Land & Water Conservation

Lake and TreesLand and Water Division staff and partners prepare and implement the Land and Water Resources Management Plan under the authority of Chapter 92, Wisconsin Statutes; promoting conservation of long-term soil productivity, protecting the quality of natural resources, enhancing water quality, and focusing on the correction of severe soil erosion problems. The Division is also tasked with managing the Recycling program since the County serves as the "Responsible Unit" for recycling on behalf of the County's municipalities. Click on the link to learn more about the Land and Water Conservation Division goals and objectives.

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    Kinnickinnic Headwaters Groundwater Protection Plan Development

    A new initiative is taking a deeper look at groundwater vulnerability in the Kinnickinnic headwaters region.
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    Nitrate Screening Clinics Remain Popular

    Nitrate Screening Clinics remain popular, highlighting the ongoing community interest in well water safety and the importance of regular testing.
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    Gully Stabilization Benefits

    Severe gully erosion was threatening valuable land and sending sediment into Parker Creek, prompting a conservation project to stabilize the site and prevent further soil loss.
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    Fighting Back Against Buckthorn

    If you're struggling to control invasive Buckthorn on your property, help is available through a regional partnership dedicated to managing and reducing its spread.
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    Streambank Stabilization Benefits

    A once-degraded stream on private land is being brought back to life through a targeted restoration project aimed at improving habitat for trout.
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Management Plans

The Power of Field Buffer Strips

Discover how field buffer strips help farmers reduce sediment runoff while improving land productivity and protecting water quality. This video highlights the profitability and effectiveness of buffer strips, featuring real-world data, expert insights, and firsthand farmer testimonials. See how these simple, sustainable solutions prevent soil erosion and keep nutrients on the field—ultimately safeguarding our lakes, streams, and the St. Croix River for future generations.