The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

The interactive map above shows the locations of Nature Conservancy preserves and project areas in Wisconsin where we provide hunting opportunities. Click on the map to learn which species can be hunted and whether or not a permit is required and to find preserve descriptions and hunting maps.

What’s New in 2013?

Nothing so far, but we'll keep you posted. Click here to see what changed in 2011 and 2012.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to some of the most common questions about the Conservancy’s hunting program in Wisconsin.

Hunting Guidelines

All hunters must adhere to the following hunting guidelines when hunting on Nature Conservancy preserves.

Season Dates

Season dates on Nature Conservancy lands for deer and turkey are the same as on state lands and can be found on the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources web site. There are two exceptions: turkey hunting at Door County preserves is only allowed during the fall season after November 1st; Pickerel Lake is only open for deer hunting during the bow season.

On tracts where small game hunting is allowed, season dates on Nature Conservancy lands are the same as on state lands with one exception: at Mink River Preserve in Door County small game hunting is allowed from November 1st to the end of February.

Deer Permit Application Process

Permits are required to hunt deer at our most popular preserves; see map above for more details. Follow this link for more information about the application process and to download a permit.

Hunter Safety

The Conservancy has a permit system for deer hunting at our most popular preserves. For safety reasons, the number of hunters allowed at each Conservancy preserve where we issue permits follows the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources' suggested limits of 2 gun hunters and 2 bow hunters per 40 acres. Volunteers monitor parking lots and roads near these preserves during the hunting season. For lands where TNC hunting permits are required, hunters must wear an I.D. badge at all times while hunting.

Volunteer Opportunities

We have volunteer opportunities at Nature Conservancy preserves year round. This is a great way to visit preserves and gain first-hand knowledge of the lay of the land before hunting season starts. Volunteers clear fire breaks, help cut buckthorn (a non-native tree), plant trees and assist with many other activities. If you take the required training sessions, you could become a member of our Prescribed Fire Crew. If you are interested in volunteering with The Nature Conservancy, please visit our Volunteer page.

Information About Nature Conservancy Preserves

Before you visit a preserve, please see The Nature Conservancy’s Preserve Visitation Guidelines to learn more about the use of Conservancy preserves in Wisconsin. You can also find directions to The Nature Conservancy preserves in Wisconsin and other information about them online.