The priority area in southeast Wisconsin spans an area historically characterized by a glaciated mosaic of wetlands surrounded by tall grass prairie and oak savanna. Agriculture and development are the dominant activities resulting in a substantial reduction of small pothole wetlands and of the original prairie that covered much of the area prior to settlement. Eastern Wisconsin is important for both breeding and migrating waterfowl. This area supports the highest breeding density of waterfowl in the state.
Conservation Work
The protection and restoration of grass and wetland complexes will increase breeding propensity as well as improve production. Coastal habitat restoration and protection is primarily for spring and fall migratory waterfowl, although breeding birds will also benefit from these restoration projects. Conservation work in the Eastern Wisconsin priority area is designed to target migrating and breeding waterfowl. Coastal habitat restoration and protection is primarily for spring and fall migratory waterfowl, although breeding birds will also benefit from small restoration projects. Projects focused on migratory waterfowl are generally completed on large public lands and are currently managed primarily for fall migrants. Intentional management practices focusing on spring waterfowl is limited, although the capacity is present and the need is evident. Many areas are managed for dual life cycle uses (breeding and migration).
Waterfowl Benefits
Conservation activities will directly benefit 22 migratory waterfowl species by providing critical habitat for their life cycle. This area supports the highest breeding density of waterfowl in the state. The predominate breeding species include mallards, wood ducks, and blue-winged teal, but also include northern pintails, American black ducks, redhead and canvasbacks. Projects focused on migratory waterfowl are generally completed on large public lands and are currently managed primarily for fall migrants.
