Lyons Biodiversity Project

The Lyons Biodiversity Project began as a grassroots effort by a group of Lyons Township neighbors to improve habitat, share resources, and raise awareness of the value of native biodiversity. Protecting and enhancing native biodiversity makes for healthy communities that add beauty, variety, and vitality to our environment. 

Lyons Township in southeastern Walworth County, Wisconsin, offers some of the most attractive vistas of glacial terrain to be found in the region. The varied topography and hydrology support an abundance of life.

Acknowledging that living organisms do not recognize property lines or political boundaries, the Lyons Biodiversity Project engages local landowners in coordinating the management of their lands in sustainable ways that foster native biodiversity in a healthy environment across the area. Voluntary participants in the project benefit from shared expertise and resources in a community of practice.

Operating as a committee within the volunteer structure of Kettle Moraine Land Trust, the Lyons Biodiversity Project is taking the following steps:

• Identifying and mapping locations that are under native habitat management plans, along with areas that are prime candidates for conservation and/or restoration.
• Inviting voluntary cooperation of private landowners, businesses, and organizations in coordinating land management practices designed to preserve and restore native habitat.
• Educating participants in the value of biodiversity and the techniques employed to improve native habitat.
• Identifying native species and their care, as well as identifying invasive species and their control.
• Promoting best practices in natural areas management and connecting participants to resources (including land management services) that landowners may use to achieve their goals.
• Encouraging the sharing of experiences among participants, building community and developing skills among practitioners.

Participating property owners each receive a sign designating their property as being “Managed for Native Habitat.”

Where appropriate, land protection instruments such as conservation easements may be pursued on a voluntary basis.

Follow the Lyons Biodiversity Project group on Facebook or contact Len Wardzala at lyonsbiodiversity@gmail.com for more information.