City of Middleton Conservancy Lands Plan Update
The City of Middleton is developing a five-year update to its Conservancy Lands Plan. This plan guides management of 27 conservancies and over 820 acres of conservancy lands.
The 2025-2030 Conservancy Lands Plan updates continues the work done in the 2018-2023 Conservancy Lands Plan, the 2011-2016 Conservancy Lands Plan, and 2005 Conservancy Lands Plan. It will reflect changes in Middleton’s land use and citizen interests over the last decade.
We'd like your input! Take this 10 minute survey HERE.
The goal of this survey is to gather information about conservancy usage, user preferences, access to conservancies, and to identify opportunities for improvement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Plan seek to accomplish?
The Plan intends to:
provide recommendations and focus management priorities for the next five years
seek and incorporate public input about conservancy lands
incorporate changes to conservancy lands that have occurred since 2018, including the flooding of Pheasant Branch Creek.
document past work done in conservancies and current conditions
update system-wide map of Middleton’s conservancies and individual conservancy maps
The Plan does not intend to:
Replace individual conservancy area Master Plans
Provide recommendations related to Middleton’s parks and recreation facilities (e.g. sports fields, playgrounds). Parks are addressed in the 2020-2025 Comprehensive Parks and Open Space Plan
What is the timeline for updating the Plan?
The prior Conservancy Lands Plan expired in 2023, therefore, a five-year update is overdue! We are working hard to develop the 2025-2030 Conservancy Lands Plan in a timely manner, with a goal of a final draft in January, 2025.
What is the difference between a Park and a Conservancy?
Conservancy lands are natural areas managed for natural vegetation, habitat, water quality and passive recreation. Trails provide access into and around conservancies and facilities are generally limited to benches and waysides.
Middleton’s conservancy lands include pond, prairie, wetland and woodland ecosystems. These natural areas not only provide ecosystem services, but also offer a range of recreational opportunities including hiking, biking, birdwatching, and cross-country skiing among others. Middleton’s 27 miles of trails connect and wind through many of the conservancies.
Parks are public areas managed for active recreation such as sports and playground activities. Parks tend to have facilities such as pavilions, shelters, playgrounds, bathrooms, and parking lots.
Who is writing the Plan?
In June 2024 the City's Conservancy Lands Committee selected Adaptive Restoration LLC to develop the five-year plan update. The Plan is a joint effort between City of Middleton Public Lands, Recreation and Forestry, and Adaptive Restoration LLC.
Estimated Project Timeline
August 7 - Public Outreach Meeting at Orchid Heights Park, 5 pm
September 4 - Public Outreach Meeting at Woodside Heights Park, 4 pm
September 24 - Public Outreach Meeting, Kromrey Middle School Cafeteria, 5 pm
December - Plan draft available for comment. Present draft plan to CLC and provide opportunity for public comment
January 2025 - Present final plan to CLC and Common Council
Provide Feedback!
Provide comments on the Draft
Call, email, or write.
608-554-0411
