Since it was started in February of 2023, the Blue Heron Landing has been known for their scenic boat tours of the Horicon Marsh; now it will be known as the 2026 Marsh Area Chamber of Commerce Horicon’s Business of the Year.
Owned and operated by Troy and Jodell Kirchoff, the Blue Heron Landing is much more than just tours and a boat landing. They have a full cafe with coffee, a bakery, light breakfast and lunches. Wine is also served along with bloody Mary’s, mixed drinks and beer. Private parties and events are also hosted on the site. Additionally, they do kayak and canoe rentals and have a gift shop.
The Blue Heron Landing is currently closed for the season. They close from early November until Feb. 3.
“The reason for coming back Feb. 3 is we want to be back in time for national muffin day,” Troy explained. Jodell has a following for her muffins. Even though she makes many different kinds, she says her blueberry ones tend to be the favorite.
Troy and Jodell know it was Carl Reinemman who nominated them. In Reinemann’s nomination letter, he said, “Their commitment to the Marsh Area goes well beyond running a successful tour business. Troy and Jodell have made it a priority to support local schools through the Horicon Marshmen Program and the Horicon Phoenix Program, offering specialized tours designed specifically for students. They extend that same generosity to the Dodge County ADRC and area senior centers, making sure that residents of every age and ability have the chance to experience the marsh firsthand.”
Staying active in the community is something that the Kirchoff’s strive for. They work closely with the Horicon Phoenix Program and help out with the Wine Walks and Itty Bitty Boat Race. Troy is the secretary for the Horicon Rod and Gun club and they are members of the Horicon Marshmen Foundation. They are active with the Horicon Bird Watching Club and Friends of the Horicon Marsh by helping out with tours.
When asked what it felt like to win the award, Troy said, “Pretty good. Kind of a surprise, I guess.”
Jodell added, “It’s nice to know that your hard work is appreciated.”
They are both incredibly thankful for their customers and the help they get from people like Marty Wagner, Carl Reinemann, Pam Reinemann, Christine Schmitz and more.
Troy said, “This community has rallied around Blue Heron Landing and I think that’s really part of what helped us get this award. It shows there’s life in this town and you can get some stuff moving here.”
They were present for the Chamber Annual Dinner on Nov. 10 where they were honored for their award.
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