An aerial view of Gibraltar-Ephraim Swamp reveals the wetlands and woodlands that provide a rich habitat for migrating birds. (Photo courtesy of Dan Eggert)
(WTAQ-WLUK) — Door County Land Trust purchased a property within Door County’s largest coastal wetlands.
The trust began protection efforts in Gibraltar-Ephraim Swamp with a conservation easement agreement 19 years ago and now protects over 400 acres in the swamp. The Land Trust plans continued conservation efforts in the area to protect the Gibraltar-Ephraim Swamp wetlands and surrounding forest areas.
The land is prized for its proximity to a migratory bird route and its coastal wetlands.
“Gibraltar-Ephraim Swamp Natural Area is part of an important wilderness corridor connecting Peninsula State Park and the WI DNR’s Mud Lake Wildlife Area,” said Land Program Director Jesse Koyen. “In addition to allowing the movement of wildlife across the landscape at a local level, this area provides important migratory bird habitat. Its proximity to their migration route, combined with high-quality habitat, allows migrating birds an ideal place to seek shelter, rest and refuel.”
The area contains mature cedar and open hardwood swamps. Running through the property are Ephraim and Hidden Springs Creeks. The recently purchased property lies between these waterways. These creek corridors offer the added ecological benefits of providing more diversity to foraging possibilities for many species and a positive influence on water quality in Ephraim’s Eagle Harbor.
The Wisconsin DNR recognizes the coastal wetlands of Gibraltar-Ephraim Swamp among the most important wildlife habitat and natural landscapes in Door County. The protection of habitats like these rank as a top priority not only for the Land Trust, but also conservation partners within the Great Lakes region.
The purchase of the new addition to the Gibraltar-Ephraim Swamp Natural Area is funded in part by the Knowles Nelson State Stewardship Fund and the Fox River Natural Resource Trustee Council, with remaining expenses funded by Land Trust supporters and the community.
Click here to donate to the Door County Land Trust.
The Land Trust’s 2024 Conservation and Stewardship Campaign is sponsored by a matching challenge grant. Every donation to the campaign will be matched dollar-for-dollar, making donations go twice as far for conservation.
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