883 acres — 01/19/2010
TOWN OF GRANT -- More than 800 acres of land will be used to expand the habitat for grassland birds such as the prairie chicken in the Buena Vista Wildlife Area.... Full Article at Wisconsin Rapids Tribune »
Land trust helps protect farmland — 01/14/2010
TOWN OF TRENTON — When Carl and Bonnie Werner noticed land development creeping closer and closer to their home on Basswood Road; keeping their beloved 148-acre farmstead as pristine agriculture land for generations to come became a top priority. Full Article at Beaver Dam Daily Citizen »
City, MVC join to save land — 01/08/2010
Protected bluff land above Onalaska increased by 51 acres recently as the Mississippi Valley Conservancy purchased Greens Coulee bluff property partly in the city and partly in the town of Onalaska.... Full Article at Onalaska - Holman Courier Life »
Snowshoeing on Conservancy Land — 01/07/2010
Whenever I am asked about snowshoe locations, I often recommend state parks and trails, county parks and national wilderness areas. But until this past year, I was unaware of another excellent category of public land sometimes available for snowshoe ... Full Article at Silent Sports »
Wheelhouse restaurant property sold to land trust — 12/18/2009
The River Revitalization Foundation has purchased the former Melanec’s Wheelhouse restaurant at 2178 N. Riverboat Road along the Milwaukee River for $1.4 million. The building and parking lots on the 2.8-acre property will be demolished and restor... Full Article at The Business Journal of Milwaukee »
Land deal protects river, wildlife — 12/18/2009
The Wisconsin DNR met last week and approved a land donation from the Kinnickinnic River Land Trust of 158 acres in the town of Clifton, south of County Road FF and the Kinnickinnic River.... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
Town near Ellsworth now owns park along river — 12/17/2009
TOWN OF MARTELL—A giant step has been taken toward preserving for public use a small park long popular with fishing enthusiasts and families seeking a gathering place. The West Wisconsin Land Trust (WWLT) has transferred ownership of the approxima... Full Article at Pierce County Herald »
$2.5 million farm donated to Mississippi Valley Conservancy — 12/16/2009
A family with historic roots in the state’s dairy industry has added a gift of Kickapoo Valley land to its Wisconsin legacy. The Babson family, owners for many years of the Chicago-based Surge milking machine business that was part of the moderniz... Full Article at Winona Post »
Land Trust Purchase Establishes the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Nature Preserve — 12/16/2009
The Door County Land Trust announces that after six years of negotiating and fundraising it has completed the purchase of 332 acres within the city of Sturgeon Bay for the establishment of a public nature preserve.... Full Article at press release from Door County Land Trust »
Busy by design — 12/14/2009
Barbara and Terry McCormick work full-time — just not as architects. The Baraboo couple didn’t plan to start easing into retirement. But a slow construction industry coupled with several outside interests have made the McCormicks part-time architect... Full Article at Baraboo News Republic »
Mary Jean Huston: Nature Conservancy benefits Sauk County — 12/07/2009
For more than four decades, The Nature Conservancy has helped conserve Sauk County’s most significant lands and waters for the benefit of people and nature alike. To assist Sauk County governmental entities, the Conservancy raised generous contrib... Full Article at Baraboo News Republic »
Snowshoeing through Wisconsin's Door County — 12/06/2009
DOOR COUNTY, Wis. — Visitors from Chicago come in droves to Door County’s 300 miles of scenic shoreline during the summer, looking to swim, bike, hike, relax and dig into some boiled whitefish.

The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor off... Full Article at Chicago Sun-Times »
Successful deer camp is measured by stories — 12/04/2009
For more than 30 years I’ve hunted the opening weekend of the deer gun season in an area near Cumberland. The Schottler Family and the Star Prairie Land Preservation Trust cordially invite the public to a holiday gathering at the Schottler Family... Full Article at New Richmond News »
Wisconsin's Door County opens to winter holiday wonderland — 12/02/2009
In early November, when the cherry and apple harvests are over and the last of the colorful foliage has faded and fallen away, much of Door County, Wis., shuts down. Hoteliers regroup for the spring; chefs dream up new dishes. One especially good ... Full Article at San Diego News Network »
Rotary Club Arboretum will be Milwaukee’s ‘Central Park’ — 12/01/2009
The Rotary Club of Milwaukee will announce over lunch today that it has exceeded its goal of raising $400,000 to create the Milwaukee Rotary Centennial Arboretum, a 40-acre “living classroom” that will extend from North Avenue to the Locust Street, s... Full Article at biztimes.com »
Milwaukee condo developer lauds River Revitalization Foundation — 11/21/2009
Milwaukee condo developer lauds River Revitalization Foundation as a neighborhood asset good for business as he promotes Milwaukee eastside urban living.... Full Article at House & Home »
Prime trout access spot on the Rush River becomes park — 11/20/2009
The fragile future of a prime Wisconsin fishing spot was secured this week. A heavily used floodplain on the Rush River became a permanently protected park when the West Wisconsin Land Trust transferred ownership to the town of Martell. Officials ... Full Article at Pioneer Press »
Nature Conservancy seeks grant to buy land in Baraboo — 11/09/2009
Conservation giant The Nature Conservancy has applied for a 50-percent state matching grant to purchase 160 acres of land in the town of Baraboo, state conservation officials announced Friday.... Full Article at Baraboo News Republic »
At least two Indian mounds added to protected area — 11/05/2009
At least two domed-shaped Indian mounds - estimated to be about 2,000 years old - have been added to a larger protected area of burial sites along the Wisconsin River. The Natural Heritage Land Trust and Ho-Chunk Nation purchased about 3 acres adj... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
Land Trust adds to Kingsley Bend — 11/04/2009
The Natural Heritage Land Trust and the Ho-Chunk Nation joined to protect another piece of the Kinglsey Bend Mounds, along Highway 16 in Newport.... Full Article at WiscNews - Wisconsin Dells »
The Nature Conservancy Applauds Obey and Kohl — 11/02/2009
The Nature Conservancy today applauded U.S. Rep. David Obey of Wausau and U.S. Sen. Herb Kohl for their leadership in securing $2.3 million in federal Forest Legacy funding for the Wild Rivers Legacy Forest in northeast Wisconsin.... Full Article at The Nature Conservancy »
Door County Land Trust Nears Completion on Purchase of 332-acre Ship Canal Property, — 10/28/2009
The Door County Land Trust announced today that it has raised 90% of the dollars needed from private donors to purchase and permanently preserve what is known locally as the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Property. The Land Trust now seeks donations from th... Full Article at Door County Style Magazine »
Outdoors 101: Projects aim to get students into the countryside — 10/25/2009
Getting students outdoors is the main reason MVC advancement director Kathy Frise is organizing outreach efforts. She has led several student groups in the seven-county region that MVC covers into the great outdoors this fall to work on projects or j... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Mississippi Valley Conservancy and WSU have new partnership — 10/14/2009
Join Mississippi Valley Conservancy (MVC) and Winona State University (WSU) in celebrating a new partnership to provide curricular, research, and community service opportunities for students on Mississippi Valley Conservancy nature preserves.... Full Article at Winona Post »
Big Honor, Big Check — 10/06/2009
Representatives from Kinnickinnic River Land Trust (KRLT) accepted the 2009 Land Trust of the Year Award from the Gathering Waters Conservancy at that group’s annual conservation leadership awards ceremony in Madison on October 1.... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
Dane Co. residents receive landowner awards — 10/02/2009
BLUE MOUNDS (WKOW) -- Dane County residents Gary Karls, Bruce Wachholz, and Lisa Wachholz were honored by the Military Ridge Prairie Heritage Area (MRPHA) and Blue Mounds Area Project (BMAP) for their work restoring and maintaining native plant commu... Full Article at WKOW TV »
Funding sought to turn Melanec's Wheelhouse site into riverfront park — 09/27/2009
The final mystery to be played out at the former Melanec's Wheelhouse restaurant and dinner theater on the Milwaukee River: Who will contribute to its demolition and transformation to a public park? The River Revitalization Foundation has offered ... Full Article at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel »
Door County lighthouses: See the light in Wisconsin — 09/27/2009
The door resembles a bulkhead, and I duck and ease myself out. The sudden force of the wind compels me to tuck my baseball cap into my jacket pocket. Over the rail, I look down at the little people in the yard looking up. Beyond them, the white-tippe... Full Article at Chicago Tribune »
Trout Unlimited donates $5,000 for White River protection — 09/27/2009
The Bayfield Regional Conservancy announced that Wisconsin’s Wild Rivers Chapter of Trout Unlimited donated $5,000 toward the conservation group’s purchase of 80 acres along the White River. The property, once known as the Hanson farm, is in the Town... Full Article at Duluth News Tribune »
MVC Recognized for protecting bird habitat — 09/26/2009
The Mississippi Valley Conservancy is being featured twice in the 2009 fall issue of "Bird Conservation." That's the national magazine of the American Bird Conservancy.... Full Article at WXOW TV La Crosse »
A natural wonder awaits visitors in Eagle — 09/21/2009
Thanks to benefactors Newell and Ann Meyer, The Nature Conservancy received its largest gift ever in Wisconsin — 374 acres of oak savanna, woodlands, wetlands and former agricultural land worth $12.5 million.... Full Article at Milwaukee Lifestyle Magazine »
Volunteers building new Ice Age Trail segment — 09/21/2009
Organizers expect up to 50 volunteers will help build a 40-foot pedestrian bridge and clear a trail along a state Department of Natural Resources-owned easement that runs near a farm field, said Brad Crary, eastern field representative for the Ice Ag... Full Article at Verona Press »
KRLT wins land trust of the year — 09/14/2009
The Kinnickinnic River Land Trust celebrated its inaugural barn dance Sat. Sept. 12 with 150 friends and donors and a guest from the Gathering Waters Conservancy who announced that KRLT earned the organization’s statewide 2009 Wisconsin Land Trust of... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
Volunteer scientists tallying all life in park — 09/11/2009
Even the shyest of creatures may have a difficult time hiding at Sherman Creek Park this weekend when dozens of volunteer scientists attempt to count as many species as possible within a 24-hour period at the town of Union park. The activities, wh... Full Article at Eau Claire Leader-Telegram »
Options explored for glacial area west of Middleton — 08/27/2009
ane County’s glacially formed landscape west of Middleton could one day be more accessible to the public with a visitor’s center, campground and paved trails, or instead be restored to its natural state with limited access. Those are two of the op... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
[Douglas] County works to preserve timberlands — 08/26/2009
Douglas County is hoping to conserve land owned by Wausau Timberlands Co. LLC near the Nemadji River in the town of Superior. The county is working with the West Wisconsin Land Trust, a private nonprofit that assists with land conservation project... Full Article at Superior Telegram »
MVC receives award n Crawford County — 08/14/2009
The Crawford County Land Conservation Committee held its annual Award Recognition Program at the county fairgrounds Wednesday, Aug. 12.... Full Article at TH Online »
Volunteers hoping to finish a trail worth walking on — 08/09/2009
The Ice Age Trail is more than 10,000 years in the making, but for local volunteers, the next 12 months are crucial. The 1,100-mile trail cuts an S-shape through Wisconsin and is one of just eight National Scenic Trails recognized by Congress. It ... Full Article at The Verona Press »
MVC introduces Gateway to the Bluffs Trailhead — 08/05/2009
The La Crosse's blufflands help define the city, and now there's a new way for you and future generations to enjoy them. The Mississippi Valley Conservancy and the city of La Crosse celebrated the grand opening Tuesday of the new Gateway to the Bl... Full Article at WKBT TV »
Saving Precious Parcels in Door County — 08/05/2009
If you turn your thoughts to Door County, you might conjure up shops, cottages, cherry pie and beautiful stretches of water. But one group is trying to preserve pieces of the county’s scenic beauty for generations to come. WUWM Environmental Reporter... Full Article at WUWM Milwaukee Public Radio »
MVC opens up 55 acres of land near Trempealeau — 08/04/2009
The Mississippi Valley Conservancy is opening up more land for local residents to enjoy. The Trempealeau lakes property is 55 acres and is located south of state Highway 35 and the Great River State Trail.... Full Article at WKBT TV »
Conservancy develops strategic plan for Bayfield County. — 07/31/2009
BAYFIELD — Its mission is to protect the natural areas, scenic vistas and farmland, trails and open space that give the Chequamegon Bay region its unique character. ... Full Article at The Daily Press »
MVC to celebrate Trempealeau land purchase — 07/30/2009
The Mississippi Valley Conservancy will host an event from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 9, to celebrate the purchase of a 55-acre property in the Trempealeau Lakes area next to the Mississippi River in the village of Trempealeau.... Full Article at Onalaska-Holmen Courier Life »
Golf course becomes habitat for birdies — 07/20/2009
A project to change a former Wisconsin golf course into a preserve for migrating birds is getting some help from the federal stimulus package. Chuck Quirmbach reports… ... Full Article at www.wpr.org »
Woodland in Stella is protected for wildlife — 07/15/2009
It is welcome news when landowners move to keep their forest lands intact, a decision Rhinelander residents Keith and Josie McCaffery recently made in partnership with the Northwoods Land Trust.... Full Article at News of the North »
Field reports: Wisconsin land purchase preserves trout stream access — 07/12/2009
Conservation groups in Wisconsin have purchased land along the White River, a popular trout stream, to protect the river and allow continued access for anglers.... Full Article at Duluth News Tribune »
From fairways and greens to forests and grasslands — 07/07/2009
The once manicured greens and neat fairways of the former Squires Country Club are overgrown.... Full Article at Ozaukee Press Online News »
$2M Secured To Preserve Ice Age Scenic Trail — 07/06/2009
MADISON -- State and local leaders are trying to lock in the beauty of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail by partnering up with area landowners to connect the trail through several local communities.... Full Article at channel3000.com »
Lulu Lake nature preserve keeps adding acres — 07/04/2009
East Troy — Lulu Lake, a glistening nature preserve that's a day trip from central Milwaukee, has expanded in size for a second time in as many months under state initiatives to protect threatened watersheds and conserve land for public use. ... Full Article at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Online »
Protecting a bend in the Wisconsin River — 07/02/2009
It is more than just a bend in the river. Just ask the bald eagles that hunt from towering pines along the entirely natural shoreline.... Full Article at NewsoftheNorth.Net »
Listen to WPR talk with author, Ben Logan, about protecting his farm — 06/24/2009
WPR's Kathleen Dunn speaks with Ben Logan about his decision to maintain the farm, as well as the importance of land conservation. Download the full program at www.wpr.org... Full Article at www.wpr.org »
Buying Chisago County land to save St. Croix River — 06/22/2009
FRANCONIA, MINN. - Time stopped long ago in these deep woods, where the rotting lumber of a hunter's tree stand looks as old as the tree itself.... Full Article at StarTribune.com »
Explore nature on a rainy day — 06/22/2009
I usually feel a twinge of regret whenever I see a new development taking over a familiar rustic setting or another new house being built on one of our scenic bluffsides. But unfortunately that has been the pattern for much of my life and seems to ha... Full Article at Coulee News »
Wisconsin Build a Wildlife Area Campaign Nets First Land Acquisition — 06/19/2009
With the help of Pheasants Forever and other partners, the Wisconsin Build a Wildlife Area campaign announces its first land acquisition, a 204-acre parcel of restored wetlands and adjacent upland grasslands in St. Croix County, Wisconsin.... Full Article at Pheasants Forever »
Western Wisconsin Christmas tree farm to remain undeveloped — 06/19/2009
They can't speak to anyone else's commute to the office, but Paul and Sherrill Schottler make a point of going to work together -- a Schottler on each mower, headed toward a grove of Christmas trees.... Full Article at KARE11.com »
Land trust acquires acreage near river — 06/19/2009
The Kinnickinnic River Land Trust and several partners closed a deal last week to acquire 204 acres at the headwaters of the Kinnickinnic River in Erin Prairie from benefactors Vern and Becky Nagel, New Richmond.... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
Western Wisconsin Christmas tree farm to remain undeveloped — 06/18/2009
When you get up everyday and go out and work and do something, you get to where it's more a part of you," explains Paul about his affinity for the land. In the end the Schottler's decision was easy. Their 160 acre farm is now permanently wrapped i... Full Article at KARE 11 Twin Citites NBC »
Flora abounds at the Holland Sand Prairie — 06/14/2009
Cactuses grow in Wisconsin. Lizards live here, too.Just take a tour of the Holland Sand Prairie. ... Full Article at LaCrosse Tribune.com »
Local Family Preserves a Family Tradition, Farmland and Open Spac — 06/10/2009
The Schottler Family in Somerset, WI recently placed a conservation easement on their 162 acre rural Somerset farm that assures the Christmas tree farm, agricultural land, lake, and prairie will remain intact and undeveloped for future generations. ... Full Article »
Biologists take stock of nature at Camp/Quad — 06/06/2009
Biologists are making an inventory of plant life on 325 acres protected this year by a conservation easement. The list will be used to prepare a management plan aimed at restoring much of the forest and wetland landscape here to a pre-settlement con... Full Article at Journal Seninel Online »
Kinnickinnick River Land Trust Accredited! — 05/29/2009
The Kinnickinnic River Land Trust in River Falls is the first Wisconsin organization to be accredited by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission. A Commission announcement confirmed KRLT's accomplishment yesterday.... Full Article at Kinnickinnic River Land Trust Press Release »
Volunteers documenting ephemeral ponds in eastern Wisconsin — 05/25/2009
Ozaukee Washington Land Trust is partnering with many others and several dozen volunteers spread out across 10 counties in eastern Wisconsin to study ephemeral ponds.... Full Article at Journal Seninel Online »
NATURAL HERITAGE LAND TRUST PROTECTS WILDCAT BLUFF ON WISCONSIN RIVER — 05/21/2009
The Natural Heritage Land Trust permanently protected the 160’ tall Wildcat Bluff on the Wisconsin River yesterday. The 20-acre property includes more than 1,750 feet of undeveloped shoreline.... Full Article at Natural Heritage Land Trust Press Release »
A push to protect Wisconsin's wetlands — 05/18/2009
TV station WKOW visited Cherokee Marsh, one of Wisconsin Wetland Association's 100 Wetland Gems. ... Full Article at WKOW »
Author has the right idea about land — 05/18/2009
Author Ben Logan's gift to the people of the state comes at a time when the need to preserve agricultural land is getting much-needed attention.... Full Article at Onalaska-Holmen Courier Life »
Ten Nature Conservancy Preserves Chosen as “Wetland Gems” — 05/18/2009
The Nature Conservancy is pleased to announce that 10 of its nature preserves have been recognized as outstanding examples of Wisconsin’s remaining wetlands by the Wisconsin Wetlands Association (WWA).... Full Article at The Nature Conservancy »
New nature preserve opens in Waukesha County — 05/16/2009
Starting Sunday, the new 374-acre Newell and Ann Meyer Nature Preserve in the Town of Eagle will be open daily from sunrise to sunset, offering visitors groomed walking trails and scenic views of the rolling hills and clean waterways of western Wauke... Full Article at Journal Sentinel Online »
Council approves public property purchase program — 05/15/2009
Onalaska’s Greens Coulee Community Park will soon get a whole lot bigger. The Onalaska Common Council voted Tuesday to acquire a parcel through the Mississippi Valley Conservancy that would nearly double the park’s size.... Full Article at Onalaska-Holmen Courier Life »
Land conservancy tours bog — 05/15/2009
Life is tough in a bog; some of the plants have turned to eating meat, explained botanist Susan Borman on Tuesday before leading a tour of Polder Preserve on Larrabee Lake in Chippewa County. Five years ago Dr. Gordon Kennedy of the state of Orego... Full Article at Leader-Telegram »
New 374-acre Wis. nature sanctuary opens Saturday — 05/13/2009
The Nature Conservancy is ready to open 374 acres of land in southeast Wisconsin for outdoor activities like hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and bird-watching. ... Full Article at Chicago Tribune Online »
Baird Creek environmental concerns — 05/13/2009
The Baird Creek Parkway is a pristine stretch of land left untouched by the commercial and residential developments that surround it on Green Bay's east side.... Full Article at WLUK-TV »
Author Ben Logan to be honored by Mississippi Valley Conservancy — 05/10/2009
The southwest Wisconsin farm made famous by Ben Logan in his book, “The Land Remembers” will be open to the public for a tour on Saturday May 16 at 10 a.m. ... Full Article at Winona Post »
Conservation, done the right way — 04/23/2009
"...meaningful conservation doesn't necessarily equate to meaningless confrontation. The process can work and work well, and all parties can be satisfied when the discourse is courteous and all share a reasonable concept of the end product." Opinion ... Full Article at Journal Seninel Online »
Quad Graphics donates Town of Erin land to conservancy — 04/22/2009
Sussex-based magazine and catalog printer Quad/Graphics Inc. said Wednesday it has donated a conservation easement on its 325-acre Camp/Quad parcel of land in the Town of Erin to the Tall Pines Conservancy. ... Full Article »
Land trust to receive environmental award — 04/22/2009
The Ozaukee Washington Land Trust will receive the 2009 Philip H. Lewis Jr. Environmental Corridor Ovation award for environmental stewardship from the state Department of Natural Resources, Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission and Mil... Full Article at Journal Sentinel Online »
Original habitat returns — 04/19/2009
Scientists studying the landscape of seven counties in southeastern Wisconsin say 44 more places in the region should be added to an existing inventory of 447 natural areas worthy of protection from development. Their new report also states that f... Full Article at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel »
Conservancy Holds Controlled Burn in Bluffs Over La Crosse — 04/02/2009
A La Crosse land conservation group is using fire to help the local habitat. The Mississippi Valley Conservancy (MVC) held a controlled burn Thursday at its Miller Bluff Property. The burn at the end of Rim of the City Road is part of ongoing rest... Full Article at WKBT TV »
Conservancy, landowners doing great work — 03/31/2009
“It can stay country.” That’s how longtime La Crosse County farmer John Swennes described the result of the decision he and his brother Otto Swennes made to work with the Mississippi Valley Conservancy to place a conservation easement on their 117... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Brothers give 117 acres to conservancy — 03/30/2009
It wasn’t the farm they wanted. Rental land for years, it was run down by neglect, hillsides plowed straight up and down. Any good soil had washed into Halfway Creek. The man who sold it said later the land was so poor you couldn’t grow white beans o... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
12,000-year-old archeological site protected — 03/29/2009
Mississippi Valley Conservancy, a local non-profit land trust, and the Mississippi Valley Archeology Center (MVAC) have partnered to protect a Holmen area farm described by the center as one of the region’s most significant archeological sites. Th... Full Article at Winona Post »
Bluffland preservation is a wise and cost-effective investment — 03/27/2009
I am writing to correct various misstatements about the La Crosse Bluffland Protection Program in a letter to the editor (March 20 Tribune). Jeff Scheidt commented on the City of La Crosse’s approval last year of the purchase of 53 acres of land i... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
From calls of 'fore' to calls of fowl — 03/20/2009
In early 2009, the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust acquired the 141-acre golf course for $2.5 million and will convert the manicured turf and sand trap property to its original state as a wetlands, prairie and woodlands.... Full Article at The Business Journal »
Land Trusts Announce Merger Negotiations — 03/02/2009
The Kettle Moraine Land Trust and the Land Trust of Walworth County announced today that their Boards have unanimously agreed to enter into negotiations to merge their two organizations. This announcement was made jointly by Jerry Petersen, Presiden... Full Article at Press Release »
Rueckerts protect Pelican River property — 03/02/2009
Roland and Ruth Rueckert of Madison have signed a land protection agreement, also known as a conservation easement, with the Northwoods Land Trust covering 307 acres of land in the Town of Pelican, Oneida County. The sizable property includes almost ... Full Article at The Daily News »
Wetland near Lake Winneconne ideal for outdoor enthusiasts — 02/15/2009
More than 400 acres of prime wetland near Lake Winneconne should be around for a long time for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. The land was purchased recently by the Northeast Wisconsin Land Trust, which transferred the acreage in December to the ... Full Article at The Northwestern »
Three snowshoeing events are planned for late February — 02/13/2009
The Wausau area is one of the best places in the country to strap snowshoes on your feet and tromp through the woods. Phillip Gary Smith, 60, of Minneapolis is the senior editor of the Snowshoe Magazine, and earlier this winter he included Wausa... Full Article at Wausau Daily Herald »
Land Trust Buys Zuern Farm — 02/13/2009
Some prized Washington County land has been purchased by a conservation foundation with the intent of giving it to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources as part of an important ice age trail, according to a recent story written by Don Behm of... Full Article at Watertown Daily Times »
Stewards debate fundraising ideas — 02/03/2009
The Stewards of the Dells of the Wisconsin River brainstormed fundraising ideas and goals for 2009 — including a possible kayak race and River Festival — during its first meeting of the year Jan. 28. At the group's meeting in November, the idea of... Full Article at Wisconsin Dells Events »
Glacial land saved for ages — 01/31/2009
Walking across the rolling fields of the former Ted Zuern farm, only a few hundred yards northeast of U.S. Highway 41, provides a panoramic view of a landscape left behind by the last glacier as it melted and retreated from eastern Wisconsin more tha... Full Article at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel »
Land trust to donate Slinger-area farm with glacial formations for state park — 01/30/2009
Town of Polk - A proposed state park north of Slinger will encompass at least 414 acres of a landscape shaped by the last glacier: one of the densest clusters of kames - conical hills of sand, gravel and boulders - found anywhere in the world.... Full Article at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel »
Former Wheel House site to become natural landscape — 01/27/2009
It took seven years for Kimberly Gleffe's dream to take root, but at the end of 2009, it is finally developing -- or undeveloping, in this case. Gleffe, who is the executive director of the River Revitalization Foundation, had a vision to create a... Full Article at onMilwaukee.com »
Land Trust Helps Protect Family Farm — 01/25/2009
As part of its Protect the Kinni Campaign, the Kinnickinnic River Land Trust (KRLT) announced that Tom Johnson and his family have decided to permanently protect 127-acres of their family farm through the sale of the land’s development rights to the ... Full Article at Website »
Canal property 'valuable to community' — 01/21/2009
The Door County Land Trust aims to preserve and protect the Sturgeon Bay Canal property — 337 acres of undisturbed ridges, swales and forested wetlands near Lake Michigan.... Full Article at Door County Advocate »
La Prairie family donates easement — 12/30/2008
LA PRAIRIE TOWNSHIP — No houses, apartment complexes or gas stations allowed. The only “construction” on this property will be nests built by indigo buntings. La Prairie Township landowner Jean Kutz and her family have donated a conservation ea... Full Article at The Janesville Gazette »
Mequon Oks $50M subdivision — 12/26/2008
Insight Development of Mequon is on track to build an 18-home subdivision overlooking Lake Michigan and the Donges Bay Gorge wildlife preserve where the city’s celebrated bald eagle family flies.... Full Article at The Business Journal »
Winona man donates Fountain City area bluff to Mississippi Valley Conservancy — 12/18/2008
As a young man, Stanley Ledebuhr used to bow-hunt and watch peregrine falcons nest on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River near Fountain City, Wis.... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Agreement protects farm in 'The Land Remembers' — 12/15/2008
One of Wisconsin's most beloved landscapes, the ridgetop farm in the state's southwestern corner that was the heart of Ben Logan's book, "The Land Remembers," will be forever protected as part of an agreement the author has signed with the Mississipp... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
Stewards to help secure easement — 11/25/2008
When the Stewards of the Dells of the Wisconsin River established itself in 2006, its mission was to preserve and protect the scenic, historic, geological and archaeological features and ecological well-being of the river.... Full Article at Wisconsin Dells Events »
Land trust buys Squires Country Club — 11/20/2008
The Ozaukee Washington Land Trust has purchased the 142-acre Squires Country Club on Lake Michigan in the Town of Belgium at a cost of $2.54 million, land trust Executive Director Shawn Graff said today. The land trust secured a mortgage loan and ... Full Article at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel »
Pollution suit settled over Sheboygan County plant — 10/31/2008
State Justice Department officials report a settlement of a pollution lawsuit targeting a whey processing plant in Sheboygan County.The complaint filed against Milk Specialties Co. at the request of the Department of Natural Resources said restrictio... Full Article at Sheboygan Press »
DNR to accept donation of 440 acres in Lower Wolf River — 10/23/2008
The Department of Natural Resources Board agreed Wednesday to accept the donation of 440 acres in the Lower Wolf River management area after it is acquired by a non-profit trust. Called the Winneconne Wetlands, the 441-acre property located in the... Full Article at Oshkosh Northwestern »
Businessman Richard Larson donates time, removes tires from Point Creek Natural Area — 10/19/2008
Richard Larson didn't have to quit his day job to perform a good environmental deed this month. Larson, who owns Whitewall Tire Co. in Newton, donated his time beginning Oct. 9 to help dispose of tires abandoned for years at the Point Creek Natural ... Full Article at Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter »
Volunteers to bring trail to campus — 10/16/2008
Tents and trailers marked the arrival of volunteers on the UW-Baraboo/Sauk County campus Wednesday afternoon. People from across the state are in Baraboo this week to create a path to Devil's Lake State Park starting from the campus.... Full Article at Baraboo News Republic »
Hike celebrates permanent protection of Ice Age Trail segment — 10/16/2008
A secluded, 2.5-mile hiking trail that connects busy Paradise Drive to Ridge Run County Park is permanently protected because of two acquisitions by conservation foundations. Both acquisitions will be celebrated with a guide hike, brief ceremony a... Full Article at GM Today »
Help protect our priceless waters — 10/11/2008
A Journal Sentinel editorial recently called attention to three pieces of federal legislation that will influence the fate of the Great Lakes (“Great Lakes deserve equally great protection,” Sept. 21). One of those, the Great Lakes compact, has passe... Full Article at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel »
Ice Age Trail adds length — 10/11/2008
The public is invited Saturday to enjoy fall colors while hiking a new segment of the Ice Age Trail in Washington County. The trail now crosses a 37-acre property north of Paradise Drive and west of 18th Ave. purchased by the Cedar Lakes Conservatio... Full Article at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel »
Yahara lakes get attention — 10/05/2008
In the spring of 2007, at a major conference on the future of the Yahara lakes, historian David Mollenhoff challenged the region's leaders and citizens to come together and create a new vision for taking care of what some have called its "tainted jew... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
Working together to benefit us all — 10/03/2008
When the Mississippi Valley Conservancy was honored as Land Trust of the Year recently, MVC shared the award spotlight with two Wisconsin legislators, who were honored for something as endangered as bluffland goat prairies. Sen. Robert Cowles, R-A... Full Article at Coulee News »
Great Lake Gathering touts local conservation — 10/02/2008
The Lake Michigan Basin is critical to the economy and quality of life in Sheboygan and much of Wisconsin, but it won't conserve itself.That was the message Wednesday as about 100 Sheboygan-area leaders and residents assembled for the Great Lake Gath... Full Article at Sheboygan Press »
Leaves turning in time for annual Ice Age hike — 10/02/2008
The Ice Age Park and Trail Foundation will sponsor a hike on the Chippewa Moraine segment of the Ice Age Trail between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday. Free registration is from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Chippewa Moraine Visitor Center on Highway M east of N... Full Article at Leader-Telegram »
Conference targets solutions for Yahara Lakes — 09/25/2008
The woes of the Yahara Lakes are obvious: murky waters, noxious algae blooms, choking weeds. The causes, too, are well known: nutrient pollution from farm fields and residential lawns, loose soil from construction sites, chemical contaminants from... Full Article at University of Wisconsin-Madison News »
MVC honored with statewide land trust award — 09/24/2008
The Mississippi Valley Conservancy has been named Land Trust of the Year by Gathering Waters Conservancy, a statewide service center for Wisconsin’s more than 50 nonprofit land trusts. From humble beginnings 10 years ago, the Mississippi Valley Co... Full Article at Coulee News »
Outdoors activist trying to make trail dream into reality — 09/21/2008
Succeeding in acquiring 40 acres to expand High Cliff State Park as a volunteer would be a crowning achievement for a lot of people who love the outdoors.But for Jeff Samida, that was just the start. Samida, the former board president for Friends ... Full Article at Appleton Post-Crescent »
2nd Annual Tall Pines Fall Harvest October 11th — 09/17/2008
Tall Pines Conservancy will be hosting their second annual Fall Harvest on Saturday, October 11th from 6 to 11PM. This year, the event featuring square dancing, a country buffet and silent auction will be held at the Faye Gehl Conservation Foundat... Full Article at Lake Country Reporter »
Land trusts help protect Great Lakes, expert says — 09/17/2008
The growth of nonprofit and volunteer land trusts provide one of the best opportunities to restore the health of the Great Lakes, an environmental consultant told conservation, environmental and business leaders Tuesday. The protection of land from ... Full Article at Green Bay Press-Gazette »
State funds help buy two Door County sites — 09/11/2008
Gov. Jim Doyle stood Thursday on a windy bluff overlooking undeveloped Lake Michigan frontage purchased with almost $2 million in grants awarded through the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund.... Full Article at Green Bay Press-Gazette »
Land trust seeks to preserve — 09/11/2008
The West Wisconsin Land Trust has applied for a 50 percent matching grant from the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program to assist with the purchase of about 316 acres in the town of Somerset in St. Croix County. The land trust will provide the matching... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
Sherman Creek park to remain a treasure forever — 09/10/2008
The birds chirped, the squirrels chattered and the leaves rustled in the breeze Wednesday morning as I strode along a forest path I hadn't visited for three decades. On a magnificent late summer day, with sunshine filtering through the canopy of p... Full Article at Leader-Telegram »
Land Trust looks to purchase land in Town of Somerset — 09/04/2008
The West Wisconsin Land Trust wants to purchase approximately 316 acres of land in the Town of Somerset and has applied for a 50 percent matching grant... Full Article at New Richmond News »
Land Trust Group Protects Wilderness — 08/30/2008
Bryan Pierce is the executive director of the Northwoods Land Trust. Pierce says, "We're up in the upper right hand corner here, and you can see where the river twists and turns and where we'll be paddling down the river." This is the second year ... Full Article at WJFW Newswatch 12 »
‘White Christmas’ tickets support land trust — 08/28/2008
In a partnership with the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, 345 Washington St. in St. Paul, the Kinnickinnic River Land Trust offers a way to enjoy a classic holiday story and support KRLT simultaneously.... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
KRLT seeks accreditation — 08/27/2008
The Kinnickinnic River Land Trust Inc., incorporated in 1993 as a non-profit community-based land trust, has applied for national accreditation through the Land Trust Accreditation Commission. As part of this application, a public comment period is o... Full Article at Hudson Star-Observer »
Conservation area near Maiden Rock is open to public, but known to few — 08/25/2008
Preserved forever. That’s the status of Pine Creek park, a 10-acre nature area off Highway 35 just east of Maiden Rock. The public is welcome to roam this unusual piece of land, though to call it a park might be stretching things. It has no ame... Full Article at Hudson Star-Observer »
Fundraising veteran joins MVC team — 08/21/2008
A veteran local fundraiser has joined Mississippi Valley Conservancy as advancement director. Kathy Frise, who served for 12 years as adult program director for the La Crosse Area Family YMCA, began her new job with MVC on Aug. 11, according to Ti... Full Article at Homen Courier »
Lake Michigan Shorelands Alliance Announces Launch of the Great Lake Gatherings — 08/05/2008
Six land trusts that are members of the Lake Michigan Shorelands Alliance (LMSA) have announced they are hosting four Great Lake Gatherings early this fall in Wisconsin’s Lake Michigan Basin in Green Bay, Mequon, Milwaukee and Sheboygan. The Great La... Full Article at Press Release »
Local groups work to save Cedar Creek Wetlands — 07/23/2008
As a conservation warden in Chippewa County, Dean Gullickson used to spend some spring nights prowling the Cedar Creek Wetlands to make sure poachers kept their hands off walleyes that ran up the small creek from Lower Long Lake to spawn. Now reti... Full Article at Leader-Telegram »
Caledonia Conservancy dedicates park land — 07/21/2008
About 45 acres of park land in the village were dedicated this month. The Caledonia Conservancy, a non-profit land trust, recently held dedications for two parks. On Sunday, they dedicated a 32.5-acre parcel of land at the corner of 5 Mile Road a... Full Article at Journal Times »
Landowners can help endangered butterfly — 07/19/2008
If you have a farm field in Eau Claire or Jackson counties and the soil is a bit sandy and you like rare butterflies and prairie plants, the federal Farm Service Agency and West Wisconsin Land Trust may have a deal for you.... Full Article at Leader-Telegram »
Prairie remnants host species of conservation concern — 07/17/2008
President Teddy Roosevelt is said to have remarked that anyone could love a mountain, but it takes soul to love a prairie. That being true, there are lots of souls in Crawford County, the heart of coulee country in southwestern Wisconsin, who appr... Full Article at Capital Times »
State’s largest conservancy gift leaves ‘a legacy’ — 07/11/2008
Southwestern Waukesha County is the recipient of the state’s greatest conservancy gift.A 374-acre property, along with a home and personal possessions - all valued at more than $12 million - were given to The Nature Conservancy in the wills of Newell... Full Article at GMToday »
The nation takes to the trails — 06/06/2008
In an era of material stockpiling, Saturday is set aside to celebrate a valuable commodity that can be possessed but not owned. Those who enjoy and build the pathways into the woods will celebrate National Trails Day, with a Mammoth Hike on the Ic... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Land Conservationists Gather to Learn from Peers — 06/04/2008
More than 35 conservationists from land trusts around the state will gather for a fun and educational weekend in La Crosse at the 9th Annual Wisconsin Land Trust Retreat on June 6 and 7. Attendees -- who represent fifteen different Wisconsin land tr... Full Article at Press Release »
Happy trails — 06/04/2008
Renee Malak plans to get up bright and early Saturday morning to go for a walk. It won’t be just any walk. It’ll be a hike with a purpose. Malak, 47, of Wausau and her friend Erin Medin will be two of hundreds of people participating in the Mammot... Full Article at Wausau Daily Herald »
State acquires land for critical link of Ice Age trail — 06/03/2008
The State of Wisconsin has acquired a parcel of land in Marathon County to complete a critical link of the Ice Age Trail. The 757 acres of Wausau Paper property is located northwest of the community of Hatley, along what had been a 2-mile temporary s... Full Article at New Richmond News »
Ice Age Trail Gets a Boost — 05/30/2008
The Ice Age Trail and Park Foundation is getting a boost. The-non profit organization has been around for 50 years, to help preserve and protect the trail that runs throughout Wisconsin. Today Governor Jim Doyle announced the state has purchased... Full Article at WSAW TV »
County conservation grants awarded to 14 groups — 05/30/2008
The Dane County Environmental Council has awarded almost $28,000 to 14 organizations for projects designed to preserve and protect nature and the environment. The annual conservation grants were announced Thursday by Dane County Executive Kathleen... Full Article at Capital Times »
Pat Hitchcock: Land lover — 05/29/2008
Pat Hitchcock is sitting at a red picnic table on the farmstead where she has lived for more than 40 years. Situated in a shallow unglaciated bowl ringed by verdant hills south of Mount Horeb, her home is a 160-acre segment of Donald County Park, one... Full Article at Isthmus »
Nature Expanded — 05/29/2008
"All of this has come together to give us a very special gift for those that are going to come after us," said Lloyd Eagan from the DNR as she opened the ceremonies where the announcement was made official. Rising 400 feet above the Lodi Valley, t... Full Article at nbc15.com »
Land deal protects 1,135 acres east of Hayward — 05/22/2008
More than 1,000 acres of private land will remain pristine and undeveloped under a land deal announced Wednesday with the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and the Trust for Public Land. The private land in Sawyer County... Full Article at Duluth News Tribune »
Fourth graders participate in annual History Days — 05/21/2008
The deer and beaver were hard to hunt and the wigwam was cold. However, lacrosse was way fun and building fires was scary but cool. These were just a few of the impressions given by Mrs. Henning’s fourth grade students from Cedar Falls Elementary ... Full Article at Dunn County News »
Supervisors to learn about planning tool — 05/17/2008
Rock County officials on Tuesday will learn about a tool for preserving farmland and planning for development. At 7 p.m. in the jury selection room at the Rock County Courthouse, county board supervisors and members of the Rock County Towns Associ... Full Article at Janesville Gazette »
— 05/16/2008
The big Kinnickinnic River cleanup is Saturday morning. Sponsored by the Kinnickinnic River Land Trust (KRLT), the event kicks off in the ShopKo parking lot at 9:30 a.m. Volunteers can register there... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
Join Family Field Day near River Falls — 05/13/2008
The Kinnickinnic River Land Trust is co-hosting a family field day in the forests around 11230 County Road FF, southwest of River ...... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
Paradise in Our Own Back Yard — 05/07/2008
There’s no need to haul canoes, hiking shoes or mountain bikes Up North. Milwaukeeans have paradise in our own back yard. The Milwaukee River valley—home to factories and condos, as well as endangered but vibrant plants, animals and birds—has the pot... Full Article at Sheperd Express »
Ice Age Trail: Revised edition — 05/01/2008
Andrew Hanson has the look of someone allowing himself a few moments to savor recent accomplishments before returning to the next tasks at hand. That's how it is blazing the Ice Age Trail. As soon as another segment is established, maintenance begins... Full Article at Isthmus »
NCCT Board Member Feature — 04/30/2008
Another alumna whose passion and commitment to a cause with far-reaching impact is Sandi Cihlar, Group 4 alumna and former Board member. She’s not afraid to make her point and she won’t be intimidated by public officials or the public process. San... Full Article»
Hundreds to battle plant pests — 04/29/2008
More than 450 AmeriCorps volunteers will roam Sauk County one day next month in what might be the largest single-day invasive plant removal project ever organized in Wisconsin. The effort will be part of a graduation project for Wisconsin AmeriCor... Full Article at Baraboo News Republic »
Lidholm's hike provides miles of smiles — 04/28/2008
Boy, Lyle Lidholm sure wants that patch. Lidholm, 75, is nearing completion of a 1,099˝-mile hike of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, which snakes its way across Wisconsin, from Interstate State Park in St. Croix Falls to Potawatomi State Park i... Full Article at Manitowoc Herald Times »
Natural generosity — 04/27/2008
If Uncle Bud had sold his land on the Rush River, his heirs could have split upwards of a million dollars. But the late Herbert Koch - "Uncle Bud" to family members - had other ideas. His final instructions to family members and a close friend wer... Full Article at Leader-Telegram »
Energy cooperative preserves bluff land — 04/27/2008
Dairyland Power Cooperative has permanently preserved 110 acres of Mississippi River bluff land near Alma through the Mississippi Valley Conservancy. The land borders Highway 35, also known as the Great River Road. It has rare oak savanna habitat,... Full Article at Leader-Telegram »
Care for creatures and land — 04/27/2008
From birds to land preservation, visitors perused exhibits on many subjects during the annual Earth Day celebration Sunday at the Rock Springs Memorial Community Center. Reedsburg resident Audrey Fuller brought her daughters, Cassie, 9, and Mandi,... Full Article at Baraboo New Republic »
In praise of open space — 04/27/2008
The Ozaukee Washington Land Trust has taken on a formidable task - more precisely, two formidable tasks - that will require the organization to raise a sizable chunk of change in the coming months. But if it is able to meet the challenge, future gene... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Preserving Our Bluffland — 04/26/2008
Tuesday was Earth Day and to help mark the occasion 2 local groups announce a plan to help protect our local environment. The bluffland is on the Mississippi river near Alma, WI. Dairyland Power Cooperative owns the land and they are teaming up w... Full Article at WKBT La Crosse »
Northwoods Land Trust Property — 04/23/2008
A local man signed sone papers to preserve land in the Northwoods. Roger Degris of Rhinelander signed a grant of conservation easement to the Northwoods Land Trust. He did this to permanently protect 20 acres of land and over three thousand fee... Full Article at WJFW TV »
Land Trust Marks 25 Years of Conservation Success with Stewardship Awards Celebration — 04/23/2008
The Natural Heritage Land Trust, formerly the Dane County Natural Heritage Foundation, will commemorate 25 years of voluntary land conservation success at its Stewardship Awards Celebration at Monona Terrace on May 1, 2008 starting at 5:30 pm. From ... Full Article at Press Release »
Dairyland to Preserve Bluffland on Mississippi River — 04/23/2008
April 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Dairyland Power Cooperative has granted a conservation easement to Mississippi Valley Conservancy (MVC) to permanently preserve 110 acres of Mississippi River bluffland near Alma, Wis., in Buffalo County. Dairyland... Full Article at Press Release »
Power cooperative makes move to preserve Mississippi bluff land — 04/23/2008
A 110-acre parcel of Mississippi River bluff land has been preserved by La Crosse-based Dairyland Power Cooperative. The cooperative has granted an easement to the Mississippi Valley Conservatory for the land which is located near Alma and borders... Full Article at Pierce County Herald »
Bluffland Preservation — 04/22/2008
A local power company is preserving more than 100 acres. Dairyland Power Cooperative is allowing the Mississippi Valley Conservancy to permanently preserve 110 acres of bluffland along the Mississippi River near Alma. The river and bluffs there... Full Article at WEAU »
Cherokee Marsh gets preservation funds — 04/22/2008
The preservation of Cherokee Marsh received a major boost today with the announcement of the purchase of 259 acres of wetlands and uplands, thanks to more than $3 million in grants from the state Stewardship Fund and monies from Dane County and the c... Full Article at Capital Times »
New CRP Enrollment Sign-Up Begins May 1 — 04/22/2008
Wisconsin landowners in five environmentally sensitive areas will soon have the opportunity to enroll up to 13,000 acres of land in a new Conservation Reserve Program practice called SAFE, which stands for State Acres For Wildlife Enhancement. Sign-... Full Article at Wisconsin Ag Connection »
Protected wetlands and uplands of Cherokee Marsh grow by 259 acres — 04/22/2008
City, county and state officials are marking Earth Day with an announcement on Tuesday regarding their joint acquisition of 259 acres in Cherokee Marsh wetlands and adjacent Yahara uplands. Pending approval this coming Thursday by the Dane County Boa... Full Article at Isthmus »
MMSD OKs Mequon shoreline easement — 04/21/2008
The Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District's commission this morning approved spending $600,000 to acquire a conservation easement prohibiting development of 23-acres along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Mequon that is home to a nesting pair of bal... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
100 years of parks: Officials look to future as city system marks anniversary — 04/20/2008
To explain the future of parks in La Crosse, three men use three maps. Sitting in the Mississippi Valley Conservancy office, executive director Tim Jacobson pulls out the La Crosse Bluffland Preservation map. It shows about 3,000 acres of land on the... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Building the Ice Age Trail — 04/17/2008
It was a Wisconsinite, Senator Gaylord Nelson, who inaugurated our nation’s National Scenic Trail System. The first two trails, The Appalachian Trail in the eastern U.S. and the Pacific Crest Trail in the western U.S may be known to many Americans. B... Full Article at WPT In Wisconsin »
Volunteers needed for prairie bio-blitz — 04/17/2008
Mississippi Valley Conservancy will host its first-ever bio-blitz at the Holland Sand Prairie just west of Holmen and north of McHugh Road near Highway 53. A bio-blitz provides an opportunity for volunteers to work alongside professional biologist... Full Article at Holmen Courier »
Patience and the Token Creek Watershed Association — 04/16/2008
John Hutchinson attributes his patience to his parents. It's unclear whether he means this in terms of genetic inheritance or his upbringing. But in talking about efforts to preserve and protect the Token Creek watershed, Hutchinson is clear as sprin... Full Article at Isthmus »
Squires golf course will become a preserve — 04/16/2008
After seven decades, the flags and tee markers of the 142-acre Squires Country Club on Lake Michigan will be removed at the end of this season to prepare for its transformation to a nature preserve. Owners Bruce and Bonnie Bloemer have accepted th... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Honored for expansion at Ashwabay — 04/15/2008
A surprise announcement was made last Saturday at the Bayfield Regional Conservancy’s (BRC) pancake breakfast fundraiser at Mt. Ashwabay. Ruth Oppedahl, executive director for the BRC, was honored for her exemplary work towards creating one of the la... Full Article at Bayfield County Journal »
Fishing Is Big Business For Driftless Area, Study Shows — 04/15/2008
Fishing generates more than a billion dollars for the Driftless Area's economy, according to a report released Monday. Researchers with Madison-based NorthStar Economics Inc., surveyed trout stamp holders in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa about the... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
The eagles have landed — 04/12/2008
This city's bald eagle census might soar to four soon.For much of February, a pair of adult bald eagles were adding branches to their Lake Michigan shoreline nest, making it wider and deeper, nearby resident Don Edwards said. Their behavior change... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Nature preserve names new director — 04/10/2008
Susan Buchanan, the former director of the Waukesha Business Improvement District, is now executive director of Tall Pines Conservancy, a preservation trust of nearly 240 acres in northwestern Waukesha County.Buchanan said she is excited about workin... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
MMSD might help preserve eagles' site — 04/07/2008
The Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District would become a partner with the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust in preserving the wooded ravine and bluff in Mequon where a pair of adult bald eagles is nesting for the second consecutive year, under a propo... Full Article at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel »
Annual conservation awards banquet planned for April 8 — 03/27/2008
The La Crosse County Conservation Alliance’s 32nd annual awards banquet will be held April 8 beginning at 6 p.m. at the Baus Haus in La Crosse. Recognition awards for outstanding conservation efforts will be presented to two local groups and one i... Full Article at Onalaska Life »
Watertown man walks Ice Age Trail — 03/27/2008
Through wind, snow, ice, rain and lightning, Lyle Lidholm, 75, a retired timber framer from Watertown, is taking one step at a time and coming close to completing the 1,100 mile long Ice Age National Scenic Trail in Wisconsin. Only about 35 others ha... Full Article at Watertown Daily Times »
Audubon Society recognizes FBEC — 03/25/2008
The Madison Audubon Society recognized the Ferry Bluff Eagle Council for its 20 years of conservation work March 18 at the UW Memorial Union. The society presented the conservation group with the Joseph Hickey Award for Excellence in Bird Conserva... Full Article at Sauk Prairie Eagle »
DNR Chief Sees Cleaner Lakes Ahead — 03/12/2008
Matt Frank and his three sons like to go water skiing on Lake Mendota, so nobody has to tell the secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources how putrid the water can be on a mid-summer's afternoon. No, he doesn't hold his nose when ... Full Article at Capital Times »
Preserving Land and Water — 03/07/2008
Gathering Waters Conservancy in Madison works toward small... and big... land preservation victories in Wisconsin. We'll learn about the many ways to conserve the state's farmland, prairies, lakes and forests.... Full Article at WUWM Radio - Lake Effect »
Mississippi Valley Conservancy welcomes new board members — 02/28/2008
Three new members have joined the 23-member board of directors for the Mississippi Valley Conservancy, a local nonprofit land trust. Barbara Hammes, Dale Hein and Charles Lee will each serve three-year terms. Hammes grew up in La Crosse and loves ... Full Article at Onalaska Life »
Local chapter hosts prairie conference — 02/28/2008
The Coulee Chapter of The Prairie Enthusiasts is set to host this year’s annual All-Chapter Prairie Conference and Banquet on Saturday, March 8, at the Cartwright Center on the campus of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. The Prairie Enthusias... Full Article at Onalaska Life »
Drumlin Trust to host speaker — 02/27/2008
The Drumlin Area Land Trust, together with Jefferson County Farm Bureau and Town and Country RC&D are bringing Scott Everett, of American Farmland Trust, to the Watertown Senior Center, 514 S. First St., for two educational events. On March 25 a... Full Article at Beaver Dam Daily Citizen »
Storm damage clean up at Red Cedar cut-off — 02/27/2008
In 2007, West Wisconsin Land Trust (WWLT) purchased the Red Cedar Cut-Off property with the assistance of the greater Dunn County conservation community as well as other partner organizations and funding sources. While the property is open to the ... Full Article at Dunn County News »
IAPTF Celebrates 50 Years of Creating, Supporting and Protecting the Ice Age National Scenic Trail — 02/25/2008
Since 1958, the Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation (IAPTF), a nonprofit volunteer- and member-based organization headquartered in Madison, has been working to build and promote the Ice Age Trail, a thousand-mile footpath through Wisconsin highlighti... Full Article»
Audubon Society chooses winners — 02/21/2008
The Madison Audubon Society has selected outstanding local conservationists with its annual excellence awards for their dedication to restoring natural habitats, protecting birds and community education. The society will honor two Milton couples w... Full Article at Capital Times »
Speaker claims economy is on crash course — 02/20/2008
"Can humanity shift its thinking away from the current economic system of 'more cheap stuff' towards one which recognizes and protects the unique human and natural characteristics of our communities?" This was the proposition presented by John Ike... Full Article at Sauk Prairie Eagle »
Nominations being accepted for 2008 Leopold Conservation Award — 02/10/2008
Sand County Foundation, in partnership with the Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association, seeks Wisconsin landowners who exemplify land stewardship as nominees for the 2008 Leopold Conservation Award in Wisconsin.... Full Article at Press Release »
Counties join forces to investigate ways to protect farmland from development — 02/01/2008
James Servais, who retired from dairy farming a few years ago, doesn’t like the trend of developers eating up prime farmland. Servais, a Vernon County Board supervisor, organized a trip with land-use officials from Vernon and La Crosse counties to... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Harsdorf, Hraychuck hear out trail group — 01/30/2008
Filling the auditorium at Interstate Park, where a plaque marks the western edge of the 1,200-mile Ice Age Trail, local trail supporters gathered last Saturday to hear two state legislators speak on the importance of conservation. State Sen. Sheil... Full Article at Inter-County Leader »
Over 200 acres of area land added to Conservancy — 01/28/2008
The La Crosse-based Mississippi Valley Conserv-ancy has added more than 200 acres in two area counties to its registry of habitat protected from further development. In Vernon County, Joanne and Freddie Shird have signed a conservation agreement f... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Giving until it hurts — 01/26/2008
Ozaukee County residents are having to dig deep to ride bikes, go ice skating or adopt a pet, among others things.That's because many of the things that make life more enjoyable in one of the state's wealthiest counties are being paid for by private ... Full Article at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel »
Habitat from humanity — 01/24/2008
Outside Kyote's Den, a rural bar west of Menomonie, light snow fell Monday night. Poor driving conditions had prevented some people from traveling from Minnesota, but about 25 people from around western Wisconsin found their way to what has become th... Full Article at Leader-Telegram »
Helping birds in Wisconsin truly a group effort — 01/23/2008
The Wisconsin Bird Conservation Initiative (WBCI) is a partnership of more than 163 organizations around the state involved with bird conservation. Andy Paulios, wildlife biologist for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and coordinator ... Full Article at Capital Times »
Conservancy, FSPA forge partnership — 01/18/2008
The Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration have entered into a corporate partnership with the Mississippi Valley Conservancy, making it the first religious organization to partner with the conservancy, officials said. The Catholic sisters gave ... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
TU's Driftless Area Restoration Effort a major project — 01/16/2008
Trout Unlimited has embarked on a large project in southwestern Wisconsin, known as the Driftless Area Restoration Effort (DARE), to link upland conservation efforts with stream restoration. The result should improve water quality, fish habitat an... Full Article at Capital Times »
Calling for nominations--Land Trust Stewardship Awards — 01/16/2008
The Natural Heritage Land Trust is seeking nominations for conservation leaders to be honored at its 25th Anniversary Stewardship Awards celebration on May 1, 2008 at Monona Terrace. Deadline for nominations is February 19, 2008. “The awards progra... Full Article at Press Release »
Evjue grant aids local land preservation — 01/15/2008
Dear Editor: Thank you to The Evjue Foundation, the charitable arm of The Capital Times, for helping us establish a nature preserve at Patrick Marsh near Sun Prairie with a grant of $5,000.... Full Article at Capital Times »
Holding down developments — 01/14/2008
He admits his motives weren’t purely altruistic. Even so, Gary Sommers has made it so 600 acres of farmland in Clinton Township will stay farmland forever. Sommers, 8829 E. County P, Clinton, will donate the right to develop his farmland to the... Full Article at Janesville Gazette »
Governor Doyle Announces $4.1 Million for Door County Coastal Wetlands — 01/14/2008
Governor Doyle announced today $4.1 million that will be used for land purchases in Door County that will increase protection of plant and animal species that are endangered, threatened, and of special-concern; preserve unique Lake Michigan coastal w... Full Article at WiBusiness.com »
Conservancy receives donation of 16.5 acres — 01/13/2008
The Caledonia Conservancy, Ltd. received a 16-˝ acre parcel of land from Conservancy benefactor Toni Ehrlich. This generous donation will ensure that the main artery of Caledonia’s unique system of horseback riding and hiking trails is protected. T... Full Article at Press Release »
For future generations — 01/06/2008
Ozaukee County supervisors and the good folks of the Town of Belgium have a problem. Maintaining the Squires Country Club as an 18-hole golf course is apparently no longer economically feasible. But many neighbors don't much like the two options that... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Nature Conservancy gets gifts of 374 acres — 12/29/2007
It's being touted as one of the largest land donations ever made to The Nature Conservancy in Wisconsin - 374 acres about 45 miles southwest of Milwaukee at some of the headwaters of the pristine Mukwonago River. Sandhill cranes, ducks and geese k... Full Article at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel »
Conservation agreements protect Little Amnicon River headwaters — 12/28/2007
Two conservation agreements with West Wisconsin Land Trust permanently protect two wild bog lakes at the headwaters of the Little Amnicon River. The properties in Douglas County will remain forested with no significant disturbance of the land’s natur... Full Article at Duluth News Tribune »
MVC acquires massive grassland area — 12/27/2007
State fund helps preserve Northern Engraving land with unique bird habitat Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle, Sen. Dan Kapanke, Assembly Speaker Mike Huebsch and Department of Natural Resources Secretary Matt Frank visited La Crosse Wednesday to present a ... Full Article at Holmen Courier »
Eagle area land donated for sanctuary — 12/27/2007
An Eagle couple who loved nature, birds and animals donated 374 acres, cash and other assets worth about $12.5 million to the Nature Conservancy for a nature sanctuary near the Mukwonago River, the group said Wednesday. The gift from the late Newe... Full Article at Watertown Daily Times »
Land Will Be Protected from Development — 12/27/2007
More than 300 acres of land near Holmen will be protected from development, thanks to a special grant. Governor Doyle announced Wednesday that a nearly $1 million stewardship grant will go to the Mississippi Valley Conservancy. The money will be ... Full Article at WKBT La Crosse »
Land trust makes offer on golf course — 12/26/2007
The Ozaukee Washington Land Trust has offered to buy the 142-acre Squires Country Club golf course near Lake Michigan in northern Ozaukee County for more than $2 million, in hopes of converting the property into a nature preserve, a proposal that has... Full Article at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel »
Trust, couple preserve historic camping site — 12/26/2007
It was once Chief Black Hawk’s favorite camping ground. Now it will be preserved forever. Linn and Ann Duesterbeck of Milton worked with the Land Trust Network of Jefferson County to preserve 65 acres of wetlands and uplands on the southeast side ... Full Article at Janesville Gazette »
Wild Bog Lakes Protected at Little Amnicon — 12/24/2007
West Wisconsin Land Trust recently completed two more conservation agreements, working with landowners to permanently protect two wild bog lakes, both at the headwaters of the Little Amnicon River in Douglas County. The conservation agreements emphas... Full Article at Sawyer County Record »
Conservancy adds 318 prairie acres — 12/20/2007
The Mississippi Valley Conservancy has added 318 grassland acres near Holmen, Wis., to its roster. Gov. Jim Doyle announced the $2 million acquisition Wednesday during an appearance at US Bank in La Crosse. Private donations will supplement a $96... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Dollars for Open Space Raises $22,000 for DCLT — 12/19/2007
If visitors love Door County's natural beauty, and those visitors become customers of local businesses, then both groups should feel good about contributing to local land preservation efforts. That was the rationale behind the "Dollars for Open Sp... Full Article at Green Bay Press-Gazette »
City officially retains Simon Woods as nature preserve — 12/19/2007
The city of St. Croix Falls held a special dedication ceremony at the regular and only council meeting for December, on Monday. The dedication was the official transfer and preservation of the Simonson Woods, aka Simonwoods property, nka the Wert Nat... Full Article at Inter-County Leader »
Grassland Habitats get Grant for Protection — 12/19/2007
A combination of public money and private donations will lead to a $2 million project to buy more than 300 acres of grasslands in La Crosse County. Governor Jim Doyle announced a nearly $1 million grant on Wednesday for the Mississippi Valley Cons... Full Article at WEAU TV »
Partnership saves 'Cut-off' from development — 12/17/2007
Back in the lumber era, the Red Cedar River was a great waterway that transported logs to a growing nation. Now enjoyed for recreation, the river has a backwater channel — known locally as the “Cut-off” — that flourishes with abundant and diverse wil... Full Article at Dunn County News »
Old Maple Trees Protected in Northern Wisconsin — 12/13/2007
One of the state's most scenic overlooks is being put into permanent conservation in far northern Wisconsin. Mike Simonson reports that it was a 'coming together' of public and private money…... Full Article at Wisconsin Public Radio »
Wisconsin loses dedicated conservationist in Trainer — 12/12/2007
Wisconsin lost a dedicated conservationist Dec. 8 when Dan Trainer passed away. The 81-year-old retired dean of the College of Natural Resources at UW-Stevens Point had helped to begin a wildlife disease emphasis in Veternary Sciences at UW-Madiso... Full Article at Capital Times »
Bayfield Regional Conservancy Caps Key Land Purchase — 12/11/2007
A public-private partnership effort to acquire environmentally sensitive and valuable recreational lands will ensure public enjoyment of the Mount Ashwabay area for generations to come and provide a boost to the region's economy. Ruth Oppedahl, ex... Full Article at Cross Country Skier »
Conservancy buys bluff-top property — 12/11/2007
Mississippi Valley Conservancy has purchased a 28-acre bluff-top property along Dugway Road, just south of Bagley. Conservancy officials say the property is... Full Article at Dubuque Telegraph Herald »
Bayfield County celebrates land acquisition — 12/10/2007
A long-term effort to preserve Mount Ashwabay Outdoor Recreation Area has reached a successful end. A $40,000 contribution from Murphy Oil USA put the Bayfield Regional Conservancy’s drive “over the top,” said Ruth Oppedahl, conservancy executive dir... Full Article at Duluth Daily Telegram »
Shoreland Stewardship Awards — 12/07/2007
We’ve started a new program to reward waterfront property owners who keep Wisconsin lakes and rivers clean, healthy and beautiful by maintaining a natural, low maintenance landscape or by restoring their shoreline. Award winners selected through a... Full Article »
Donation will protect conservation area near Spring Green — 12/04/2007
A chunk of land in the Wisconsin River Valley can no longer be developed thanks to a recent donation. "This gift will allow us to efficiently and effectively manage a conservation area that is now even larger and more significant," said Mary Jean ... Full Article at Baraboo News Republic »
Photo Contest Winners Announced — 12/03/2007
Winners of the second annual nature photo contest sponsored by Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation, Inc., a Wisconsin land trust organization, were announced Saturday at the organization’s Annual Meeting. Eileen Baldus, of West Bend, was aw... Full Article»
Nature Conservancy and Prairie Enthusiasts Partner to Expand Spring Green Prairie — 12/03/2007
The Nature Conservancy in Wisconsin announced today that it has acquired 144 acres of land in Sauk County in southwestern Wisconsin that will be added to the Conservancy’s Spring Green Preserve. The 144-acre property, located just north of the existi... Full Article at The Nature Conservancy »
Nature Conservancy and Prairie Enthusiasts Partner to Expand Spring Green Prairie — 12/03/2007
The Nature Conservancy in Wisconsin announced today that it has acquired 144 acres of land in Sauk County in southwestern Wisconsin that will be added to the Conservancy’s Spring Green Preserve. The 144-acre property, located just north of the existi... Full Article at Press Release »
Ice Age Park and Trail club meeting soon — 11/30/2007
The Lakeshore Chapter of the Ice Age Park and Trail Foundation will hold a meeting at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, at Woodland Dunes Nature Center. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a 1,000-mile path in Wisconsin in homage to the Ice Age. The Ice ... Full Article at Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter »
Creating a suburban woodland is speaker topic — 11/30/2007
An expert speaker will talk about how to create a suburban woodland from native plants when Wild Ones meets at 10 a.m. Saturday. The free meeting will be held at River Bend Nature Center, 3600 N. Green Bay Road. In her presentation, "My Surburb... Full Article at Journal Times »
A Pardeeville High School student helps restore 21 acres of prairie on school grounds — 11/28/2007
It will be a lasting legacy for the children and residents of Pardeeville and is, perhaps, the only one of its kind in the state. The Pardeeville School District is now home to a 21-acre restored prairie, thanks to the efforts of senior Evan Ducho... Full Article at Portage Daily Register »
Historic island protected on Little Sissabagama — 11/28/2007
West Wisconsin Land Trust, in partnership with the Little Sissabagama Shoreowners Association, has just completed a Land Protection Agreement for the 30-acre Frank Stout Island on Little Sissabagama Lake in Sawyer County. The conservation easement wa... Full Article at Sawyer County Record »
Dreaming of a green Christmas — 11/28/2007
You're wondering what to get the eco-sympathizer on your Christmas list. There was a time when that was a tougher challenge, but now all of the retailers and marketers have discovered green products. Green, it seems, is the new black.... Full Article at Appleton Post-Crescent »
Glacial Lakes fundraiser Saturday in Cleveland — 11/25/2007
Glacial Lakes Conservancy, the local land trust conservation organization, will hold its annual fundraising event at Saxon Creamery, a new cheesemaking operation in Cleveland, on Saturday from 5-8 p.m. The event will feature a silent auction and s... Full Article at Sheboygan Press »
Sun shines on the Pheasant Branch — 11/23/2007
Tom Bernthal burned some Thanksgiving dinner calories and broke in a pair of work gloves purchased by his wife at an early morning sale. Ed Wunder avoided the malls and did something good for his soul. "It 's healthful back here and gentle on o... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
Stewards to work with trust — 11/23/2007
Since Frank and Mariana Weinhold successfully established a conservation easement on Louis' Bluff this June, the Stewards of the Dells of the Wisconsin River have hoped to become a fundraising entity for other landowners to do the same. Following ... Full Article at Wisconsin Dells Events »
Developer pays to avoid suit — 11/22/2007
Developer Mark Carstensen has agreed to pay $46,000 to avoid a federal lawsuit over the destruction of wetlands at the site of a shopping center he is building at state Highway 100 and W. Drexel Ave. Under the terms of the agreement, signed late l... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Giving thanks for Goose Pond's visionaries — 11/21/2007
This week is a good time to give thanks for special gifts, and a perfect time to give thanks to the Madison Audubon Society -- not only for its efforts to improve natural resources in the state, but for its foresight in purchasing Goose Pond near Arl... Full Article at Capital Times »
Goose Pond property continues to evolve — 11/21/2007
Soon after the Madison Audubon Society bought Goose Pond in 1967, members Oliver and Ruth Wynn moved into the house at Goose Pond as property managers. Evelyn Werner, meanwhile, lived there as the first naturalist for MAS. Mark and Sue Foote-Ma... Full Article at Capital Times »
Orchard site to be preserved for perpetuity — 11/19/2007
Sitting on a designated Rustic Road adjacent to a huge state-managed prairie, Brightonwoods Orchard on Highway B north of Highway 142 is in many ways a throwback to simpler times. Now the Kenosha County orchard’s owners want future generations to ... Full Article at Journal Times »
Lady of the wood — 11/19/2007
Tired of Milwaukee sinking in national rankings? Want to stick your thumb in the eye of one of those upper-tier cities? How about New York?A new park, Mequon Nature Preserve in Ozaukee County, has taken root - one that, when combined with adjoining K... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Girl Scouts create prairie flower guide — 11/15/2007
Stopping to smell the flowers on the Holland Sand Prairie could be a little more informative thanks to the work of three Holmen Girl Scouts who unveiled a flower identification guide last week. Pam Betthauser, Corona Kenowski and Rachel Seebach — ... Full Article at Onalaska Life »
A banner year for land conservation in Kenosha and Racine counties — 11/15/2007
In 2007 the Kenosha/Racine Land Trust signed three conservation easements with private land owners totaling 383 acres. In addition, they accepted easements on 74 acres in two conservation subdivisions and on Monday, will close on a 15-acre parcel i... Full Article at Journal Times »
WPT Land Trust: Wild River Legacy Forest — 11/15/2007
101 square miles, that’s the size of the newly created Wild Rivers Legacy Forest in northeast Wisconsin. The forest is larger than the city of Milwaukee and within the forest’s borders are 48 lakes and ponds, and 70 miles of rivers and streams includ... Full Article at Wisconsin Public Television, In Wisconsin »
Local environmental studies teacher wins award — 11/14/2007
Add another name to the legendary voices from Wisconsin that have made the world a better place by speaking up for the environment. On Thursday, local teacher Deb Weitzel will receive the nation's first Bartlett Award to honor leadership in enviro... Full Article at Capital Times »
Conservation group protects 400-acre Bangor farmstead — 11/14/2007
Mississippi Valley Conservancy recently completed a conservation agreement with Leonard and Alberta Kick to permanently protect their 400-acre property in the town of Bangor in La Crosse County, near Middle Ridge. Leonard Kick, when asked why he t... Full Article at West Salem Coulee News »
Conservation group celebrates 10 years — 11/05/2007
The Mississippi Valley Conservancy has had a number of large land conservation success stories in its short life, said Executive Director Tim Jacobson. And at its 10th anniversary, the regional land trust will celebrate those and more than 5,300 ... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Mississippi Valley Conservancy to Celebrate 10 Years of Conservation Success with Banquet and Silent — 11/02/2007
Mississippi Valley Conservancy, a regional land trust based in La Crosse, will celebrate ten years of voluntary land conservation success at its 10th Annual Banquet on Thursday, November 8th, at the La Crosse Radisson Hotel Ballroom starting at 5:00 ... Full Article at Press Release »
Creating a future for prairies of the past — 11/02/2007
A small reminder of the area’s past will forever be protected, thanks to the generosity of a local family. Simon Prairie is the newest addition to a growing list of protected lands owned by the West Wisconsin Land Trust. The Trust now holds title ... Full Article at New Richmond News »
Restoration — 11/02/2007
Lois Albarado has a big family, but all of her siblings agreed they wanted to preserve the farm that was owned by their late parents. "Mother and Dad would've wanted it," Albarado, of Ellsworth, said tearfully. The family sold 89 acres to West ... Full Article at Eau Claire Leader-Telegram »
Hotekos help protect shoreline — 10/31/2007
Dimitri and Phyllis Hoteko celebrate the protection of their property on the Chippewa Flowage. The Hotekos granted an easement on their property to Couderay Waters Regional Land Trust. That means this very sensitive, beautiful portion of Sawyer Co... Full Article at Sawyer County Record »
Bring in a tax deduction for easements — 10/31/2007
A little-noticed federal tax law passed in August 2006 has enabled Larry and Pam Ristaneo of West Alexandria, Ohio, to protect and expand their farm operation so their two sons can come into the business. The same law has allowed dairy farme... Full Article at Midwest Extra »
Bakery helps protect marshland — 10/31/2007
For the head of Pan-O-Gold baking, investing in land conservation fits perfectly into his company's philosophy. "Eating healthy and being good stewards of the land is simply part of who we are," said Robin Alton, CEO of the Minnesota-based firm th... Full Article at Capital Times »
Natural Heritage Land Trust Protects Patrick Marsh — 10/29/2007
The Natural Heritage Land Trust and the Patrick Marsh Conservancy purchased 22.5 acres of restorable wildlife habitat on the southern side of Patrick Marsh by Sun Prairie on Friday. Patrick Marsh is designated as one of 229 Legacy Places in Wisconsin... Full Article at Press Release »
Robins, wildlife on the move — 10/25/2007
Although the temperatures were in the 70s last weekend, the natural world knew that it was time to move. A walk out in the woods at our cabin in Crawford County revealed a mass of robins in the trees. They were at the top of walnut trees, which lo... Full Article at Capital Times »
Preserving precious places — 10/25/2007
Since November 2000 members of the Lauderdale Lakes Conservancy have made it their mission to see that certain gorgeous and fascinatingly fabricated aspects of the area's natural history be protected from the developmental progress.... Full Article at Elkhorn Independent »
Land conservancy programs saving bluffland — 10/24/2007
As more of our pristine landscape is gobbled up by houses and streets, some landowners gaze across their unmarred vistas and shudder at the thought of sacrificing tranquility for a new tract of homes. For these landowners there is a solution, a w... Full Article»
New director, new direction for Baird Creek Preservation Foundation — 10/19/2007
Call it a coming of age for the Baird Creek Preservation Foundation. The organization, formed 10 years ago by a group of neighbors to fight development along the Baird Creek greenway, has been raising money, buying land, giving tours and fighting ... Full Article at Green Bay Press-Gazette »
Johnson Family Farm permanently protected — 10/19/2007
Rural River Falls couple Lyle and Roberta Johnson have partnered with The Kinnickinnic River Land Trust (KRLT) to permanently protect a 195-acre family farm through the purchase of a conservation easement. The farm, owned by the Johnsons, is located ... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
Second Annual Photo Contest Announced — 10/17/2007
Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation, Inc., a Wisconsin Land Trust organization, announced today the start of their second annual digital Photo Contest. This event is open to the public and was met with overwhelming success last year. Over 50 photos... Full Article at Press Release »
Northwoods Land Trust receives award — 10/15/2007
The Northwoods Land Trust has been recently named the 2007 Land Trust of the Year by Gathering Waters Conservancy, a statewide service center for Wisconsin’s 50 non-profit land trusts. In just six short years, the Northwoods Land Trust has establi... Full Article at Rhinelander Daily News »
The future of home building — 10/06/2007
When Pewaukee resident Becky Bathke was in the market for a new home, she hoped to find one in a subdivision that incorporated green space, trees and walking and biking paths. "I like the idea of not having houses on top of each other," Bathke sai... Full Article at The Freeman »
Great Pumpkin Festival raises funds for park 'friends' — 10/04/2007
The Friends of Sheboygan's Parks group has come a long way since it formed as a grassroots protest group hoping to save Sheridan Park from the wrecking ball. When the Sheboygan Common Council was debating whether to replace the park at South 14th ... Full Article at Sheboygan Press »
Expanding the definition of development for Little Trade Lake — 10/03/2007
Burnett County Supervisor Mary Falk is spearheading an effort to preserve the 46.2 acres of county-owned land on Little Trade Lake by developing a system of birding trails, scenic overlook and nonmotorized lake access for fishing or canoeing. Falk... Full Article at Inter-County Leader »
Grant County site now part of conservancy — 10/02/2007
Mississippi Valley Conservancy recently completed a conservation agreement with Helen and David MacGregor to permanently protect their 350-acre property in the town of Castle Rock in Grant County, Wis. The MVC says the agreement is a significant a... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Mississippi Valley Conservancy protects 350 incredibly rare acres — 09/30/2007
Mississippi Valley Conservancy (MVC) recently completed a conservation agreement with Helen and David MacGregor to permanently protect their 350-acre property in the Town of Castle Rock in Grant County, WI. The agreement is a significant achievement... Full Article»
Lake Geneva residents critical of proposed plan — 09/27/2007
People heaped plenty of criticism Wednesday on the proposed Mirbeau-Hummel plan for the south side of Lake Geneva. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, a steady trickle of people attended an open house at Lake Geneva City Hall. They looked at plans o... Full Article at Janesville Gazette »
Fall color hike planned on Ice Age Trail Oct. 6 — 09/26/2007
Discover the Ice Age Trail at its colorful best on Saturday morning, Oct. 6, at the “Parade of Colors Fall Hike” at the Chippewa Moraine Ice Age Reserve near New Auburn. Local Ice Age Trail chapter members will provide information, refreshments an... Full Article at Chippewa.com »
Join volunteers in city beach cleanup Saturday — 09/21/2007
For those of us lucky enough to live in Sheboygan County, it's easy to take for granted the amazing resource that borders our eastern edge. After all, Lake Michigan and its miles of beaches are just a short drive — or walk, for some — away. With a... Full Article at Sheboygan Press »
Grouse, butterflies get new home — 09/20/2007
While it represents only about one percent of the total area of Crex Meadows, the 320-acres in the northwestern corner of the meadows which is being purchased this fall in a conservation land sale, is critical to grouse and Karner Blue Butterfly habi... Full Article at Burnett County Sentinel »
Conservancy secures 756 acres in Buffalo County — 09/20/2007
The La Crosse-based Mississippi Valley Conservancy has added 756 acres in Buffalo County to land protected from further development. The Al and Carol Kube tract near Cochrane, Wis., is the largest land deal in the conservancy’s 10-year history. ... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Valiquettes donate land rights to MVC — 09/20/2007
Mississippi Valley Conservancy, a local nonprofit land trust, recently accepted a conservation agreement from Lynne and Keith Valiquette on their 160-acre Amundson Coulee property near Holmen. The conservation agreement ensures that very little devel... Full Article»
Conservation deal to preserve 756 acres — 09/20/2007
Al and Carol Kube have owned 756 acres near Cochrane, Wis., for 17 years and have lived on it for seven. Their love of wildlife inspired them to complete extensive conservation projects on the land for about 15 years. Now that their work is done,... Full Article at Winona Daily News »
Cleanup effort targets lakefront — 09/19/2007
anice Wittkopp is always looking for ways to help out the environment. This Saturday, the 57-year-old from Plymouth and other volunteers will be setting their sights on Sheboygan's lakefront. "It's a good idea to keep our beaches clean," said Witt... Full Article at Sheboygan Press »
New birding trail? — 09/18/2007
Ever since Burnett County bought the former Evans' property on Little Trade Lake in a tax deed sale, the question has been, "What to do with the land?" Originally there was some talk of doing a small housing development with lots of covenants to k... Full Article at Burnett County Sentinel »
Threat seen to Ice Age Trail — 09/17/2007
Thousands of years ago, the up-and-down landscape of western Dane County near Cross Plains was carved and shaped by a massive, moving sheet of ice. Today, that very countryside is being reshaped by housing developments and roads. A proposed housin... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
Holmen land placed in trust with conservancy — 09/17/2007
A 160-acre property in Amundson Coulee near Holmen is the latest addition to lands placed in trust with the Mississippi Valley Conservancy. The conservancy’s agreement with Lynne and Keith Valiquette means while they will retain ownership, the pro... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Program aspires to spread nature to kids — 09/16/2007
For the Herald - “Nature-Deficit Disorder” is the new buzzword coined by author Richard Louv in his book, “Last Child in the Woods.” Louv observes that for the past 15 years, kids are spending more free time inside rather than outdoors. He links the ... Full Article at Chippewa Herald »
Foundation has many funds, offers variety of field trips — 09/12/2007
The Natural Resources Foundation's Wisconsin Conservation Endowment currently has 20 named endowment funds and manages $1.25 million, with an estimated $3.5 million of estate gifts that are expected in the future. "If successful, this will be the ... Full Article at Capital Times »
Northwoods Land Trust Named Land Trust of the Year — 09/11/2007
The Northwoods Land Trust has been named Land Trust of the Year by Gathering Waters Conservancy, a statewide service center for Wisconsin’s 50 non-profit land trusts. In just six short years, the Northwoods Land Trust has established an impressive... Full Article»
Volunteers needed for beach clean up — 09/11/2007
The Friends of Sheboygan's Park, the Glacial Lakes Conservancy, the Sheboygan River Basin Partnership, the Sierra Club's John Muir Chapter and the City of Sheboygan Tourism Division invite local residents to participate in the 2007 Clean Beach Sweep,... Full Article at Sheboygan Press »
Ozaukee's effort to acquire golf course moves forward — 09/10/2007
The Ozaukee County Environment and Land Use Committee voted 4-1 Monday to apply for a federal grant that could be used to purchase the 142-acre Squires Country Club and convert it into a nature preserve.Monday's vote came after the County Board voted... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
New land trust director brings eco expertise — 09/07/2007
"In the end, it’s the people living in the place who end up doing it,” said Nelson French about conservation. The Kinnickinnic River Land Trust’s new executive director started his new job Aug. 20, filling a position that’s been vacant since early... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
Group celebrates conservation of Louis' Bluff — 09/06/2007
About 80 people gathered at the Frank and Mariana Weinhold residence Wednesday to celebrate the conservation of Louis' Bluff. "We owe Frank, Mariana and their children, a great debt of gratitude," said Jim Welsh, executive director of Natural Heri... Full Article at WiscNews.com »
Trailblazing in the town of Cross Plains — 09/06/2007
Drew Hanson doesn't want to be drawn into the fight over a proposed development in the town of Cross Plains. But he affirms the importance of this patch of land. "The geology of that area is absolutely unique in the world," says Hansen, trailway ... Full Article at Isthmus »
Races go Saturday on Tuscobia — 09/05/2007
Runners, walkers and Nordic walkers will take up the chase of the Woolly Mammoth Classic on the Tuscobia Trail on Saturday. The Woolly Mammoth - Hulda Hilfiker Memorial Run/Walk includes running and walking races of 5 and 10 kilometers, a 1-mile k... Full Article at Rice Lake Online »
Preserving Holland Sand Prairie a collaborative effort — 09/05/2007
It could have been a strip mall. You could have turned west on McHugh Road off Hwy. 53/35 and in less than three minutes have been in a food court. Or it could have been an industrial park. Instead, the 61 acres in the town of Holland will r... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
The Nature Conservancy in Wisconsin Transfers Native Grassland in Dane County to The Prairie Enthusi — 09/05/2007
The Nature Conservancy announced today that it has transferred ownership of Black Earth Rettenmund Prairie in Dane County to The Prairie Enthusiasts for long-term ownership and management. More than 80 native prairie plants have been identified on th... Full Article at Press Release »
Nature preserve grant sent to committee — 09/05/2007
The Ozaukee County Board of Supervisors on Wednesday voted 16-15 to let one of its committees decide whether to apply for a grant that could help buy the Squires Country Club golf course so it can be turned into a nature preserve.... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Stewards to raise funds for easements — 09/04/2007
The Stewards of the Dells of the Wisconsin River hope to become a fundraising entity for area landowners seeking a conservation easement. The effort follows the success of Frank and Mariana Weinhold, who worked with Natural Heritage Land Trust to ... Full Article at WiscNews.com »
Neighbors question preserve — 09/03/2007
Neighbors of Squires Country Club in the Town of Belgium say they need a lot more questions answered before the Ozaukee County Board votes to apply for grants that would help pay for converting the golf course into a 142-acre nature preserve.... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
From a little acorn sprouts a mighty effort — 09/01/2007
The Waukesha County Land Conservancy held a fund-raiser Aug. 24 at a farm that demonstrated the cause the conservancy champions. When Glenn and Tizza Meyer purchased the land in 1994, they became the owners of a 160-acre homestead that had been fa... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Ehrlich family donates land to Caledonia Conservancy — 08/31/2007
Caledonia Conservancy has been given nearly 33 acres of land that will be used for various outdoor activities, the group announced Friday. The 32.53-acre parcel of land at 4 Mile Road and Highway 31 was donated by Toni Ehrlich, a former long-time ... Full Article at Journal Times »
Wants land preserved — 08/31/2007
The Western Wisconsin Land Trust has indicated an interest in the county land adjacent to the county Government Center to put into a land trust. This would protect it and preserve it forever for future generations. This land has DNR-verified endan... Full Article at Hudson Star-Observer »
KRLT names new leader — 08/24/2007
The River Falls-based Kinnickinnic River Land Trust board this week picked Nelson T. French as the group’s new executive director. “We are pleased to have someone with Nelson’s skills and abilities join our organization,” KRLT board president Jack ... Full Article»
Land trusts all over state working on restoration — 08/23/2007
Dear Editor: I was pleased to see Tim Eisele's article on goat prairies, especially since he included resources for landowners who are interested in restoring prairies or other habitats on their land. One resource listed was the Mississippi Valley... Full Article at Capital Times »
Another farm protected in the Town of Dunn — 08/23/2007
On August 21, 2007, the Town of Dunn and the Natural Heritage Land Trust became co-holders of another farmland conservation easement yesterday. This easement permanently protects 93 acres of farmland in the Town. It is adjacent to several other c... Full Article at Press Release »
Volunteers sought — 08/21/2007
The Green Rock Audubon Society (GRAS) is looking for volunteers to help maintain and restore quality habitat. GRAS owns 250 acres and has agreements to care for anther 100 acres in Rock and Green counties. Tasks could include pulling and spraying ... Full Article at Monroe Times »
DNR Program Assists Landowner Prairie Restoration — 08/17/2007
The Landowner Incentive Program gives grants to help people restore prairies and savannas and create habitat for threatened plants and birds. "We just looked over there and there are two immature red-headed woodpeckers. They came in this year alre... Full Article at WMTV »
Land trust urges golf course closure — 08/15/2007
Converting Squires Country Club to a nature preserve would be a near boon financially to both the county and local privately owned golf courses, as well as to the environment, officials with the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust and other supporters of t... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
A new book for the land trust community released — 08/09/2007
Land Trusts and Biodiversity by Doug Booth book provides a comprehensive overview of how land trusts go about the task of conserving nature’s biological riches. As a land trust practitioner, you well know that land trusts are a new and growing ... Full Article at Press Release »
Help available for landowners — 08/08/2007
Rick Lange, USDA-NRCS district conservationist, said he sees more and more landowners interested in improving their land. He notes that there is some help available from agencies and organizations. Landowners are often encouraged to complete an in... Full Article at Capital Times »
Remnants of once great American grasslands are gems — 08/08/2007
The goats never did show up, but "goat prairies" were evident on a tour last week of small remnants of native prairie that used to cover the hillsides of western Wisconsin. The tour, organized by Rick Lange, district conservationist with the USDA-... Full Article at Capital Times »
The Land Remembers — 08/05/2007
Last December, on a brisk but bright winter day outside of Lake Mills, Dave Drapac of Madison joined dozens of volunteers on a 40-acre, snow-covered farm field. The group spent the better part of a day casting prairie plant seed on the frozen grou... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
Conservation group seeks to buy Ringle land — 07/30/2007
A nonprofit organization that buys land for conservation hopes to purchase 758 acres in town of Ringle by the end of the year. The land is home to a two-mile stretch of the Ice Age Trail. The Conservation Fund is working with the Wisconsin Departm... Full Article at Wausau Daily Herald »
Keeping state's forests intact takes new cooperative effort — 07/29/2007
You may never cast for brook trout in the Pine or Popple rivers in northern Florence County. Or topple a tree bound for a lumber mill in nearby Goodman in Marinette County. Or drag a deer, hike aspen slashing in search of fall grouse, wander th... Full Article at Appleton Post-Crescent »
Stairmasters: Volunteers help revamp trail to Devil's Staircase — 07/20/2007
The trail winding high on the bluffs overlooking the Rock River languished for decades. But on Thursday it brimmed with activity as people heaved pickaxes, hauled rocks and removed debris. "I think it'll make people want to enjoy it," said Bra... Full Article at Gazette Xtra »
Test project aims to keep runoff from lake — 07/18/2007
It's all about slowing the storm water flow, and making Sheboygan's lakefront beaches cleaner. City public works officials have begun collaborating with area environmental groups on a test project to help keep contaminated storm water running off ... Full Article at Sheboygan Press »
Caledonia Conservancy to host annual Poker Ride — 07/16/2007
Teams of mounted poker players are invited to ride the trails to round up the best poker hand during the Caledonia Conservancy’s sixth annual Poker Ride on July 28. The fundraising ride pits teams of two to six horseback riders against other teams... Full Article at Racine Report »
Protecting Planet Earth — 07/15/2007
When it comes to serving on the Wisconsin board of The Nature Conservancy, Claire Hackmann is a natural. "My father was a member of the Wisconsin board quite a few years ago," she says. "I know that was a philanthropic effort of his. So I’m sort of f... Full Article at GM Today »
Families add to conservation priority area — 07/15/2007
David and Teri Mills, and Thomas and Melinda Gladitsch have partnered with West Wisconsin Land Trust to conserve 15 acres of lake property in Chippewa County. The property is located on a peninsula in Long Lake, and includes 4,000 feet of shorelin... Full Article at Chippewa Valley Newspaper »
Military Ridge Prairie Heritage Area reminder of what Wisconsin has lost — 07/15/2007
Prairies were once common throughout the Midwest. Many have grown up into woodlands; others are now productive farmland; a few are remnants of what once covered at least two million acres in Wisconsin. Aldo Leopold wrote of Wisconsin's prairies: W... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
Grass is greener without endless building — 07/11/2007
Over at Caledonia’s Village Hall, they jokingly refer to the 230 acres Royse and Barbara Myers have compiled as “The Ponderosa”. “Call it what you want,” Royse tells them, “but you can’t have it.” Piece by piece, the couple acquired most of the tra... Full Article at Journal Times »
Counting down to eaglet's first flight — 07/10/2007
A 3-month-old bald eagle, the first to be born in the Milwaukee metropolitan area in 100 years, is spreading its wings and standing on the edge of a nest near the Lake Michigan shoreline but appears reluctant to make its first flight, observers said.... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Plotting a new course — 07/05/2007
Squires Country Club owners cited a dwindling number of golf rounds being played in the region as the primary reason they are negotiating the sale of the historic golf course overlooking Lake Michigan to the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust and Ozaukee ... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Couples protect shore property — 07/03/2007
David and Teri Mills and Thomas and Melinda Gladitsch have partnered with West Wisconsin Land Trust to conserve 15 acres of lake property in Chippewa County. The property is on a peninsula in Long Lake and includes 4,000 feet of shoreline. The ... Full Article at Leader-Telegram »
Thumbs up: To adding to the Avon Bottoms Wildlife Area — 07/02/2007
Gov. Jim Doyle announced Wednesday that the Natural Heritage Land Trust will give the state 351 acres adjoining the wildlife area in southwestern Rock County. The property was obtained with $227,000 from the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund and $633,0... Full Article at Gazette Xtra »
Doyle announces conservancy grant — 06/28/2007
The Mississippi Valley Conservancy received more than a quarter-million dollars from the state Wednesday to help support a purchase for the organization’s bluffland protection program. The $257,000 grant to the MVC was among seven Gov. Jim Doyle a... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Bobwhite decline would be big blow — 06/28/2007
A bird was the first Onalaska resident to greet me when we moved here 17 years ago on June 30. I had driven the rented moving van here ahead of the children and Gretchen. Arriving late I slept on the floor at the condominium we rented on East Avenue ... Full Article at Holmen Courier »
Town of Dunn & Natural Heritage Land Trust preserve 68 acres of farmland in Dane County — 06/27/2007
The Town of Dunn purchased a 68-acre conservation easement to protect the Everson Farm, located within Dane County’s Lower Mud Lake Natural Resource Area, on June 27, 2007. In the future, the Lower Yahara River Bike and Pedestrian Trail will cross th... Full Article at Press Release »
National trail gets a boost — 06/23/2007
As the 50th anniversary of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail approaches, plans for expansion are in the works. The 1,200-mile trail will expand through 31 counties in Wisconsin, thanks to a $2 million grant awarded Thursday from the Senate Appropr... Full Article at Baraboo News Republic »
Getting Lost in the Great Indoors — 06/19/2007
Linda Pelzman appreciates the beauty of the outdoor world, sometimes pulling her children into the yard to gaze at a full moon or peer into a dense fog. An educator and founder of a summer camp, she only wishes her enthusiasm was fully shared. On ... Full Article at Washington Post »
1,461-acre parcel in county returns to wetland with official dedication — 06/15/2007
Approximately 220 people enjoyed a sunny, warm day at Zeloski Marsh Thursday morning when members of various federal, state and local organizations, volunteers and other individuals gathered off the London Road entrance for the official dedication of... Full Article at Watertown Daily Times »
Nature at its best just off Highway 12 — 06/14/2007
Unless you've actually hiked some of the trails or spotted some of the rare plants and songbirds that inhabit the Baraboo Hills, you may not appreciate why it's one of the Midwest's most prized ecological jewels. So suggests Mary Jean Huston, stat... Full Article at Capital Times »
Road to compromise: Groundbreaking Hwy 12 accord working so far — 06/14/2007
It was hailed by those who crafted it as a landmark agreement -- one that not only would ensure a safer U.S. 12 but would limit sprawl and protect the renowned Baraboo Hills in Sauk County. But when the deal to widen the dangerous 17-mile stretch ... Full Article at Capital Times »
Family Forestry — 06/14/2007
There is a crisis brewing in America’s vast forest lands, but it has little to do with the health of the woods: the acreage is essentially the same as it was a century ago, and there is over 30 percent more wood volume per acre than in 1952. At st... Full Article at New York Times »
Restored wetland a marvel for engineers, wildlife — 06/13/2007
Not everything "returns to dust" and the proof will be evident Thursday with the dedication of a restored wetland and prairie at the Zeloski Marsh Unit of the Lake Mills Wildlife Area. What once was a wetland years ago but then was drained and tur... Full Article at Capital Times »
Council explores hiking path — 06/09/2007
People exploring the hillsides overlooking the Rock River would have an easier time after a proposed overhaul of an existing trail north of Riverside Park, city officials said. The city council will hear a proposal Monday night from Tom Presny, ci... Full Article at Janesville Gazette »
Value of Wisconsin Land Trusts Explored on New WPT Program — 06/08/2007
Land Trusts, An In Wisconsin Special airs on Wisconsin Public Television (WPT) next week and is a celebration of solutions. Land trusts are a means for preserving and protecting land for all Wisconsin citizens, and benefiting private landowners at th... Full Article at Wisconsin Public Television »
Easement to protect Louis' Bluff — 06/01/2007
The Natural Heritage Land Trust purchased a conservation easement to protect Louis' Bluff this week. The 133.5-acre property, in the town of Lyndon in Juneau County, includes more than 7,000 feet of undeveloped shoreline on the Wisconsin River, al... Full Article at Wisconsin Dells Events »
KinniFest: It’s about the river — 06/01/2007
KinniFest organizers welcome all river lovers and community members to the annual celebration of the Kinnickinnic River and its natural wonders. Joyce Mattson, the main coordinator of last year’s celebration, said the number of volunteers, activit... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
Easement to protect Louis' Bluff — 06/01/2007
The Natural Heritage Land Trust purchased a conservation easement to protect Louis' Bluff this week. The 133.5-acre property, in the town of Lyndon in Juneau County, includes more than 7,000 feet of undeveloped shoreline on the Wisconsin River, al... Full Article at Wisconsin Dells Events »
Prints of La Crosse bluffs panorama now available — 05/31/2007
After touring the city of La Crosse at the Radisson Hotel, Logistics Health Building, State Bank and the La Crosse Public Library, the 12-foot panoramic bluff photo by renowned landscape photographer Robert J. Hurt has been installed in its permanent... Full Article at Onalaska Life »
Stroll on the Scuppernong beats Brewers — 05/31/2007
If you took a "mental health day" to catch the Brewers' noon game at Miller Park on Wednesday, too bad. The 9-3 shellacking didn't help, did it? Me? I drove in the opposite direction, to western Waukesha County and the Kettle Moraine State Forest'... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Keeping it natural — 05/31/2007
A breeze rustles through basswoods and willows. Warblers and finches twitter; a woodpecker taps away. Beyond a fringe of tall grasses, a fish ripples the water.This is not some wilderness idyll, but were it not for the sound of traffic in the distanc... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Natural Heritage Land Trust Protects Louis' Bluff at Wisconsin Dells — 05/30/2007
The Natural Heritage Land Trust purchased a conservation easement to protect Louis’ Bluff today. The 133.5 acre property, in the town of Lyndon in Juneau County, includes more than 7,000 feet of undeveloped shoreline on the Wisconsin River, all with... Full Article at Press Release »
Zeller's presentation tops Ice Age Trail meet — 05/27/2007
The Ice Age Park and Trail Foundation held its Annual Membership Conference April 26-29 at the Fox Hills Resort and Conference Center in Mishicot. More than 120 members attended, representing 18 of the foundation's 21 volunteer chapters, and activiti... Full Article at Manitowoc Herald Times »
Art show will spotlight endangered species and environments — 05/25/2007
A consortium of Minnesota and Wisconsin artists will display their work at the River Falls Public Library with the exhibit’s opening reception scheduled from 4-7 p.m. Saturday, June 2.The artists are members of Project Art for Nature (PAN), which was... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
MVC plans trout stream trek for May 26 — 05/24/2007
Mississippi Valley Conservancy, in partnership with the Coulee Region Audubon Society and People’s Food Co-op, is sponsoring a guided tour of the Papenfuss private property starting at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 26. This free and open-to-the-public event ... Full Article at Onalaska Life »
Panel votes to protect river from development — 05/23/2007
Drafting special zoning regulations to protect the Milwaukee River from overdevelopment should be a breeze except for accommodating a handful of properties that are primed for redevelopment, said Milwaukee Alderman Michael D’Amato. “Seventy-five t... Full Article at Daily Reporter »
Baird Creek group to buy 22 acres of wetland — 05/18/2007
Wildlife in eastern Brown County have a new safe haven. The Baird Creek Preservation Foundation is expected to sign today a purchase agreement for a 22-acre plot of wetland in Eaton for habitat preservation. It's a measure that could help keep ... Full Article at Green Bay Press Gazette »
Ceremony at Butenhoff Prairie is Saturday — 05/17/2007
The Prairie Enthusiasts have purchased Butenhoff Prairie from the Green County Conservation League. The members are inviting the public to a dedication ceremony in honor of this acquisition. Butenhoff is located in Sylvester Township on County Road F... Full Article at Monroe Times »
Coalition forms to conserve land along Milwaukee River — 05/14/2007
As developers continue to plot condominium projects s along the Milwaukee River, a coalition of activists and organizations is forming to conserve green space and create a Central Park-like district along the river. Milwaukee Alderman Michael D'Amat... Full Article at BizTimes.com »
Ice Age Trail Gets Two-mile Link — 05/09/2007
Bicyclists in southwestern Dane County will be better connected to the extensive bike trail system later this year thanks to a new two-mile trail link in the Ice Age Trail trailhead area between Madison and Verona. County Executive Kathleen Falk a... Full Article at Capital Times »
Under siege — 05/08/2007
Many townships are facing extinction in the wake of the growth that swallows up rural lands for residential development. The town of Beaver Dam Board of Supervisors examined ways to keep that from happening here on Tuesday night, with Jeffrey Sand... Full Article at Beaver Dam Daily »
Nature Conservancy Land Purchase Protects Lakeshore and Northern Forest — 05/08/2007
Located in the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods, The Nature Conservancy’s Catherine Wolter Wilderness Area is a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Today, the Conservancy announced that it has purchased an additional 322 acres from the ... Full Article at Press Release »
Trails or baseball diamonds? For now in Caledonia, it's diamonds — 05/06/2007
Trustee Wendy McCalvy thinks the Village Board may be too heavily focused on developing recreational parkland. That focus, she said, may have resulted in a missed opportunity to expand more passive open space in Tabor Woods.... Full Article at Racine Report »
Conservancy program to feature Kemper’s WoodsConservancy program to feature Kemper’s Woods — 05/05/2007
The Kemper’s Woods wildlife area project will be featured at the annual meeting of the Chippewa County Land Conservancy at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 8, in Room 302 of the Chippewa County Courthouse. Mike Dahlby, private lands specialist with Chippewa... Full Article at Chippewa Valley Newspaper »
Runner nearing final leg — 05/04/2007
A 41-year-old Madison man who hopes to be the first to run the length of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail is passing through the area Thursday. Jason Dorgan has been hitting the trail since April 14, when he headed out from Interstate Park at St.... Full Article at GM Today »
Wild Side: Fire renews the prairie — 05/04/2007
Friends and fellow pyromaniac prairie fans gathered at our place last weekend to burn a 15-acre patch of planted prairie. We had met the weekend before to burn the prairie but strong winds convinced us that discretion was the better part of valor. Co... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
Partnership Protects Grasslands at Military Ridge — 05/04/2007
The Nature Conservancy announced today that it has transferred ownership of 276 acres of important grassland habitat in the Military Ridge Prairie Heritage Area in Iowa County to The Prairie Enthusiasts for long-term ownership and management. The 27... Full Article at Press Release »
Conservancy gains from large bequest — 05/02/2007
Wisconsin's chapter of The Nature Conservancy will not want for resources when it comes to creating the Newell G. Meyer and Ann M. Meyer Nature Preserve near Eagle. About $8 million ought to do it. Meyer, who died in August, specified in his wi... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Each step on Ice Age trail brings him closer to goal — 05/02/2007
Jason Dorgan climbed the lookout tower atop Lapham Peak about 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, snapped a photo in each direction, then carried on toward his personal pinnacle, one 224 miles away but clear in his own mind.His stride was still purposeful, if a bit... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Kentucky Derby party in Caledonia Saturday — 04/30/2007
The Caledonia Conservancy will host a Kentucky Derby Party, "Run for the Roses," from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday at the Racine County Pony Club Equestrian Center, 5518 Highway 31. This fundraising event will feature the best of the Derby: Friendly wager... Full Article at Journal Times »
Land conservation, subdivisions learn to live side by side — 04/30/2007
Land conservation and subdivision development are often seen as competing with each other. Once land is granted in a conservation easement, it cannot be developed, ever. Jim Celano, conservancy director, said competition for land can be so inte... Full Article at Gazette Xtra »
OUR VIEW: This really is a ‘green place’ — 04/30/2007
It was interesting to note that a recent study named La Crosse No. 13 on a “Best Green Place” list. If you looked only at cities with populations of less than 150,000, La Crosse was fourth. Those results were listed in a study done by Sperling’s B... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Prairie home companion — 04/30/2007
The story of Mary and Lloyd Croatt’s retirement might be called "Little Prairie in the Big Woods." For the past 11 years, the Croatts have owned an 80-acre tract of land in Vernon County, near the Mississippi River, that includes 10 acres of origi... Full Article at GMToday »
Runner on 1,000-mile trek makes way into Baraboo — 04/28/2007
Jason Dorgan of Madison, who is running the length of the state's Ice Age Trail this spring, will run on the trail near Baraboo early this morning. Dorgan plans to start running on Highway 113 near Highway DL at about 6:30 a.m. or 6:40 a.m. If the... Full Article at Baraboo News Republic »
Big changes afoot on the Holland Sand Prairie — 04/26/2007
Spring is certainly in the air — the snow is gone, bluebirds and meadowlarks are back and pasque flowers are blooming on the Holland Sand Prairie. I’m sure that many of you are spending more time outdoors, whether for recreation and exercise or to st... Full Article at Onalaska LIfe »
Study colors La Crosse green — 04/26/2007
La Crosse apparently looks good in green. A study that analyzed 379 major metropolitan areas has declared the city to be the 13th “Best Green Place” in the nation. Mayor Mark Johnsrud announced the ranking Wednesday morning at Myrick Park, call... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Plant trees on 'Lyberg Lane' — 04/25/2007
Community members are invited to plant trees in a new wildlife corridor called “Lyberg Lane” in town of Hallie and the village of Lake Hallie. The event will be held 9 a.m. to noon Saturday on “Lyberg Lane,” which connects Kemper’s Woods to the H... Full Article at Chippewa Herald »
Survey says: Protect Geneva Lake — 04/24/2007
The Geneva Lake Conservancy hopes a property owner survey in the Geneva Lake watershed will help policymakers and builders make development decisions. Jim Celano, conservancy director, said policymakers must realize that decisions they make affect... Full Article at Gazette Xtra »
Residents earn stewardship awards — 04/24/2007
When it comes to lake preservation, it seems Walworth County has more than its share of leaders. Delavan Lake Sanitary District Administrator Kevin MacKinnon and the four groups working to protect the Lauderdale Lakes Chain-the Lauderdale Lakes M... Full Article at Gazette Xtra »
River Bend Nature Center gets new director — 04/24/2007
For the past three years, most of Nancy Pierce's clients have been nonprofits. Soon she'll be working for one, as the new executive director of River Bend Nature Center. Pierce, 57, of Wind Point was named the new director to follow Dave White at ... Full Article at Journal Times »
Grants to fund Ice Age Trail projects — 04/23/2007
The Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation has received a $380,000 grant from the state Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund to pay half the cost of acquiring an access easement for 65 acres at Camp Silverbrook, a 265-acre Girl Scout camp. The easement is to pro... Full Article»
Plans for Kemper's Woods taking flight — 04/21/2007
Dr. Charles Kemper stunk as a fisherman. Oh, he tried. He had moved to western Wisconsin from suburban Baltimore, Md., not long after the end of World War II. He tried a hand with saltwater fishing, and thought he could try his skills on Lake Wiss... Full Article at Chippewa.com »
New Defenders of Wildlife Report Finds 'Conservation Pays' — 04/19/2007
Saving endangered species from extinction pays, not only in terms of healthy, intact ecosystems, but also in dollars - dollars that may reach into several millions, according to a new report released today by Defenders of Wildlife. The report, "C... Full Article at PR Newswire »
Trenton Island land goes to City of Red Wing — 04/19/2007
A notary put the final stamp Wednesday on a deed transferring 1.3 acres on Trenton Island to the City of Red Wing. The West Wisconsin Land Trust and Red Wing Area Fund collaborated to conserve the land, which features 62 feet of Mississippi River ... Full Article at Pierce County Herald »
Preserve hosts Earth Day event this Sunday — 04/19/2007
Held at the private, non-profit Silkesnas Nature Preserve, “Spring in the Valley 2007” is scheduled for this Sunday from 1-5 p.m. Activities will be held outdoors, and walking on natural terrain of light difficulty is required. Visitors should pla... Full Article at Pierce County Herald »
Research Center receives grant from UW-Extension — 04/18/2007
The Fiscal and Economic Research Center (FERC) at the University of Wisconsin Whitewater has received a $39,995 grant from the UW-Extension to help the group continue their economic research. “[The grant] helps us meet the missions of providing... Full Article at Royal Purple »
Rahr a true hero of conservation — 04/17/2007
When the Wisconsin Conservation Hall of Fame honors three new inductees here Saturday morning, the least-familiar name among the trio will likely be that of Guido Rahr. The other inductees -- the late Henry Reuss, a former Democratic congressman f... Full Article at Capital Times »
State to open Black Point mansion for public tours in June — 04/15/2007
After nearly 10 years of legal tangles and almost two years of repair, the summer house at Black Point will open for tours beginning Friday, June 15. Most of the maintenance on W4270 Southland Road in the town of Linn is done, said Pat Henderson, ... Full Article at GazetteXtra »
Property value sare highest in Walworth County — 04/14/2007
If you plan to buy property in Walworth County, bring plenty of cash. A recent study shows that Walworth County took the lead in the seven-county southeastern Wisconsin region in per-capita property value in 2006. It edged perennial leader Waukesh... Full Article at GazetteXtra »
Raising quite a stink — 04/12/2007
Here in Cream City, students often smell the heavenly aroma of beer or "stinky" lakefront breezes. "Some days it smells like dead fish," said Karl Dauenhauer, a freshman in the College of Arts & Sciences. The "dead fish" smell is actually rotti... Full Article at Marquette Tribune »
Runner hopes to log 1,079 miles in 23 days — 04/12/2007
Even Jason Dorgan's fellow endurance extremists worry he could be through running after his attempt to run through Wisconsin on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, all 1,079 miles of it. It's not that the 41-year-old engineer from Madison is tackli... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Audubon meeting to feature birding talk — 04/12/2007
The Coulee Region Audubon Society’s April meeting will feature a talk on migratory birds and birdwatching. The meeting, which is free and open to all, will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 18, in the community room in the Onalaska Public Libra... Full Article»
Creating a buzz — 04/10/2007
Shrill songs of cicadas will fill the air in June as millions of the peculiar bugs end 17 years of living underground and take to the trees in areas of southeastern Wisconsin where their ancestors rose before."They don't eat anything, but it does hav... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Village racing grant deadline as study continues into Tabor Woods expansion — 04/09/2007
Village officials are continuing to explore purchasing between 30 and 38 acres of forest and wetlands that would be opened to the public and integrated into Tabor Woods, a 25.4 acre parcel owned by the Caledonia Conservancy. The property being eye... Full Article at Racine Report »
Miracle pancake or flapjack flap? eBay will settle this — 04/06/2007
Newspapermen are, by nature, a suspicious lot, so when I got the word of a pancake that "miraculously" showed an image of "Mother Nature" on it, my Reality-Check-O-Meter pinned about a 9.8 on the skeptic scale. Allegedly, this "miracle" occurred a... Full Article at Ashland Daily Press »
Kuckuk named to Ice Age foundation — 04/03/2007
The Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation (IAPTF) recently named Dave Kuckuk its new executive director. Kuckuk will start work in his new position in mid-April. The Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation, headquartered in Madison, is a non-profit volunteer- a... Full Article at Sheboygan Press »
18 acres added to Token Creek Conservancy — 04/02/2007
Flowing at about 10,000 gallons a minute, Token Creek is the biggest Yahara River tributary and provides up to 40 to 50 percent of the surface water that flows into Lake Mendota. That water is fresh and clean, important for people throughout Mend... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
Worth the wait: Dakota photographer creates bluffs image for La Crosse — 04/02/2007
When he was a child, Robert Hurt joked with friends that it would be great to be a National Geographic photographer. He never intended to become a professional photographer. But as more people were willing to pay him to do his hobby — taking pic... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Paving Paradise — 04/01/2007
Bill Schmidt likes to tend his trees after breakfasat. IN the cool quiet of the Vermont morning, the 71-year-old shapes his fir, spruce, and pine with a knife in one hand and pruning shears in the other. "It's a meditative pratice," he says, and it'... Full Article at AARP »
Living on easement street — 03/30/2007
To some, the idea of signing a conservation easement in perpetuity - forever - sounds like volunteering for a life sentence. But for many farmers and ranchers, selling their development rights is a strategy that can help them keep their farms togethe... Full Article at The Furrow »
Living on easement street — 03/30/2007
To some, the idea of signing a conservation easement in perpetuity - forever - sounds like volunteering for a life sentence. But for many farmers and ranchers, selling their development rights is a strategy that can help them keep their farms togethe... Full Article at The Furrow »
Birchwood School District supports Blueberry Trail — 03/28/2007
It is a good time to see nature up close on one of the county’s several beautiful hiking trails. One of those beautiful trails is the Ice Age National Scenic Trail which follows glacial features across Wisconsin from Door County, looping down to R... Full Article at Spooner Advocate »
Landowners preserve nature — 03/27/2007
Land, land everywhere, and not an acre for development. Or so a person might say if she were standing on Steve Griswold's 29-acre plot in Custer. Griswold and his wife, Kathy Powell, recently donated part of their land as a conservation easement t... Full Article at Stevens Point Journal »
County to help buy conservation site — 03/27/2007
Waukesha County will contribute $80,000 toward the purchase of a 27-acre conservation site in Hartland. County Board members agreed Tuesday to help the Waukesha Land Conservancy buy the former Minogue family property along the Bark River. The p... Full Article»
A sense of service — 03/27/2007
Children's laughter and the whir of power screwdrivers rolled over state Highway 113 south of Baraboo on Sunday afternoon as participants in the Youth Environmental Projects of Sauk County celebrated spring by building bird feeders. About 40 area ... Full Article at Baraboo News Republic »
Bedford named new land trust director — 03/27/2007
Dodge County resident Jill Bedford was unanimously elected to the board of directors of the Drumlin Area Land Trust at the annual meeting held recently in Watertown. "We are pleased to welcome Jill to the board," said Sue Marx, president of Drumli... Full Article at Daily Citizen »
Waukesha County commits funds to land buy — 03/27/2007
Waukesha County will contribute $80,000 toward the purchase of a 27-acre conservation site in Hartland. County Board members agreed today to help fund the Waukesha Land Conservancy's acquisition of the former Minogue family property along the Ba... Full Article»
Eagle eyes keeping close watch on nest — 03/27/2007
A pair of adult bald eagles has staked claim to a wooded hill overlooking Lake Michigan, preparing to make history this spring. After finishing a broad nest of large branches in a white pine in early March, they've been taking turns sitting on the ... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Baird Creek succeeds as public, private partnership — 03/26/2007
If you walk in Baird Creek through its old growth forest, over its rolling hills, down its deep ravines, across its open prairie and fertile wetlands, you soon become aware that this is a special place. For generations, we have enjoyed its natural... Full Article at Green Bay Press-Gazette »
Conservancy asks county to help buy land — 03/21/2007
A conservation group is asking Waukesha County to contribute $80,000 toward the purchase of 27 acres along the Bark River here. The Waukesha Land Conservancy has also obtained about $280,000 in state funding and contributed $90,000 of its own mone... Full Article»
Man plans to run length of Ice Age Trail — 03/20/2007
A Madison runner says he'll try to run the entire National Scenic Ice Age Trail next month. Jason Dorgan plans to start on April 14th at Interstate State Park on the Saint Croix River near Saint Croix Falls. He plans to run about 45 miles a day unti... Full Article at WMTV NBC 15 »
Bison may graze on prairie at Badger Plant — 03/19/2007
The cleanup has a long way to go and it likely will be years before bison and hikers traverse the terrain at the base of the Baraboo Hills. But a major step will be taken today in the redevelopment of the Badger Army Ammunition Plant near Baraboo.... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
Tabor Woods addition is a unique opportunity — 03/19/2007
It’s an opportunity that likely won’t come this way again. The village of Caledonia has a remarkable chance to preserve a parcel of forest and wetlands that could more than double the size of Tabor Woods, the 25-acre natural area that stretches ... Full Article at Journal Times Editorials »
Caledonia looks to expand Tabor Woods nature preserve — 03/17/2007
The village may buy another piece of Tabor Woods, but it’s going to have to race to get the deal done. Board members met last week to discuss purchasing between 30 and 38 acres of forest and wetlands behind the former James Cape and Sons construct... Full Article at Racine Report »
Outdoors: Bogs, frogs of spring an important part of ecology — 03/14/2007
With the rapidly disappearing snow will soon come the opening of wetlands and, not long afterward, the sounds of frogs. Bob Hay, conservation biologist with the Department of Natural Resources Endangered Resources Bureau, said at recent meeting of... Full Article at Capital Times »
A poetic discussion of the land — 03/11/2007
The closest I ever came to hunting was in the early 1970s, when I went up north with two college friends who were hunting deer with bows and arrows. I tagged along with them, tried shooting arrows with limited success — and got up before dawn to... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Retirees' land now part of Baraboo Hills `Forest Legacy' — 03/09/2007
Retired dairy farmers Leon and Patsy Boettcher are leaving a legacy to their six grown children, but they're also leaving one to the Baraboo Hills. The Boettchers, of Honey Creek, were among 32 families who signed away development rights for their... Full Article at Baraboo News Republic »
'Dedicated to our land' — 03/08/2007
Retired dairy farmers Leon and Patsy Boettcher of Honey Creek are leaving a legacy to their six grown children, but they're also leaving one to the Baraboo Hills. The Boettchers were one of 32 families who signed away development rights for their ... Full Article at Baraboo News Republic »
David Horst column: Conservation groups drift together for Wolf River — 03/07/2007
Todd Close was not what you would call a motivated student as a kid. He admits that, in the classroom, his mind more often was on fishing than on math word problems. All the more impressive is the work of hydrology and physics that now lies at the... Full Article at Appleton Post-Crescent »
Conservation groups drift together for Wolf River — 03/07/2007
Todd Close was not what you would call a motivated student as a kid. He admits that, in the classroom, his mind more often was on fishing than on math word problems. All the more impressive is the work of hydrology and physics that now lies at the... Full Article at Appleton Post-Crescent »
Residents work to restore ecological health of Baird Creek Parkway — 03/05/2007
For many years, concerned area residents watched as problems increased at Baird Creek Parkway. Homes and apartments were built on the edge of the park, erosion got worse, ditches grew deeper, mud got thicker and invasive weeds choked off grow... Full Article at Green Bay Press-Gazette »
Land trust will test national program — 03/05/2007
The Geneva Lake Conservancy is one of 22 conservancies in 19 states that will test an accreditation process intended to satisfy Congress that land trusts deserve federal tax credits. "We volunteered. We actively sought to be a part of this," said ... Full Article at Janesville Gazette »
Big lots hurt farming more than sprawl, land-savers say — 03/04/2007
More harmful to the state's agricultural economy than the steady march of urban sprawl across the landscape is the proliferation of homes on huge rural lots that break up large stretches of working farmland, land preservationists say. These mega-h... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Study: Large developments unwanted near Geneva Lake — 03/01/2007
Large-scale developments are not welcome in the Geneva Lake area. Nearly 90 percent of homeowners think a large residential development in the 29-square-mile Geneva Lake watershed is not needed and should not be encouraged, according to a recent s... Full Article at Janesville Gazette »
Environmentalists to advise city — 03/01/2007
Once a month since last September, a group of about 10 people have met and talked about environmental issues that affect the city of River Falls. So many exist and need special attention that the City Council voted last August to form an advisory com... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
Conservation tax incentives offered — 02/26/2007
The Drumlin Area Land Trust announced that family farmers, ranchers and other moderate-income landowners are now eligible for a tax benefit for donating conservation easements, thanks to a new piece of legislation and the 2008 federal budget. Sen... Full Article at Beaver Dam Daily Citizen »
Environmentalists discover allies in hunters, anglers — 02/25/2007
The Nature Conservancy has taken a look around and discovered an environmental ally. Their newfound friends are the nation's hunters and anglers.... Full Article at Green Bay Press-Gazette »
Land Trust purchases portion of Coffey Swamp — 02/23/2007
The Door County Land Trust has completed the purchase of 80 acres of Coffey Swamp from George and Susan Ulm. After this purchase, the property was transferred to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for long-term management. Th... Full Article at Door County Advocate »
Conservation event brings groups together to read Leopold’s classic 'Almanac' — 02/22/2007
A dozen area organizations that share environmental and conservation interests will be represented in a reading of Aldo Leopold’s “A Sand County Almanac” March 3 at the Holmen American Legion starting at 9 a.m. The event is part of a statewi... Full Article at Holmen Courier »
Holland Town Board OKs prairie transfer — 02/22/2007
The Holland Town Board passed a resolution accepting the Holland Sand Prairie land transfer from the Mississippi Valley Conservancy, granting the conservancy the conservation easement and authorizing Town Chairman George Hammes to sign the easement f... Full Article at Holmen Courier »
What my land is worth to me — 02/20/2007
"I just happened to be driving by and saw your property. I might be interested in buying it." This is typical of the letters that come in my mail with increasing frequency from real estate representatives with ready cash and who have clients anxio... Full Article at Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune »
Keeping land safe from development --forever — 02/20/2007
As development crept closer, Searle and Sue Wadley began to worry about the future of 100 acres of plush forest and sprawling wetlands they own in north suburban Antioch. They feared their precious acreage would rise in value until they or a futu... Full Article at Chicago Tribune »
Mississippi Valley Conservancy's National TV Debut — 02/18/2007
On February 18, 2007, Mississippi Valley Conservancy’s logo and MVC employees made a brief appearance in the nationally-televised documentary program Raptor Force, an episode of the series Nature on PBS.... Full Article »
DNR Secretary honors local group — 02/16/2007
TOWN OF HALLIE — The numbing wind Wednesday afternoon didn’t matter. Neither did the bone-chilling cold. Dave Swan’s gloved hand clutched a plaque given to him by the secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. And the presid... Full Article at Chippewa.com »
Landowner places 115 acres in permanent protection — 02/12/2007
Local landowner Phil Toberman has recently assured the protection of 115 acres of beautiful Mississippi River bluffs in the fast developing corridor between along Wis. Highway 35 about four miles north of Prairie du Chien. Toberman signed a conser... Full Article»
MVC protects 115 acres in critical corridor — 02/09/2007
Mississippi Valley Conservancy, a local nonprofit land trust, announced last week the permanent protection of 115 acres in the fast developing corridor between La Crosse and Prairie du Chien along Highway 35. The acquisition would not have been possi... Full Article at Onalaska Life »
Nominations due for the 2007 Leopold Restoration Awards — 02/08/2007
In support of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum, the Friends of the Arboretum (FOA), in partnership with the Aldo Leopold Foundation, announces the solicitation of nominees for the 2007 Leopold Restoration Awards. This prestigious award p... Full Article»
Conservancy obtains new land — 02/08/2007
The Mississippi Valley Conservancy has added 115 acres along Hwy. 35 and the Mississippi River bluffs just north of Prairie du Chien, Wis. “The ecological, scenic and archeological resources made protecting this property a real priority for Miss... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
North Central Conservancy Trust First Executive Director — 02/06/2007
North Central Conservancy Trust President, Kathy Powell announces that Jo Seiser has been hired as Executive Director. This will be a new position and the first time the land trust will have an Executive Director. “North Central Conservancy Trust... Full Article at Press Release »
Observation tower proposed in Mequon — 02/04/2007
Plans for a 49-foot-tall observation tower, which would be constructed at the highest point of the Mequon Nature Preserve, will be reviewed by the Planning Commission tonight.The 438-acre preserve is in the southwestern corner of Mequon. The goal is ... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Kinnickinnic River Land Trust: Staff changes, mission doesn’t — 02/02/2007
Board members of the Kinnickinnic River Land Trust, 421 N. Main St., picked an interim executive director shortly after Jon Michels resignation from the position in December. Three-year staff member Margaret Smith temporarily takes the helm of the... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
Bangor area gains 74 acres of land for public use — 02/01/2007
At least 74 acres of land just outside the town of Bangor isn’t going to be developed any time soon. It was recently donated to the Mississippi Valley Conservancy by the TOLD Development Corporation, based out of Milwaukee. The land is in the va... Full Article at Coulee News »
Editorial: Everyone wins when nature is preserved — 01/30/2007
The announcement that an additional 139 acres of the Mink River estuary in Door County will be preserved in its natural habitat is a promise that this vital environmental region will not be sacrificed for development. A $1 million National Coastal... Full Article at Green Bay Press-Gazette »
$1M federal grant to help preserve Door Co. estuary — 01/27/2007
The pristine habitat of a freshwater estuary located four miles east of Ellison Bay looks the same today as it did more than a century ago, when the Potawatomi Indians lived in Door County. Preserving the fragile Mink River estuary for generations... Full Article at Green Bay Press-Gazette »
Conservancy opening trout stream to public — 01/25/2007
A trout stream on land recently donated to the Mississippi Valley Conserv-ancy will be available for public use, conservancy officials said. The TOLD Development Corp. donated the 74 acres along Fish Creek near the town of Bangor. It includes wet ... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Elk Foundation wants to save land in Chequamegon National Forest from development — 01/22/2007
The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation made another purchase of undeveloped lands in northern Wisconsin. Jay Stephenson has more. Within the Chequamegon/Nicolet National Forest lies 120-acres of land Wisconsin conservationists hope to protect. That’s... Full Article at KUWS Radio »
Federal court upholds favorable tax ruling for habitat easements — 01/18/2007
A federal appeals court has ruled in favor of a Michigan couple that claimed tax deductions for two conservation easements negotiated with a local land trust. Initially, the Internal Revenue Service cited the couple, Charles and Sharon Glass, with a ... Full Article»
Outdoors Buzz: Landmark forestry study begins soon — 01/12/2007
Hunting, hiking, birdwatching, trapping, tourism and the natural beauty of Wisconsin itself—much of it hinges on protecting our envied and revered forest system. In the next few weeks, researchers will contact an estimated 300 Wisconsin private ... Full Article at Appleton Post-Crescent »
Couple preserves 100 acres near Antioch — 01/06/2007
The Liberty Prairie Conservancy has sealed an agreement that will keep 100 acres of high-quality marsh and oak savanna west of Antioch open and natural forever. "We're thrilled that we could partner together with the landowners, Searle and Sue Wad... Full Article at Lake County News-Sun »
Group eyes ecology center at Town of Menasha site — 01/05/2007
A Town of Menasha property, adjacent to the Stroebe Island Marsh, is being eyed by a local conservation group as the site for a $1 million ecology center. The project involves turning a 2,657-square-foot home at 2285 W. Butte des Morts Beach Road ... Full Article at Appleton Post-Crescent »
MVC gets largest land deal in nine-year history — 12/28/2006
Mississippi Valley Conservancy, a local nonprofit land trust, signed the largest conservation agreement in its nine-year history when it entered into an agreement with James and Janice Brady of the Town of Gale in Trempealeau County. The conservat... Full Article at Onalaska Life »
Nature was Meyer's gift to the community — 12/25/2006
Opinionated, determined, maybe even a little eccentric, but especially dedicated to preserving wildlife habitat and enjoying the environment. That's how Rob Day remembers Newell G. Meyer, a grandfatherly friend of 20 years for whom Day worked sinc... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Mississippi Valley Conservancy adds 425 acres — 12/23/2006
James and Janice Brady know they probably could make more money if they sold their land in southern Trempealeau County for development. Instead, they have placed the future of their 425 acres in the town of Gale with the Mississippi Valley Conserv... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Shrimp joins Great Lakes invader list — 12/21/2006
Add a bug-eyed shrimp to the ballooning list of Great Lakes invaders that has likely hitchhiked its way into the region aboard an overseas freighter, and nobody can say we didn't have fair warning it was coming.ight years ago, two researchers at a Ca... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Family celebrates with town — 12/20/2006
There was cake made by his daughter to look like Gibraltor Rock for the festivities to honor Don Horton as Citizen of the Year. But Horton was feeling ill, so the recognition was celebrated by members of the town board, Horton's daughter and grand... Full Article at Sauk Prairie Eagle »
Douglas County couple donates land for preservation — 12/19/2006
A Parkland couple is doing they’re part to keep the northwoods green. Danielle Kaeding has more. Parkland residents Doug and Karen Ruppert gave 90 acres of their land to conserve the natural habitat around Lake Superior. Karen Ruppert says in th... Full Article at KUWS Radio »
McFarland needs money for parkland — 12/18/2006
McFarland has an option to buy a 19-acre tract that just about everyone involved agrees would make good parkland, but the village is having trouble finding the remaining money for the purchase. Leslie Schuetz and his wife, Reva, have agreed to sel... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
Ice Age Trail expands — 12/17/2006
Another piece of the puzzle has been added to the growing list of protected properties for the Ice Age Trail along the western flank of West Bend. This fall, a partnership of the Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation inc., West Bend Mutual Insurance... Full Article at West Bend Daily News »
Family sells 448 acres for nature preserve — 12/17/2006
A local family's generosity will help preserve a major tract of pristine woods and water along the St. Croix River in western Wisconsin from development. The West Wisconsin Land Trust has acquired 448 Polk County acres that will become a nature pr... Full Article at St. Paul Pioneer Press »
Ice Age Trail expands — 12/16/2006
Another piece of the puzzle has been added to the growing list of protected properties for the Ice Age Trail along the western flank of West Bend. This fall, a partnership of the Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation inc., West Bend Mutual Insurance... Full Article at West Bend Daily News »
Cherokee development takes step — 12/14/2006
Despite misgivings about whether city government would address concerns about stormwater runoff and a sensitive peat marsh, the city's Parks Commission has given unanimous approval to a development plan negotiated over the past two years by the city ... Full Article at The Capital Times »
Editorial: Delay decision on Cherokee — 12/12/2006
The city's Park Commission is scheduled to meet Wednesday night and presumably will approve the city's plan to buy 258 acres of land from Cherokee Park Inc. to preserve it as marsh and park land. The purchase, which will be financed by the city, t... Full Article at The Capital Times »
Land Purchase Protects Water Quality in Mukwonago River — 12/11/2006
The Nature Conservancy announced today that it has conserved a critical parcel in the headwaters of the Mukwonago River through the purchase of 66 acres in the Town of Troy from Robert Baker, a farmer and long-time resident of the area. The property... Full Article at Press Release »
Preserved and public: Historic tract added to Kinnickinnic park — 12/08/2006
In the words of the president of Kinnickinnic River Land Trust, about 40 acres with recreational, environmental and historic value will be “preserved forever” as the land was added last week to a state park west of River Falls. The property al... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
Conservation budget at its highest — 12/07/2006
Dane County is set to spend more money on conservation next year than ever before, and if County Executive Kathleen Falk has anything to say about it, future budgets will continue to build on that legacy. With $5 million approved for the conservat... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
Ice Age Trail On The Move — 12/07/2006
Members of the state Natural Resources Board have warmed up to The Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Organizers just got the nod to expand it by another 125 miles across three counties. Board members approved the expansion plan unanimously, after a s... Full Article at Wisconsin Public Radio »
Pristine river preservation — 12/03/2006
A brown trout swims through the cool, clear spring-fed waters of the Kinnickinnic River on its way to possibly being breakfast for a bald eagle perched downstream. Thanks to the addition of nearly 40 acres, and 2,000 feet of shoreline, this stretc... Full Article at St. Paul Pioneer Press »
Grant boosts nature trail — 12/03/2006
A grant from the Natural Resources Foundation's Besadny Grant Program, supported through the ATC Environmental Stewardship Fund, FORWARD Endowment, Lakeshore Natural Resource Partnership, Wal-Mart and donations from Thomas Rees and Jean Pitner-Rees a... Full Article at Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter »
Ada Lake Photo Wins Contest — 12/02/2006
Winners of the first annual nature photo contest sponsored by Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation, Inc., a Wisconsin land trust organization, were announced today at the organization’s Annual Meeting. Thirteen year old Stefan Lundgren, of... Full Article»
Private Land Conservation in U.S. Soars — 12/01/2006
A new report released today by the Land Trust Alliance finds that the pace of private land conservation by local and state land trusts more than tripled between successive five-year periods from 2000 to 2005. State and local land trusts have doubled ... Full Article at PNNOnline »
New Report Shows Landmark Gains in Land Conservation in Wisconsin — 12/01/2006
A new report issued by the Land Trust Alliance in Washington, D.C., cites record numbers of acres being conserved by private nonprofit land trusts across the U.S., with an increase of 96% nationally from 2000-2005. This trend proved true across Wisc... Full Article at Land Trust Alliance Press Release »
LSCWC Receives Conservation Grant — 11/30/2006
“The Lake Superior Conservancy and Watershed Council is pleased to acknowledge receipt of a $5000.00 Strategic Conservation Grant,” said Board President Gary McGuffin today. LSCWC is one of three land trusts to receive grants totaling $14,800 ... Full Article at Press Release »
City looks at $4.5 million to save Cherokee marsh — 11/28/2006
To the delight of environmentalists, Madison and others may spend up to $4.5 million to buy land and property rights to protect Dane County's largest marsh. The move, among the more costly and larger parks initiatives in recent city history, would... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
Wildlife habitat set aside just outside of Lake Hallie — 11/27/2006
With a new agreement to place 220 acres of property into a nature preserve, Chippewa Falls residents have 520 acres of wildlife habitat practically on their doorstep. The new preserve land off of Highway 29 and a couple miles south of the city wil... Full Article at Chippewa Valley Newspaper »
Land Trust Established For Dodge County — 11/24/2006
Meeting in Juneau recently, the ad hoc advisory group on land trust for Dodge County agreed to affiliate with the Drumlin Area Land Trust of Jefferson, WI, to provide land trust services and benefits to Dodge County. The Drumlin Area Land Trust (DAL... Full Article»
Editorial: Lake George: Good concept then, still is — 11/22/2006
The idea to do something different with manmade Lake George has been discussed for years. Now we’re finally getting someplace, but public pressure is needed to finish the job. This isn’t about taking on City Hall, but about asking Congressman ... Full Article at River Falls Journal »
Land Trust Accepts New Conservation Easement — 11/16/2006
The Lauderdale Lakes Conservancy is pleased to announce its acceptance of a Conservation Easement on fourteen (14) lake front lots on North Lake, Town of Sugar Creek, Walworth County Wisconsin. This Easement was donated by Charlotte Adelman and Bern... Full Article at Press Release »
Editorial: A pair of good plans — 11/16/2006
The Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District has received severe criticism in the past. Some of that was deserved, and some of it wasn't, although we'd argue that the district overall has done a responsible job given nature's vagaries and the capabil... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
New homes worry conservationists — 11/15/2006
The city's first crop of single-family homes in more than 30 years comes with as much worry as welcome for some city residents keen on the new development but seeking protection of the nearby Seminary Woods. A developer proposing 24 homes in a hor... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Preserving a bit of beauty, history — 11/14/2006
The two latest books about well-known areas of Wisconsin explore their special sense of place, but these are in every way very different places. There is a note of quiet urgency in "The Nature of Door," a collection of writings that grow out of th... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Dane County Board to get budget — 11/12/2006
Rick Hammond has been on the receiving end of some frantic phone calls from people reporting fires. A former Dane County 911 dispatcher, Hammond would respond by sending an array of firefighters and equipment to just about any emergency, whether i... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
West Wisconsin Land Trust and Naterra Land to preserve waterfront property — 11/08/2006
More than 24 acres of waterfront property on Love Lake in Burnett County will be permanently preserved following an arrangement between West Wisconsin Land Trust (WWLT), Love Lake Association and Naterra Land. Bixby and the Love Lake Association a... Full Article at Press Release »
Land enlisted to fight floods — 11/05/2006
More than 1,000 acres of wetlands and meadows along creeks and rivers in the five-county Milwaukee metropolitan area are being enlisted in a regional effort to prevent flooding and reduce the need for building costly levees and other flood control st... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
A wave of woes for Great Lakes — 11/01/2006
More than 300 Great Lakes experts are gathered in Milwaukee this week for what is essentially a two-year checkup on the health of the world's largest freshwater ecosystem.The diagnosis: not good. The three-day gathering of Great Lakes decision-mak... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Midwest Land Conservation Conference Call for Presentations — 10/30/2006
The Land Trust Alliance and the 2007 Program Committee invite you to submit presentation proposals for the 6th Annual Midwest Land Conservation Conference. The conference will offer half-day seminars and field trips on Thursday, April 26 and Saturda... Full Article at Press Release »
On the Trail of Wisconsin’s Icy Past — 10/27/2006
GREAT white sheets of glacial ice commandeering land is the perpetual and age-old story of the North. The comings and goings of recent ice ages — the last one retreating from mid-North America 10,000 years ago — were rapid-fire Pleistocene calami... Full Article at New York Times »
"The Nature of Door" Celebrates Door County's Last Wild Places — 10/25/2006
Door County's wild places are celebrated in poetry, verse and art by those who know them well in the new book "The Nature of Door," recently published by Cross Roads press. Edited by Norbert Blei, the county's resident author, and K... Full Article»
Land trust benefits outlined at Dodge County meeting — 10/25/2006
About 35 people gathered in Juneau Tuesday night to learn more about the benefits and services of a land trust in Dodge County. Land trusts are nonprofit conservation organizations that promote the protection and preservation of land for its natu... Full Article at Watertown Daily Times »
Land in trouble? — 10/24/2006
It is difficult to imagine a drive through Wisconsin without seeing rolling farmland and abundant forests and watersheds, but according to the Department of Agriculture, the rate of development in such areas has increased by 60 percent in recent year... Full Article at Beaver Dam Daily Citizen »
County to help restore marshland in Sun Prairie — 10/23/2006
Marshland that had been drained years ago and converted to farmland will "go back to nature" and become marshland once again, thanks to a grant from the Dane County conservation fund to the National Heritage Land Trust. The 106 acres of farmland a... Full Article at The Capital Times »
Watching the woods — 10/22/2006
Twenty years ago, a group of concerned residents began efforts to make sure that Seminary Woods, pristine land overlooking Lake Michigan, would never be developed. Now that the Archdiocese of Milwaukee has announced its intention to sell the nearby ... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Land trust services in county weighed — 10/15/2006
The feasibility of having the services of a nonprofit land trust in Dodge County will be the topic of a meeting at 7 p.m. on Oct. 24 in the first floor auditorium of the Dodge County Administration Building at 127 E. Oak St., Juneau. Land trusts a... Full Article at Beaver Dam Daily Citizen »
Door County Land Trust held Eighth Annual Membership Gathering — 10/12/2006
The Door County Land Trust recently held its Annual Membership Gathering at Jim and Phyllis Ingwersen’s historic Liberty Grove homestead. Over 250 Land Trust supporters met to help celebrate not only the land preservation successes of the past yea... Full Article»
Grant would help expand, preserve marsh — 10/05/2006
Local conservationists are pursuing a $282,500 matching grant to expand the Hartland Marsh by acquiring 28 acres adjacent to the wetlands, a step that would preserve the entire marsh in the fast-developing Lake Country region. Village Administrator ... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
"Turtles and Trails" Fundraiser at Lakefront Brewery — 10/02/2006
Do you enjoy walking along, fishing, or canoeing in Milwaukee's rivers? Do you know where to access a river closest to where you live? What better way to celebrate our rivers and learn what's being done to protect them for future generations than e... Full Article»
Protecting nature’s middle class — 10/01/2006
The view from this mound…beggars all description. An ocean of prairie surrounds the spectator whose vision is not limited to less than thirty or forty miles. This great sea of verdure is interspersed with delightfully varying undulations, like the ... Full Article at Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine »
Celebrating public lands: Racine, Caledonia sites to help mark Public Lands Day — 09/29/2006
Two local groups will celebrate the benefits of shared land ownership this Saturday, when they recognize the history of Racine's parks and the preservation of a piece of natural history in Caledonia. As it also happens, Saturday is Public Lands Da... Full Article at The Journal Times »
Door Co. land trust aims to protect 3,000 acres — 09/27/2006
To commemorate its 20th anniversary, the Door County Land Trust has embarked on an ambitious campaign to preserve 20 "special places" in Door County, from the tip of Washington Island to the county line in Southern Door. The campaign goal is to ra... Full Article at Green Bay Press-Gazette »
Land Trust Announces Capital Campaign to Support Ambitious Land Preservation Initiative — 09/22/2006
The Door County Land Trust is celebrating its 20th Anniversary and to commemorate this milestone is announcing a $2 million capital campaign to support land acquisition and protection at 20 sites throughout the county. The $2 million dollars it seek... Full Article»
Butler’s Garter Snake — 09/21/2006
It's 15 to 20 inches long, low to the ground and there aren't a lot of them. It s the Butler's Garter Snake, which is listed as a threatened species in the state of Wisconsin. The snake has the unfortunate distinction of residing only in the southeas... Full Article at In Wisconsin Television Program »
Take a field trip to great places — 09/15/2006
Field trips are not just for kids. The Nature Conservancy invites the public to see some of Wisconsin's last great places and learn about the nonprofit's conservation efforts during its free Fall Field Day Sept. 23. Registration is due by 4:30 p.m... Full Article at Wisconsin State Journal »
Eagles move up, settle on lakefront — 09/10/2006
A pair of adult bald eagles has moved into one of the most valuable pieces of open space on the Lake Michigan shoreline in Wisconsin, a heavily wooded ravine and bluff less than two miles north of the Milwaukee County border that is encircled by prop... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Local farm donated to the Land Trust Network — 09/07/2006
The Land Trust Network of Jefferson County has received a donated conservation easement on a 118-acre farm located in southwestern Jefferson County. The landowners, wishing to protect their family farm from future residential, commercial and indus... Full Article at Watertown Daily Times »
Farming and Rural Life” Theme for Magazine Poetry Contest---Deadline December 4 — 09/06/2006
Wisconsin People & Ideas magazine (formerly the Wisconsin Academy Review) is accepting submissions for its annual poetry contest, with a deadline of December 4, 2006. Awards include cash prizes, publication in Wisconsin People & Ideas, and the opport... Full Article»
WI Land Trust Community recognized for contributions to sustainable land conservation — 09/01/2006
1000 Friends of Wisconsin is celebrating its 10th anniversary on September 21st by giving "10 of the Best" awards, recognizing successes in enhancing natural environments and creating livable communities. Gathering Waters Conservancy has been asked ... Full Article »
Final Two Future of Farming Forums Offer Citizens Chance to Participate — 09/01/2006
Wisconsin citizens have two more opportunities this year to help shape a vision for healthy and sustainable agriculture and rural life in public forums Oct. 13 in Platteville and Oct. 24 in Wausau. The forums are part of the Future and Farming an... Full Article at Press Release »
Saving the Blufflands — 08/31/2006
Two significant blufftop properties are forever preserved thanks to the Mississippi Valley Conservancy. On Tuesday, the group announced the acquisition of 47 acres above La Crosse. The first property is 23 acres and located just north of Hixon ... Full Article at News 19 »
Mississippi conservancy buys 47 acres of area blufflands — 08/30/2006
Purple blazing star, goldenrod and Queen Anne’s lace line the “goat prairie” trail. At the end, the view opens to take in the La Crosse River Marsh and trail and, in the distance, Minnesota. The dramatic overlook is from one of the Missis... Full Article at La Crosse Tribune »
Building a respect for the land — 08/26/2006
Conservation groups and developers often find themselves on opposing sides when it comes to deciding how available land should be used. But during the past five years, the Caledonia Conservancy and Racine developer Ray Leffler have collaborated to... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Prairie Enthusiasts Protect a Critical Piece of Our Prairie Heritage — 08/22/2006
The Prairie Enthusiasts is pleased to announce the conservation of 62 acres of land called the Shea Prairie in eastern Iowa County. The purchase includes original pre-settlement prairie buffered by 54 acres of grassland, and a half-mile on Williams ... Full Article at Press Release »
Crane conservationist to receive $100,000 prize — 08/21/2006
George Archibald of Baraboo, the pioneering researcher who has danced with cranes and traveled the world to protect them, is to receive the first $100,000 Indianapolis Prize today for his contributions to animal protection.The award, to be given in W... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
A spin down the Kinni — 08/20/2006
On Wisconsin's Kinnickinnic River, paddling is a lot like playing pinball — except your boat is the ball. Quickened by springs and creeks as it flows toward the St. Croix, the Kinni is no lazy river. Cold and insistent, it scoops up a boat and g... Full Article at St. Paul Pioneer Press »
New Tax Benefits for Land Conservation — 08/20/2006
Western Wisconsin's mix of farms, wildlife habitats, lakes, and open spaces is what attracts many people to the area. West Wisconsin Land Trust works with landowners to help preserve those natural landscapes. This is just one example of what West W... Full Article at WEAU News »
Volunteers Clear a New Path — 08/18/2006
We can tell you where to go the next time someone tells you to take a hike: You can travel the newest portion of the Ice Age Trail. 120 volunteers are working on the latest addition to that trail, near Cross Plains. They'll spend four days buil... Full Article at NBC15 »
Locals, Parishioners Express Worry About Sale Of Historic Glen — 08/17/2006
A controversy is brewing in the Baraboo bluffs near Merrimac as a beautiful, pastoral piece of Wisconsin and local Roman Catholic Church history appears to be going up for sale.Some locals and parishioners said on Thursday that they were shocked to l... Full Article at Channel 3000 »
Wells near marsh opposed — 08/13/2006
A top Waukesha County conservationist wants to permanently prevent the water utility from accessing a rich source of radium-free groundwater that sustains the Fox River and the Vernon Marsh Wildlife Area south of the city.Allen Stasiewski's mission h... Full Article at Journal Sentinel »
Study seeks to chart Geneva Lake's economic power — 08/10/2006
Everybody agrees that Geneva Lake is a powerful engine driving the local economy. But the Geneva Lake Conservancy and the Fiscal Economic Research Center at UW-Whitewater want to measure the engine's horsepower and what it will take to keep it run... Full Article at Gazettextra »
Oconomowoc Subdivision's Defeat An Inspiration To Farm Preservation — 08/07/2006
A look at some recent decisions by governments in the counties near Milwaukee suggests a collective nervous breakdown. Some of the most visible evidence: The city of Waukesha's Plan Commission approved locating 200 high-end homes on 333 acres of a... Full Article at The Capital Times »
Wisconsin's aging population moves toward — 08/05/2006
Baby boomers who once loved downhill skiing, jet skiing and mountain biking are switching to more passive recreation such as walking for pleasure, bird watching and gardening, according to a draft Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan from ... Full Article at The Capital Times »
Conservancy group: No development, no spa — 08/04/2006
Plan B has arrived. But nobody talked about it Thursday night at a meeting about the future of the Yerkes Observatory. Henry Webber, University of Chicago vice president of community and government affairs, has said the university has "no plan ... Full Article at The Janesville Gazette »
‘Water Tigers’ safe with lake purchase — 12/04/2003
West Wisconsin Land Trust purchased 39 acres of upland forest and 2,600 feet of undeveloped shoreline on Upper Chain Lake in southern Douglas County.... Full Article at Superior Telegram »
KRLT awarded accreditation — 12/31/1969
The Kinnickinnic River Land Trust Inc. is the first Wisconsin land trust awarded national accreditation through the Land Trust Accreditation Commission.... Full Article at Hudson Star Observer »



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