With the fluttery busy-ness of spring, summer, and fall absent, it can seem remarkably quiet at the sanctuaries. And true enough, plants are dormant and many animals have migrated away, hibernated, or found another way to quietly survive winter in Wisconsin.
And yet, the crews at our sanctuaries are as busy as ever. Winter is a time to focus on clearing invasive and “weedy” brush and trees. This is labor-intensive work, well suited for winter because the frozen ground makes it easier to get equipment in and out without damaging the soil, and there isn’t wild parsnip and garlic mustard to compete for attention!
Here, the Faville Grove team is clearing mostly honeysuckle shrubs and boxelders from the property line between two 2019 acquisitions, followed by other beautiful images from the sanctuary to simply enjoy. You’re welcome to come visit any time this winter, on foot, snowshoe or cross-country skis if the snow is right—learn more about visiting the sanctuary here.
All photos below are by David Musolf
Restoration of habitat through invasive tree and exotic brush removal
Rime ice, early January 2021
