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“For many of us, water simply flows from a faucet, and we think little about it beyond this point of contact. We have lost a sense of respect for the wild river, for the complex workings of a wetland, for the intricate web of life that water supports.”
– Sandra Postel, Freshwater Conservationist and Author

On Wednesday, March 18, 2020, Groundswell purchased 69 acres of wetlands south of McFarland in the Town of Dunn. Landowners Ken and Eileen Brost have understood and respected these wetlands for many years, and their commitment to conservation will leave a lasting legacy.

The property is adjacent to Lower Mud Lake State Fishery Area south of McFarland along Hwy. 51 and helps fill in the project boundary for Dane County’s Lower Mud Lake Natural Resource Area. Groundswell will manage the property consistent with the adjacent state land to increase public recreation opportunities and provide permanent habitat for ducks and other wildlife.

Funding to purchase the property came from the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, Dane County Conservation Fund, Town of Dunn, and supporters of Groundswell.

As the times (COVID-19 pandemic) call for, we practiced social distancing at the closing. Only the bare minimum number of people participated.

Jim Welsh noted in the announcement, “My love of land and community remains strong.  I know that we will we get through this troubling time together.  I hope you stay well.”