The Door County Land Trust announced Thursday that they are now protecting an additional 20 acres on Washington Island as part of the Big and Little Marsh State Natural Area. This marks a conservation milestone for the island, for this 20 acre parcel connects other conservation land to the east and west, forming a protected corridor of forest and wetland habitats. This area features critical breeding habitat for the federally endangered Hine’s emerald dragonfly. It supports the federally threatened dwarf lake iris, as well as 30 bird species listed as rare, threatened, or of special concern. The Door County Land Trust now protects 721 acres on Washington Island. The Wisconsin DNR recognizes these wetlands among the most important wildlife habitat and natural landscapes in Door County. The Land Trust must must raise an additional $200,000 before this year’s end to fund remaining conservation costs and long-term care of these properties. If you want information on donating to these land protection efforts, or if you’d like to view stunning videos of Washington Island from the air, you can visit their website at “doorcountylandtrust.org”.
