Sip and Seed: Seed Collecting Event at the Muir Preserve (Marquette County)

Help Save Endangered Butterflies—Collect Lupine Seeds

Join the Ice Age Trail Alliance, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and Riverland Conservancy for seed collection events at three preserves along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.

Your efforts will support the Federally endangered Karner blue butterfly, which relies on wild lupine (Lupinus perennis) as the sole host plant for its larvae. Harvesting seeds from thriving prairies can expand Karner blue habitat across Alliance-owned and partner properties.

What You’ll Help Do:

Join us for a unique chance to walk through a stunning, wildflower filled prairie, clipping and collecting lupine seed pods.

Staff from the Alliance and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will be on hand to show you what and where to pick, and they’ll stay nearby to answer questions.

Afterward, relax with wine, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks, and connect with fellow volunteers who share your passion for conservation.

Seed and Sip Schedule and Locations:

Come to one or more of our open-house-style seed collection events—drop in anytime between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

• Tuesday, June 17: Merrimac Preserve in Sauk County (owned by the Riverland Conservancy)
• Wednesday, June 18: Alliance-owned Muir Preserve in Marquette County
• Wednesday, June 25: Alliance-owned Karner Meadow Preserve in Marquette County

What to Bring:

• Gardening gloves
• Close-toed shoes
• Sun hat/sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Long pants, long sleeve shirt (we will be in tall grass)
• Personal drinking water and container
• Picnic or snacks*
• Raingear – we will work in light rain, please check the forecast

*The Ice Age Trail Alliance will provide light refreshments and snacks.