2025 WI Stormwater Week Kicks Off Sept. 20

September 20–28 is Wisconsin Stormwater Week. Dane County and the Madison Area Municipal Stormwater Partnership are collaborating with municipalities and organizations across Wisconsin, including the City of Middleton, to raise awareness about stormwater, its importance, and the actions each of us can take to prevent pollutants from entering our lakes and streams. Photos courtesy of Clean Lakes Alliance

Why it matters in Middleton

Rain and snowmelt that runs off rooftops, lawns, and pavement flows into storm drains and ditches—and then to local waters like Pheasant Branch and Lake Mendota. It can carry trash, chemicals, soil, pet waste, leaves, and other debris that fuel algae blooms, lower oxygen levels, harm wildlife, and make our waters less enjoyable. Stormwater pollution is a community challenge—and we can work together to solve it.

See Events & Register

Local Events

Early Bird — Sept. 13, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Monona Bay Shoreline Clean-Up (Friends of Monona Bay). Meet at Brittingham Boats, Madison.

Details & Sign Up

Sept. 20, 10:00 AM–1:00 PM
Yahara River Fall Clean-Up (Friends of Yahara River Headwaters). Meet at Veterans Memorial Park, DeForest. Refreshments provided.

Details & Sign Up

Sept. 21, 2:00–4:00 PM
Native Garden Learning Hub Gathering: Rain Gardens & Downspout Gardens. Discover how these gardens help prevent pollution, when to use them, and how to install them. Planting plans/resources provided; experts available for design help and Q&A. ($5; registration required.)

Register

Sept. 28, 1:00–3:00 PM
Lake Wingra Community Bike/Run/Walk + Clean-Up. Tables along the route with watershed info and action tips. Collect trash and clean storm drains as you go. Bags and gloves provided. (Free.)

Event Info

Free Statewide Webinars (12:00–1:00 PM, Registration Required)

Sept. 22 — Clean-Up Event 101
(Jessica Schultz — Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance; Mike Aprill — Sheboygan South High School)

Register

Sept. 23 — Benefits of Shoreline Restoration
(Keir Peckham — Natural Landscapes; CW Purpero & Katie Reed — Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance)

Register

Sept. 24 — What’s an Illicit Discharge?
(Adelle Keppers — City of Superior; Maureen McBroom — City of Watertown)

Register

Sept. 25 — How to Engage the Community in Stormwater Education?
(Paul Mech & Darius Jordan — Discovery World; Adam Bechle — WI Sea Grant; Lisa Neeb — Reflo)

Register

Quick Actions You Can Take at Home in Middleton

• Keep storm drains clear of leaves and debris.
• Pick up pet waste and dispose of it in the trash.
• Sweep—not hose—driveways and sidewalks.
• Redirect downspouts to lawns or gardens; consider a rain or downspout garden.

Learn More & Register

You’re receiving this update from the City of Middleton because stormwater affects our community’s lakes, streams, and neighborhoods. Please share with neighbors and friends.

Questions about local stormwater resources? Contact Public Works at (608) 821-8370.
Photos courtesy of Clean Lakes Alliance.