Lake Protection - WISCONSIN LAKES-PUB-FM-800 99Rev.

Lake Protection

Wisconsin's lakes are watery jewels that add much to the diversity of our landscape and provide unique opportunities for outdoor recreation. Shoreline lots are popular and prized as homesites, but lakes are fragile, and increasing use and shoreline development can strain ecosystems by increasing sediments and nutrients to them causing many problems.

The major problems assocated with lakes are: eutrophication, when increased nutrients in the water lead to algae blooms and nuisance weeds; sedimentation; and contamination caused by the addition or harmful chemicals. These problems can be avoided or reduced through proper lake management

Citizens can play a key role in preventing the deterioration of lakes by supporting proper watershed management, protection of shorelines, and control of water uses.

All land activities, expecially home and business building, road construction, logging and farming, have the potential to increase erosion and harm lakes. However, with proper precautions, land owners can decrease soil erosion from these activites and thus minimize damage.

Lake property owners can advocate both temporary and permanent stormwater controls on land subdivisions, commercial development, and construction activity. Efforts such as these can protect shorelands from overuse and help maintain natural shorelines that act as buffers, intercepting soil and nutrients headed for a lake.

The level of motor boat traffic can influence the quality of other water-based recreation sports and also the water quality of a lake. Lake property owners can do their part by determining relevant town ordinances which regulate motor boat use. Boating regulations also help preserve the natural solitude of a lake.

Produced by: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Watershed Management
More information on this topic: James Vennie, Limnologist, (608)266-2212

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