Neighbor News
Root-Pike WIN Acquires Remaining 7-Acres of Campbell Woods
20 Acres of Old Growth Forest and Wetlands Now Protected in Perpetuity
RACINE, WI – On August 30th, Root-Pike Watershed Initiative Network (WIN) purchased the remaining seven acres of Campbell Woods in Mount Pleasant. Deemed an “ecologically significant” area, the full 20-acre parcel of old growth forest and wetland will now remain protected into perpetuity.
The parcel located to the North of CTH KR and East of Old Green Bay Road has a storied and tumultuous history. In 2022, Root-Pike WIN was approached by the community to help save the remaining hardwood forest from development. The natural area of Campbell Woods was going up for auction, and the unique land type in the Pike River watershed faced an uncertain future.
Root-Pike WIN had just become a land trust, but lacked the financial means to make the costly acquisition happen. With the help of Village of Mount Pleasant and Racine County, 13 acres of the 20-acre parcel was purchased by Root-Pike WIN. Two-thirds of the wooded area was secured in perpetuity under a conservation easement in 2023.
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In 2024, Root-Pike WIN led a fundraising campaign and grant-writing effort to save the remaining seven acres. Numerous community partners, one anonymous donor, and the Department of Natural Resources stepped up to help preserve this rare forest and wetland. Community contributions and the DNR grant provided the funding for the final acquisition of the remaining seven-acres.
“Campbell Woods will serve as inspiration to other developments that preserving and protecting their natural areas has long-term value to the community”, said Dave Giordano, Executive Director at Root-Pike WIN. “Future generations will thank the community, Village, County, and DNR for saving this old growth forest and wetland.”
Find out what's happening in Mount Pleasant-Sturtevantfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
In the coming years, Root-Pike WIN will be restoring areas of the parcel by removing invasive species and dead ash trees, replacing them with native flowers and grasses, and building a trail system for the public to enjoy. The area will be closed until enough funds can be raised to complete safe access throughout the environmentally sensitive parcel.
Root-Pike WIN is now in need of restoration and stewardship funds to preserve the forest and build the trails. Donations to Root-Pike WIN (501c3) can be made at: www.rootpikewin.org/donations-...
