MADISON, Wis. – July 8, 2026 – Ducks Unlimited (DU) and Groundswell Conservancy have partnered to permanently protect nearly 2,000 acres along the Lower Sugar River in Rock County, Wisconsin. This marks one of the most significant land conservation efforts in southern Wisconsin in recent years.
The acquisition of the former Applegate-Bader Farm represents the largest land protection project in Groundswell’s 43-year history and Ducks Unlimited's largest conservation acquisition in Wisconsin. The property borders the Avon Bottoms Wildlife Area and State Natural Area. It includes more than two miles of Sugar River frontage, along with high-quality wetlands, forests, prairies, and floodplain habitat that support waterfowl, fish, pollinators, and numerous other wildlife species.
"This project demonstrates what is possible when conservation organizations, generous landowners, donors, and public partners unite behind a shared vision," said Brian Glenzinski, Ducks Unlimited Director of Conservation Programs – Upper Midwest. "By protecting this remarkable landscape, we're conserving vital wildlife habitat, improving water quality and flood resilience, and ensuring future generations can enjoy Wisconsin's rich outdoor traditions."
“As a local land trust, we’re grateful for the opportunity to partner with an international organization in Ducks Unlimited to protect this very significant resource for southern Wisconsin,” said Groundswell Executive Director Heidi Habeger.
This landmark project was made possible through a Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program grant administered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources; a North American Wetlands Conservation Act grant through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; generous private donors; and support from conservation partners, including the National Wild Turkey Federation and Pheasants Forever.
As required through the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, the property will be opened for public recreation, including hunting, fishing, trapping, hiking, cross-country skiing, and wildlife viewing. Following a future dedication ceremony, the property is expected to be transferred to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for permanent ownership and long-term stewardship.
“Acquiring this property is a huge win for wildlife and outdoor recreation," said Jason Cotter, a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) wildlife biologist who manages the Avon Bottoms Wildlife Area. "Public access lands are limited in this part of the state, despite nearly 2 million people living within an hour's drive. This achievement was only possible because of strong partnerships and a shared commitment to protecting these natural resources."
This project protects a key section of the Lower Sugar River watershed, strengthening an important wildlife corridor while conserving one of southern Wisconsin's largest remaining floodplain landscapes. Beyond providing habitat for dozens of species identified by the Wisconsin Natural Heritage Inventory, the project will improve water quality, reduce flood risk, increase landscape resilience, and create lasting benefits for surrounding communities.
Media Contact
Jay Hathaway
Communications Coordinator - Great Lakes/Atlantic Region
Dexter, MI
Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world's largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America's continually disappearing wetlands, grasslands and other waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has restored or protected more than 20 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science, DU’s projects benefit waterfowl, wildlife and people in all 50 states. Learn more at www.ducks.org.
