gottfried prairie and arboretum - fond du lac, wi

The mission of Gottfried Prairie and Arboretum is one of preserving the natural history of Fond du Lac County.  The project began in 1991 with the goal of representing the original plant communities of Wisconsin in a small arboretum.  With the help of volunteers, it has grown to include 42 acres of prairie grasses and wildflowers, two wildlife ponds, and the planting of 176 native trees and shrubs. The preserve is named for Bradley Gottfried, former dean of UW-Fond du Lac, and a major force behind the project.

Other features here include interpretive hiking trails (0.8 miles), a bike path, a shelter with an informative kiosk, and two wildflower display gardens. Special events and educational programs are hosted here throughout the year, including a native plant sale in the spring.  The prairie is also home to a variety of native wildlife, and is a great birdwatching spot.  The arboretum is open daily, free of charge, to the public.

Location: 400 University Drive, Fond du Lac, WI (Fond du Lac County)
​For more information, click here.