Dane County Executive Announces Purchase of Sunnyside Seed Farm Land in Middleton

June 03, 2005
Lesley Sillaman, Office of the County Executive (608) 267-8823 or cell (608) 669-5606
County Executive

Madison – Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk today announced the second phase of a purchase of land from Sunnyside Seed Farms, Inc., in the Town of Middleton, to protect the Black Earth Creek Resource Area and other natural resources from development. Dane County worked with the Town of Middleton to complete the purchase, with Middleton contributing $1,250,000 toward the total $3,535,000 price. The 221 acres are in addition to 73 acres purchased by the County in November 2004. “This purchase allows us to protect the Black Earth Creek, woods, bluffs, prairies and wetlands, which residents of Dane County know and love,” said Falk. “The citizens of the Town of Middleton have made this purchase a priority and we are glad to be working with them on this important project.” “This purchase is large enough to make a significant difference to wildlife and the environment,” said Supervisor Dave Ripp, who represents the area and sits on the Parks Commission. “It couldn’t have been done without the help of the Town of Middleton.” The land lies in the Black Earth Creek Resource Area and is being protected because lands within that area include wetlands, riparian stream corridors, remnant prairies, natural areas, wooded steep slopes that provide important groundwater recharge and water quality functions, as well as natural ridgelines that define the area and provide a dramatic scenic backdrop. This unique property (Phase I and Phase II combined) exhibits all of these features while providing the opportunity for recreational activities that are easily accessed by a large number of Dane County residents. At a Town meeting on May 17, citizens of the Town of Middleton voted to join Dane County in the purchase of land and Dane County has agreed that it will not sell any of the land without the consent of the Middleton Town Board. A resolution authorizing the purchase will be introduced to the Dane County Board of Supervisors Thursday, June 2, 2005. # # #