Dane County Offers Schools and Local Groups an Opportunity to Protect Area Waters through their Free Native Plants and Storm Drain Mural Program
January 08, 2025
Land & Water Resources
Dane County Offers Schools and Local Groups an Opportunity to Protect Area Waters through their Free Native Plants and Storm Drain Mural Program
MADISON - January 8, 2025 - The Dane County Land & Water Resources Department and the Madison Area Municipal Stormwater Partnership (MAMSWaP) are currently accepting applications for their Storm Drain Mural Program and Free Native Plants for Schools and Communities Program
"Dane County is committed to preserving the health and beauty of our local waterways for future generations," said Dane County Executive Melissa Agard. "These programs empower schools and community groups to take meaningful action in reducing runoff and protecting our lakes, rivers, and streams. By working together, we can create lasting change to safeguard our natural resources."
The Free Native Plants for Schools and Community Projects program helps provide schools and community groups with free native plants. Native plants increase infiltration and reduce soil compaction through their deep root systems, reducing stormwater runoff and pollution into area waterways. Once established, native plants require little maintenance besides occasional weeding. They also add beauty to the landscape and provide important food and habitat to wildlife and pollinators.
ince the program began in 2016, more than 43,000 plants have been distributed to 200 different schools and community groups, including neighborhood associations and community centers. Schools and community groups located within Dane County are encouraged to apply. An interactive map of projects that have received plants in the past and an application form are available on the program webpage. Applications are due by January 31.
The Storm Drain Mural Program uses art to educate Dane County residents about stormwater pollution. Water that enters a storm sewer often travels to local waterways without being cleaned—carrying trash, soil and other pollutants to our lakes, rivers, and streams. The goal of these colorful murals is to capture the attention of those who pass by, help them understand where the stormwater that enters their storm drain flows, and get them thinking about actions they can take to ensure that “only rain goes down the storm drain”
Since 2018, the Storm Drain Mural Program has funded more than 50 murals across 15 Dane County communities. Municipalities, organizations, schools, and community groups located in Dane County that are interested in having an area storm drain mural painted are encouraged to apply. Applicants have the option to assist with the mural design and painting or choose from a catalogue of pre-made designs. An application form is available on the program webpage. Applications are due by February 15.
Media Contacts:
Christal Campbell
Stormwater Education Coordinator
(608) 228-4493
campbell.christal@danecounty.gov
Susan Sandford
Strategic Engagement Coordinator
(608) 669-1816
sandford.susan@countyofdane.com
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About Dane County Land & Water Resources Department
The Dane County Land & Water Resources Department works to protect and enhance Dane County’s natural, cultural, and historic resources. It provides the county’s residents with a broad array of accessible, high quality resource-based recreational services and facilities, and supports residents, communities, local governments and other agencies and organizations in their resource management and protection activities.
About Madison Area Municipal Stormwater Partnership
MAMSWaP is a coalition of Dane County municipalities and organizations working together to promote practices that reduce and improve stormwater runoff into Dane County lakes, rivers and streams.