A Brief History
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Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation began at a kitchen table with 20 supporters and no land. Today, it enjoys the support of a committed and talented volunteer board, countless community volunteers, and the membership and interest of nearly 700 individual contributors.
CLCF Leadership
Cedar Lakes Conservation
Foundation, Inc. was founded in 1974 and
is the oldest land trust of its kind in the State of Wisconsin. Its
volunteer leadership was instrumental to the formation of Gathering
Waters Conservancy and using the land trust model as an important
framework to coordinate and support statewide land conservation
efforts. It is fair to say that many of our State’s land trusts were
propagated from the seeds of land conservation practice planted and
cultivated by CLCF in Wisconsin. Activities of CLCF continue to
make significant contributions to the preservation and protection of fragile
wetlands, woodlands and natural areas in Washington County – one of the most
rapidly developing areas in the State. Cumulatively, approximately 2500 acres
of pristine land has been permanently protected, creating a lasting legacy of
natural beauty that will remain undeveloped for the benefit of future
generations. And, it’s not just any land. CLCF’s area of concentration
includes the headwaters and watersheds of Gilbert Lake, Big Cedar Lake, Little
Cedar Lake, and Cedar Creek. These watersheds drain into the Milwaukee River
and eventually reach Lake Michigan. In a 34 year time frame, in
excess of 95,000 native trees and other native plant species have been planted,
storm water retention ponds have been constructed, and annual educational events
have been hosted by CLCF. Of significance, the DNR and other local governmental
units enthusiastically attest to the positive impact CLCF has had on the
improvement of water quality in the local lakes and surrounding watershed
areas. Participation in the work of CLCF is at an all-time high and committed
volunteers generated by the organization continue to engage in many worthwhile
projects. Experienced CLCF volunteers mentor new recruits, including youth
groups, to develop the next generation of conservationists. None of this work would be
possible without charitable contributions from individuals and organizations
that share a common vision for the work of CLCF. Each year, benefits generated
by the organization’s work multiply incalculably. We hope you will determine
the work of the Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation worthy of your continued
support! Contributions to the organization are tax deductible as provided by
law. Regular publications keep members abreast of progress, events, and
volunteer opportunities.
We hope you enjoy the information provided on this
site, and that we might have an
opportunity to work with you if you are not already involved. To learn more,
please email
us at AskCLCF@clcf.info.