Business Details
30 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Landscaping and Ecological Restoration in Milwaukee
Founded in 1996, Marek Landscaping combines restoration ecology and landscape architecture to create resilient, nature-inspired designs. Our team draws inspiration from native ecosystems, integrating science and art to deliver sustainable solutions for urban and rural environments. With expertise in green infrastructure, erosion control, and habitat restoration, we prioritize ecological integrity while meeting client needs. Our multidisciplinary staff includes landscape architects, ecologists, and field specialists committed to continuing education and community engagement. We actively participate in public outreach, advocacy, and volunteer initiatives, fostering connections between people and natural landscapes.Our design-build approach ensures seamless project execution from concept to completion, emphasizing innovation and adaptability. Clients benefit from our dedication to low-impact development techniques and personalized service tailored to each project's unique challenges. We serve Milwaukee and surrounding regions, working on diverse sites ranging from private residences to public parks and trails. Our commitment to sustainability extends to material selection, construction practices, and long-term maintenance strategies. Recognized for pioneering natural landscaping ordinances, we continue to lead in ecological design and restoration practices.
Services
Land Stewardship
Landscape Architecture
Erosion Control
Green Infrastructure
Contracting
Invasive Species Management
Trail Construction
Native Planting
Stormwater Management
Habitat Restoration
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer 28+ years of experience in ecological restoration and landscape architecture since 1996
- Our integrated design-build approach ensures seamless project execution from concept to completion
- We prioritize sustainable practices using native plants and low-impact development techniques
- Our multidisciplinary team includes certified professionals in ecology, arboriculture, and landscape architecture
- We maintain active community involvement through environmental education and volunteer initiatives
What people say
Absolute pleasure to work with
Easy and great experience
Community connection enhancement
Three project partnerships
Stormwater management expertise
Services
Land Stewardship
Our land stewardship services focus on preserving and enhancing natural ecosystems through invasive species control, native vegetation management, and habitat restoration. We develop customized maintenance plans for public parks, conservation areas, and private properties. Our team implements prescribed fire techniques and biological erosion control methods to maintain ecological balance while meeting landowner objectives.
Landscape Architecture
We create functional, aesthetically pleasing landscapes that integrate ecological principles with human needs. Our services include site analysis, master planning, and construction documentation for residential, commercial, and public spaces. We specialize in natural material hardscapes, native plant installations, and accessible trail systems that enhance environmental quality while meeting regulatory requirements.
Green Infrastructure
Our green infrastructure solutions manage stormwater through natural processes while creating ecological value. We design and install rain gardens, bioswales, permeable pavements, and green roofs that reduce runoff and improve water quality. These systems provide multiple benefits including flood mitigation, groundwater recharge, and urban habitat creation while meeting municipal regulations.
Biological Erosion Control
We implement nature-based erosion control solutions using compost-based products, vegetation establishment, and structural techniques. Our services include shoreline stabilization, bluff protection, and construction site erosion management. We combine technical expertise with ecological knowledge to create long-term solutions that prevent soil loss while enhancing habitat value and water quality.
Contracting
Our full-service contracting division executes landscape construction and restoration projects from concept to completion. We specialize in complex installations including natural stone features, multi-use trails, and ecological restoration projects. Our experienced crews implement technical specifications with attention to detail, ensuring quality outcomes that align with design intent and environmental goals.
People
Mike Marek
President and Landscape Ecologist
Founder of Marek Landscaping with 28 years of experience in ecological design. Pioneered natural landscaping ordinances in Wisconsin. Specializes in integrating ecological principles with practical design solutions for sustainable landscapes.
Taneal Kendzor
Office Manager
Brings 23 years of hospitality industry experience to our administrative operations. Holds an associate degree in interior and architectural design. Passionate about environmental sustainability and community engagement through volunteer work.
Mara Redding
Landscape Designer and Field Ecologist
Dual role in design and stewardship teams with a BS in Landscape Architecture. Specializes in botanical surveys, ecological restoration, and native seed collection. Combines mapping expertise with ecological knowledge to create sustainable landscape solutions.
Dennis Carl
Stewardship Coordinator
Focuses on Milwaukee's natural environment restoration. Brings experience from local conservation organizations. Specializes in public land stewardship and community engagement in environmental projects.
John Menzel
Field Ecologist / Arborist
Certified arborist with 9 years of tree care experience. Holds advanced degrees in biology and ecology. Specializes in urban forestry, invasive species management, and ecological restoration techniques for diverse landscapes.
Questions
What makes Marek Landscaping different from other firms?
We uniquely combine ecological restoration expertise with landscape architecture, prioritizing nature-based solutions that create functional, sustainable spaces while maintaining environmental integrity.
Do you handle both design and construction?
Yes, our design-build approach provides seamless project execution from concept through construction, ensuring design intent is maintained throughout implementation.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Milwaukee and surrounding Southeastern Wisconsin communities, including Lake Michigan shoreline areas and rural conservation sites.
Can you work with existing landscape features?
Absolutely. We specialize in integrating existing natural features into our designs, enhancing ecological value while meeting functional requirements.
Do you offer maintenance services?
Yes, we provide comprehensive maintenance plans for installed landscapes, including invasive species management and ecological restoration upkeep.
How do you handle stormwater management?
We implement green infrastructure solutions like rain gardens and permeable pavements that manage stormwater naturally while creating ecological benefits.