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2024 Winner
Clearwater Farm

Coulee Region Ecoscapes digs swales and tamps walkway during construction
Coulee Region Ecoscapes digs swales and tamps walkway during construction

Nestled at the base of Greens Coulee in Onalaska, Clearwater Farm has been a hub of education and sustainable agriculture for over two decades. But as stormwater runoff increased with nearby residential developments, the farm faced an ecological challenge that transformed its garden into a weedy, waterlogged space, choked by cattails and stagnant water.

"We couldn’t ignore the impact of stormwater anymore," said Clearwater Farm volunteer, Alex Boecher. "The lower section of our garden had become completely unusable due to standing water. We knew something had to be done to reclaim the space and align it with our mission to teach sustainable land use."

After years of water management struggles, Clearwater Farm partnered with Coulee Region Ecoscapes to install a wetland rain garden, making the space accessible once again. This space now serves as an outdoor classroom, educating visitors about native plants and their ability to absorb large amounts of water.

Plants are still establishing themselves in this rain garden, but once they are fully grown they will be lush and blooming!
Plants are still establishing themselves in this rain garden, but once they are fully grown they will be lush and blooming!

Swales and berms were strategically implemented to create an educational experience where visitors can observe firsthand how native plants absorb water and help prevent flooding.

An accessible, winding path now meanders through both wet and dry zones, offering visitors an intimate view of this unique solution to addressing water. Guests can stroll through a thriving ecosystem that demonstrates how water can be managed sustainably and simply.

The transformation is revitalizing the farm, enhancing their educational programs and summer camps. “It’s been amazing to see kids racing through the garden, interacting with the plants, water, and rocks,” said Boecher.

Pipes help direct the flow of water under the berms and into other areas of the rain garden.
Pipes help direct the flow of water under the berms and into other areas of the rain garden.
Native plants soak up the captured stormwater in the swales.
Native plants soak up the captured stormwater in the swales.

Clearwater Farm is particularly proud of its community-driven approach. “We have a strong connection with our members, and they’ve been integral to the project’s success. From pulling weeds and managing invasive species to interacting with the garden on their visits, it’s truly become a community space.”

But Clearwater Farm isn't stopping there. The farm is already planning its next phase—connecting the rain garden with an upland pollinator garden to create one seamless, natural path for visitors to explore.

"Over the next five years, we expect the garden to mature into a dense wetland, full of wildlife, from goldfinches and butterflies to bees and even killdeer. We’re excited to see it grow and hope it inspires others to incorporate rain gardens in their own spaces,” said the Clearwater Farm team.

This garden is a host for many different species of wetland wildlife.
This garden is a host for many different species of wetland wildlife.

Clearwater Farm's is a living example of how educating people about small-scale practices can help mitigate runoff and build resilient ecosystems in our communities.

La Crosse Area Waters’ annual Soak it Up Award honors citizens who have completed a landscaping project that reduces stormwater runoff. Projects improve water management in our communities, the condition of local waterways, and the livability of neighborhoods. Nominees lead by example, inspiring other community members to take on similar projects. Nominate a project for the next SOAK IT UP award today!