A generations-old family farm in the Town of Erin has become The Metz Preserve, marking Tall Pines Conservancy’s latest success in preserving farmland and rural heritage heritage in Waukesha County. Through its first Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program grant, the land trust has protected 84 acres situated between two sections of the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Loew Lake Unit.
The Oconomowoc River runs through the preserve, supporting diverse wetland ecosystems and providing habitat for native wildlife. Beyond preserving agricultural land, the protected property also serves as a natural infrastructure: preventing nutrient runoff into the river system, safeguarding an essential groundwater recharge area that helps maintain the region’s water supply, and providing natural flood protection for surrounding communities. The preserve will also expand outdoor recreation opportunities for area residents.
The Metz family has owned this land since 1942, and for Steve Metz, protecting it was an easy choice.
“Preserving this amazing piece of property for the enjoyment of the public was the right thing to do and exactly what our ancestors would have wanted,” he said in a press release. “Working with Tall Pines Conservancy was an easy decision given their like-minded mission of preservation.”
Since its founding in 1999, Tall Pines Conservancy has preserved nearly 3,000 acres of farmland, water resources, natural areas, and open spaces throughout Waukesha County. As development pressure continues to shape the region, The Metz Preserve adds to this legacy of protection, and ensures that one more piece of Wisconsin’s agricultural heritage will remain protected forever.
Pictured: Becky Fedak, Tall Pines Conservancy Executive Director; Paul Meuer, Tall Pines Conservancy Land Protection Manager; Steve Metz, landowner; and Susan Buchanan, Tall Pines Conservancy outgoing Executive Director
Images from Tall Pines Conservancy, 2024
