Community effort underway to protect Lake Kegonsa shorelands

A group of local neighbors has come together with an ambitious goal: permanently protect eight acres of conservancy land adjacent to Lake Kegonsa.

The newly formed Committee to Preserve Lot 3 Sunnyside, Inc. has secured an accepted offer to purchase a parcel located across Sunnyside Street, adjacent to Lake Kegonsa. The property adjoins Lake Kegonsa State Park, the Lower Yahara River Trail, and the Door Creek Wildlife Area. By preserving the land as permanent conservancy, this area can be protected in perpetuity for recreation, wildlife habitat, and clean water for generations to come.

Local conservation organizations are applauding the effort. The Friends of Lake Kegonsa Society (FOLKS) has voiced strong support for the project and its potential to protect the broader watershed.

Clean Lakes Alliance serving as fiscal sponsor

Clean Lakes Alliance is serving as the initiative’s fiscal sponsor. Donations made through Clean Lakes Alliance will be held in support of the land purchase until the acquisition can be completed. If the purchase does not ultimately move forward, all donations will be returned (excluding processing and credit card fees).

“We are excited to support this initiative,” said James Tye, Executive Director and Founder of Clean Lakes Alliance. “This committee’s work is another great example of local leadership within our Renew the Blue movement to protect our Madison-area lakes.” The acquisition of these types of conservation lands aligns with Renew the Blue’s high-priority action recommendations.

All donations make a difference

$920,000 in cash and pledges are needed by August 19, 2026, to complete the purchase. Encouragingly, local residents have already committed $200,000 toward fulfilling this goal.

Support the effort

Tax-deductible donations supporting the purchase of the land can be made through Clean Lakes Alliance. To make a donation by check, please designate “Preserve Lot 3 Sunnyside” in the Memo section and mail it to:

Clean Lakes Alliance
150 E. Gilman St., Suite 2600
Madison, WI 53703