Before this area was developed, there was a great sand prairie. Most of it has been paved over and developed or turned into farms. Thankfully some of it has been preserved in the 61 acres of the Holland Sand Prairie. This area is open to the public for a beautiful walk. Bring your camera to photograph the wildflowers or just enjoy nature. More information can be found on the official website or on sites like these:

http://www.lacrossetribune.com/articles/2007/09/05/news/z02sand0905.txt
http://dnr.wi.gov/ORG/LAND/ER/sna/sna553.htm