emerald preserve - oak creek, wi

Emerald Preserve is a great example of the benefits of including wildlife habitat within city spaces.  The preserve is a restored wetland in the heart of the Drexel Town Square development in Oak Creek.  At  18 acres, it includes just under a mile of paved and boardwalk trails through wetlands, pollinator habitat, trees, and a storm water retention pond. 

Including preserves like this within the city provides sustenance to wildlife passing through, as well as residential habitat for local wildlife. On  my nature walk through, on an April spring day, I spotted turtles sunning themselves in the pond, geese and ducks swimming in the wetlands, and several birds roosting in the trees: Tree Sparrows, Common Grackles, Red-wing Blackbirds, Robins, a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, and  a Northern Flicker.  Located about six miles west of Lake Michigan and the Lake Michigan Flyway, Emerald Preserve promises to be a great stopover habitat for migrating songbirds.  If you're a bird watcher, a visit here during spring and fall migration should not disappoint.

If you're looking for a bit of peace and beauty among the hustle and bustle of city life, Emerald Preserve will provide a welcome respite.

Dogs are welcome, though they must be leashed, and any dog waste must be picked up. 

Location: 8031 S. 6th Street, Oak Creek, WI (Milwaukee County)
For more information, click here.