Spring storms bring damage, renewal

High winds, heavy rains, and hail from spring storms in mid-April 2026 brought both welcome moisture and some damage in the Parks, particularly the North Unit of Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park.

Although fallen trees are typically not a problem in a conservation park, two big pines fell right onto hay wagons that were stored for the winter at the Cherokee Marsh North Unit. The wagons are used for the popular "Hayrides and Hikes" events each fall.

High winds also blew over the informational kiosk in the lower parking lot of the North Unit. The Madison Parks facilities crew will be repairing it.

Another recent discovery is that, on the viewing platform overlooking the Yahara River, the stairs have become detached from the upper platform, creating a hazard. Parks staff are assessing both a short-term repair if possible and a long-term replacement with a ramp-accessible platform.

Parklands recently burned in prescribed fire operations are greening up quickly with the abundant rain and some warm days. Hannah Quinlan, conservation parks supervisor, reports that native spring flowers—wood betony and Jacob's ladder—are springing up in abundance in burned prairies.

Marla Brenner, a resident of the Cherokee Park neighborhood, photographed a post-storm double rainbow over a section of the Cherokee Marsh South Unit that had been burned the previous week.