Bumblebee Identification and Conservation Walk

Mississippi Valley Conservancy invites nature enthusiasts to explore the fascinating world of Wisconsin’s native bumble bees and native plants during a free guided field experience on Saturday, August 1, from 9:00–11:00 a.m., hosted by conservationists Steve and Susan Carpenter on their protected Driftless Area property in Grant County. Wisconsin is home to 20 species of native bumble bees, including the federally endangered rusty patched bumble bee. During this hands-on outdoor program, participants will learn about bumble bee life history, conservation challenges, field identification, and practical monitoring techniques while exploring blooming summer flowers across the Carpenters’ restored prairie. The guided walk will take place on approximately 100 acres of prairie, stream, and bluff habitat permanently protected through a conservation easement with Mississippi Valley Conservancy. Susan Carpenter, Wisconsin Native Plant Garden Curator at the University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum, and Stephen R. Carpenter, professor emeritus and former director of the Center for Limnology, have dedicated decades to understanding, restoring, and protecting natural systems. Their conservation work reflects a lifelong commitment to safeguarding Wisconsin’s landscapes and wildlife. “As a local land trust, Mississippi Valley Conservancy works with landowners and communities to permanently protect the bluffs, prairies, forests, wetlands, streams, and farms that define the Driftless Area,” said Karen Solverson, Communications & Outreach Director for Mississippi Valley Conservancy. “We are deeply grateful to Steve and Susan Carpenter for generously opening their beautiful, protected property and sharing their extraordinary knowledge and passion for conservation.” Event Details Name: Bumble Bee Identification and Conservation Walk – Grant County Date: Saturday, August 1, 2026 Time: 9:00–11:00 a.m. Location: Directions to the property will be sent to registered participants. The program is free, but advance registration is required. Participation is limited to 20 people. The walk will follow mowed lanes and short vegetation over mostly level, though occasionally uneven, terrain. Participants should plan to walk approximately one to two miles while stopping to observe flowering plants and native pollinators. Advance registration is required by July 25 on the Mississippi Valley Conservancy events page. Questions may be directed to Karen Solverson at 608-784-3606, ext. 8, or by email at karen@mississippivalleyconservancy.org.