On Saturday, October 10, 2026, the public is invited to experience an
evening of stargazing and nature exploration at Mississippi Valley Conservancy’s Tunnelville
Cliffs nature preserve in Vernon County. Beginning at 7 p.m., participants will venture into the
darkness to explore the autumn night sky, learning how to spot planets, stars and distant galaxies
with just binoculars or the naked eye. With helpful hints from two trained guides, explorers will
also become more aware of the sights and sounds of wildlife active after dark. The event is part
of Mississippi Valley Conservancy’s 2026 Linked to the Land outdoor learning series, sponsored
by Conservancy members with support from WXOW / News 19.
The evening will be led by two experienced naturalists and astronomy educators. Susan Cushing,
a Master Naturalist and Environmental Educator with Kickapoo Valley Reserve, serves as
Secretary of the Kickapoo Valley Dark Sky Initiative. She will share the story of the plants and
animals commonly found on the property at Tunnelville Cliffs and talk about efforts to protect
naturally dark skies. John Heasley, an astronomy educator with Driftless Stargazing, NASA
Solar System Ambassador and Dark Sky International Advocate, will help participants navigate
the night sky. With no need for a telescope, this is an opportunity for both beginning and
experienced stargazers to discover something new. But the stars aren’t the only attraction.
At more than 1,100 acres, Tunnelville Cliffs is Mississippi Valley Conservancy’s second-largest
preserve. Located along the Kickapoo River near La Farge, the property encompasses springs,
creeks, more than 9,000 feet of river frontage, towering cliffs, prairies, wetlands and woods.
Together with neighboring protected lands, it forms part of a more than 2,200-acre contiguous
corridor that provides important habitat for wildlife.
Experiencing the preserve at night offers a different perspective on that protected
landscape—and a chance to consider why darkness itself is an important part of a healthy
ecosystem.
Participants should bring a sense of wonder and, if possible, binoculars. A limited number of
binoculars will be available to share. To preserve night vision and provide the best possible
stargazing experience, flashlights and cell phones will be turned off for most of the event.
Advance registration is required for this free event by October 3. Register at
mississippivalleyconservancy.org/events. Specific meeting details and directions will be
provided to registered participants a few days before the event via email.
For questions, contact Karen Solverson at karen@mississippivalleyconservancy.org or 608-784-
3606, ext. 8.
