We're in This Together / Community Voices of Land Preservation

By Bonnie Matuseski, President

The Raptor Center program, July 2024

Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve marks its 38th year as the voice of land preservation on the Island. I am humbled and inspired by its vision and growth as a grassroots organization. We engage our community in promoting the interconnectedness of all living things and promoting the values of preserving natural lands.

Land Acquisition: Our forests and wetlands are key to maintaining the Island’s natural landscape, as well as our sense of place. In 2024 we added 40 acres to our preserve lands, making a total of 2757 acres, which represents 18% of the Island.

Trails: With your support and encouragement, we have focused on trail development. MIWP trails traverse some of the most beautiful forest on the island. Walking through old hemlocks or under a canopy of oaks and sugar maple can be a spiritual experience. We recently hired a professional trail builder to design and develop our North End trails. One goal is to make these trails more accessible; another is to minimize impact on the environment while providing opportunities for hiking, cross country skiing or snowshoeing.

Invasive Species: This is our eighth year of engaging experts in forest management to help eliminate buckthorn, barberry and other invasive woody plants. With treatment, monitoring and leadership we invest your financial support to protect native forests and all lands on Madeline Island. The participation of many private landowners has been key to our success.

Education: Our education series brings knowledgeable and engaging speakers to guide us in understanding the connections between nature and humans. The strong attendance at our lectures attests to the appreciation felt by the greater community. These programs and guided hikes represent a vital component of our mission of preservation.

Nature continues in all her glory and the natural world grounds us. As a community-based organization, MIWP nurtures a sense of attachment and pride in our environment and continually challenges us to be caretakers in the present and guardians for the future. Thank you for playing a vital role in this mission. We encourage you to enjoy our spring reception, attend lectures and hike our trails.