The largest freshwater cattail marsh in the United States, Horicon Marsh formed when Ice Age meltwater gathered behind a moraine. Recognized for its ecological importance by organizations like the United Nations and the National Audubon Society, massive numbers of migrating birds – 350,000 geese and ducks alone, and more than 300 species in total – pass through in spring and fall.

Management of the 32,000 acres of protected wetlands is shared by national and state wildlife refuges, each with its own visitor center. Additionally, a third visitor center is operated by the local nonprofit organization, Marsh Haven Nature Center Marsh Haven. Over 13 miles long and up to 5 miles wide, this natural treasure balances conservation with a variety of uses for human visitors.

 

Wildlife Education Programs have been conducted at the marsh since the mid-1980s. Programs focus on the abundant wildlife resources of the marsh, their ecology and applied management. Programs rely on the diverse wildlife to develop a wide range of educational programs aimed at introducing and sharing our native wildlife with a broad audience.

Visit these Horicon Marsh Locations:

Marsh Haven Nature Center — Marsh Haven

Horicon Marsh Education & Visitor Center — Home - Friends of Horicon Marsh

Horicon National Wildlife Refuge — Horicon National Wildlife Refuge | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (fws.gov)