Go With the FLOW Field Trip

Description:  Mark Cupp will lead a tour focused on effigy mound sites in southern Richland County near Muscoda.  There will be easy to moderate hiking involved.  A camera and/or binoculars are recommended.  Content is appropriate for ages 8 years old and up.  Younger children are allowed but under parental supervision at all times. The purpose of the tour will be to provide information on the people of the Late Woodland Tradition, also known as the Effigy Mound Builders, who lived and thrived in the lower Wisconsin River valley one thousand or more years ago.  Participants will learn about the effigy mound building culture and importance of protecting these sacred sites.

Leader:  Mark Cupp has served as Executive Director of the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway Board since inception of the project in 1989.  He also is a founding member and current President of Cultural Landscape Legacies, Inc., and is a founding member and current Vice-President of the Three Eagles Foundation, Inc.  Mark has over thirty years of experience in working with mound preservation and leading tours of effigy mounds in the Riverway.

Contact:  Mark Cupp cell phone 608-739-2179 or e-mail at mark.cupp@wisconsin.gov. RSVPs are encouraged and would be very helpful. Dress for weather conditions and be prepared for bugs including ticks.Boots or hiking shoes are recommended due to possible muddy trails.

All FLOW field trips are free but we do appreciate any free will donations.

An alternate “weather date” can often be set depending on the trip leader’s schedule. Check our website for the latest.

We urge everyone to comply with all current federal, state, and local COVID-19 safety directives including social distancing for in-person events. If you are feeling sick or someone in your household is sick, please do not attend but join us for a future event. Thank you for your cooperation with this important safety requirement.

Bring your own water and snacks as none will be provided. Restroom availability may be limited – plan accordingly.

Some FLOW field trips may entail optional strenuous climbs. We will do our best to communicate the level of difficulty but you are responsible for setting your own limits. Wear suitable clothes and footwear. Insect repellant and sunblock are your responsibility.

We understand how important our pets are to us but for the safety and the comfort of all, please no dogs allowed unless it is listed as a “pet friendly” event. FLOW could organize a dog-friendly field trip that follows DNR/LWSRB regulations. Let us know your thoughts.