Pleasant Valley Conservancy is a beautiful state natural area situated in the Driftless Area, with steep goat prairies, oak savanna, and a large, high-quality wetland. This time of year, we hope to see Baltimore Checkerspots and perhaps some wetland skippers. Other possible butterfly species include swallowtails, Silvery Checkerspot, fritillaries, and blues. All of these butterflies will have many wonderful native plants to nectar on at this time of year.
Long pants, a hat, water, and hiking shoes are recommended. Bring binoculars—the closer they focus, the better! (We have a few extra binoculars.) If you would like, bring along a bag lunch for after the field trip. (This is a joint trip of the Southern Wisconsin Butterfly Association with Madison Audubon and The Prairie Enthusiasts.) Contact Douglas at (608) 219-5615 only if you have a question about the trip.
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.
FIELD TRIP LEADER: Douglas Buege (608-441-9833) and Kathie Brock
ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES:
Terrain is very steep and uneven, and may prove to be difficult for those who experience mobility challenges
APPROXIMATE DISTANCE: 0-1 miles
RSVP REQUIRED? Yes. Registration is limited to 40 people.
Photo by Madison Audubon
