The 116-acre North Mendota Natural Resource Area is made up of two properties that feature wetland and prairie restorations along an unnamed tributary of Sixmile Creek.
North Mendota NRA - Wilke Prairie Preserve (39-acres)
Located north of Easy Street, the preserve property had been in the Knudson/Wilke family since Europeans first settled the area. Prior to settlement, the landscape in which the preserve is located was prairie. Eventually, all of the land was plowed, including the central wetland, which was tiled and ditched to make it suitable for cultivation. The preserve is named in honor of Hazel Knudson’s parents, Franklin and Augusta Wilke, and her brother, Clarence Wilke.
Please note: dogs are prohibited in the Wilke Prairie Preserve.
North Mendota NRA - Waunakee Prairie (77-acres)
Located south of Easy Street, the Waunakee Prairie features a wetland and prairie restoration and a hiking and biking trail.
