The Ridges Sanctuary
The mission of The Ridges Sanctuary is to protect the Sanctuary and inspire stewardship of natural areas through programs of education, outreach and research.
The Ridges Sanctuary, Wisconsin’s oldest member-based nature preserve, celebrates over 72 years of connecting the Door County community with nature! Founded by pioneers in Wisconsin’s conservation movement, the 1600-acre wildflower preserve is a Door County treasure, harboring one of the largest concentrations of rare plants in the Midwest.
The Ridges is also recognized as:
- The most biologically diverse area in Wisconsin, with over 475 plant species
- National Natural Landmark
- Wisconsin State Natural Area
- Location of 25 of the 40 orchid species in Wisconsin
- National Audubon Society Important Bird Area
Visit our 5 miles of sanctuary trails daily, from dawn to dusk. It is a great place to hike or participate in one of our programs.
- Self-guided or naturalist-led hikes
- Children’s programs
- Thursday evening programs
- Workshops and outings
View our Current By Laws and our 2008-2012 Strategic Plan.
Staff
Steve Leonard, Executive Director
Email Steve
Karen Newbern, Assistant Director / Naturalist
Email Karen
Pam Gregory, Office Manager
Email Pam
Pam Zeller, Bookkeeper
Email Pam
Carol Schuster, Volunteers/Membership Coordinator
Email Carol
Board of Directors
Ed Pentecost, President
Jean Leavitt, Vice President
Don Juers, Treasurer
Carl Giessel, Director
Bill Hebal, Director
Sue Hegenbarth, Director
Alan Kimbell, Director
Mary Lee Matthes, Director
Vicki Medland, Director
Betsy Rogers, Director
Roy Thilly, Director
