Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity Sister Jan Villemure, Sister Marlene Schwaller and Sister Camilla Wolfgram represented our congregation at a recent dedication of the new nature center at Collins Marsh.
Sister Lorita Gaffney and Sister Jan were on the board at the time the decision was made to build. Our Sisters were members of Conservation Education Incorporated since it began. Sister Teresita Kittell and Sister Julia Van Denack were ever enthusiastic about the care of Collins Marsh in its early days and were members on the original board.
Collins Marsh was also a hands on location for Holy Family College’s credited teacher conservation classes.
Established in mid 1980’s, the approximate 915-acre refuge on Collins Marsh wildlife area is intended to provide a safe haven for fall migration of waterfowl as well as a variety of other wetland loving birds. These refuge areas are vitally important to allow waterfowl a resting area to escape hunting pressure, which also allows them to pack on the necessary nutrients needed to sustain themselves during the long trek south. The birds using these areas are commonly seen moving between areas of the property that are open to public access, as well as areas adjacent to Collins Marsh, providing opportunities for hunters and non-hunters alike.
Collins Marsh Wildlife Area is a 4,200-acre property located in Manitowoc County. Find it approximately 12 miles west of Manitowoc and 2 miles south of Reedsville. You can access the property on the west from CTH W, from the south on CTH JJ, on the east by Quarry, Einberger and Collins Marsh Road and on the north by Hilltop Road. The property is comprised mostly of marsh, wetlands, grasslands and bottomland hardwood forest. .
