My sister and brother-in-law, Vicky and Tom West, own a 300 acre farm in Turtle Lake, WI, and they are open to hosting a BugGuide Gathering this summer, on the weekend of July 10-12. I live in Texas, but I've visited their place several times over the last 10 years and can vouch for the quality of the habitat and the variety of arthropods. The farm used to be a dairy, but that was over 25 years ago. Now it includes forest, meadow, field, swamp and lake shore. A dozen horses live in fenced corrals, some dogs stay in the fenced yard, and three youth (ages 11-16) have the run of the place. The surrounding area includes trails through forest, bogs, rivers and lakes. There are plenty of places where collecting is no problem. I will be glad to organize and lead some field trips; there are way more locations than can be explored in one weekend.
There are motels nearby, and the Wests will have a port-a-potty on site after their July 4th party. Camping for a reasonable fee (to help cover costs) on the property is fine, and there is electric/water available for guests to use, as well as a decent amount of parking. A large pole barn, which will be cleaned out, has a concrete floor, tables and electric, so it can serve as a rustic lab area. There are restaurants and grocery in town.
There is also an option of a low-cost rustic lake house and adjacent screened party shack which can accommodate 4-6 people on cots or sleeping pallets. This includes an unfinished apartment with electric and outdoor water. The septic is not functional, but if there is enough interest, another port-a-potty can be rented for that location as well.
Here are some photos showing the lay of the land from a visit back in
2010.
I'm sure I've forgotten to mention some things; I will be doing the major part of organizing and can answer questions. I first wanted to see if there was any interest in this location and date.
Valerie G. Bugh