While the visible effects of those damaging rains remain 12 months later, the subsequent impact on the area’s groundwater table has caused millions in additional losses this year in agricultural production and brought water into basements of homes that were otherwise dry prior to now.
In response, Dane County is reviewing damage reports from last year combined with topography and soil types to compile an assessment of which areas may be most affected by future high volume stormwater runoff or subsequent elevated groundwater tables.
When complete, the county will use this analysis to reach out and inform potential affected homeowners of any additional, perhaps previously unknown risk they may face either as a result of rapid rainfall runoff or high groundwater levels like the county experienced this year.
I also included over $18 million in the 2019 budget to improve Dane County’s flood readiness and take steps to mitigate the impacts of future flooding events. You can learn more about some of those efforts HERE.
On August 27, I joined project leaders at the Dane County Job Center to cut the ribbon on the county's latest solar project.
This 498 panel solar system will save the county $18,000 a year on utility costs and generate about 25 percent of the building’s annual electricity. Due to its low carbon footprint, this switch-over is equivalent to preventing over 150,000 pounds of coal from being burned each year.
The Dane County Job Center solar project has supported local, clean energy jobs and will help reduce carbon dioxide emissions. It’s a win for our environment, the economy, and Dane County taxpayers!
Thank you for being on our mailing list. For more information about what Dane County is up to follow us below on social media or contact my office or check out our website.
