Windy Ridge – Conservation Homestead – 187 ± Acres in Monroe Cty

Welcome to Windy
Ridge — a 187 ± acre conservation homestead in the scenic Driftless Region
of Monroe County, near Ontario, Wisconsin. This remarkable property blends
comfortable country living, long-term land stewardship, and unmatched natural
beauty into one extraordinary private retreat. The phrase “once in a lifetime
opportunity” is an understatement when describing this special, special place.

Set among rolling ridges, restored prairie, and
spring-fed creeks that flow into the Kickapoo River, Windy Ridge has been
managed with great care and respect for the land. Decades of thoughtful
conservation have created a mosaic of 115±
acres of mixed hardwoods, pine forest, apples and pears, 47+ acres of prairie, and 10+ acres of deer/wildlife food plots, 8+
acres are comprised of the farmstead and cabin — all supporting abundant
wildlife and a healthy ecosystem. Three natural springs feed a clear year-round
creek protected by a DNR conservation easement. Rock out croppings located
throughout the property will take your breath away while providing memorable
family adventures. Walking through the pollinator/rich prairie plantings that
bloom from spring into fall will be event no one will want to miss out on.

A charming two-story
farmhouse serves as the
heart of the property, offering modern comfort and vintage character. The
updated farmhouse features: 4+ bedrooms, 1 bath, large kitchen, family/dining
room, living room, office, plenty of storage, and more. Internet and cell
service is very good if keeping in touch with the outside world is important to
you. There is an Amish-built cabin
(16’×32’ with loft, and a 8’x32’ front porch) which provides a peaceful
guest space or artist’s retreat, while the barn,
pole buildings, several sheds, and game-processing building offer ample
room for equipment, livestock, or hobbies. Optional furnishings and equipment
make this a turnkey opportunity for anyone looking to step into rural living
with ease.

Deer Management on Windy Acres has been taken to the
highest level! There are over 10 acres of food plots and over 20 deer stands
(some box binds) located throughout the property. Quality Deer Management (QDM)
has been practiced here for almost 15 years by the owners and many neighbors.
In fact, 3.5 year and older bucks are the rule rather than the exception. 4.5
year and older bucks are frequently caught on trail cameras, seen while on the
deer stand, while sitting on the front porch of the cabin, and while touring or
working on the property. The owners are founding members and active volunteers
of the Coulee Country Branch of the Quality Deer Management Association (now
named the National Deer Association) since its inception in 2016. The property
has been enrolled in the Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) since 2015,
and the owners were awarded the 2019 Cooperator of the Year Award! Detailed
deer observation and harvest data are kept by the owners, an important part of
both QDM and DMAP management programs.

More than 35,000 trees have been planted by the owners
over the last 23 years. These include: Red and White Oak, White and Red Pine,
Norway and White Spruce, Cherry, Hickory, Red and Sugar Maple, Apple, Pear,
Chestnuts, and more. Several Maple stands offer syrup production potential.

The property has earned several awards for habitat and
forestry excellence, including the Pheasants
Forever Habitat Award (2017), Wisconsin
Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) Cooperator of the Year (2019),
and Monroe County Tree Farmer of the
Year (2022).

Conveniently located near Wildcat Mountain State Park, the Elroy-Sparta Trail, and Kickapoo
River, Windy Ridge is perfectly situated for those who value privacy,
nature, and self-sufficiency. Whether you envision a full-time homestead,
conservation-minded residence, or peaceful country retreat, this property
offers a rare balance of livability and land legacy.

Contact Midwest
Lifestyle Properties today to experience this extraordinary property where
home, habitat, and heritage come together.