Pleasant Valley Conservancy State Natural Area

This property sits on a long narrow ridge that runs almost due east/west with steep hillsides facing both north and south, each supporting its own suite of species. The site contains oak woodland, oak savanna, dry and wet prairie, sedge meadow, shrub-carr, open marsh and spring complex. Prairie remnants are thriving following intensive management that began in 1995. The oak savannas contain numerous large, open-grown bur and white oaks with many more than 150 years old. The woodlands contain a good mix of showy spring wildflowers. Both the woodlands and savannas support birds including Blue-gray Gnatcher, Scarlet Tanager, and Yellow-throated Vireo.

Directions: From Black Earth, travel south 3.7 miles on Cty F to Pleasant Valley Rd, then east 0.75 mile to the entrance of the preserve. Park along the road. Please stay on the hiking trail that loops through the site.

Gazetteer: Page 35, C-5 (prior to 10th edition). | Page 85, E-5 (10th edition).

Phone: 608/266-7012.

Web site: Pleasant Valley Conservancy | WDNR Pleasant Valley Conservancy State Natural Area

Signature Species: Red-headed Woodpecker, American Woodcock, Yellow-billed Cuckoo and Eastern Kingbird

Rare habitat: Oak Savanna, cold-water creek and spring-fed wetlands.

Seasonality: Open daily, dawn to dusk.

Parking: Parking areas.

Nearest food & lodging: Black Earth, Cross Plains and Mazomanie.