Henke Farm

The Henke Farm is located about five miles from the Reserve on the headwaters of Beaver Creek. The Reserve is currently using the site as a field research station, conducting several long-term biodiversity studies at the Farm including a breeding bird study, a nest box study, and prairie restoration monitoring.

This property contains a diverse mix of upland hardwood forest, with interspersed white pine stands. There are several red pine plantations, three prairie restoration plots, stream buffers, wildlife ponds, as well as some pastures and cropped fields.

Occasional programs and special events are also conducted at the site. Long-term plans include opening the site up for nature and recreational activities such as hiking, skiing and snowshoeing. A shelter/classroom on site is also planned.

The 420-acre farm has been bequeathed to Beaver Creek Reserve by Pat and Bill Henke upon their deaths. The Reserve has signed a land use agreement with the Henkes that allows use of their property for educational purposes. The Henkes have been excellent stewards of the land. They have initiated many conservation practices on the property and were recognized as "Conservation Farmers of the Year" in 1999.

Use of the property is currently by reservation only. Please contact the Reserve for more information. Call 715-877-2212 or e-mail bcr@beavercreekreserve.org.

MAPS(Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship) Breeding Bird Banding Project

Once every ten days from June to August, the Henke Farm is the site of a MAPS long-term bird population survey. The standardized operation of eleven nets set up throughout the Henke farm acreage provides valuable information about the life cycles and breeding patterns of local songbirds.

For more information about the nationwide MAPS program, go to www.birdpop.org/maps.htm.