EMPIRE-SAUK: BUTTERFLIES AND FLOWERS OF PLEASANT VALLEY
Butterflies and Flowers of Pleasant Valley
Saturday, June 20 – 10:00 a.m. to Noon
Location: Pleasant Valley Conservancy in Dane County, WI
Pleasant Valley Conservancy, a designated State Natural Area, is privately held, protected, and managed by The Savanna Oak Foundation and The Prairie Enthusiasts. This beautiful place is situated in the Driftless Region, with steep goat prairies, oak savanna, and a large, high-quality wetland. We hope to see Baltimore Checkerspots and perhaps some skippers in the wetland area. Other possible butterfly species include swallowtails, Silvery Checkerspot, fritillaries, and blues. These butterflies will have many wonderful native plants providing nectar.
Leaders will be Dreux Watermolen, Ethan Brown and Kathie Brock.This is a joint trip of the Southern Wisconsin Butterfly Association in conjunction with The Prairie Enthusiasts and Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance.
If you would like to socialize after the walk, bring along a bag lunch. This is held at Kathie’s cabin on the property and is a great time to socialize with like-minded folks.
To be contacted in case of cancellation or other changes, please register your intent to attend with Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance. Trip is limited to 25 participants.
DIFFICULTY: This area is not handicap accessible. Entry and exit paths are sloped. Paths and boardwalks can be muddy.
WHAT TO BRING:
Long pants, a hat, water, and hiking shoes are recommended. Bring close-focusing binoculars if you have them. If you would like to socialize after the walk, bring along a bag lunch.
FIELD TRIP LEADER:
For questions, contact Pam Skaar (hyndla53704@yahoo.com).
DIRECTIONS:
(4554 Pleasant Valley Road, Black Earth) Heading south into downtown Black Earth, follow County Hwy F as it turns right (west). After a mile or so, F turns left (south). Continue on F for another 3-3/4 miles, turning left onto Pleasant Valley Road. Drive 3/4 mile (past the buildings on the right) to the state natural area sign. Park off the road.