Quercus Alba Cabin

Property Profile

Acreage: 7

Date Protected: 2022

Location: 2 miles north of Brodhead, WI

Ownership: Privately owned

Recreation: No public recreation

Land use: Conservation and restoration education

History and Ecology
Donated by conservationist and eccentric baker, Ted Odell, the property was once home to the historic Quercus Alba Bakery – and the first ever batch of infamous “Guerilla Cookies”. Named for the anti-war movement of the time, the Guerilla Cookie would become Ted’s livelihood, sold everywhere from campus to the Mifflin Street Co-op. Along with its historical significance, the property serves as an extension of Three Waters Reserve and Sunny Point Reserve, creating a contiguous 70 acre conservation area. Like its counterparts, it encompasses upland remnant oak savanna and lush forests along the picturesque Decatur Lake. These natural features grace the upland ridges along the Sugar River valley, adding to the area's ecological diversity.

Significant Habitat & Species
The property offers vital habitat for several noteworthy species. Forest birds, including nesting red-headed woodpeckers, white-breasted nuthatches, and eastern bluebirds, find shelter here. The property is also home to otter, and a hibernaculum of garter snakes. Native woodland wildflowers and sedges enhance the property's ecological value.

Recreational Opportunities
The property does not currently offer public recreational facilities or activities.

Future Use
The Quercus Alba property will continue to be dedicated to conservation and restoration efforts. The focus will be on restoring and maintaining the forest, savanna, and lake margin wetland vegetation while implementing invasive species control measures. Additionally, it will serve as an educational resource, contributing to awareness and appreciation of the region's unique ecology.

To learn more about Ted’s story & the Guerilla Cookie, check out the following resources:
Basic’s Cooperative Blog
Chicago Tribune
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Wisconsin Alumni Association
Ted Odell’s Obituary