Welcome to one of the rarest ecosystems on earth, the oak savanna.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has given our ecosystem a Global rating of G1, signifying that it is critically imperiled globally because of extreme rarity.

Although there are other oak savannas in southern Wisconsin, most are highly degraded. Our oak savanna is unique because it has been restored to its original condition and is managed at a high level.

“A healthy complex of prairie, oak openings and prairie grove would be an enchanting place.”

 Steve Packard: Restoration and Management Notes 1988

Pleasant Valley Conservancy is a Wisconsin State Natural Area that has been extensively restored to its original character. It works to educate the conservation community and the general public on the values of nature and wildlife. Its principal focus is on the preservation of its restored habitats, especially the plant communities.

Pleasant Valley Conservancy is open to the public for hiking and nature study. Sorry, no dogs! Scheduled tours are offered several times a year as well as special events for school or college groups.

Pleasant Valley Conservancy is a site of The Prairie Enthusiasts (TPE), an organization active in the upper Midwest. Part of the Conservancy is owned by TPE and the rest is permanently protected by a conservation easement donated to TPE by Kathie and Tom Brock.

This website provides extensive information on the restoration and long-term management of the Conservancy.

View the 2024 Pleasant Valley Conservancy Wetland Management Plan