University Bay

University Bay is the area of Lake Mendota that is sheltered by Picnic Point.  The shallow area closest to the shore is University Bay Marsh.  The Bay area is still a gathering place for migrating waterfowl.      

photos by Glenda Denniston

For information on the history of University Bay, see:

• University Bay:  Preservation and Change (story is continued on page 5)

• Saving a Marsh, An Environmental Success Story

In 2003 Sandhill cranes nested in the Bay.  For more information, see:

• Sandhill Cranes Nest in University Bay

Willow Creek

Willow Creek flows into the shallow bay of Lake Mendota.  The bridge over Willow Creek was built by the Madison Park and Pleasure Drives Association.  It linked the University area with the road through the Raymer farm that became Lake Mendota Drive.  For information about storm water and erosion issues in the bay, follow this link.

photos by Glenda Denniston

For information on Willow Creek Woods, see:

• Restore Willow Creek Woods