The Story of Patrick Marsh
Where History, Nature, and Community Come Together
Help bring this educational and conservation legacy to life.
What is The Story of Patrick Marsh project?
This community-driven project creates an educational destination featuring 10 interpretive panels and a viewing platform that shares the story of Sun Prairie’s Patrick Marsh – from glacier to wetland, from early Indigenous history to the first European settlers, to its 1990s resurgence as a vibrant, biodiverse ecosystem.
What was the inspiration behind this project?
Bill Wambach inspired the Story of Patrick Marsh project. A Rotarian, City of Sun Prairie alder, and surveyor by trade, Bill’s deep love for Patrick Marsh shaped decades of conservation and community service. He was passionate about mentoring students and believed in creating hands-on learning experiences that connected people to the land and to one another.
After his passing, the Sun Prairie Rotary Club sought a meaningful way to honor his legacy. In partnership with the City of Sun Prairie, the original idea grew into a broader vision: a project that reflects Bill’s passions, celebrates the remarkable story of Patrick Marsh, and invites future generations to learn, explore, and care for this special place.
Why does this project matter?
The Story of Patrick Marsh brings local history, science, and conservation to life for students, families, and visitors.
As a vital wetland ecosystem, Patrick Marsh serves as a living classroom, a wildlife refuge, and a community treasure restored through decades of collaboration among local leaders, volunteers, schools, and conservation partners. By sharing the marsh’s history and ecological importance – including its role as Wisconsin’s first wetland mitigation bank – this project helps people understand why Patrick Marsh matters and inspires the next generation to care for it.
How much money will it take to fund this project?
The Story of Patrick Marsh is a grassroots community project led by the Sun Prairie Rotary Club built entirely through the generosity of local donors, volunteers, and community partners – with no local government funding. It reflects a shared commitment to preserving the history, ecology, and educational value of Patrick Marsh for future generations.
We are raising funds to construct this educational space. To date, we have secured approximately $75,000, which represents about half of the total funding required to complete the project.
How can you help bring The Story of Patrick Marsh to life?
By making a gift, you join the long tradition of people who have protected, restored, and cared for Patrick Marsh. Your support creates a legacy – one that preserves this vital wetland, honors its history, and ensures that future generations can learn from and enjoy this remarkable place. Every contribution strengthens our community’s commitment to conservation and keeps The Story of Patrick Marsh alive.
How will my donation be used?
• The construction of The Story of Patrick Marsh interpretive site – including educational panels set in concrete walls with engraved granite plaques framed in native stone – creates a welcoming, long-lasting community space.
• A viewing platform shows how land surveyors use meander corners to interpret land boundaries, connecting a longstanding surveying practice to the history of Patrick Marsh.
• Grading and landscaping creates safe, walkable pathways and a cohesive educational space that naturally blends into the environment.
• A future website, accessible via an on-site QR code, preserves local stories and encourages visitors to learn more about the marsh’s history and conservation.
How will my donation be recognized?
• Recognition is tied to sponsorship levels: Platinum ($5,000+), Gold ($1,000 - $4,999), Silver ($500 - $999), Bronze ($100 - $499), and Friend (up to $99).
• All donations of $5,000 and above will be recognized at The Story of Patrick Marsh site, with greater emphasis for higher-level contributions.
• Considering a major donation greater than $5,000? Additional naming opportunities may be available.
• Donor names may appear on project promotional materials or site signage depending on level.
• All donor names, at every level, will be listed on The Story of Patrick Marsh website as it is developed. An on-site QR code will allow visitors to view the full list of contributors.
What is the project timeline?
Thanks to early support from the local business community and numerous individuals, the project broke ground on March 10, 2026. Construction and installation are underway, with a public opening planned for summer 2026.
Who is leading the project?
The Story of Patrick Marsh is a grassroots community project led by the Sun Prairie Rotary Club and built through the generosity of local donors, volunteers, and community partners, with no local government funding. Rotary members Deb Fox-Schroeder and Dan Birrenkott co-chair the project team.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes. Donations are tax-deductible when they are made to the Sun Prairie Rotary Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (Tax ID 39-1781736).
How do I donate?
Donate online at www.sunprairierotary.org by clicking the donation button or complete the donation form and mail it with your check to:
Sun Prairie Rotary Foundation
Attn: Patrick Marsh Project
P.O. Box 851
Sun Prairie, WI 53590
Sponsorship Levels
Platinum $5,000
Gold $1,000 - $4,999
Silver $500 - $999
Bronze $100 - $499
Friend Up to $99
Questions?
Contact Deb Fox-Schroeder: (608) 235-1672
Dan Birrenkott: (608) 712-1331
John Belken: (608) 225-7180