Mequon Nature Preserve

If you happen to see a snapping turtle in the road, the safest way to move it is to use an object (a broom or car mat) to guide the turtle away from danger!

As animals continue to emerge from winter dormancy, one species you are likely to see near our wetlands and parking lots is the common snapping turtle. These prehistoric-looking reptiles usually live 30-50 years, but some have reached over 100 years old.

They are the largest and heaviest turtle species in the state, growing to 15+ inches in length, with their tails being just as long. Since common snapping turtles cannot fully retreat into their shell, they snap at approaching threats.

You can help in our vital work by volunteering or donating to our mission. Take time today to enjoy what nature has to offer us. The MNP trails are open from sunrise to sunset every day! 🌎 🌳 🌸

Happy Earth Day! Here at MNP, we love the Earth and work hard on protecting it for future generations. From planting native trees, restoring the wetlands, removing invasive species, to teaching the community the importance of the environment; it’s an important job!

Saturday, April 25 from 12:00-3:00pm is the annual Rock the Green Event at the Harley Davidson Museum! This free event is all outside and fun for the whole family. And it will be eco-friendly! 🌍

Females look similar to the male but will lack the black bib. Dickcissels are typically found in prairies and feed on insects and seeds. They nest in grassy areas close to the ground and the young are only fed by the females.

The Dickcissel, Spiza americana, is typically found in the Midwest during the summer, but can be found throughout the Great Plains. You usually hear them calling when they are flying. Males have a black bib, yellow face, and are white and brown.

The Education Center is closed today (3/16) due to the weather. Trails remain open, however, we recommend waiting to come out for a hike until the storm passes. ❄️

This coalition was formed with a shared goal: to accelerate the restoration of critical forests and wetlands that protect regional water quality and provide vital wildlife habitat. #trees #wetlands #nature #landrestoration #environment #forests

We are proud to announce we have received the prestigious Project Partnership Award from the Wisconsin Urban Forestry Council! This award recognizes the power of collaborative stewardship in restoring Wisconsin’s natural landscapes and enhancing urban canopy cover.

The award celebrates a high-impact partnership between Mequon Nature Preserve, Sweet Water -- Southeastern Wisconsin Watersheds Trust, Molson Coors, and the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District - MMSD.

Dan has a B.S. from Cornell University, an M.S. from Eastern Illinois University, and a Ph.D. from Purdue University. This event will be inside the Mequon Nature Preserve auditorium.

Join us for this free event on March 11 at 7:00pm at Mequon Nature Preserve! This event is in collaboration with the Ozaukee Washington Birding Coalition. Sign up with the link below! Opening the Door to a New Chapter: Dan Scheiman, The Ridges Sanctuary

Dr. Scheiman is the Visitor Engagement Specialist at The Ridges Sanctuary. Previously, he worked for the National Audubon Society at the Little Rock (Arkansas) Audubon Center. He was vice president of his Audubon chapter and an eBird reviewer.

The Ridges protects some 2,000 acres that harbor a rare ridge-and-swale system, 29 native orchids, and federally threatened and endangered species. Dan will talk about the county, The Ridges, and his ongoing pursuit of birds, butterflies, orchids, and more.

ticketstripe.com/TheRidgesSanct… In 2023, Dan and Samantha Scheiman moved from Arkansas to Door County, renowned for its nature and outdoor opportunities. Dan works at The Ridges Sanctuary, a land trust that focuses on preservation, education, and research.

Vision: To be a leader in land restoration and nature-based research and education. The next 25 years will also bring some new and exciting projects! We cannot wait to soon share with everyone what they are!

2025 marks the 25th anniversary of Mequon Nature Preserve! Thank you everyone who supported us over the past 25 years. Support comes in so many different ways; from donating, volunteering, events, programs,& spreading the word about how great of a place Mequon Nature Preserve is!

We cannot wait for what the next 25 years bring! To celebrate our 25-year milestone, MNP now has a NEW logo! We also have a NEW vision and mission statement! Missions Statement: To restore habitats and provide opportunities that inspire exploration and stewardship.