By Louis Schuller
My Field of Dreams
This article appeared in the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association’s September 2025 Newsletter edition.
Introduction by Peter Ziegler, WWA Habitat Director:
Situated not far from larger wetland complexes, I knew when I first looked at Lou’s project that it had potential due to its location to support a wide range of wetland species, including waterfowl. Lou also demonstrated his dedication, knowledge, and action, showing that if WWA could help get this “last” project idea on the ground, it would be a net win for waterfowl and wetlands.
What was most encouraging was that Lou got things done, and the results showed. He had a diverse wetland (vegetation-wise), and that resulted in attracting waterfowl throughout the season. I have reviewed numerous wetlands, and typically, one of this age is degraded and either chock full of cattails or open water, neither of which is attractive to waterfowl. His success was a result of his hard work, increasing knowledge, and asking for help.
The last project, as Lou describes below, had already shown signs of success before the earthwork was even completed to restore the hydrology. He took the initiative and did some prep work; aerial-sprayed the cattails and followed that with a burn. He set the stage for success, and from my personal observation, it was already transitioning into a diverse wetland of species that will benefit many water birds, including waterfowl. I’m excited to share Lou’s landowner perspective on his “field of dreams”.
My Field of Dreams
In 1982 I was invited to hunt waterfowl at a project next to property I would soon purchase. It was 80 acres with approximately 4000’ of levy. One flow control. Full of plants providing food and cover for ducks. Not to mention, full of ducks
I knew then what I wanted. Two years later in 1982 I learned of 80 acres of canary grass marsh immediately to the West of the property I had hunted for sale. Knowing little to nothing about constructing my field of dreams I invited a WI. DNR representative to walk the property with me. He gave me a thumbs up on the project. At the time he made the comment that the spring fed creek feeding the marsh was an excellent source of water. Over the years I have come to appreciate the salience of his comment.
Two more years, fish and wildlife, DNR, county and township approvals. 4700 feet of dykes, four flow control devices and the creek reliably delivering a flow of water, I had the key ingredients in place for my field of dreams.
The first two years post construction can only be described as taxing my patience(and I am a patient man). The field in place, not many ducks.
The canary grass eventually drowned out. Mother nature provided ample stands of smart weed and various other plants providing food and cover for waterfowl.
At a visit to another friend’s project , I gathered as much wild rice in two hands as I could and planted it Labor day in 1990. It has since expanded throughout my entire project. Additionally I have gotten smarter about planting and flooding millet which in combination with the wild rice has had amazing results.
Forty two years later I am still intrigued by all things wetlands. So full of life. I have always just enjoyed watching the waterfowl my field of dreams continue to attract. The friendships formed, sharing the resources are precious. I love the sights and sounds of the hunts. Love the dog work.
As a final mention after reading numerous articles about the benefit of wetlands to the environment, I had the water coming in to the project tested for acidity and phosphate. The acidity coming in was in the high range of what would still support life. Phosphate in the incoming sample was high enough to cause algae plumes. Water samples going out, acidity reduced 40%, phosphate reduced 60%.
I take satisfaction and appreciation for filtering the agricultural runoff of 4000 acres eventually running into Big Green Lake
I have recently worked with WWA on a fifth pond which will complete what I am able to do with the balance of my 80 acres. Pete Ziegler and WWA were a huge help in approvals needed and sound design counsel. I am grateful for their help.
Every additional year I have had and have left to enjoy my project is another pearl on the string. I have seen some amazing displays of nature. It has been and continues to be my favorite possession. Long live WWA.
