One of the greatest pleasures of owning or renting lakeshore or riverfront property is the ability to launch a boat or canoe to be out on the water. Indeed, use of waters is a public good available to everyone. This right is noted in the Wisconsin constitution, “Wisconsin lakes and rivers are public resources, owned…
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In January 2022, Sawyer County passed a watercraft decontamination ordinance similar to the one we have in Washburn County. There are now a total of six counties in northwest Wisconsin (Washburn, Burnett, Polk, Bayfield, Barron and Sawyer) with ordinances requiring boaters to use decontamination stations at landings where they exist. Burnett and Washburn Counties were the first,…
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John Haack, who passed away in Nov. 2021, was instrumental in many of WCLRA’s successes and highly respected as a Natural Resources Educator across Wisconsin.
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Over the winter, many people will consider ways to improve their waterfront properties. Grants are available for some projects that protect the water.
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The 2021 Northwest Wisconsin Lakes Conference is online June 18 featuring a keynote address on Climate Change impacts plus twelve sessions on lake-related topics.
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How does stream life survive in cold weather and low water temperatures? And what happens on lakes and rivers with complete ice cover at the water surface?
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Decomposing leaves give off nutrients which can be great for lawns and gardens. It’s not good when extra phosphorous ends up in waterbodies.
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Throughout the summer of 2020, Washburn County’s lake residents were concerned about effects of high water. Simple measures can reduce erosion and protect water quality.
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This summer WCLRA Board members talked with all candidates for election to the Wisconsin Legislature about environmental issues that affect the waters of Washburn County.
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Sometimes less is more. In the case of lawn care, that approach can be helpful to both you and the environment, lakes, wetlands and rivers.
In Northwest Wisconsin many lakes and streams provide an abundance of year-around recreation and the outdoors provides an experience of peace and tranquility. During COVID-19, we are especially fortunate to be able to de-stress with a walk in the woods, boat on a lake, or fish a stream. Awareness of the impact of human activities and proper care will ensure continued enjoyment. Lawn care greatly impacts our waters – minimal lawn chemical treatments, leaves and grass clipping management and shoreland protection are all examples of ways to lessen the impact.
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