The Natural Areas Program strives to restore and sustain natural communities while fostering a deeper connection between volunteer and the natural resources in Dane County. The goals of the program include promoting responsible ecological restoration and land stewardship, hosting weekly volunteer workdays throughout the year, and connecting people to the land. Volunteers are central to these efforts at many park properties.
Volunteers can make a huge impact by removing invasive brush from a natural area. This process is often the first step of restoration.
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With many invasive plant species in Wisconsin, management is necessary to maintain high-quality habitats. Join us in these efforts!
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Each year, volunteers help to collect, clean, weigh, and sow thousands of pounds of seed from hundreds of native plant species.
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Volunteers fill several important roles on the Parks Burn Crew during the spring burn season. Roles are limited and require special training.
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Join staff and Certified Land Stewards at Restoration Workdays throughout the year. Projects are seasonal and vary by park location.
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Become a Certified Land Steward! Land Stewards adopt natural areas within specific properties to help manage and restore these lands.
Learn MoreIf you have questions about the Natural Areas Program, contact:
Lars Higdon
Naturalist / Botanist
(608) 286-9497
higdon.lars@danecounty.gov
Shane Otto
Naturalist / Botanist
(608) 575-0396
otto.shane@danecounty.gov
