County Executive expands territories of two local parks through signed resolutions
Dane County Expands McCarthy Youth and Conservation County Park, Babcock County Park
Dane County, Wisconsin, is set to expand two of its popular county parks as part of a multi-year parks and open space strategy. The Dane County Board authorized the purchase of land for both McCarthy Youth and Conservation County Park and Babcock County Park in July 2025 meetings.
The expansion of McCarthy Youth and Conservation County Park will extend the park to County Highway TT, allowing for a longer trail system. On the other hand, the Babcock County Park expansion includes the acquisition of approximately 13 acres of land for $1.4 million, located at the corner of State Highway 51 and Exchange Street. The Toddle-In Nursery property, which is approximately 12 acres north of Exchange Street, is part of the Babcock County Park expansion.
The total amount spent on the land purchases for the two park expansions is approximately $2.4 million. However, specific acreage for expansions, detailed future development plans, and exact cost figures have not been disclosed. For complete details on costs and future development plans, contacting Dane County Parks Department or reviewing official county board meeting minutes would be recommended.
Dane County Executive Melissa Agard described the park expansions as "smart, thoughtful investments in the future of Dane County's parks and open spaces." Agard also signed resolutions to expand both parks: McCarthy Youth and Conservation County Park in the Town of Sun Prairie, and Babcock County Park in the Town of Dunn.
The expansions are intended to bolster Dane County's leadership in outdoor recreation, create more opportunities for families to enjoy the outdoors, and protect important lands for future generations. Agard stated that these park expansions reflect the county's long-term vision for growing the park system according to community needs.
The original owners of the Toddle-In Nursery property will be allowed to lease it back at no cost until August 2028 to close their business operations. The county plans to sell the house on the Toddle-In Nursery property and incorporate the remaining land into Babcock County Park.
These expansions are part of the broader 2025–2030 Dane County Parks and Open Space Plan, which includes authorizations to purchase land for both parks. The plan is designed to increase the size and conservation value of these parks. Additionally, there is related funding activity, including acceptance of grants for trail connector development, which complements the parks’ expansions.
The county currently supports over 15,000 acres of parkland, which is recognized through its Conservation Fund. These park expansions aim to invest in the quality of life, public health, and the natural beauty of Dane County. The expansions are expected to contribute to Dane County's leadership in outdoor recreation and provide more opportunities for families to enjoy the outdoors.
- The expansion of McCarthy Youth and Conservation County Park will foster a longer trail system for outdoor enthusiasts, contributing to the county's commitment to promoting lifestyle and outdoor-living within its parks.
- As part of Dane County's efforts to helm outdoor recreation, the acquisition of 13 acres of land for Babcock County Park, including the former Toddle-In Nursery property, will provide additional home-and-garden spaces for families to engage with nature and enjoy the outdoors.
