Waukesha County Land Conservancy

The Waukesha County Land Conservancy uses hunting as a way to better manage land and wildlife in Waukesha County. Time spent outside in natural areas scouting the land for game and planning hunting trips are enjoyable pastimes and provide hunters and future hunters with the ability to enjoy this activity in the greater Milwaukee area. Many Wisconsin families and friend groups look forward to the season every year, to continue old traditions and begin some new.

Especially in Waukesha County, deer populations can be harmful both ecologically and economically. High numbers of deer result in more frequent car accidents, harm to crops and landscape plants, as well as over-grazing of our native natural communities. 

Hunting is open and allowed on a limited list of Waukesha County Land Conservancy preserves. This list can be found here. If you are interested in hunting one of Waukesha County Land Conservancy open hunting preserves, you do not need a permit from us – however, you must visit our policies page to review all rules and guidelines before your visit. 

If you are interested in having a slot in our hunting lottery, which limits the number of hunters on each preserve each season, please see our hunting lottery page.

Hunting Policies on Waukesha County Land Conservancy's Open Hunting Preserves

Some properties open to hunting are also part of our fall/winter stewardship workday schedule. Please take a look at our event calendar to make sure a workday is not scheduled for a day you choose to hunt an open property. Thank you!

Hunting is not permitted on any other Waukesha County Land Conservancy Properties.

Remember you are responsible to know the property boundaries of the site and to respect the adjacent property owners. You can find property boundary information by visiting the Waukesha County Parks and Land Use website.

Hunting Lottery Rules and Policies on Lottery Preserves

The Waukesha County Land Conservancy holds an annual hunting lottery, where hunters can apply to have permission to hunt Scuppernong Wetlands and the northern parcel of Ottawa Wildlife Refuge. 

Hunting application fees are non-refundable and names are drawn randomly. Please visit the hunting lottery page to review all hunting lottery rules, regulations, and policies before entering.