Tall Pines Conservancy has secured its first Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program grant from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to preserve the 84-acre Metz farm property in the Town of Erin.
The new Metz Preserve connects two sections of the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Loew’s Lake Unit. The Oconomowoc River flows through the property, creating wetland habitat and serving as an important water resource for the region. Its location makes the preserve particularly significant for watershed protection, helping prevent nutrient runoff, protecting groundwater recharge areas, and providing natural flood control.
For the Metz family, who have farmed the land since 1942, it’s an opportunity to ensure their property’s long-term protection.
“Preserving this amazing piece of property for the enjoyment of the public was the right thing to do and exactly what our ancestors would have wanted,” Steve Metz said. “Working with Tall Pines Conservancy was an easy decision given their like-minded mission of preservation.”
The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program awards grants to local governments and nonprofit organizations to protect natural areas and expand outdoor recreation opportunities. This grant marks a significant milestone for Tall Pines Conservancy and opens new possibilities for future land protection efforts in Washington County.
Read more in this article by the Washington County Daily News.
Photo by Tall Pines Conservancy.
