Hillside Prairie photograph courtesy of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
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State Natural Area Feasibility Study |
Hillside Prairie photograph courtesy of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
The Lower Chippewa River Valley is rich in historic and
natural features. In recognition of these unique natural resources,
the Natural Resources Board and the Governor approved the establishment
of the Lower Chippewa River State Natural Area, extending from Eau Claire
to Nelson along the Chippewa and Red Cedar Rivers. The goal of the project
is to preserve and protect the most unique and sensitive areas with outright
acquisition, easements or voluntary management. The biological diversity
remaining in the
area is a testament to the land stewardship that has
been a tradition for generations. As land changes hands, this
project will help assure that land stewardship continues
on select sites. The project is "a cooperative effort of government, private
organizations, and citizens to help to maintain or increase the area's
native plant communities and rare species along with their habitats."
A number of endangered or rare plant and animal species
reside in the river corridor and hills from Eau Claire to Nelson. The feasibility
study examined rare species habitats and natural communities in the area.
Citizens have been asked to help the DNR determine how these resources
should be identified and protected.
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The largest
contiguous floodplain forest (over
Over 25%
of the remaining prairie and oak savanna
More rare
(threatened or endangered) species
70% of all Wisconsin fish species. 66% of all Wisconsin bird species. 50% of
all Wisconsin plant species.
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Click here to learn more about the Lower
Chippewa State Natural Area