Three Waters Reserve

Property Profile

Acreage: 57

Date Protected: 2022

Location: 2 miles north of Brodhead, WI

Ownership: Privately owned

Recreation: Public nature trails are groomed and open year round from dawn until dusk.

Land Use: Event venue, public recreation, nature-based events programming & scientific research

History and Ecology
Three Waters Reserve holds a unique history as a former Decatur Lake Golf Course. Today, it stands as an extension connected to the Quercus Alba Property and Sunny Point Reserve, comprising upland remnant oak savanna on the dry bedrock ridges above Decatur Lake. It features approximately 32 acres of dry and mesic prairie restoration and around 20 acres of wetland restoration along the border of Decatur Lake and the Sugar River mill race.

Significant Habitat and Species
This property has become a haven for a diverse range of species. Amphibians, reptiles, and birds find refuge here, along with many noteworthy native plant species. Notably, at least three state/federal and special concern status plant species grow on the site, including the purple-fringed orchid, kittentails, and violet bush clover. Birdlife thrives on the property, with nesting species such as red-headed woodpeckers, white-breasted nuthatches, eastern bluebirds, pileated woodpeckers, and wild turkey.

Recreational and Educational Opportunities
Though privately owned, Three Waters Reserve offers unique opportunities for the public. It features public trails, a field station, and provides education, public events programming and training in conservation and ecosystem restoration. These resources contribute to community engagement and awareness of the region's natural heritage.

Future Use
The facility and surrounding reserve will continue serving as headquarters for several other conservation organizations, including SWLC, the Lower Sugar River Watershed Association, the Applied Ecological Institute and the Lower Sugar River Field Station. Proceeds from private venue rentals at Three Waters Reserve, and a portion of every ticket sale for public events, support Southern Wisconsin Land Conservancy and the other conservation organizations utilizing the facility as their point of operations. The facility is currently home to a farm-to-table food operation, and in the coming year plans to open a public restaurant.

For more information about Three Waters Reserve, including private venue rentals, public events and recreation opportunities, click here.