Conservancy Day Programs are:
Thank you for your generous gifts and participation. You make it possible and you make it great! We welcome you to join us and help spread the word! Mark your calendars for these inspiring and special events the third Thursday of each month, from March through October.
RSVP's appreciated, email Colleen or call 608-767-2394.
Email Colleen at education@pheasantbranch.org to request monthly email reminders of Conservancy Day Programs.
Fireflies and other beetles
June 20, 2013
8:00 - 9:30 p.m.
Orchid Heights Park Shelter, 4198 Park Trail, Middleton WI 53562 (marker D on the map)
Guide: Colleen Feist, naturalist
When is a bug not a bug? What message does a firefly send to other fireflies with it's blinking light? What is the Lost Ladybug Project? Learn answers to all of these questions and try your hand at blinking like a firely. Maybe you'll catch one! This program is packed with educational activities for adults and children. Come out, share the night, and enter the fabulous world of fireflies and other beetles!
A better home for Northern Pike
July 18, 2013
1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Meet where Pheasant Branch creek crosses Century Avenue in Middleton, between Dewey Court and Tomahawk Court
Guide: Jens Jensen and Aaron Steber of Cardno JFNew
This program is geared toward an adult audience
Enjoy a field trip to learn more about wildlife habitat management. In 2011, restoration experts from Cardno JFNew assisted the City of Middleton to create Northern Pike spawning habitat in the Conservancy. The goal was to create shallow, seasonally flooded spawning habitat in the floodplain of Pheasant Branch Creek, which eventually drains into Lake Mendota. Northern Pike from Lake Mendota can migrate to these spawning areas during the spring to lay eggs. Then, the areas provide a safe haven for small fry to grow before re-entering the lake. Cardno JFNew worked to improve the stream habitat for Northern Pike. Eroding stream banks were leaving few places for fish to hide, eat and rest in the stream. Our guides will show us how habitat was re-built in the stream, why it is important for the fish, and the difference it has made so far.
Dress for the weather. There may be up to two miles of walking, though you could join us for just part and walk less.
Mammals! Otters, mink, beaver, cyotoes – who will be featured in August? Stay tuned...
August 15, 2013
Time and meeting location yet to be determined