Door County Expands Protected Fen by 40%

The Door County Land Trust has expanded its Kellner Fen Natural Area by over 40%, acquiring a significant 149-acre parcel. This purchase increases the total protected area near Lake Michigan to 515 acres, preserving globally important ridge-and-swale landscapes.

The expanded Kellner Fen provides critical habitat for rare species, notably the federally endangered Hine's emerald dragonfly. This wetland's fragile pH balance, sustained by calcium-rich groundwater, supports unique plants like rare orchids and carnivorous species.

This land was previously owned by Dennis and Susan Garrity, who sold it below market value to ensure its preservation. The tract will be named The Dennis and Susan Garrity Family Tract at Kellner Fen Natural Area.

Archival records suggest a forgotten path once traversed the property, potentially an ancient indigenous route. This path may have provided access for early cranberry farming efforts in the fen.

Future management by the land trust will focus on controlling invasive species, protecting water quality, rare species, migratory bird habitat, and forest health.

The acquisition was funded through various sources, including private donations and grants from the Natural Resource Damage Assessment and Restoration program and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources' Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program.