Each area of the Lakeshore Nature Preserve has its own unique history because the University acquired these lands over a long period of time.  Even during the time the University owned these lands, the areas were managed in various ways.  While some areas were farmed, others were maintained as natural woodland.  Still others had buildings and summer residences such as the Tent Colony.  The land use history affects the vegetation present today.  In addition, past usage affects the ability of restoration ecologists to restore each area to a natural state. The Friends are interested in finding and sharing this interesting history. 

Native American Cultural Landscapes & History Aldo Leopold Areas of the Preserve Historical Documents Past Planning 1918 Marsh Development Aldo Leopold	University Bay Drive near Picnic Point: Reclaimed corn fields Meuer Collection, UW Archives

For some interesting facts about Preserve history, see: