About Us
The Star Prairie Land Preservation Trust is a locally based, non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve environmentally sensitive land and to promote rural character while protecting water quality and wildlife habitat for future generations.
As a non-profit land trust, it holds conservation easements and land titles. Conservation easements are deed restrictions that voluntarily limit land development. The primary geographic focus for the trust is northern St. Croix and southern Polk counties.
The Star Prairie Land Preservation Land Trust was formed in 2002 by individuals who were concerned with the rapid pace of development that was resulting in the loss of valuable natural areas.
Since the inception of the trust, great progress has been made. Development of South Cedar Bay Landing, a non-motorized access and wildlife viewing area on the south end of Cedar Lake, acquisition of the Star Prairie Watershed Preserve, 40-acre wetland/prairie complex east of Star Prairie and the acceptance of a donation of a 63-acre parcel on the southeast side of Cedar Lake and its subsequent development for educational purposes are milestones for the trust.
The McMurtrie Preserve is the premier land trust project. The 63-acre tract of land, generously donated by Phyllis and Bob Menke in early 2005, provides 1,400 feet of Cedar Lake shoreline with an interior diversity of wildlife habitat including wetlands, hardwoods, oak savannah and pine plantations. A trail system meanders through the property providing access to each of its natural areas. An educational center is in the planning stages and environmental activities for area school children are presently provided. The driveway and parking area have been updated with construction of bathroom facilities and an open pavilion presently in the planning stages.
The Boche Property, a 40 acre parcel located just east of Star Prairie on County Road H, compliments the surrounding USF&WS Waterfowl Production Areas and was purchased through money provided through several partnerships.
The Star Prairie Land Trust has a variety of partnerships formed over its short existence. Included in the above mentioned projects and future collaborations are formed partnerships with the Star Prairie Fish & Game Association, Cedar Lake Protection and Rehabilitation District, Indianhead Bass Club, Ducks Unlimited, New Richmond Boy Scouts, Pheasants Forever, The St. Croix County Sportsman’s Alliance, The Willow River Rod and Gun Club, Star Prairie Land Preservation Trust, Wild Turkey Federation, Wisconsin Wildlife Federation, St. Croix County Land & Water Conservation Department, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
For more information on the Star Prairie Land Preservation Trust contact Beth Wood, president, at 248-7300 or email president@starprairielandtrust.org.
