8200 W. County Line Road, Mequon, WI 53097 | (262) 242-8055 | Open Daily: Dawn to Dusk
Groundbreaking ecological studies and long-term monitoring programs that inform conservation strategies across the Great Lakes region
MNP conducts comprehensive ecological research and monitoring programs across 510 acres. Our scientific work provides critical data on wetland health, wildlife populations, and ecosystem restoration success—informing land management decisions and advancing conservation science.
MNP Staff place passive Autonomous Recording Units (ARUs) across the property to record vocalizations of birds, bats, and frogs that are utilizing the restored habitats on the preserve. ARUs allow us to capture large amounts of data, in the form of sound recordings, that can be analyzed at a later date.
With over 60 acres of wetlands at MNP, we conduct extensive monitoring to track ecosystem health and biodiversity. Our team deploys mesh traps in ponds throughout the summer to survey aquatic life.
Understanding pond health helps us determine how our restoration efforts are affecting the land and supporting biodiversity.
Since 2001, over 200 bird species have been documented on the property. Many are seasonal or year-round residents, while others pass through during migration. This rich avian diversity reflects the quality of our restored habitats.
MNP staff use a Hydrolab HL7 water testing sonde to comprehensively test waters across the property. This sophisticated device measures seven critical parameters of water quality.
Staff and interns measure water quality at 25 sites across the preserve throughout the growing season, providing data to assess the health of restored wetlands and streams.
In June 2024, MNP hosted the annual Milwaukee Public Museum BioBlitz! Researchers spent 24 hours surveying what flora and fauna species call MNP home.
Despite rain throughout most of the day, a total of 1,042 species were found! This incredible diversity demonstrates the success of our restoration efforts and the rich biodiversity our habitats support.
View real-time observations of species documented at MNP through iNaturalist. Our community of naturalists and researchers continuously adds new findings.
Your contributions fund critical monitoring equipment, support research staff, and enable partnerships with universities and conservation organizations.
Stay connected with news, events, and what’s happening at Mequon Nature Preserve.
