Dane County to buy 81 acres along Upper Yahara River

Dane County announced Thursday it will be buying 81 acres that will give canoeists access to the Upper Yahara River.

The county will purchase the land from Bollig Farm Property LLC, officials said. Canoeists will be able to access the Upper Yahara River and paddle down to where it empties into Cherokee Marsh.

The site contains over a mile of natural shoreline along the Upper Yahara River that will provide opportunities for water-based recreational activities, like canoeing, kayaking and fishing, according to a release.

“The property will be a gateway to the Yahara Waterways,” Dane County Executive Joe Parisi said in the release. “This is a targeted investment that is a win for the environment, outdoor recreationists and all Dane County residents. Preserving this corridor means families for generations to come will be able to fish, camp and canoe in and along the river.”

The property is located in the towns of Windsor and Burke in the Cherokee Marsh Natural Resource Area and the North Mendota Watershed, according to the release.

“This is a great opportunity to supplement our efforts to improve water quality in the Upper Yahara waterway, while expanding the recreational opportunities the resource provides,” said Maureen McCarville, District 22 Dane County Board Supervisor. “It is a great addition to the improvements being made by the county, local governments and volunteer groups to make the most out of this invaluable asset.”

In the future, the county may add trails to connect the proposed Upper Yahara River Bicycle Pedestrian Trail that follows the river corridor between Madison and DeForest, according to the release.

Funding for the land came from the Dane County Lake Preservation and Renewal Fund.