Baileys Harbor, Wis. (May 25, 2022) – Leaders of The Ridges Sanctuary are stepping forward to further the organization’s strategy and mission through a comprehensive master planning process. The 20-year Master Plan will incorporate the potential for expanded preservation and growth of the Sanctuary, along with the adjacent Ridges Inn and Suites property, which The Ridges is under contract to purchase in June.
The Master Plan will focus on climate resiliency, programming, land management, operations, and governance. “The plan allows us to create a new vision for The Ridges – one that balances our mission, sensitive ecosystems, community demand, operations and the historical and cultural significance of the Sanctuary,” said Dave Zuhlke, Ridges Board Chair. With input from board members, staff and key stakeholders, SmithGroup, a Madison-based design firm was selected for the project.
The acquisition of The Ridges Inn is viewed as a once in a lifetime opportunity for the Sanctuary. The property’s two acres contain unique ridges and swales that are bisected by Hidden Brook. The land is also vital for the protection of the Federally Endangered Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly, a Wisconsin Species of Special Concern – the limestone oak fern, and habitat for native orchids. All options to repurpose the property and its buildings will be explored. “The purchase of The Ridges Inn allows us to unlock the potential to expand and preservation, educational programming, research and citizen science,” said Andy Gill, Executive Director of the Ridges.
The master planning process will feature public engagement opportunities over the summer. More information will be available during Memorial Day Weekend. To keep in touch with public engagement opportunities, online surveys and updates, visit www.ridgessanctuary.org or contact Andy Gill or Katie Krouse at 920.839.2802, andy@ridgessanctuary.org or katie@ridgessanctuary.org.
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