Friends of Cherokee Marsh

This urban Wetland Gem is the largest remaining wetland in Dane County and a highly significant wetland within the Yahara River watershed. More than 2000 acres at Cherokee Marsh, along both the east and west sides of the river, are protected by city, county and state agency property owners. This extensive wetland complex is characterized by steep side slopes and large flat expanses hosting marsh, fen, shrub carr, sedge meadow, and one of the largest low prairies in the region. Cherokee Marsh not only serves as excellent wildlife habitat, but also provides services like water quality protection and flood attenuation to the City of Madison downstream. The City has intensive and ongoing marsh restoration efforts that are helping to bring back hundreds of lost acres. The site also provides recreational and educational opportunities to many Madison area residents; the site is used by thousands of students each year for environmental education.