Conservation Parks

Conservation parks are uniquely managed with the primary purpose to preserve Madison's native landscapes, plants and animal populations for the careful use and enjoyment of visitors. As such dogs are prohibited at all times. This mindful and meticulous management by staff and volunteers includes restoring native plants and animal communities and controlling invasive species through fire and other means.

List of Conservation Parks

History of Conservation Parks

In the late 1960s, the City of Madison began purchasing land in what is now Cherokee Marsh. This large and diverse wetland needed to be preserved for future generations. Since formally establishing a Conservation Parks Program in 1971, the City has acquired and manages over 1600 acres of conservation parkland. Conservation parkland is our past, present and future. We need to preserve this land, restore it to its original state now for future generations to have a window to our past.