Contact: Stephanie Wilson Miller
608-267-8823
Today, Dane County Executive Joe Parisi announced that approximately $700,000 in county funds will go to the National Heritage Land Trust in purchasing 25 acres of property for the Patrick Marsh Wildlife Area. Patrick Marsh is a hub for activity involving natural resource education, wildlife habitat protection, habitat management, trail building, and new features that enhance public access and visitors’ experience. The area will be open to the public year-round for hiking, fishing, cross country skiing, bird watching, and nature appreciation.
“Acquiring this new segment of property will help the Patrick Marsh Wildlife Area further its recreation and conservation goals,” said County Executive Joe Parisi. “This purchase means that more land will be able to undergo native wildlife habitat restoration and be available for Dane County residents to enjoy.”
The Patrick Marsh Wildlife Area is located in the City of Sun Prairie and the Town of Bristol. It is home to numerous varieties of waterfowl, and this purchase will greatly enhance upland bird nesting habitat. Patrick Marsh Middle School utilizes Patrick Marsh in its environmental education curriculum, and the property will improve school access to the marsh.
This 25-acre property in the Town of Bristol is featured in the Dane County Parks and Open Space Plan and was classified as a “Priority One Acquisition Area” in Dane County’s 2003 Patrick Marsh Natural Resources Plan. Patrick Marsh has also been identified as a “Legacy Place” in the Wisconsin DNR’s Land Legacy Report.
The Dane County Conservation Fund Grant will award up to $704,360 to assist the Natural Heritage Land Trust in acquiring the section of property. Total project costs are approximately $1,375,000. The remainder of the costs will be provided by funds from the City of Sun Prairie, Town of Bristol, Patrick Marsh Conservancy, Token Creek Watershed Association, and the Natural Heritage Land Trust.
