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.
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