MARSH TOWER PROJECT

The Friends of the Marsh are working to finalize the fundraising for the tallest wooden observation tower in the State of Wisconsin at Broughton Marsh Park

Marsh Tower Portfolio

Views From the Truck

Donation Form

Sheboygan County, with the assistance of a group of individuals named The Friends of the Marsh have been meeting to develop a strategy and raise funds for what will be the tallest wooden observation tower in the State of Wisconsin at 80-feet. In an effort to showcase the many wonderful aspects of the Marsh, The Friends of the Marsh have worked hard to give people of all generations an opportunity to experience its beauty from a new tower at the Park. As mentioned earlier, the Tower would be an 80-foot tall, wooden structure, the tallest wooden observation tower in the State of Wisconsin. The original vision for an observation tower dates back over twenty years, but has never been developed. The Sheboygan County Board of Supervisors’ Resources Committee, and key members, including Keith Abler and Jim Baumgart, were the impetus for moving this effort for and getting us here today. Since this past fall, the group has been meeting nearly every two weeks to collect information and develop a fundraising strategy. Preliminary soil borings have been conducted on the site to identify an appropriate placement of the tower. The site selected is on the north side of the parking lot that is adjacent to County Road NR. This site was selected because it provided the best location for a spectacular view, while minimizing interference with other activities at the Marsh such as launching a boat at the access point on the west side of the ramp. In order to make this vision a reality, the Friends need to raise $200,000 to build the tower. At this point, it is expected that no County money will be used. In addition to fundraising efforts, the County is actively pursuing a number of grants and donation opportunities. The Broughton Sheboygan Marsh Park & Wildlife Area includes 14,000 acres of land and surface water. Of these, 8,086 acres are publicly owned. The remainder is privately owned, some of which is publicly accessible. As you look around, you will begin to appreciate the many amenities this County jewel has to offer. The Marsh has a strong Historical Significance, providing a home for native settlements dating back 12,000 years. Tribes known to occupy the area include the Chippewa, Potawotami, and Sioux. Nature Study Programs- Sheboygan Marsh is a natural classroom. It has become a home to one of Wisconsin’s pioneering and most successful outdoor education programs – the Outdoor Skills and Education Center, Inc.. At the Sheboygan Marsh, the nature study programs focus is on wetlands ecology, plant and animal identification, canoeing, fishing, and related outdoor skills and appreciation. Camping- The Marsh includes 64 campsites that are available year round and include water, electric, access to a waste dump station, showers, and playground equipment. Water and electric services are not available during the winter months (October-April). Hunting- Estimates of expenditures on hunting activities in Sheboygan County range from $13.5 to $28 million annually. Many hunters are attracted to the Marsh seeking waterfowl, deer, and turkey. Fishing- Estimates of expenditures by individuals engaged in fishing total $21.4 million annually in Sheboygan County. Trapping and the Sheboygan Marsh have been synonymous for centuries. Canoeing- The Marsh offers 21 miles of rivers and channels in which to use a canoe, kayak, or rowboat. Canoes can be rented at the Marsh Lodge located in the park. There is a “walk in” boat launch on the South Ditch Winter Activities- The frozen waters at Sheboygan Marsh—some 675 acres of Main Lake, Sheboygan River, and 21 miles of channels—become a true “winter wonderland” for fishing, snowmobiling, ATV riding, and cross-country skiing. Furthermore, the Broughton Sheboygan Marsh Park lies on Sheboygan County’s popular, 199-mile public snowmobile trail system. Pleasure Driving & Wildlife Viewing are also popular Marsh activities. The Friends of the Marsh encourage people to take a special look at this hidden jewel. Step back, step up, and enjoy the wonder of the 14,000 acre Broughton Marsh from an observation tower; see what boaters and snowmobilers have enjoyed for years. From the tower’s panoramic view, you will experience a breathtaking landscape, hidden treasures, massive waterways, abundant wildlife and recreational opportunities. The Friends of the Marsh encourage people of all ages to participate in this monumental effort that will benefit many generations to come. Questions can be emailed to: marshtower@co.sheboygan.wi.us