Creation of a Nature Preserve: Farm, Frogs and Forests

Spring is the perfect time to explore the unique wetlands on the 155-acre Oak Road Nature Preserve. Discover the rich cultural and natural history of this area and the story of how the Door County Land Trust became involved to protect the diversity of amphibians, waterfowl, and migratory birds this habitat supports through a partnership with US Fish and Wildlife Service and Ducks Unlimited. The Gabert family who lived here for generations tells of listening to springs frogs calling, rowing to the island in the middle of the large ephemeral pond and building tree houses nearby. The wetlands here flow in two directions; west to the waters of Green Bay and east to Lake Michigan. We’ll discuss the unique hydrology, geology, and story of the creation of this preserve. Thousands of acorns were planted to restore the farm fields to forest and prairie was planted to provide habitat for wildlife and waterfowl. Bring binoculars and we’ll look for Sandhill Cranes, geese, shorebirds and ducks from the pond overlook. Hike will be about 1.5 miles on fairly level ground, good hiking boots are recommended.

Free • Open to public

Leader: Terrie Cooper and Jack Finger