The series of sites below have very high biological ratings. but have less than one-half the high quality area is in protected status. Each site has a brief introductory description followed by a link to a printable pdf.

 

Red Banks Alvar, Brown County: This site is our state's only large alvar. An alvar is a natural community that grows on the most rigorous conditions. Very thin soil over bedrock and unique combinations of plants and animals highlight this very rare natural feature. The alvar unfortunately, is found near the rapidly growing community. High real estate prices and development pressure makes protection strategies critical in the short term.

 

 

 

 

Chambers Island, Door County: This large island in Green Bay has a long history of recognition for its natural features. Local groups are actively working on conservation, but much work still needs to be accomplished.

 

 

 

 

Kellner's Fen, Door County: This large wetland complex just east of Sturgeon Bay has a long history of recognition for its natural features. Local groups are actively working on conservation, but much work still needs to be accomplished.

 

 

 

 

Nemadji River Floodplain Forest, Douglas County: Along the red clay terraces of the Nemadji River just south of Superior lies a floodplain forest that is much different than other forests in the Northwoods. These terrace forests have many southern Wisconsin wildflowers growing profusely well out of their normal range.