The Mequon Nature Preserve has been created through the joint dedication of Mequon Mayor Christine Nuernberg, the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust, and the Greater Milwaukee Foundation. This project represents the essence of public and private partners working together, with the support of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund, to preserve a special place for public use and future generations.
The physical preserve is 408 acres of remnant woodlots and farm fields on the edge of an urban area. The partners have built upon their individual strengths to bring this project to life. The Greater Milwaukee Foundation acts as a banker, the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust with its knowledge and expertise in land acquisition acts as a broker, and Mayor Christine Nuernberg brought all the parties together, serves as a liaison with the city council, and acts as a buyer.
The community has gained a project that will in future years be the site of restored hardwood forests and wetlands crisscrossed with foot trails…a respite for body and soul for those who live in a growing city.
Awards of this kind should be given to the donors, volunteers, and conservation organizations’ staffs and members who devote their lives to preserve and maintain our natural environment. I am a newcomer to this effort. As mayor of the city of Mequon, I have learned how a city can protect and even restore its green infrastructure to the benefit of all.
~ Mayor Christine Nuernberg
