Lakeshore Basin

The Lakeshore Basin is a water-rich area sprinkled with an assortment of inland lakes, major rivers and small streams and bounded by the waters of Green Bay and Lake Michigan. The Basin completely encompasses the counties of Door, Kewaunee and Manitowoc and parts of Brown and Calumet Counties.

The area was sculpted by glaciers and is dominated by the Niagara limestone formation, which underlies most of the Basin, but projects above ground prominently as the Niagara Escarpment, visible throughout much of Door County. Tourism, manufacturing and agriculture dominate the economy. The Basin’s blend of picturesque open land and abundant water combined with seemingly limitless recreational opportunities are increasingly in demand. However, the close proximity of this area to large urban centers is putting enormous stress on natural resources. The challenge for all of us is to satisfy people’s needs without destroying the abundant but fragile natural resources that make the Basin so attractive to so many people.

Lakeshore State of the Basin Plan

Summary flyer on the Lakeshore Basin (PDF)

For more information on the Lakeshore Basin contact Kelley O'Connor at 920-662-5463

UW Extension Partner Site (exit DNR)

See also...

Surface Water Data Viewer (Hint: "Zoom To" the basin)
Wisconline Resources (exit DNR)
USGS Conditions (exit DNR)
Rare Species
Invasive Species
State Parks and Campgrounds (exit DNR)
Wisconsin's State Forests
Urban Forestry Staff
Drinking Water Database
Waste Management Program Regional Contacts
Lakes by County