Protected Lands
Protecting wild & working lands in Southern Wisconsin.
Photo: Wetland mitigation bank at SWLC restoration site.
Three Waters Reserve
Home to a golf course for nearly a century, this historic riverfront property was converted to an event center and nature reserve offering private venue rentals, nature-based educational programming and public trails. Learn more.
Sunny Peace Prairie
With the looming fate of becoming a gravel pit, this property was purchased by the Aulabaugh Family who has dedicated the last 20 years to restoring the property and creating an education space and native prairie with public trails. Learn more.
Taylor Creek Restoration Nursery
One of North America's largest native plant nurseries, this former farmland now serves as an important hub for ecological restoration efforts, and a vital bridge connecting the DNR-owned, Swenson State Natural Area. Learn More.
Quercus Alba Cabin
The birthplace of UW-Madison’s infamous Guerilla Cookie and former beloved home of an eccentric baker with a passion for conservation – the Quercus Alba property boasts as much history as it does ecological importance. Learn More.
Schuler Farm
Protected in 2022, this privately-owned gem plays a crucial role in safeguarding the headwater springs and hydrology of the Orfordville branch stream. It’s thriving prairies now serve as a pollinator haven and important habitat for a variety of grassland birds. Learn More.
Jack’s Willow Creek Conservancy
This 70-acre sanctuary safeguards pristine headwater wetlands with natural springs and a meandering spring brook. The restored wetlands attract a variety of shorebirds, adding to this property's vibrant biodiversity. Learn More.
Odell’s Sunny Point Reserve
Donated to SWLC in 2022, this beloved family land nestled along the Decatur lakeshore holds special importance for the health and water quality of the heavily-agricultural, Sugar River Watershed. Learn More.
Dickinson Reserve and Farm
Home to endangered species and historical buildings, after years of meticulous restoration efforts, the Dickinson Family took the steps to protect their property under a conservation easement with SWLC.