Patricia Cicero outlines Jefferson County's land and water conservation initiatives

The Jefferson County Board Meeting held on May 14, 2024, featured a comprehensive presentation by Patricia Cicero, the director of the Land and Water Conservation Department. The meeting focused on the department's ongoing efforts to restore, improve, and protect the county's land and water resources, guided by their land and water resources management plan.

Cicero outlined the structure of her department, which consists of six staff members with a combined 57 years of experience. She highlighted the department's funding sources, noting that the majority comes from grants, with a new partnership with the city of Watertown aimed at implementing agricultural conservation practices that benefit both the environment and the city's stormwater management.

A significant initiative discussed was the Bridal Preservation Program, which allows landowners to receive tax credits for adhering to standards that protect soil and water resources. Last year, approximately 600 participants were involved, covering over 100,000 acres and resulting in over $1.1 million in tax relief for property owners.

Cicero also emphasized the importance of the cover crop program, which aims to enhance soil health and prevent erosion. Over 2,000 acres of cover crops were established last year, in collaboration with the Jefferson County Soil Builders. Additionally, the department supports various conservation practices for residential properties near water, including rain gardens and native shoreland gardens.

A notable achievement was the implementation of a groundwater study in partnership with the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point. The study involved sampling wells across the county, revealing that 7% of the tested wells exceeded nitrate levels above the human health standard. Cicero informed attendees about the presence of naturally occurring arsenic in some areas and the available treatments for both arsenic and nitrates.

To promote public awareness, the department has acquired nitrate screening tools to help residents assess their groundwater quality. These tools will be utilized at upcoming community events, providing residents with valuable information on groundwater protection.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing education and support for the community regarding land and water conservation efforts. The department's initiatives reflect a proactive approach to environmental stewardship in Jefferson County.