Guided trips are conducted at Pleasant Valley Conservancy at scheduled intervals. These trips are usually offered jointly through Madison Audubon Society and/or The Prairie Enthusiasts. These trips are open to the public and are conducted at no charge. A trip is also conducted at Black Earth Rettenmund Prairie State Natural Area, a high quality prairie remnant which is a few miles away and offers outstanding views of native prairie flora.

Third Annual Cross-country ski/snowshoe, New Year’s Day
Pleasant Valley Conservancy
1:00 to 4:00 PM, Sunday, January 1, 2012

Canceled because of lack of snow!

May be rescheduled later (if the weather cooperates).

Annual Labor Day field trip: Monday, September 3, 2012, from 1-4 PM. This is an excellent time to see prairie grasses at their peak.

Evening at Black Earth Rettenmund Prairie: Kathie and Tom Brock will lead their annual trip to Black Earth Rettenmund Prairie State Natural Area , on Thursday, June 21, 2012, from 6:30-8:30 PM. This is usually the ideal time to see the fabulous wood lily display. This outstanding State Natural Area is only a few miles from Pleasant Valley Conservancy.

Butterflies at Pleasant Valley Conservancy: This trip, run by the Southern Wisconsin Butterfly Association, is a joint trip with Madison Audubon Society. Ann Thering is the leader. Call the telephone below for time and other details.

Prairies at their Peak: Sunday, July 29, 2012, from 1-4 PM. This is our annual mid-summer field trip, sponsored by Prairie Enthusiasts and Madison Audubon Society. Excellent time to see prairie wildflowers.

Special trips can also be conducted for school and professional groups. Call Tom or Kathie Brock at 608-238-5050

The Pleasant Valley Conservancy trips end with refreshments at our small field station, providing an opportunity for more detailed questions and discussion.

For further information, use the Contact form in this web site or call 608-238-5050.

Use this link for directions

Photos of selected trips in previous years

Part of the 2009 Labor Day field trip group navigating a special trail that crosses prairie and savanna remnants on the south-facing slope, on a sunny day when little bluestem is in peak color.