Gardner Swamp Wildlife Area
Gardner Swamp Wildlife Area is a 1,180-acre property located in Door County. The property consists primarily of emergent marsh and lowland forest and shrub but there are also upland components including forest and meadow. Gardner swamp provides nesting, brooding and migratory habitat to waterfowl. The marsh also provides a critical habitat for the endangered Hine’s emerald dragonfly.
Deer, turkey, pheasant and waterfowl are popular game species at Gardner Swamp. Access to open water in the Marsh is limited so waterfowlers who are willing to work hard and pack light reap the greatest rewards. Similarly, deer that frequent the fringes of the marsh have ample opportunity to seek refuge in the interior of the property as pressure increases. Bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts can be rewarded with many exciting species observations, particularly during migration seasons.
Management Objectives
Acquisition of the property began in 1958. Support was strong from local sportsmen to purchase the property, which frequently was subject to damning and flooding from beaver.
The Gardner Swamp Wildlife Area is a Conservation Opportunity Area [PDF] for managing the Great Lakes and their shorelines of global significance according to Wisconsin's Wildlife Action Plan. It is managed to provide opportunities for public hunting, trapping and other outdoor recreation while protecting the qualities of the unique native communities and associated species found on the property. Thinning and improvement cutting are used to maintain the white cedar and swamp hardwood types. The marsh, shrub-carr, and grassland types are maintained with brushing, mowing and prescribed fire. Populations of invasive species are controlled or eliminated by cutting, pulling, burning, herbicide treatment and/or biocontrol.
For more information on master planning for this and other wildlife areas around the state, visit the property planning page.
Recreation
The Gardner Swamp Wildlife Area offers many recreational opportunities:
- Birding
- Cross-country skiing (no designated trail)
- Hiking (no designated trail)
- Hunting (noted for waterfowl, turkey, small game and deer)
- Trapping
- Wild edibles/gathering
- Wildlife viewing
Amenities
- Bathroom - none.
- Parking lot - yes.
- Campground and size - none.
- Trails, Types and Lengths - none.
Maps
Download [PDF] a map of this property.
If you are interested in exploring this property further, you can access an interactive map.
Find out more about how to adopt this wildlife area.