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Horicon Marsh Field Trip 2024

At 7:00 AM on Sunday, August 11 we met at the main parking lot for the Horicon Marsh Auto Tour, took attendance, and then drove along the auto tour loop.  The weather was fantastic – clear and calm, with a temperature of 56 degrees.  18 birders were present.  We worked our way around to the west end of the Old Marsh Road, where we parked and walked out along the gravel... Read More   

LAST CHANCE: SPEAK UP FOR GREATER PRAIRIE-CHICKENS BY AUGUST 16!

Thank you! We asked and you answered.  In June, hundreds of bird lovers from Wisconsin submitted comments to the Public Service Commission (PSC) in response to a proposal by Vista Sands Solar (VSS) to construct a nearly 10,000-acre solar farm immediately adjacent to the Buena Vista State Wildlife Area – home to the largest remaining population of Greater Prairie-chickens in the... Read More   

Tune in to learn about Greater Prairie-chickens!

On August 6th, WSO held an informational program on Greater Prairie-Chickens. Executive Director, Jennifer Lazewski, hosted the program. She was joined by Wisconsin's Green Fire members and wildlife experts Tom Hauge, Lowell Suring, and Jim Keir.   Watch the recording of the video here. A species of greatest conservation need, Greater Prairie-chickens are best known for their Spring mating... Read More   

On August 1st, combine birdwatching and bird advocacy with a trip to Horicon Marsh!

    Sandhill Cranes photo by Mary Carlson, courtesy of UW Fish and Wildlife Service.   We know how much birders love to a trip to Horicon Marsh, and this is a great time to visit. Why not come on a day where you can help the birds as well as watch them? On Thursday, August 1st at 10 a.m., the first public meeting of the Study Committee on Sandhill Cranes will take place at... Read More   

WSO Strategic Framework and Annual Member Meeting

     At the annual member meeting on May 18 during the WSO convention, members heard about WSO accomplishments and activities during the previous year. The annual report slides are now posted here. They include reports on the 2023 financials, conservation highlights, board committees, membership, events and other WSO activities.      The annual report also... Read More   

Greater Prairie-Chicken Solar Farm Update

We asked and birders responded. Over 300 birders and conservationists, as well as their organizations, sent in comments about the Draft Environmental Impact Statement in the Public Service Commission proceeding about the Vista Sands Solar project adjacent to Buena Vista Wildlife Area in Portage County. WSO sent in a comment also, and you can find it here. WSO emphasized the sixty (60) plus years... Read More   

Horicon Marsh Wetland I-3 Rejuvenated by Drawdown

     Horicon Marsh is a 33,000 acre wetland dominated by cattail.  It is designated as a Wetland of International Importance and Important Bird Area separated into both State Wildlife Area and National Wildlife Refuge.      Wetland productivity relies on a cycle of wet and dry conditions. Naturally, this wetland cycle tracks precipitation cycles.... Read More   

2024 WSO Field Trip to Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit.

On Saturday, June 1, at 5:30 AM, 17 people gathered at Jersey Flats Prairie Restoration Project for the WSO’s Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit field trip. The day’s weather was cloudy; with a light SE breeze, and temps in the mid-60s. Our route for the day included; Jersey Flats, Zillmer Trail parking lot, the New Prospect Horse Riders Camp, Haushalter Lane, Mauthe Lake... Read More   

2024 WSO CONVENTION RECAP

  By Nancy Nabak, Convention Volunteer “Great Birding On A Great Lake’ – you ain’t a kidding! And great people! What a fantastic convention in Two Rivers from the beginning to end! It all started with a fun gathering on Thursday night - Birds & Beers/Bird Trivia at Cool City Brewing Company. Many folks socialized and enjoyed appetizers and bird-themed beverages, including... Read More   

Kettle Moraine SF June 1 2024

2024 WSO Field Trip to Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit. On Saturday, June 1, at 5:30 AM, 17 people gathered at Jersey Flats Prairie Restoration Project for the WSO’s Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit field trip. The day’s weather was cloudy; with a light SE breeze, and temps in the mid-60s. Our route for the day included; Jersey Flats, Zillmer Trail parking lot,... Read More   

ACTION ALERT: SPEAK UP FOR GREATER PRAIRIE-CHICKENS BY JUNE 14!

  We need your help today. The Public Service Commission (PSC) of Wisconsin is currently reviewing a proposal by Vista Sands Solar (VSS) to construct a 9,854-acre solar farm near the towns of Grant and Plover in Portage County.  The project will cover approximately 10 square miles and will be immediately adjacent to the Buena Vista State Wildlife Area in several locations. ... Read More   
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