From highlighting forgotten local histories and addressing public safety investigations to tracking housing initiatives, agricultural conservation, and youth athletic achievements, our coverage this week captured a diverse array of issues shaping Southwest Wisconsin. Whether examining county law enforcement reports, city council decisions on historic land, or watershed research helping area farmers, our reporting kept you connected to the key debates and celebrations across our communities. Here is a look back at the stories we brought to you, ordered from the latest to the earliest.
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‘The Viroqua Line’ chronicles lost Milwaukee Road route through Vernon and Monroe Counties
This article about the , published on July 30, 2026, chronicles the history of “The Viroqua Line,” a now-lost railway route operated by the Milwaukee Road that once ran through Vernon and Monroe counties.
Viroqua City Council approves deal to save VFW land from private sale, for now
The Viroqua City Council approved a cost-sharing agreement to preserve a cherished 40-acre property owned by the local Veterans of Foreign Wars post, ensuring the land remains open to the public for at least two more years. The decision, reported by Tim Hundt on July 30, 2026, followed an 11th-hour scramble by city officials and outdoor advocates to negotiate a deal and prevent the land from being sold to private interests.
Coulee Antique Engine Club to host 55th annual show in Westby
This article, published on July 19, 2026, previews the Coulee Antique Engine Club’s 55th annual show held just north of Westby. The beloved regional event showcases agricultural history and features antique machinery demonstrations, tractor pulls, and historical displays.
Viroqua police department enlists outside agency to investigate simulated gunfire at Fourth of July event
The Viroqua Police Department has enlisted an outside agency to investigate the use of simulated gunfire during the city’s Fourth of July celebration. The investigation stems from an incident where four individuals drove a Jeep outfitted with a simulated .50-caliber automatic weapon onto the fairgrounds track, producing highly realistic flashes and loud, rapid-fire sounds that caused panic among spectators. The event prompted a swift, unified response from city leadership, including a joint public apology from Viroqua Mayor Krista Browne and representatives of the Viroqua Skylighters.
Vernon County Sheriff’s Office Report for the week ending Saturday, July 18, 2026
The Vernon County Sheriff’s Office released its weekly summary detailing citizen calls, traffic incidents, and sheriff’s deputy activities for the week ending Saturday, July 18, 2026.
Viroqua Housing Advisory Board plans next steps for tiny homes and accessory dwellings
Originally published on April 10, 2026, this piece highlights the Viroqua Housing Advisory Board’s efforts to map out zoning, planning, and development strategies for tiny homes and accessory dwelling units within the city limits.
Vernon County Sheriff’s Report for the week ending Saturday, July 25, 2026
The Vernon County Sheriff’s Office released its weekly report of calls, investigations, and incidents for the week ending Saturday, July 25, 2026.
Viroqua Mural Walk begins Aug. 14, 2026
Local organizers announced that the Viroqua Mural Walk, a public art event celebrating local history and creativity, is scheduled to officially launch on August 14, 2026.
Volk Field hosts multinational aircraft crash recovery training
This article covers a major international military exercise hosted at Volk Field, where personnel from multiple nations trained jointly on emergency aircraft crash response and salvage operations.
This science update previews a Coon Creek Community Watershed Council meeting showcasing peer-reviewed research, which concluded that widespread rotational grazing adoption by local producers resulted in a 14 percent reduction in Tainter Creek’s nutrient runoff.
La Farge man arrested after alleged confrontation with police chief, authorities say
Authorities detailed the arrest of a La Farge resident following an alleged physical or verbal confrontation with the local police chief.
De Soto’s Griffin Hanson, coach Brian Wrobel selected for Wisconsin American Legion All-Star Game
De Soto Area school’s Griffin Hanson and baseball coach Brian Wrobel were selected to participate in the prestigious Wisconsin American Legion All-Star Game in Milwaukee. The high-profile selections shine a proud spotlight on the athletic programs of De Soto, Stoddard, Viroqua, and the wider Vernon County community, which have a long history of supporting youth baseball.
Viroqua’s Nelson Agri-Center Ace Hardware organized a special bucket sale fundraiser to collect donations and raise critical operational funds for the Children’s Miracle Network.
This feature article highlights Habitat for Humanity’s new, collaborative home-building and financing model implemented at the Tinkers Bluff Subdivision in the City of Hillsboro.
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