The University of Wisconsin System's Pigeon Lake Field Station is situated in the southwest part of the 827,067 acre Chequamegon National Forest. The location of the station makes it ideally suited for field studies in the natural sciences, while the beauty of the area also facilitates the pursuit of activities in the humanities, social sciences, recreation/physical education, and other disciplines.

The field station is located on 50.4 acres along the north shore of Pigeon Lake. The lake is approximately 2 miles long and 1/4 mile wide at the maximum. The surface area varies considerably as the water level rises and falls, but it is generally close to 200 acres. Since the lake itself has no inlet or outlet, its major water supply is either ground water or seepage. The moderately hard, clear water has a maximum depth of 20 to 30 feet.

The ecological characteristics of the area are extremely diverse. Most of the forested area consists of regrowth, but there are scattered patches of virgin pine and hemlock. In addition, the site is enhanced by the existence of bogs, abandoned fields, cattail marshes, lakes and streams as well as numerous other aquatic habitats.

In this Web site, you'll find: details about our facilities & Location, including regulations and maps; courses offered during the summer at Pigeon Lake; information for faculty and students planning to visit the station; fees for the coming year; and contact information for all UW campuses.

Photographs by Liz Oostendorp