RECLAMATION SUCCESS

Vulcan Materials Company has successfully established a Certified Wildlife Habitat (through the Wildlife Habitat Council) adjacent to the active Dousman Sand and Gravel facility in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. The site consists of 32 acres of diverse habitat, which was a previously mined area. The southern portion of the site contains a leg of the Glacial Drumlin Trail, part of the Ice Age Trail, a 1,000-mile nature path originated in 1971 by the U.S. Department of the Interior.

The northern portion of the site supports a mosaic of mature deciduous trees, lowland shrubs, reeds, and grasses. A natural depression elevates into open plains to the east and terminates into an engineered pond to the west. The southern portion primarily consists of a mixture of savanna and prairie. The pond provides additional habitat for aquatic and semi-aquatic species, and also provides a central water source.

A native flora propagation program is thriving with the help of the University of Wisconsin at Waukesha Prairie Restoration Project. The UWW has aided in the removal of invasive species, controlled burns, and the development of a native seed bank.

The property receives visits from school groups and nature lovers year-round. Due to the continued success of the wildlife habitat, Vulcan is in the initial stages of developing an educational classroom and community resource center with the UWW. This will enable individuals to further their knowledge and appreciation of native wildlife through education

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In conjunction with the University of Wisconsin, Vulcan plans to maintain and diversify this exquisite habitat for future generations to enjoy the natural beauty of the northern plains. The remaining mining activities will be completed and the property will be similarly reclaimed as wildlife habitat or converted into a community resource.