By Executive Director Linda Schenk
The Great River Road Visitor & Learning Center is located in Freedom Park in Prescott, sits at the confluence of the Mississippi and St. Croix Rivers and is part of the Audubon Birding Trail and a Watchable Wildlife Site. The park boasts spectacular pollinator gardens designed and maintained by an all-volunteer group called “The Stewards of Freedom Park.” This very dedicated group of volunteers meets all year long and in the spring through fall months they meet weekly to maintain these amazing areas. Their countless hours of work are what makes our park’s beauty the best in our community. A very special thank you goes out to these individuals for helping to make our park and center the best that it can be.
Our gardens have purpose, the areas include bluff line natives, butterfly, and rain gardens. The butterfly garden is thoughtfully designed with both nectar sources for butterflies and larval food plants, complete with a waterfall feature. All the gardens provide vital habitat for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators, while also offering visitors insight into what a pollinator garden is. There are plant identification signs stating the species of plants. You can also use an APP such as iNaturalist to help further identify the various species.
Beyond spotting pollinators, expect to enjoy natural sounds, view beautiful native blooms, and enjoy a pleasant waterfall, all designed to enhance the experience and invite curiosity. With paved trails, picnic and gathering spaces, natural art installations like a sculptural bench and art created by Dale Lewis, the site is open and friendly to families, travelers, and nature lovers alike.
Come into the center to further your experiences and education. Visitors can also use spotting scopes and binoculars to view eagles, raptors, and migrating birds’ year‑round.
The pollinator gardens at the Great River Road Visitor & Learning Center, Freedom Park are more than just pretty plantings. They’re thoughtfully designed ecosystems showcasing native pollinator life cycles, which invite visitors to learn and engage with nature. With accessible paths, and wildlife-watching opportunities, it’s a peaceful yet enriching stop along the Great River Road. I would encourage you to come and see our gardens which are in full bloom. We look forward to seeing you at the park!
Great River Road Visitor and Learning Center – Freedom Park is located at 200 Monroe St. in Prescott. Visit www.freedomparkwi.org to learn more.
Keywords
Great River Road Visitor & Learning Center,
Freedom Park,
pollinator gardens,
The Stewards of Freedom Park,
Prescott,
Wisconsin
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