About Starkweather Creek

The Starkweather is a largely urban stream with two main branches. Its watershed is much of the eastern and northern areas of the City of Madison, as well as some Town of Burke and Town of Madison lands.

Years of neglect and misuse have resulted in a highly degraded stream habitat. Increasingly larger areas of impervious surfaces in the city, such as parking lots, rooftops and streets, result in the constant washing of pollutants and debris into the creek. Lack of adequate infiltration opportunities for stormwater has contributed to a severely reduced base flow and only a few of the numerous historic springs within the watershed still function.

Starkweather Trail Chart

Suggestions for trail and bike path improvements

Starkweather Plan

Proposed City plan for Starkweather Creek