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3 | Water Connects Us All | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/216428eb-e286-4fc9-b531-0de4312b867a/download#page=1 | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Extension Lakes Staff | Partnerships | By Extension Lakes Staff Humans have interacted with water for thousands of years. Since the retreat of the glaciers, the seasonal rituals of native tribes have been guided by water. The oral histories of the Anishinaabe migration tell of a journey from the east along what we now call the Great Lakes to a place where “food grows on the water.” That food is wild rice, known as manoomin in Ojibwe, and is both sustenance and a powerful reminder of our connection to water. In more recent years, European explorers used the waterways to access the region’s fur and forests, and by the 1800s, Wisconsin’s lakes and rivers became popular destinations for vacations. Today, we still depend on clean water for drinking and growing food, but also for recreation, livelihoods, and the places we call home. Now there are many more of us sharing these waters. That is why it is so important for us to work together to protect and preserve our shared lakes and rivers. One way to do this is through the Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Partnership. This collaboration of statewide, regional, and local groups, as well as individuals, is working together to care for our shared waters. Are you part of the Partnership? Absolutely! Just by reading this newsletter, we know that you think protecting Wisconsin’s watery gems is important. Whether you live on a lake, fish a river, volunteer with a local organization, work in water resources, or simply care about the places that make Wisconsin special, you are part of this effort. We may have diverse family histories, experiences, educations, and perspectives, but water connects us. It connects communities, economies, wildlife, recreation, and our sense of place. It also connects our individual efforts. What happens in one lake, river, or watershed can teach, inspire, and affect people working in another. Partnership History The Partnership began taking shape in the early 1970s, when university researchers and state resource managers worked together to find new ways to protect lake health. The Inland Lakes Demonstration Project showed that science and state resources were important, but so was the involvement of local people who knew and cared deeply about their lakes. In 1974, a formal partnership between the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the University of Wisconsin, and local lake groups formed as the Wisconsin Lakes Partnership. That same year, the legislature passed a law enabling lakes to form lake districts, giving communities a new way to organize, plan, and take action for their lakes. Since then, the Partnership has grown to include lake associations, river organizations, water professionals, volunteers, researchers, and others who share a common goal: healthy waters for generations to come. Connect all these groups sharing knowledge, challenges, successes, and solutions, and you get the Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Partnership. You Make the Partnership work! The Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Partnership is not mandated by the legislature, nor is it a single organization with a dedicated funding source. It is a committed network of people who understand that we can accomplish more together than we can alone. Being part of the Partnership can be as simple as sharing an article with your neighbor, attending a local lake or river group meeting, learning something new about a waterbody near you, volunteering locally, or helping someone else find the resources they need. It can mean joining a lake or river organization, participating in regional efforts, attending the Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention, or lending your voice to statewide conversations about water. There is a place for everyone. Wisconsin’s waters connect us all. How will you help ensure they remain healthy, vibrant, and treasured for future generations? | https://www.uwsp.edu/extension-lakes/2026/09/01/water-connects-us-all/ | ||||||||||||||||||
4 | Healthy Lakes & Rivers Resource Spotlight | Score My Shore: What Your Property Can Tell You About Lake Health | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/216428eb-e286-4fc9-b531-0de4312b867a/download#page=4 | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Amy Kowalski | Healthy Lakes & Rivers | Owning property along a Wisconsin lake or river comes with incredible rewards: peaceful views, wildlife sightings, and time well spent on (and in) the water. It also comes with a sense of responsibility to steward the land that borders these waters to make sure future generations can also enjoy them. We all know what we do on the land affects our shared waters. You probably follow shoreland zoning laws and think, “I’m doing my part.” But these standards were a compromise, like many Wisconsin laws, and don’t measure up to what the science is telling us. How healthy is your shoreland property? Head over to the Healthy Lakes & Rivers website (healthylakeswi.com) and click on “Score My Shore” to find out! Or simply scan the QR code above and get started. Wisconsin Score My Shore - Shoreland Evaluation Survey This easy-to-use online survey helps you take a fresh look at your property. Think of it as a friendly check-in rather than a test. Answer simple questions about what you see and do as you walk from your driveway and house (Upland Zone), through the nearshore area (Transition Zone) and look into the water (In-Water Zone). One of the most helpful features is that the survey is dynamic. Your answers guide what comes next, so you get information tailored to your property. At the end, you receive a score (like a credit score), ranging from “Entry” to “Protection” level, along with practical suggestions for improvements. Even better, the survey directs you to simple, often low-cost actions. Planting native vegetation, redirecting runoff, or leaving natural features in place can help support fish, wildlife, and water quality. Neighbors Make a Difference Research consistently shows that land use and shoreland management on adjacent properties strongly influence water quality and habitat. When several neighboring properties add native plants or reduce mowing near the water, the benefits multiply. Together, those connected shorelines create habitat corridors for fish, frogs, turtles, and birds – something a single property can’t do alone. Strive for Progress, Not Perfection It’s also important to recognize that no developed shore is perfect, which makes it difficult to score in the “Protection” category of the survey. Many properties already have homes, driveways, or other hard surfaces close to the water. Strive for progress, not perfection. Taking small steps toward more natural conditions can make a meaningful difference. A Private, Flexible Way to Learn Score My Shore also offers a private way to learn. If you’ve ever wondered what a site visit might involve but weren’t ready to invite someone out, this tool lets you explore at your own pace. You can even preview the survey, pause and return later, or update your answers before submitting. So, what’s your shoreline telling you? Taking a few minutes to find out could lead to healthier water, more diverse wildlife, and a shoreline you can feel even better about sharing with family, friends, and neighbors. And when those neighbors get curious, you’ll have something valuable to pass along, because it takes all of us to make healthy lakes and rivers together! Attention lake groups! Use this survey to: Build awareness across membership. Encourage voluntary action without pressure. Create a shared starting point for conversation. Support lake-wide improvements over time. Strive for progress and track it. Find lessons on how to build a successful Healthy Lakes & Rivers program in your area. healthylakeswi.com/partner-organizations Five free ways to give back to your lake/river: Leave fallen trees in the water – they protect shorelines and provide habitat for fish, turtles, songbirds, and more. Don’t mow – let the water’s edge grow and see what pops up (remove invasives). Skip the fertilizer – most soil does not need a boost. Protect existing natural areas. Redirect gutters/downspouts away from the waterbody. | https://www.uwsp.edu/extension-lakes/2026/09/01/score-my-shore-what-your-property-can-tell-you-about-lake-health/ | |||||||||||||||||
5 | (2026 Series) Environmental Education | Turn Education Into Action with a Surface Water Grant from the WDNR | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/216428eb-e286-4fc9-b531-0de4312b867a/download#page=6 | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Sara Windjue | Funding & Economics, Capacity Building | Want to inspire, engage, and activate people in your community to take action for our waters? Include environmental education (EE) in your WDNR Surface Water Education Grant application to help raise awareness and create positive change! In our last issue, we introduced the five tenets of EE and how they can spark community interest in your local waterways. Let’s use those ideas to strengthen your grant application, and more importantly, create lasting change in your community. Did you know? The Surface Water Education Grant ranking sheets can help you understand the criteria and improve your application (found in the appendices of the Surface Water Grant guidance document that is published each year at dnr.wisconsin.gov/aid/SurfaceWater.html). Think Holistically A thoughtful, layered approach that is clearly explained in your proposal (not just a list of activities) takes time but will help strengthen your proposal and ensure the education you provide really makes a difference. Remember to consult the Five Tenets of Environmental Education. 1. RAISE AWARENESS – All education starts here. Be sure to describe how you will raise awareness of an issue. Consider showing examples or comparisons. 2. INCREASE KNOWLEDGE – Build on the awareness gained and begin to introduce new concepts. Brainstorm fun activities that get people learning while they’re with you, but also while they’re at home with their families or friends. 3. IDENTIFY VALUES – Describe how you will help people understand what they value and why. This will require you to research how values can be identified through educational programming. 4. DEVELOP SKILLS – If your project includes skill building, explain what skills you want the participants to develop and why they are important. How will this help change behavior? 5. TAKE ACTION – Explain what you want your audience to ultimately do with their new knowledge, values, and skills. Now you are ready to write a strong grant application using the following tips. Make Your Project Impact Clear (Grant section: Project Impact) Fully explain why this topic is important to the environment, to people, and to the economy. Assume that those reviewing the grant do not understand why the topic is important. Research what others have done and what has worked. Reference these projects and why you intend to replicate a past project or do something different. Design with People in Mind (Grant section: Project Design) How will your project provide engaging, in-person education or outreach? Not all audiences learn the same way and your proposal should reflect that. Think through these questions and include the answers in your proposal: • Are you trying to reach children, families, adults, or all three? Each audience may need a different engagement method. • How many people will you realistically engage? Why did you choose this number and how will you reach it? • Will you be providing the education or partnering with an experienced educator? Consider working with your local school district or college; students training to become teachers are great partners. • Will the education be online, in-person, or both? Details matter; describe how long each event will last, where it will take place, and how often. • If your project includes an electronic component, how will you engage people with your content? Build More Than a Project, Build Capacity (Grant section: Capacity Focus) Describe how your organization will develop or enhance partnerships while getting things done. Since capacity is a big area, decide how your activities will focus on strengthening membership, internal functions, external relationships, or programs. Explain how your activities will improve the capacity area you choose to focus on and show how you will measure success. Pre- and post-surveys, participation numbers, or new partnerships can all help show your growth. To learn more about specific tools to help strengthen capacity, visit the Extension Lakes website (uwsp.edu/lakes) where you can find a whole section focused on organizational capacity. Turn Funding into Lasting Change A strong grant proposal does more than check boxes. It shows how your project will move people from awareness to action. | https://www.uwsp.edu/extension-lakes/2026/09/01/turn-education-into-action-with-a-surface-water-grant-from-the-wdnr/ | |||||||||||||||||
6 | Getting Into the Weeds with Dickey Fish | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/216428eb-e286-4fc9-b531-0de4312b867a/download#page=8 | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | John Lyons and Dave Marshall | Plants & Animals | Little fish, those under a few L inches in length, garner little attention or appreciation. But they play an outsized role in the health of Wisconsin’s lakes. There are two types of small fish, the juveniles of the panfish and gamefish, who grow quickly and are only small for their first few months, and the inherently small species, which we affectionately term “dickey fish”. These species never exceed a few inches in length. Wisconsin’s lakes collectively support about 30 dickey fish species. Some are quite beautiful and others nondescript, but all are important. Although easy to miss, dickey fish are essential players in the food web. They eat algae, tiny invertebrates, and the detritus from decayed plants and animals. In turn, they are eaten by larger fish, especially carnivorous species like crappie, bass, catfish, pike, musky, perch, and walleye. Dickey fish are the link between aquatic plants and the gamefish that so many of us love to catch. A healthy sport fishery requires a healthy dickey fish community. Most dickey fish are found among aquatic plants where they hide from predators, eat the algae and invertebrates the plants support, and lay their eggs on the leaves and stems. Unsurprisingly, when native aquatic plants decline, so do dickey fish. And when native plants are displaced by non-native species such as Eurasian watermilfoil or curly leaf pondweed, dickey fish suffer. The native plants provide much better habitat. Over 150 years ago, Wisconsin’s lakes were full of small, plant loving fish living among native underwater plants. Today, those fish are much harder to find. In Lake Mendota in Madison, for example, there were once 10 dickey fish species, but now only two remain and neither is common. While we don’t have as much long-term data for every lake, similar declines are happening across the state. Much of this change can be directly linked to human impacts. The introduction of common carp, runoff from soil erosion and fertilizers, and harmful blue-green algae blooms have all taken a toll. Shoreline development has also reduced important plant habitat, and invasive species like Eurasian watermilfoil have spread. Even some well-intended efforts to control invasive plants can sometimes remove too much of the good habitat these fish depend on. Together, these changes have made it harder for these once common fish to thrive. Many lakes probably still have a few dickey fish, and gamefish should still have a species or two to eat. So, why should we worry? The issue is what’s called “redundancy” in ecological terms and “having a backup plan” in everyday life. Basically, the more species you have, the less likely you’ll have a year when all dickey fish are scarce and gamefish go hungry. The abundance of each dickey fish species fluctuates dramatically from year to year. Often these fluctuations are in synch, good or bad, but when you have lots of species, there will be one or two that will do well when the others do poorly, and consequently there will always be enough food for gamefish. But when the variety of dickey fish is low, the chances rise that all species will have a bad year together and gamefish won’t have enough to eat. It’s like having a balanced investment portfolio; diversity makes it more resilient when things don’t go as planned. Similarly, if there are only one or two dickey fish species, the food base is at risk of collapse when conditions aren’t favorable. With many dickey fish species, the lake ecosystem can better ride out the occasional tough times. Do you know what kind of dickey fish are in your lake? Most lakes don’t have adequate data even though it only takes a couple of days to conduct a survey. And as fish biologists, we strongly recommend it. Find your local fisheries biologist on the WDNR website at https://dnr.wisconsin. gov/topic/Fishing/people/fisheriesbiologists. If you know there are a good variety of dickey fish in your lake, conservation is key. Protect the water quality and habitat, especially the aquatic plants that are essential for dickey fish to thrive. If a fish survey reveals no or just a few species, your lake community could explore restoration. Helping these fish make a comeback often starts with improving water quality and habitat, especially aquatic plants. But this alone may not be enough. Dickey fish can’t easily move from one lake to another, so even if conditions improve, they may not reestablish on their own. The good news is that restoration is still possible. Although the process is complex, projects throughout the Midwest, including Wisconsin, show that dickey fish can be successfully re-introduced through stocking. While dickey fish are small and inconspicuous, these fish are key to a healthy lake ecosystem, and losing them could have perilous consequences! Where did the name “dickey fish” originate? Biologists sometimes use the slang term “dickey” to refer to small, visually non-descript species, most commonly among birds and non-game fish. This dates back to 18th century English when the nickname Dicky was often used as a pet name for small animals, and a nursery rhyme popularized calling small, common yard birds “dicky birds”. One of the most colorful dickey fish, the Iowa darter, is common in lakes throughout Wisconsin. Found mainly among sparse plants and on the edge of thicker plant beds is the western banded killifish, uncommon in medium to large lakes across the state. The blacknose shiner is a widespread plant-associated minnow found in all sizes of lakes throughout the state. The Tadpole Madtom is a plant-associated catfish found in medium to large lakes throughout the state. Iowa Darter (age 8+) Freshwater Fish Series, Volume 2 Learn how these native Wisconsin fish grow, where they like to hang out, and what you can do to keep their waters healthy. Find this and other print publications under “Educational Resources” on the Extension Lakes website at uwsp.edu/lakes. | https://www.uwsp.edu/extension-lakes/2026/09/01/getting-into-the-weeds-with-dickey-fish/ | ||||||||||||||||||
7 | Capacity Corner #33: Using A Skills Gap Analysis | Internal Functions | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/216428eb-e286-4fc9-b531-0de4312b867a/download#page=11 | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Dave Quady | Capacity Building, Lake Districts | What does the makeup of your community look like? Let’s talk about how your organization can benefit from better knowing its membership (associations) or property owners and electors (districts). A simple survey of your lake community can uncover hidden talent, strengthen your organization, and help you reach your goals. Have you ever wondered who in your community knows how to raise funds, understands accounting applications, or is involved with the county, town, or DNR? Lake groups should spend time getting to know their community’s skills and experiences to create a more robust organization, and invite those folks to join your board. The Organizational Capacity section of the Extension Lakes website explores Internal Functions, including how using a Skills Gap Analysis will help to better understand your board’s talents and help fill gaps. The tool provided is customizable, but should not be overused. (https://www.uwsp.edu/extension-lakes/lake-organizations/internal-functions/) This is just one more tool in your capacity toolbox that can help you build stronger relationships and do more to protect our shared waters. Dave's Hot Tips for a Successful Skills Gap Analysis 1. Keep it short, simple, and clear. Ask 6-10 concise questions that take under 10 minutes to complete. Simple and inclusive will get you more responses, but allow for open-ended feedback! 2. Test, review, and make updates. Before sending it out broadly, ask a small group to test the survey and tweak it as needed. 3. Provide a timeline and reminders. Ask for responses in 1-2 weeks, with reminders after 4-5 days and a final reminder a few days before the deadline. Stick to your deadline. 4. Use free online survey tools. Survey tools make it easy to take and compile results. Examples include Google, Microsoft, SurveyMonkey, and Typeform. 5. 30-40% response rate is a win. That’s great! If you’re under 20%, review the survey length, questions, audience, and approach. 6. Use the results and say thank you. Organize, review, and discuss the results, then put them to work. Make sure to thank those who took the time to respond. | https://www.uwsp.edu/extension-lakes/2026/09/01/using-a-skills-gap-analysis/ | |||||||||||||||||
8 | Grindstone Lake Foundation Saves Natural Treasure | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/216428eb-e286-4fc9-b531-0de4312b867a/download#page=12 | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Cindy Parker | Success Stories, Protection | In 2018, members of the Grindstone Lake Association gathered for their annual picnic and shared a common concern: what would happen if the 57-acre former cranberry bog on the lake’s southwest shore was developed? Rather than leave its future to chance, they took action! Early talks led to the creation of the Grindstone Lake Foundation, with a clear vision to protect more than a quarter mile (1,537 feet!) of natural shoreline, safeguard water quality, and create a community-supported nature area for everyone to enjoy. Turning that vision into reality took an entire community. A generous benefactor provided the loan to purchase the property, while neighbors, lake residents, and supporters raised more than $850,000 to repay it. The Foundation also secured a $200,000 Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Surface Water Land Acquisition Grant that permanently protects the land through a conservation easement, ensuring it will remain undeveloped. Nature Is Making a Comeback Years of cranberry farming changed how water flowed across the property. As old agricultural infrastructure is removed, the land’s natural hydrology will be restored, allowing native wetlands to return. Healthy wetlands naturally filter water, reduce runoff, provide wildlife habitat, and help keep Grindstone Lake healthy. A True Community Effort This project has been powered by volunteers at every step. Local fire departments safely burned deteriorating buildings, volunteers established trails, and the Foundation secured another Wisconsin DNR grant to begin planning the next phase of wetland restoration. Today, the Grindstone Lake Nature Reserve is open to everyone. Whether you’re walking the trails, watching birds along the shoreline, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of Wisconsin’s Northwoods, you’re experiencing what can happen when a community comes together to protect a place it loves. Now that’s a legacy worth sharing! Did you know? Those grassy trails weren’t always trails! They were once berms separating cranberry beds. Today, they’re becoming scenic walking paths where visitors can experience the beauty of the restored landscape. Learn more about Grindstone Lake Association at grindstonelake.org | https://www.uwsp.edu/extension-lakes/2026/09/02/grindstone-lake-foundation-saves-natural-treasure/ | ||||||||||||||||||
9 | Reflections | Preserving, protecting, and restoring our waters... | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/216428eb-e286-4fc9-b531-0de4312b867a/download#page=16 | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Wallace J. Nichols | Reflections | Preserving, protecting, and restoring our waters are tasks for many lifetimes, and sometimes the effort can seem overwhelming. But as long as we stay connected with all of the many, many blessings that water provides, and continue to keep that love in the forefront of our minds and hearts, as long as we remind ourselves to hope, then our stories will help connect others to water and encourage them to do what they can to help care for this beautiful Blue Marble world.” ~ Wallace J. Nichols Blue Mind | ||||||||||||||||||
10 | Life Jacket Loaners Save Lives | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/afef2a3d-8c76-4880-a043-e402a7a0c47c/download | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Peter Jensen | Lake Groups | By Peter R. Jensen, Wisconsin Certified Emergency Manager and Former Chairperson of Eagle Spring Lake Management District More and more lake organizations are stepping up their water-safety measures by adding Life Jacket Loaner Stations at boat launches across the country. These stations make it easy for anyone heading out on the water to borrow a life jacket and return it when they’re done. It’s a simple idea with a big impact—especially since the most common boating citation in Wisconsin is the failure to carry enough life jackets on board. Loaner stations come in all shapes and sizes, and communities can choose designs that fit their launch sites. Building them can be a great local project, too. Schools with woodworking classes, technical colleges with carpentry programs, local construction companies, scouting groups, and handy community members often pitch in. Many hardware and building-supply stores are willing to donate materials as well. Once a station is up, the next stop is stocking it. Grants from groups like the Sea Tow Foundation can help, and sporting goods stores, big box retailers, and local businesses (think taverns and boat dealers) often make great sponsors. Infant, child, and youth life jackets tend to be borrowed the most, which makes sense given that drowning is the leading cause of death for children under age five. And if you’re wondering about theft, good news: it’s very rare. In fact, many stations report that donated life jackets far outnumber any that go missing. Boatus.org has step-by-step instructions and resources to help you set up a Life Jacket Loaner Station on your lake. You can also check out the “Life Jacket Loaner Program” page on the Sea Tow Foundation website under “Programs and Awards” for manuals, program information, grant opportunities, and a map of over 1,300 stations across the U.S. boatingsafety.com The Life Jacket Loaner Station on Eagle Spring Lake offers everyone a safe way to enjoy the water. | https://www.uwsp.edu/extension-lakes/2026/05/04/life-jacket-loaners-save-lives/ | ||||||||||||||||||
11 | Glacial Sanctuary | Sisters Protect Fish Lake | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/afef2a3d-8c76-4880-a043-e402a7a0c47c/download#page=3 | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Eric Olson | Protection | Tucked away in the northeast corner of Lincoln County is a special collection of smaller kettle lakes known as the Harrison Hills. Shaped by the glaciers thousands of years ago, the hilly landscape was not easily farmed and as a result much of it was forfeited to the county after the clearcut era. Lincoln County entered the land into the County Forest program and a mixed hardwood forest eventually returned. The county forest land protects over a dozen lakes from development, but there are private lands interspersed in the area. Development pressure among the lakes is growing as the area is close to Wausau and only ten miles from State Highway 51. One of the larger private holdings in the Harrison Hills is owned by The Sisters of Mercy of the Holy Cross of Merrill. Back in 1964, the Sisters purchased nearly 200 acres as a peaceful retreat and recreation area for their members as a place to rest, reflect, and enjoy the outdoors. At the heart of the property is Fish Lake, a quiet 40-acre lake that’s 20 feet deep. It remains largely undeveloped, with only a small collection of cabins that the Sisters use in the summer. Over time, the Sisters began thinking of the future. They recognized that ownership can change, and with it, the possibility of development. Wanting to ensure the land and lake remained protected for generations, they started looking for ways to leave a lasting legacy. In 2019, they connected with North Central Conservancy Trust (NCCT) to discuss donating a conservation easement for their land. What is a conservation easement? In simple terms, it’s a voluntary agreement between a landowner and a land trust like NCCT. Together they outline how the land can be used in the future, with a focus on protecting its natural features for the benefit of the plants and animals who call it home. These easements are permanent and can provide significant peace of mind for property owners who know the land will continue to be protected by future owners. The process is collaborative. The Sisters and NCCT worked together to shape the terms of the easement until everyone felt satisfied and the document was filed with the local Register of Deeds. NCCT is then legally responsible for ensuring the terms of the easement are permanently honored by current and future owners of the property. To guide the development of their conservation easement, a committee of Sisters and Associates crafted a Land Ethic Statement. The Sisters’ easement complements the thousands of acres of Lincoln County forestland in the Harrison Hills. It’s a powerful example of how thoughtful planning today can help keep our inland lakes and surrounding lands protected for future generations. Large, forested corridors such as these provide important buffers and are needed for wildlife like the scarlet tanager. A group of undeveloped glacial lakes, like those in Harrison Hills, is becoming increasingly rare in Wisconsin. A segment of the Ice Age Trail skirts the edge of this lake-rich area. land ethic statement “As Sisters of Mercy of the Holy Cross, our Franciscan heritage urges us to embrace all of creation and its possibilities for the future. We know that creation, connected from the smallest particle to the most complex, is interdependent for survival. As stewards of the gift of creation known by us as Lake Florentini, we support that this sanctuary remain peace-filled and treated with respect and care. Our founder, Father Theodosius Florentini, taught us that the need of the time is the will of God. And so, we endeavor to address climate change and care for the earth. We commit to safeguard this land as a healthy and sustainable environment.” | https://www.uwsp.edu/extension-lakes/2026/05/04/glacial-sanctuary-sisters-protect-fish-lake/ | |||||||||||||||||
12 | Waterbody Spotlight | Lake Helen, Portage County | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/afef2a3d-8c76-4880-a043-e402a7a0c47c/download#page=4 | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Tracy Arnold | Healthy Lakes & Rivers, Lake Districts | Lake Helen Protection and Rehabilitation District is a standout in Portage County when it comes to community involvement. Powered by dedicated lakeshore property owners, this group has updated management plans, collected water quality data, and installed many Healthy Lakes & Rivers practices. Back in 2019, County staff began spreading the word about the Healthy Lakes & Rivers grant program to folks on lakes in Portage County. Two Lake Helen residents jumped at the opportunity to install native plantings. Once those practices were in and the Healthy Lakes & Rivers signs popped up along the shoreline, interest really took off. Neighbors saw how easy the projects were to complete, and more importantly, the difference they made. The native plantings added beauty, improved habitat, and supported water quality. Before long, more folks were adding their name to the grant application each year. Today, Lake Helen Protection and Rehabilitation District has successfully installed over 30 Healthy Lakes & Rivers practices, mostly native plantings and fish sticks structures. These projects don’t just benefit the property owners and Lake Helen. They’ve become demonstration sites that inspire lake residents throughout Portage County and into neighboring counties. Fred and Erica Stoeger, Lake Helen residents remarked, “The program was wonderful! Tracy assisted us in the design, selecting the best plants, filling out the paperwork for reimbursement and even showed up on planting day. The entire process was so easy we did it a second time and love the beautiful lakefront we created. Fantastic program that is so simple and easy to use.” Rebecca and Dylan Abler didn’t just talk about protecting Lake Helen, they got to work. “We have been incredibly fortunate to receive three Healthy Lakes and Rivers grants—for a native planting, fish sticks, and a rain garden—and the application process was truly painless.” They began with a native shoreline planting, then helped connect it with a neighbor’s project. Dylan later teamed up with other property owners to install 13 fish sticks projects, creating a hotspot for birds, turtles, and fish. Their newest addition is a rain garden that captures runoff from their pole shed before it reaches the lake. “These projects have not only protected water quality, but they’ve transformed our property into a thriving habitat. It feels good knowing we’re doing our part to keep the lake healthy.” “The Healthy Lakes & Rivers grant program made it easy for us to take meaningful action to protect Lake Helen.” | https://www.uwsp.edu/extension-lakes/2026/06/15/healthy-lakes-rivers-waterbody-spotlight-lake-helen-portage-county/ | |||||||||||||||||
13 | (2026 Series) Environmental Education | Helps Inspire, Engage, and Activate | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/afef2a3d-8c76-4880-a043-e402a7a0c47c/download#page=6 | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Dr. Becca Franzen | Capacity Building, Lake Groups | By Dr. Becca Franzen, Wisconsin Center for Environmental Education, College of Natural Resources, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Spark curiosity, get people involved, and motivate your community to care about local waterways. If you care about Wisconsin’s lakes, you’re probably hoping others will feel that same connection. But how do you spark that interest? How do you get people inspired, engaged, and ready to take action for our waters? That’s where environmental education comes in. It’s all about helping people build a deeper understanding of the environment—what’s happening, why it matters, and how their choices make a difference. One program or activity alone won’t shift attitudes or inspire long-term change. The end goal of environmental education is environmental literacy: giving people the knowledge, context, and motivation to act on the issues they care about. So how do we nurture that kind of literacy across all ages? Environmental educators often follow five core tenets or guiding principles that help shape meaningful, lasting learning experiences. The Five Tenets of Environmental Education are a great compass as you collaborate with others and explore the possibilities. The Wisconsin Center for Environmental Education can also lend support with resources like hands-on kits that can be checked out for free. uwsp.edu/wcee The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point K-12 Aquatic Education Collaborative can connect you with other water education opportunities. uwsp.edu/wcee/wcee/aquatic-collaborative/ Curious and want to dig deeper into environmental education? Check out the North American Association for Environmental Education website. naaee.org/about/ee Five Tenets of Environmental Education Raise Awareness (Awareness) Awareness deepens when people slow down, engage their senses, and experience the environment firsthand. For example, have participants sit along the shoreline and journal about what they see, smell, hear, and touch. Increase Knowledge (Knowledge) What do participants need to understand about the lake? Invite them to explore food webs, lake ecosystem relationships, and key issues such as native and invasive species, runoff, and shoreline erosion. While building knowledge is essential, it’s only a starting point. It’s important to move beyond information to a deeper understanding and, eventually, action. Identify Values (Values) Consider your own values related to lakes. What do you value the most? Environmental education supports participants exploring their own values, role playing to learn about the values of others, and listening to others. For example, try a value-continuum activity, where participants respond to statements (from strongly disagree to strongly agree) and discuss why they chose their position (seeking diverse answers). Start with a statement such as, “Water is the most valuable element on the planet.” Then, move to a statement like, “Silent sports are the best way to recreate on the lake.” Keep your audience and learning goals in mind. Develop Skills (Action Skills) Here’s where you provide experiences to help your audience develop skills. For example, you might teach people to take various measurements of water quality—anything from collecting macroinvertebrates to measuring the clarity of water using a Secchi disk to identifying invasive species. Take Action (Action Experiences) Provide participants with the opportunity to take action that positively impacts the environment, such as talking to neighbors, giving local presentations, organizing volunteer groups, or developing and implementing a plan to improve water quality. If your lake group is small or you don’t have time to develop a plan, there are several “ready-to-go” programs like Clean Boats, Clean Waters, Citizen Lake Monitoring Network, or Healthy Lakes & Rivers. Find out more about these on the Extension Lakes website. uwsp.edu/cnr/uwexlakes | https://www.uwsp.edu/extension-lakes/2026/06/15/environmental-education-helps-inspire-engage-and-activate/ | |||||||||||||||||
14 | Our Native Mussels | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/afef2a3d-8c76-4880-a043-e402a7a0c47c/download#page=8 | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Lisie Kitchel, Jesse Weinzinger | Plants & Animals | One of the unsung heroes in the lakes, rivers, and streams of Wisconsin are our native mussels (often referred to as clams). Living on the bottom, these creatures are often overlooked but contribute significantly to the health of our waters. Each mussel can filter gallons of water a day, removing suspended sediment and contaminants from the water column; they are nature’s power houses. These underappreciated filter factories are important to improving water quality, but that is not all they do; they provide food for raccoons, muskrats, otters, and wading birds. Freshwater mussels also provide food for aquatic insects and crayfish when they expel what they do not consume into a gelatinous mass (called pseudo-feces) that the other aquatic invertebrates gobble up. This might seem minor, but when a mussel die-off occurs the aquatic insect and crayfish populations also decline and not from the source of the die-off. These aquatic invertebrates need mussels to make food from the water column that is otherwise unavailable to them and other creatures living on the bottom. People often ask if you can eat mussels, and although technically you can, we do not recommend it. Also, it is illegal to harvest native mussels from Wisconsin waters. First, they are not at all palatable (based on what folks have told us), and more importantly, they are full of contaminants. Native Americans consumed mussels in large numbers, as evidenced by the shell piles near the old fish camps, but that was before modern pollutants entered our waters. Today, tribes no longer eat mussels, though the shells are still used for ceremonial purposes. The shells, with their shiny mother-of-pearl and sometimes other color interiors, are more commonly found in the water along the shoreline than live mussels. Sometimes live mussels are observed moving amongst the sand in shallow water, but most of the time these important creatures go unnoticed. Recent droughts have also left many mussels exposed, and thousands of mussels left high and dry have been reported by concerned citizens. These mussels were often trying to reach deeper water but could not find it. If you see a freshwater mussel “stranded” out of the water that is not already desiccated and dead, you can simply throw them in deeper water. Unfortunately, we lost far more mussels than could be saved and can only hope there are enough remaining mussels to restore those populations. The Friends of the Lower Wisconsin River set up a mussel rescue notification system to let folks know when water levels drop and mussels are at risk of being stranded. While the effort is mostly focused on the lower Wisconsin River, alerts may also include other riverways in the region. Mussels can become stranded any time of year, but it happens most often in late summer when water levels run low. That said, sudden reservoir drawdowns, dam maintenance, or even unexpected dam failures can leave mussels high and dry at other times of the year, too. Another underappreciated and unique aspect of our native mussels is their complicated life cycle. There are both male and female mussels and you can tell the gender in some species by their shell shape. The males release sperm into the water column in ‘sperm balls’ which amazingly make it to a female of that same species. The fertilized eggs develop into a miniature mussel called a glochidia that is a snappy little bivalve that looks like Pac-Man®. The sole purpose of this glochidia is to get onto the gills of a fish. It needs the fish blood to complete its development. However, not just any fish will do! Some mussels have many fish ‘hosts’ that can complete their life cycle, but other mussel species only use one fish species. One particular mussel only uses the mudpuppy as a host and that’s not even a fish! To ensure the glochidia get on the required host fish, mussels have adapted different strategies designed to attract the right fish. Many with a predatory host have developed a ‘fish lure’ as part of their soft tissues to lure the fish close enough to spit the glochidia into its mouth and subsequently onto the gills. Others release the glochidia in a kind of egg mass that looks like worms or aquatic insects and the fish eat them, allowing the glochidia to pass onto the gills. One species grabs the head of the fish and won’t let go until it has pumped all its glochidia onto the gills! These are a few of the many methods used by Wisconsin’s 52 species of native mussels. After the glochidia complete their development in the presence of the fish blood they drop off the fish and continue their existence for the next 10-60+ years, depending on the species. All this goes on underwater, unbeknownst to most folks, so if you see a mussel, pick it up and thank it for working so hard and surviving its amazingly complicated life cycle. Then, toss it into deeper water. Community members used buckets to move mussels to deeper water and let them live another day when dam work on the Wisconsin River caused low water near Stevens Point. | https://www.uwsp.edu/extension-lakes/2026/06/24/our-native-mussels/ | ||||||||||||||||||
15 | Capacity Corner #32: Create A Membership Survey | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/afef2a3d-8c76-4880-a043-e402a7a0c47c/download#page=11 | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Sara Windjue | Capacity Building, Lake Groups | In each issue, we share ideas and resources to help your organization build its capacity to care for Wisconsin’s lakes. This time, we’re circling back to membership capacity—essentially, the value your organization brings to its current and possible future supporters. One tool that can strengthen that connection is a membership survey. A survey gives members a chance to share their thoughts anonymously, including those who do not attend meetings. Most groups hear from a few voices over and over, while many others stay silent. A survey levels the playing field and invites everyone to weigh in. Developing a good survey takes time. We are happy to work with you to ensure your survey gets you the information you need. Steps for a successful membership survey: Determine your audience. Decide if you’ll survey only paying members or if you want to hear from all potential members. Set clear objectives. Know what you want to learn and how you will use the results. Don’t ask for feedback you won’t use. Choose how you will distribute the survey and protect anonymity. Direct mail works well for people without internet access, but you’ll need to print, mail, and manually analyze responses. Email is efficient if you have members’ email addresses, and online tools make data analysis very easy. Phone calls allow follow-up questions and personal connection, but they aren’t anonymous; however, you can keep their responses confidential by detaching their name. Door-to-door outreach builds relationships and inspires conversation, but is time consuming and not anonymous. Consider offering an incentive. Free memberships, gift cards, or lake-themed merchandise can boost response rates. Remember, incentives will require you to know who completed the survey, but these names don’t have to be linked to responses. Write clear, unbiased questions. Keep your survey short (no more than 10 questions) and make sure it’s clear and impartial by running it by a few reviewers. You can use open-ended or multiple-choice questions, or a mix of both. Test your survey. Try it out with a small focus group to catch confusing wording and technical or logistical issues. Send it with a clear deadline. Two weeks is usually enough time. A reminder as the deadline approaches can help increase responses. Analyze and share the results. Provide graphs and short summaries to make the findings understandable. Discuss results at an open meeting so members can see that their input matters and is being taken seriously. Start with an example membership survey on the Extension Lakes website under “Lake Organizations.” Open “Capacity Corner”, then “Membership.” | https://www.uwsp.edu/extension-lakes/2026/06/30/create-a-membership-survey/ | ||||||||||||||||||
16 | A United Effort | Whitefish Lake Community Steps Up To Address AIS | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/afef2a3d-8c76-4880-a043-e402a7a0c47c/download#page=12 | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Eric Olson | AIS - Aquatic Invasive Species, Lake Groups | Lake residents didn’t panic when EWM was found in Whitefish Lake, instead they rallied. Whitefish Lake in Douglas County has long been a destination for people seeking the perfect lake from nearby Duluth and the Twin Cities. Whitefish is both deep (over 100 feet) and clear (Secchi depths between 20 and 30 feet). The cold deep waters of the lake support a healthy population of cisco as well as several rare and endangered plants. The Whitefish Lake Conservation Organization (WILCO) has been working for over 50 years to protect the lake and its unique plant and fish communities. Protecting What Matters Most WILCO was among the “early adopters” of the Clean Boats, Clean Waters watercraft inspection program. In a typical summer, volunteers and hired students connect with over 1,000 boaters and anglers, sharing AIS prevention steps as they come and go. Thanks to such diligence, Whitefish Lake has been largely free of aquatic invasive species (AIS)—with the exception of the 2019 discovery of mystery snails. While mystery snails have less extreme impacts on waters than other AIS, WILCO has proactively worked to manage their population by removing 13,000 pounds of snails in the last three years! With such a major focus on preventing and managing AIS, WILCO leadership was disheartened when Department of Natural Resources (DNR) biologists discovered populations of Eurasian watermilfoil (EWM) near the public boat launch late last summer. The DNR’s plant survey was part of a directed lakes study, building on an extensive history of ecological monitoring at Whitefish Lake. Rather than resignation or panic, WILCO leadership is drawing on what is known about EWM to develop a strategic response. Community Strong In their recent newsletter, WILCO reports they will use their mystery snails experience to focus on manual removal of EWM by SCUBA divers this spring, when the plants are more easily identified and handled. They also encourage landowners to maintain the healthy native plants already found in the lake, as EWM can more easily spread on a disturbed lake bottom. WILCO leaders cautioned their members that complete eradication of the invasive plant is not a realistic expectation, but that monitoring and manual removal can help minimize the plant’s impact on the lake. See video of Whitefish Lake’s snail removal efforts on diver Ryan Marshik’s YouTube channel. Whitefish Lake is one of just a few lakes in the state with redhead pondweed (Potamogeton perfoliatus). Small purple bladderwort is another rare and beautiful native aquatic plant that makes its home in Whitefish Lake. | https://www.uwsp.edu/extension-lakes/2026/06/30/a-united-effort-whitefish-lake-community-steps-up-to-address-ais/ | |||||||||||||||||
17 | Lake Tides Survey Results | Thanks for Speaking Up! | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/afef2a3d-8c76-4880-a043-e402a7a0c47c/download#page=14 | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Shannon Kearney | Research | About every 10 years, Extension Lakes checks in with Lake Tides readers to better understand who you are, how you engage with the newsletter, and what matters most when it comes to Wisconsin’s lakes. This year, we used a multi-pronged approach. We mailed 1,000 postcards to randomly selected readers, shared the survey on social media, and included it in the most recent issue of Lake Tides. Together, these efforts helped us hear from voices across the state. Who reads Lake Tides? According to the survey, half of our readers own lakefront property, 28% live near a lake, and 19% do not live near a lake but visit lakes often. This tells us Lake Tides continues to reach people who care deeply about lakes, whether they live on them or simply love spending time there. One encouraging finding was how often Lake Tides is shared. Many readers share their copy with at least one other person, with 12% passing it along to four or more people! Thanks for helping us reach more folks! When it comes to receiving lake-related information, traditional mail (36%) and email (30%) came out on top. These insights reinforce this newsletter remains an important and valued resource. What worries readers most? When asked about the biggest threats to lakes, responses varied, with aquatic invasive species (31%) and habitat loss (20%) rising to the top. This feedback underscores the importance of continuing to share science-based research and providing clear, practical steps you can take to protect and preserve Wisconsin’s lakes. When asked about barriers to protecting lakes in Wisconsin, respondents ranked lack of support and information as highest. This motivates us to keep providing the tools, knowledge, and updates you need about lake ecology, lake laws and regulations, and water resource opportunities. Thank you to everyone who took the time to share feedback. Your input helps guide the future of Lake Tides and the work we do to support healthy lakes across Wisconsin. You don’t have to wait for our next survey to share your thoughts. Reach out anytime with story ideas, questions, or feedback. We’re always glad to hear from you. New and Improved Based on feedback from this survey and other research, we have upgraded your Lake Tides newsletter. We still offer easy-to-read, generally non-technical articles in a conversational tone, but have incorporated larger font and colorful photos to make it more accessible to everyone. “We live on a lake, and this newsletter is important to us!” ~ Lake Tides reader | https://www.uwsp.edu/extension-lakes/2026/07/01/lake-tides-survey-results/ | |||||||||||||||||
18 | Reflections | Water is most critical... | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/afef2a3d-8c76-4880-a043-e402a7a0c47c/download#page=16 | 2026 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Luna Leopold | Reflections | Water is the most critical resource issue of our lifetime and our children’s lifetime. The health of our waters is the principal measure of how we live on the land.” ~ Luna Leopold | ||||||||||||||||||
19 | Restoration Works | A Summer of Shoreline Science | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/2aee66aa-c46e-45e8-a6f6-905f2acfcb82/download | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Madeline Hetland | Research, Restoration | This summer, I had the opportunity to spend a few months at UW-Madison’s Center for Limnology-Trout Lake Station. My work was part of an undergraduate research fellowship through the North Temperate Lakes Long-Term Ecological Research program. Under the guidance of Dr. Katie Hein, my project focused on a topic that’s close to home for many lake residents: shoreline restoration, and how changes we make on land ripple into the lake itself. In particular, I looked at how shoreline condition affects aquatic insects and other tiny creatures that live in the shallow, nearshore area of the lake known as the littoral zone. These insects, like mayflies and caddisflies, are often overlooked, but they play an essential role in lake ecosystems. They break down organic material, cycle nutrients, and provide food for fish, amphibians, and birds. In short, if you care about lake health, you should care about bugs. A Living Laboratory on Crystal Lake Our main site was Crystal Lake, entirely surrounded by Wisconsin DNR state campground and forest land. A major shoreline restoration project began here back in 2011 led by researchers at Michigan Technological University and Wisconsin DNR. Prior to the restoration, this portion of shoreline was mostly mowed lawn beneath a few scattered red pines. As part of the project, over 300 meters of shoreline were planted with thousands of native trees, shrubs, and grasses. The transformation was impressive, but until this summer no one had taken a close look at how the shoreline changes had affected the ecosystem over time. That’s where our team came in. We surveyed the vegetation along the shore, documenting the types and amounts of trees and shrubs that had taken hold. In the water, we looked at aquatic plants, fallen logs, and woody debris. Then, my favorite part: collecting aquatic insects. The Bug Work As someone especially interested in aquatic macroinvertebrates, I carried out an independent project to compare these communities at different types of shorelines. Insects especially respond to changes in habitat quality and shoreline structure – exactly what we were trying to quantify. I wanted to know: How do shoreline development and restoration efforts influence aquatic macroinvertebrate communities? And, as a follow up: Can disturbed sites recover enough to support the same kinds of bugs and critters as a natural shoreline? To find out, I sampled macroinvertebrates at three different types of shoreline: A developed swimming beach area with a manicured lawn, The Crystal Lake restoration site, and A natural shoreline with minimal human disturbance. Using a dip net, I collected samples from each site and then spent hours in the lab sorting, identifying, and counting the insects under a microscope. I used a statistical program called R to analyze the data and compare the communities at each site. The Results: Nature Bounces Back What I found was both exciting and encouraging: The restored shoreline supported much more diverse insect communities than the developed shoreline. The restored communities were even comparable to those present in the sites with minimal human disturbance. Certain groups of insects, like mayflies, caddisflies, and some dragonflies, were found only at the restored and natural sites, and were completely absent from the developed shoreline. In terms of the number of different insect types (what we call “taxon richness”), the restored shoreline matched or even exceeded the natural sites in some cases! This tells us something important: restoration works! Even years later, and even on land that used to be lawn, native vegetation and shoreline improvements can create conditions that support complex aquatic communities. Healthier insect populations mean better food for fish, more stable ecosystems, and improved water quality. Why This Matters for Waterfront Property Owners If you own lakefront property or are part of a lake organization, these findings are good news. They show that thoughtful shoreline restoration, like planting native species, reducing mowing near the water, and allowing natural processes to take place, can lead to meaningful ecological improvements. Restored shorelines benefit more than just bugs! Healthy littoral zones support better water quality, improved fish habitat, and long-term lake sustainability. This is not just a win for nature; it’s a win for everyone who values lakes. So, if you’ve been wondering whether it’s worth letting your shoreline go a little wild or starting a restoration project of your own, the answer is a resounding yes! The lake will thank you, and so will the insects, fish, and future generations who get to enjoy a healthier lake. Science, Stewardship, and Gratitude This fellowship was a defining experience for me. I got to ask real questions, do hands-on fieldwork, and contribute to a bigger picture of how we care for our lakes. Looking ahead, I plan to pursue graduate school after gaining a few more years of experience, with continued interests in aquatic ecology and watershed health (and bugs!). I left the Northwoods with a deeper appreciation for the connections between shorelines, science, and stewardship. I’d like to give a special thank you to Dr. Katie Hein, research scientist at Trout Lake Station, for providing mentorship and guidance throughout this project. My research was funded by the National Science Foundation, specifically the North Temperate Lakes Long-Term Ecological Research (NTL LTER) Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU). I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to have been part of the work at Trout Lake Station and research that will support healthy lakes for generations to come. | ||||||||||||||||||
20 | Helping Restoration Work for You | Ten Years of Healthy Lakes & Rivers | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/2aee66aa-c46e-45e8-a6f6-905f2acfcb82/download#page=2 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Wisconsin DNR | Healthy Lakes & Rivers, Restoration | Launched in 2015, Healthy Lakes & Rivers (HLR) was designed to make it easier for property owners to take simple, affordable steps to protect and restore water quality and habitat. The program focuses on five best practices, depending on what goals you have for your shoreland property. Create fish and wildlife habitat. > fish sticks (lakes only) Improve wildlife habitat, natural beauty and privacy, and decrease runoff. > 350 ft2 native SHORELINE planting Prevent runoff from getting into your lake or river or direct water to an infiltration practice. > diversion Capture and clean runoff. > rock infiltration Create wildlife habitat and natural beauty while capturing and cleaning runoff. > rain garden When combined, these small practices make a big difference. Natural shorelines hold soil in place, intercept and filter stormwater runoff, and provide food and shelter for wildlife. In fact, 90% of aquatic species and 70% of land-based species depend on this nearshore area for part of their life cycle. When native trees, shrubs, grasses, sedges, and wildflowers disappear, water quality declines and frogs, songbirds, and fish suffer. Since its start, more than 1,100 waterfront property owners on over 200 lakes and rivers have participated in HLR, supported by local organizations, municipalities, counties, and tribes who can apply for cost-share grants on their behalf. These grants are available year-round from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for up to $1,000 per practice installed, with a grant cap of $25,000. Eligible shoreland properties include those within 1,000 feet of a lake or 300 feet of a river or floodplain. “Wisconsin is unique in having a statewide shoreline health initiative with funding to help property owners create habitat and improve water quality,” said DNR Secretary Karen Hyun. “You can apply simple best practices on your shoreland property, and together we can protect our waters for generations to come.” After installing HLR practices, many landowners say they’ve noticed less erosion on their property, clearer water, and more wildlife along the shoreline, like butterflies and turtles where they hadn’t before! An early participant in the program, Bill Foley of Dane County, installed a 350 ft2 Native Shoreline Planting to replace mowed lawn along their Beaver Dam Lake property. Bill shares, “Our native plant garden has doubled in size and we now spend our time on the nearby bench observing the wildlife attracted to the natural setting.” If you recently purchased land near a lake or river, have been meaning to restore your shoreline, or want to slow runoff from your property, there is no better time to start planning than today! Visit healthylakeswi.com where you’ll find how-to guides, funding information, and the “Score My Shore” self-evaluation tool. Take the “quiz,” see how your shoreline measures up, and get personalized tips to boost its health. Together, Wisconsinites are proving that when it comes to caring for our waters, even small actions can ripple into something truly great. Get updates on the HLR program by signing up for Gov Delivery. https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/WIDNR/subscriber/new?topic_id=WIDNR_1598 Taking first place in the HLR photo contest in the “Healthy Transformations” category are these two shots of Bill and Lyn Foley’s property on Beaver Dam Lake before installing a Healthy Lakes & Rivers 350 ft2 Native Shoreline Planting, and 10 years later. “Ready for a Rain Day” (left) won first place in the HLR photo contest category “People Making Healthy Lakes & Rivers Together” and “Five Swallowtails Flew Into a Raingarden” (above) won first place in the category “Wildlife Enjoying Habitat.” | ||||||||||||||||||
21 | Preserving Local Control | A Key to Managing Wake Sports in Wisconsin | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/2aee66aa-c46e-45e8-a6f6-905f2acfcb82/download#page=6 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Wisconsin Lakes | Water Policy, Lake Groups | Wisconsin has not yet passed statewide legislation to manage wake sports, which Wisconsin Lakes believes will protect lakes from environmental harm and safety risks. In the absence of state action, 70 towns and municipalities have adopted local ordinances to regulate wake sports. These communities are concerned about invasive species in ballast water, shoreline erosion, lakebed damage, and the safety of other lake users. Only one ordinance — in the Town of Scott, Burnett County — is currently facing a legal challenge, with a decision expected in fall 2026. More towns are considering similar ordinances, and the Coalition to Protect Wisconsin’s Lakes is advocating for any future state law to preserve local authority. The Coalition currently consists of 80 member groups including Wisconsin Lakes, Last Wilderness Alliance, Wisconsin Lakes at Stake, Wisconsin’s Green Fire, Wisconsin Trout Unlimited, and Wisconsin Wildlife Federation, with many county and local lake organizations joining in support. Local governments have the constitutional right to regulate boating under Wisconsin’s Home Rule provision (Wis. Const. Art. XI, Sec. 3). Ordinances follow a structured process: assessment, drafting, public hearing, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources review, and local board adoption. This ensures that residents and regular lake users — those most familiar with local conditions — have a voice in shaping rules. Critics argue that local ordinances create a confusing “patchwork” and are hard to enforce. However, Wisconsin Lakes counters that: Boaters are responsible for knowing lake-specific rules, which are posted at landings. Voluntary compliance is high once ordinances are enacted. Enforcement is possible through local officials, constables, boat patrols, or sheriffs. The goal is education and compliance, not punishment. Local control is essential to address the diverse conditions across Wisconsin’s 15,000 lakes and thousands of river miles. What works for large, open lakes may not suit small, residential ones. Town boards are best positioned to respond to shoreline erosion, safety hazards, user conflicts, and environmental concerns in ways that reflect community priorities. For more details, visit the full blog post by Wisconsin Lakes at wisconsinlakes.org/preservation-of-local-control Formed more than 20 years ago following the merger of the Wisconsin Federation of Lakes (the statewide association of lake associations) and the Wisconsin Association of Lake Districts, Wisconsin Lakes works to develop statewide solutions for the challenges faced by our lakes while supporting strong local protection efforts. | ||||||||||||||||||
22 | A Hunter of Dragons | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/2aee66aa-c46e-45e8-a6f6-905f2acfcb82/download#page=8 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Paul Skawinski | Plants & Animals | After reading our cover article about some of the research taking place this summer at Trout Lake Station, we thought you might want to learn more about the dragonfly larva Madeline is holding on the front page – a dragonhunter (Hagenius brevistylus). Measuring almost three and a half inches long as an adult, the dragonhunter is the largest of the clubtails (family Gomphidae), so large and fierce that it catches and eats other dragonflies! This aggressive and curious insect also feeds on deer flies, damselflies, butterflies, and other large insects. Dragonhunters are common in northern Wisconsin, and their range includes most of eastern North America. The Larval (Nymph) Stage Like other dragonflies, dragonhunters spend their “childhood” at the bottom of aquatic environments, especially in flowing waters with forested shorelines. Even in their youth, they are aggressive predators of other insects and small animals. The dragonhunter’s flat, round, dark body allows it to blend in with leaves that accumulate along the water’s edge. It has strikingly large back legs compared to its other legs, making it look somewhat like a spider or a very large tick. This dragonfly spends multiple years in its larval stage before transforming into a flying adult. The Final Countdown After growing and molting several times as an aquatic nymph, the dragonhunter will crawl out of the water onto a sturdy plant or other object, dry in the sun, and break out of its larval case into an adult dragonfly for its final few months of life. After pumping its wings full of hemolymph (insect “blood”), it will take flight as one of the most feared insects of the aquatic world (if you’re another insect). The dragonhunter’s head and body is black with bright yellow stripes and its massive wings allow it to chase fast-flying prey (up to 25 mph!) and hold onto its catch with leg spines. As adults, dragonhunters focus their attention on eating, mating, and laying eggs. Females will dip the tip of their abdomen into the water to drop a small group of eggs, which fall to the bottom. Eggs laid in early summer will hatch within a month and begin feeding, while eggs laid at the end of the summer may lie dormant until the following spring when conditions will be more favorable for the young nymph. A Recent Threat A recent and maybe unexpected threat to dragonhunters is the invasive zebra mussel that arrived in the Great Lakes in ballast water from the Black and Caspian Seas. Zebra mussels will attach themselves to any firm surface, including the bodies of aquatic animals like dragonfly larvae. While the more slender dragonfly nymphs tend to burrow into the sediments, dragonhunter larvae have wide bodies and spend their time walking along the bottom. This leaves them more exposed to zebra mussels looking for a surface to colonize. Although some of our lakes are frozen now, dragonhunters are still busy at the bottom, slowly crawling through autumn’s leaves and stalking their next meal. This male dragonhunter, an impressively large yellow-and-black dragonfly, takes a break on an ironwood tree. His curved abdomen and long, spiny arms are trademarks of the species, perfect for grabbing any unlucky insect that happens to fly by. This ebony jewelwing damselfly, a common insect along the banks of flowing waters, is one of the dragonhunter’s favorite foods. Observing the discarded wings of an ebony jewelwing floating on the water is a clue that a dragonhunter may be lurki ng just upstream. Emerging from its larval case, this dragonfly will pump its wings full of hemolymph (insect “blood”) and take off looking for a meal. | |||||||||||||||||||
23 | Capacity Corner #31: Which Lake Organization is Best for Your Community? | Programs | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/2aee66aa-c46e-45e8-a6f6-905f2acfcb82/download#page=10 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Sara Windjue | Lake Groups, Lake Districts | In each issue of Lake Tides, we introduce you to different ideas and resources to help you increase your organization’s capacity to care for lakes. We close out each year of the Capacity Corner by looking at programmatic capacity: the ability of a lake organization to get things done. We’re going to explore the differences between lake associations and lake districts and help you decide which is right for your lake. We’ll also describe the changes you will go through if your group transitions from an association to a district or if your district decides to dissolve. Lake Associations vs. Lake Districts Lake associations are non-profit groups that rely on dues, donations, fundraisers, and grants. A lake district is a special purpose unit of government that manages a lake or group of lakes. One of the major differences between lake districts and lake associations is that lake districts have the power to raise money through compulsory fees and the property tax levy. Legislation allowing the formation of public inland lake protection and rehabilitation districts was enacted in 1974. Since then, 260 lake communities have formed lake districts and four to five new districts form each year. Lake districts commonly take on the same programmatic challenges as lake associations, but since they can use taxes and fees to raise revenue they spend far less time and energy on fundraisers, membership drives, or chasing down donations. For this reason, we think of lake districts as having a greater ability to focus their time, effort, and resources on executing programs and projects that benefit the lake compared to lake associations. There are some tradeoffs, however. Lake districts need to closely follow Wisconsin statutes that specify how they operate. They also must follow a specific process to come into existence, which typically entails petitioning landowners to demonstrate that the majority of people around the lake want to see a lake district formed. This process alone consumes time and energy and can be a source of conflict in a community if a faction of people are opposed to forming a lake district. Is it Time to Transition from an Association to a District? Before you transition your organization from a lake association to a lake district, clarify the goals you want to accomplish can only be met by becoming a district. The main reason you might want to become a district is because you are not raising enough in dues and donations to meet your goals; however, becoming a district isn’t always a quick solution. There are multiple lake associations in Wisconsin who have larger budgets than districts due to their fundraising strategies. If it’s a question of fairness (i.e. ensuring that everyone has “skin in the game”), it is important that the issues your lake is facing justifies the time and effort needed to establish and operate a district and that everyone will benefit from the district. Several lake districts have formed in recent years to tackle challenges around dam maintenance and replacement. These can be expensive projects with large up-front costs that involve loans, and lake districts have an easier time borrowing money compared to lake associations. Lake districts and other local governments are eligible to borrow money from the State of Wisconsin through the Board of Commissioners of Public Lands. Caring for dams is also an example where most people on the lake will receive some benefit and therefore should be helping to cover the cost. Is it Time for the Organization to Dissolve? It is also possible for a community to find that there is insufficient interest to maintain an organization that focuses on their lake issues. The institutional work can be overwhelming for volunteers to maintain. A lake association should follow its bylaws regarding the steps for dissolving. For most associations, this would involve a two-thirds majority vote by the board followed by a two-thirds majority vote of members in favor of a resolution of dissolution. Such a resolution directs the Board of Directors to prepare a dissolution plan for subsequent approval by the members as provided under Wisconsin law. Dissolution is not final until the members, by majority vote, have approved the dissolution plan, either at a meeting or by a binding mail referendum. The dissolution plan should ensure that any outstanding liabilities are accounted for and that assets are legally distributed. If the association is an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3), any assets must be distributed either to another tax-exempt nonprofit or a government entity. Only one Wisconsin lake district has completely dissolved to our knowledge. Others still exist but are currently in a non-active status, meaning they are not collecting taxes or special charges, so they most likely do not have a budget to operate. Most non-active districts are ones created by a resolution of a village and whoever is elected to the village board becomes the lake district board. They can call an annual meeting at any time to revive the group if needed. To completely dissolve a district, you must be sure that the district is truly not needed as it will require a two-thirds majority vote at an annual meeting. The issue must first be placed on the annual meeting agenda by one of the following: A majority vote of the members present at the previous annual meeting. Unanimous vote of the commissioners. Notification of the commissioners by an individual voter at least 90 days prior to the annual meeting. The notice of the annual meeting must include a statement that a petition to dissolve the district will be considered. If the voters at the annual meeting choose to dissolve, the district must then work with the county to wind down its financial operations. Please refer to Chapter 4 of People of the Lakes: A Guide for WIsconsin Lake Organizations for more detail. Just go to uwsp.edu/uwexlakes and find it listed under “Lake Organizations” in the navigation bar. Is Legal Assistance Necessary? Forming a lake district is a complex and extensive process which often requires a certain understanding of a variety of laws and legal concepts. Some lake districts have formed with little or no legal assistance. Others have opted to retain some level of professional help. You should consider whether you feel comfortable trying the process alone or if you should obtain some level of professional or legal advice and assistance. There may be someone within your proposed district who has the needed skills and willingness to assist. | ||||||||||||||||||
24 | Keeping Lakes in the Family | Sharing the Magic Through Stories (fishing) | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/2aee66aa-c46e-45e8-a6f6-905f2acfcb82/download#page=12 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Lynn Markham | Students & Youth | Book reviews adapted from Cooperative Children’s Book Center at UW-Madison, Wisconsin Historical Society, and Robin Wall Kimmerer. Big Bear and Little Bear Go Fishing Ages 3-6 Written by Amy Hest; Illustrated by Erin Stead With gentle humor, pleasing repetition, and carefully chosen words, this quiet, lovely tale feels like a classic. Little Bear’s imitation and obvious admiration of Big Bear are endearing, and careful readers will realize that quality time together (not catching fish) was always the goal. Saving Our Sturgeon: Protecting Wisconsin’s Ancient Fish Ages 10+ Written by Rebecca Hogue Wojahn with Anne Moser as consultant This is a story of a fascinating fish and the forward-thinking people who saved them in Wisconsin. For millennia, sturgeon swam the waterways of Wisconsin. Before the 1800s, an estimated eleven million sturgeon lived in Lake Michigan alone. But by the early 1900s, everything changed when the sturgeon was threatened with extinction. Saving Our Sturgeon details not only the fascinating facts of the fish, but the efforts made by conservationists to save the species in Wisconsin including a chapter about the Menominee Nation’s work to revitalize cultural traditions focused on the sturgeon and restore access to the fish on their reservation. This inspiring book shares a conservation success story about one remarkable (and plenty peculiar) species of fish and shows young readers how they, too, can help protect these incredible creatures. One Frozen Lake Ages 3-7 Written by Deborah Jo Larson; illustrated by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher After walking across a frozen lake one morning, a boy and his grandfather make holes in the ice, drop their fishing lines into the water, and wait. After five hours, they move into a heated canvas shack and try again. They share hot cocoa with friends, but “Seven hours pass. Not one fish.” Packing up at nine o’clock, they reel in a line and catch a fish. The artwork transports readers to the unusual setting – underwater – which children might find difficult to imagine on their own. An inviting introduction to fishing above and below the ice. Bud Finds Her Gift Ages 4+ Written by Robin Wall Kimmerer; Illustrated by Naoko Stoop A beautiful and lushly illustrated tale celebrating gratitude, reciprocity, and finding our place in the natural world, ideal for sharing with the youngest readers. When young Bud sees people bustling around, intent on their chores and their screens, she is certain they must be doing important things—and she wants to be included. But wise Nokomis, her grandmother, shows her that there is a different way to find belonging, one that relies on stillness and observing the natural world. As Bud discovers the freely given gifts of the Earth, she wonders if she has something important to give back: What is her gift? The Great Lakes: Our Freshwater Treasure Ages 7-12 Written by Barb Rosenstock; illustrated by Jamey Christoph Beloved in Wisconsin and the upper Midwest, and critical to the nation, the Great Lakes are only 3,000 years old in their current, widely recognized shapes, the “youngest major geological feature on the planet.” This informational picture book begins by detailing how the Great Lakes formed. Then it features some of the 139 species of native fish living in the lakes. It then follows a drop of water as it moves from Lake Superior to Huron, to Michigan, to Erie, then over Niagara Falls, into Lake Ontario, down the St. Lawrence River and finally into the Atlantic Ocean. A final section looks at how humans have used the Great Lakes — first Native peoples, and then European settlers, who contributed vast amounts of pollution, before Indigenous activists led efforts to clean up the Great Lakes. Log Life Ages 5-10 By Amy Hevron What happens when a giant tree is felled by a storm? It becomes a nurse log, a home to countless creatures on the forest floor. Almost immediately, new life and activities spring up on and around the fallen tree. Fungi arrive, followed by lichen and chicken mushrooms. Creatures including beetles, ants, snails, and birds are next. The nurse log offers shelter, shade, and warmth to salamanders, frogs, and voles. Eventually, a new fir tree sprouts. Readers are likely to delight in the cheerful, adorable illustrations and the conversational, accessible text. A Second Life for Trees in Lakes: As Useful in Water as They Were on Land Ages 12+ Written by Michael A. Bozek Remarkably, after a tree falls in the lake it might last another 300 to 600 years in the water! Large submerged trees can host entire fish communities, which is why anglers often fish near trees that have fallen in the water. This short, nonfiction booklet shares scientific data showing what fish species use submerged trees, as well as simple steps we can take to increase fish habitat. View an online copy or order 10 booklets for the price of shipping from the Extension Lakes bookstore: uwsp.edu/uwexlakes Freshwater Fish Series (Volumes 1 & 2) Ages 8+ These books will help you better understand these native Wisconsin fishes and give you some ideas on where and how to find them in their natural habitat! Available from the Extension Lakes bookstore: uwsp.edu/uwexlakes Bluegills and Iowa Darter Written by Elie Hart, Lynn Markham, Justin Sipiorski and Jonathan Stoffregren Illustrated by Justin Sipiorski Photos from Engbretson Underwater Photography (in Bluegills) You Shoulda Been Here Last Week: Stories from an Angling Life Ages 12+ Written by Ted Rulseh This collection of fishing-related stories and essays guides you through a lifetime of angling joys, thrills, and failures. It covers moments of wonder and the treasured times with friends and family that accompanies this cherished Wisconsin past-time. | ||||||||||||||||||
25 | Decades of Dedication | Registration is Open for the 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/2aee66aa-c46e-45e8-a6f6-905f2acfcb82/download#page=14 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Partnerships, Lake Groups | The 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention will be taking a look back at the “decades of dedication” devoted to solving Wisconsin’s wicked water problems and protecting our amazing lakes and rivers. Join scientists, water management specialists, educators, students, waterfront property owners, and other water-forward thinkers this spring, at the Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention in Stevens Point, to share insights, connections, and inspiration! One of last year’s attendees said, “As a first time attendee, I commend everyone involved with making this event happen. It’s a very well-oiled machine that has something of interest for everyone. I enjoyed the keynote speakers and felt that the room moderators were excellent.” What to Expect Wednesday, April 15 - Pre-convention Workshops These engaging and interactive sessions help participants explore topics in a way that allows them to leave feeling like they are more capable or inspired for their next project. Pre-registration required - register early to secure your spot (many of these fill up quickly) Wednesday, April 15 - Evening Welcome Reception This informal gathering of water lovers is a great way for newcomers to “get their feet wet,” and for seasoned Convention attendees to reconnect. Flow Project art exhibit Appetizers and cash bar Fun networking opportunities Thursday, April 16 Enjoy a full day of learning, engaging, and networking. Full-group welcome session Over 35 concurrent sessions Over 50 educational and business exhibits Lightning talks and poster presentations Awards ceremony and banquet (add-on ticketed event) Friday, April 17 Over 35 concurrent sessions Over 50 educational and business exhibits Convention Confluence (includes lunch) Featuring Luke Zahm We’re excited to welcome Luke Zahm, host of the PBS Emmy® Award-winning TV series, Wisconsin Foodie, and co-owner and chef at Viroqua’s Driftless Cafe, on Friday for our Convention Confluence. Just like a home-cooked meal, this session is a time to slow down, share experiences, and find commonality. Friday, April 17 - Post-convention Workshops Join in-depth discussions on specific topics and head home ready to dedicate your knowledge to protecting and preserving our treasured water resources. Pre-registration required - register early to secure your spot (many of these fill up quickly) Virtual Option Can’t join us in person? Virtual attendance (via Zoom) is available for select sessions as well as full-group sessions on Thursday and Friday. Add-ons Want to get more in-depth? Be sure to select the optional Pre- and Post-Convention Workshops as add-ons during your registration! You can also register to attend one or more workshops as a stand-alone option. Lodging Staying overnight? Make your reservation soon at the Holiday Inn Convention Center (rooms fill quickly). Find reservation information at wisconsinwaterweek.org 20% Discount Want to save money? Register by February 1, 2026 to receive early-bird pricing. Students 50% off Are you a student? Students enrolled in a K-12 school or institute of higher education can receive 50% off their registration costs. Please email wiwaterweek@wisconsinlakes.org for the discount code before registering. Scholarships We want to be sure everyone is able to attend this premier learning and networking event, regardless of cost. Our goal is to bring people together from communities across Wisconsin to strengthen our partnership and protect our waters. GIVE If you’re able to donate to the scholarship fund to support those who may otherwise be unable to attend, there are two ways to donate: Not attending the Convention? Donate now to the Scholarship Fund through the Extension Lakes online store (uwsp.edu/uwexlakes). Scroll past the t-shirts to find the scholarship amounts. Attending the Convention? If you plan to register for the Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention, you can add a scholarship gift to your registration. APPLY You can apply for a scholarship to attend the Convention and we will connect with you when funds are available. Please contact us at wiwaterweek@wisconsinlakes.org if you have any questions. Find details at wisconsinwaterweek.org. | |||||||||||||||||||
26 | Reflections | Winter is the time... | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/2aee66aa-c46e-45e8-a6f6-905f2acfcb82/download#page=16 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Edith Sitwell | Reflections | “Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home.” - Edith Sitwell | ||||||||||||||||||
27 | Setting the Foundation for Future Lake Stewards | Youth Education Around Lakes | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/02f80906-4d41-45c8-8734-19b35f2010d8/download | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Grace Hasse | Students & Youth | The Power of Environmental Education Ever since I was young, spending time outdoors has been a meaningful part of my life. I would often find myself examining every organism I came across, whether it was a beetle scurrying across my driveway, a grasshopper leaping to get to the nearest blade of grass, or a monarch butterfly laying eggs on milkweed. Once I knew where these creatures called home, I understood why these places need to be protected. Teaching our children about these places and feeding their curiosity about our natural wonders is essential in making sure our shared water resources are protected. For the longest time, I dreamed of becoming a research entomologist – a natural path given my fascination with insects. But everything changed in eighth grade during our water quality unit. My science teacher introduced us to the topic through hands-on learning. We collected macroinvertebrate samples, conducted chemical tests, and analyzed data from Jarrett Creek in Menomonie, Wisconsin, which was conveniently a short walk from our middle school. Because he had been teaching for many years, we had access to decades of data, allowing us to observe long-term trends and environmental changes. What truly inspired me was the opportunity to take our learning beyond the classroom. A few students from each class were invited to present our findings at the Red Cedar Watershed Conference (which I attended this year as a professional with Extension Lakes). Sharing our data with the public and engaging with professionals made me realize that what we were doing was real science. That sparked a new dream. I decided I wanted to become a science teacher, not just any teacher but one who establishes real-world relevance into the classroom and helps students see the value in caring for our environment. Fast forward and I am now a student at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. I am a natural science major, working to obtain a broad field science teaching license. In my methods class last fall, I was required to obtain 50 hours in a classroom. I was fortunate enough to be placed with Brian Swenson at Stevens Point Area Senior High. He teaches a unique class for most of the afternoon known as the Wisconsin River Academy. It’s an immersive, half-day, outdoor education program centered on environmental learning and community service. Although I was active in 4-H, frequently went camping, and spent countless hours outside, I had never encountered an opportunity to spend so much time outdoors in a formal education setting until I co-taught with Mr. Swenson. Learning by the Water: My Experience with the Wisconsin River Academy Wisconsin River Academy, more commonly known as WRA, includes curriculum from social studies, science, and physical education and is taught by three teachers who are experts in those subjects. The class is open to juniors and seniors who like the outdoors and enjoy being active. One of the teachers of WRA says, “Having a love for the outdoors is also a key element in WRA since we spend so much time outside for class.” The class is held outdoors at least two days each week. During my time in Mr. Swenson’s classroom last fall, I had the opportunity to canoe, hike, and practice orienteering, which is just a glimpse into the wide range of hands-on experiences his students enjoy throughout the year. This dynamic year-long curriculum is designed to immerse students in outdoor adventure, environmental awareness, and practical skill building. I am a firm believer in hands-on learning. It allows students to shape their understanding by participating in the processes and activities they are learning about in class. Instead of just learning about orienteering, why not go out and learn how to chart courses? Field-based learning is far more impactful, offering students the chance to engage with concepts in meaningful, memorable ways. The Wisconsin River Academy provides unique opportunities where students gain real-world skills while developing leadership, problem-solving abilities, independence, and collaboration. Programs like this should be accessible to all students, giving everyone the chance to connect with nature and learn through experience. WAMSCO: A Community Effort Another group that agrees with this sentiment is the Waterways Association of Menominee and Shawano Counties (WAMSCO), a citizen-led, watershed-focused nonprofit in northeast Wisconsin. Representing the lakes, rivers, and streams across both counties, WAMSCO brings together smaller lake and river groups under one powerful mission, “to protect and enhance our local water resources through community-driven conservation.” Year after year, WAMSCO continues to be a driving force for environmental progress. From restoring shorelines and streambanks to planting native species at schools and parks, their work is both visible and lasting. Shanda Hubertus, WAMSCO’s president, says, “In the short 10 years since its formalization, WAMSCO has seen the mindset change in the youth and community members in this area.” They’ve tackled invasive species, monitored water quality, and built partnerships that span local lake associations, conservation departments, the Menominee Tribe, the Wisconsin DNR, and schools in northeast Wisconsin. Since 2017, WAMSCO has collaborated with a variety of partners to create a strong network of people who all want one thing: healthy water! Perhaps the most inspiring part of WAMSCO’s work is their focus on youth. They believe, as I do, that the future of our environment is in the hands of the next generation. We are dependent on their curiosity and care. Through a mix of online and in-person programs, WAMSCO helps students unearth this curiosity. Hubertus adds, “WAMSCO has a very successful and busy conservation education program complete with its own mobile classroom! The buy-in and support we see from our local businesses and community is amazing!” Their mobile classroom – an innovative, hands-on learning space – brings science to life. With interactive displays and engaging workshops, it transforms environmental education into something memorable and fun. It’s not just about teaching facts; it’s about sparking wonder, which is exactly what Shanda Hubertus, and the board of directors aim to do! LEEP: Place-Based Learning Another standout initiative making waves in youth water education is the Lake Ecology Education Program (LEEP). Since 2009, LEEP has partnered with school districts across northwest Wisconsin to bring lake science to life for students. What sets this program apart is its blend of standards-aligned curriculum with hands-on learning experiences. Volunteer educators, alongside science and language arts teachers, guide students through exciting topics like water quality, fisheries management, and shoreline restoration. Each classroom lesson is tied to the ecosystems that students have in their own backyard. The program includes ten thoughtfully designed modules focused on lake ecology and environmental stewardship. Each module includes an instructor guide, lesson plans, lab materials, and presentation slides. As a future educator, I think this combination is awesome! It’s the kind of resource that empowers teachers to feel confident and well-prepared while delivering meaningful, hands-on science education. Students don’t just learn about lake ecology, they experience it. Not only do they get to deepen their understanding, but students are able to form a personal connection because it’s their ecosystem in their community! Each year, LEEP includes two field trips paired with in-class modules that allow students to apply their knowledge in a real-world adventure setting. One memorable example took place on September 26, 2023, when 28 middle school students explored lake ecology on Carol LeBreck’s property – Carol is a member of the Friends of the Eau Claire Lakes Area and a former teacher. During the field trip, students gained confidence in their canoe skills by paddling across the water, venturing into wetlands to study the unique ecosystem, and investigating the underwater world of plankton and aquatic plants. Afterward, one student shared, “LEEP made me realize the importance of the lakes.” That kind of reflection is exactly what programs like LEEP are all about! By integrating science with local environmental issues, LEEP helps students see the direct impact of human activity on ecosystems and empowers them to think critically about solutions. Christine Neff, co-founder and volunteer manager of LEEP couldn’t have said it better, “LEEP is near and dear to the hearts of many, not the least mine. It has been, and we hope it will continue to be, a real force for good in the future of our natural resources!” Why it Matters: Building the Next Generation Programs like LEEP and WRA do more than teach science. They cultivate curiosity, responsibility, and a lifelong connection to the natural world. By engaging students in hands-on, locally relevant environmental education, these programs help shape informed individuals who are prepared to take action in their communities. The ripple effects are obvious. Students learn to identify organisms, conduct environmental tests, and understand how nutrient cycling works. Beyond science, other life skills are cultivated. Students build social skills and teamwork by collaborating with peers and more importantly, they gain confidence in their ability to make a difference. These experiences often spark a deeper interest in science and conservation, planting seeds for future careers and lifelong stewardship. I can attest to that! Community involvement is also a huge component. Whether through partnerships with local conservation departments, tribal organizations, or nonprofit groups like WAMSCO, students see firsthand how collective action can lead to meaningful change. They’re not just learning about ecosystems; they’re becoming part of a community that protects and cares for these natural wonders. Looking Ahead As we look to the future, the importance of environmental education has never been clearer. Programs like WRA and LEEP, as well as the work of organizations like WAMSCO, demonstrate the transformative power of connecting students with nature. Positive experiences outdoors influence how likely students are to continue engaging with the outdoor environment in the future. Through these interactions we can give our youth the tools they need to become environmental stewards that care to make a difference. Collaboration is key. Educators, community members, conservation professionals, and local organizations all have a role to play in building a culture of stewardship. By working together, we can expand access to outdoor learning opportunities and ensure that every student has the chance to explore, question, and grow through environmental education. Expanding Access to Nature in WI The Wisconsin Association for Environmental Education is a community of individuals and organizations with diverse backgrounds that provides tools and resources to address environmental, health, and social injustices through environmental education to expand access to nature for all people. Find out more at https://waee.org. K-12 Aquatic Education Collaborative at UW-Stevens Point The UWSP K-12 Aquatic Education Collaborative is a coalition of organizations that work together to increase awareness and improve water quality education in Wisconsin. Learn more at https://www.uwsp.edu/wcee/wcee/aquatic-collaborative/. | ||||||||||||||||||
28 | Let's Make Healthy Lakes & Rivers Together! | Enter Photo Contest to Celebrate 10 Years of Healthy Lakes & Rivers! | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/02f80906-4d41-45c8-8734-19b35f2010d8/download#page=2 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Lauren Haydon | Healthy Lakes & Rivers | Enter Photo Contest to Celebrate 10 Years of Healthy Lakes & Rivers! The Healthy Lakes & Rivers (HLR) Program is celebrating 10 years of improving habitat and water quality using five simple best practices. In honor of this milestone, we are hosting a photo contest and want to see how you are helping to keep lakes and rivers healthy! Please share this photo contest opportunity with local champions, shoreland neighbors, and anyone who is passionate about HLR. Photos do not need to be from HLR grant-sponsored practices and can include DIY practices or existing natural shorelines. Winners in each category (plus the most clever caption) will enjoy prizes including Healthy Lakes & Rivers swag, a free workshop at the Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention, inclusion of photo(s) in a future Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Partnership publication, and bragging rights! DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 30, 2025 Mike Engleson, outgoing Executive Director of Wisconsin Lakes, graciously accepts a parting gift from the HLR Team at a recent Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Partnership meeting in Sauk County. A few members of the Healthy Lakes & Rivers Team celebrated some new HLR projects in Sauk County this summer. Standing (L to R): Arthur Watkinson (Wisconsin DNR), Eric Olson (Extension Lakes), Mitchell McCarthy (Sauk County Land Resources and Environment Department), Kneeling (L to R): Pat Brown (Barron County Soil and Water Conservation Department), Scott VanEgeren (Wisconsin DNR), Lauren Haydon (Wisconsin DNR) | ||||||||||||||||||
29 | Feedback Opportunities for Wisconsin DNR Aquatic Plant Management Rules | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/02f80906-4d41-45c8-8734-19b35f2010d8/download#page=3 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Wisconsin DNR | Management | Feedback Opportunities for Wisconsin DNR Aquatic Plant Management Rules The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Aquatic Plant Management (APM) program is in the process of pursuing permanent rule changes to NR 107 and NR 109. This past June, the DNR hosted public input opportunities across the state regarding these proposed updates. If you didn’t get a chance to attend, you still have an opportunity to provide input. The proposed rules are intended to create a more effective and transparent regulatory program for the control of aquatic plants and other aquatic organisms, including aquatic invasive species. Consistent with the Environmental Protection Act and aquatic plant management industry’s best management practices, these proposed changes include consistency in planning requirements for APM permitted activities, streamlining permits for private ponds, as well as a permit fee increase to improve customer service and support the program. To read DNR’s preliminary draft of the APM rule being developed, view a plain-language presentation which outlines the operational changes proposed in the draft rule, and sign up for GovDelivery updates to receive news about ‘APM Rule Updates’, go to https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/lakes/plants/rules. The draft Economic Impact Analysis and Board Order will be released for formal comment this fall/winter. | |||||||||||||||||||
30 | Want to Keep Receiving Lake Tides? Contact Us! | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/02f80906-4d41-45c8-8734-19b35f2010d8/download#page=3 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Amy Kowalski | Funding & Economics | Want to Keep Receiving Lake Tides? Contact Us! As we continue to celebrate the 50th year of your free Lake Tides newsletter, we are still faced with budget shortfalls and reduced staff. To help with postage costs, we will be cleaning up our mailing list. If you enjoy Lake Tides, but haven’t updated your contact information with us in the last 10 years, we need to hear from you! Please let us know if and how you would like to continue receiving the free Lake Tides newsletter in any of these ways: > Fill out the super-quick form using this QR code or URL: https://forms.gle/3hhAtCBb2BN7dwqS6 > Email us at lakes@uwsp.edu with your ID#, name, and address as they appear on the back of this paper copy with needed changes > Call us at 715-346-2116 with updates or questions Although we have had to reduce the number of Lake Tides issues from four to three per year, our dedicated staff are now offering a new bi-monthly E-news service called Lake Ripples that offers more frequent and up-to-date online content. If you receive Lake Tides online, you’re already on the list! If not, it’s easy to subscribe – just go to uwsp.edu/uwexlakes and click on ‘Newsletters’ in the navigation bar. This newsletter page also has ways for you to contact us about article ideas, search past articles in our extensive database, and view past issues of Lake Ripples. We remain committed to providing high-quality news about lake ecology, laws and regulations, and related water resource opportunities. Happy 50th, Lake Tides! Notice the retro look and feel of this issue along with several commemorative drawings. Enjoy Lake Tides, but haven’t updated your contact information with us in a while? We need to hear from you! | |||||||||||||||||||
31 | Reinvesting in Wisconsin | Funding Help for Lake Districts from the Board of Commissioners of Public Lands | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/02f80906-4d41-45c8-8734-19b35f2010d8/download#page=4 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Eric Olson | Funding & Economics | The Board of Commissioners of Public Lands is a small government agency that has existed ever since Wisconsin first became a state. With less than 10 full-time employees BCPL manages over $1.4 billion in Trust Fund assets and 77,000 acres of School Trust Lands. These financial assets derived from the sale of public lands shortly after the State of Wisconsin was formed. BCPL also holds tens of thousands of acres of public land, much of which is managed for sustainable forestry production. If you drive through Lake Tomahawk on Highway 47, you might have noticed the modest sign indicating the Board’s northern office that houses their forestry and land management operations. Helping Wisconsin Communities Lake district leaders might be interested in the BCPL because they make loans to every form of local government in Wisconsin. Borrowers appreciate that the BCPL application process is extremely simple and there are no application fees, prepayment penalties, or any other fees. BCPL interest rates are competitive with the bond market and other financial institutions. But what really makes the BCPL loan program special is that all of the interest paid on State Trust Fund loans is returned to Wisconsin communities in the form of aid to public school libraries. In 2025, over $70 million in BCPL earnings was distributed to school libraries all across Wisconsin! BCPL also provides funding to the Universities of Wisconsin through its University, Normal School, and Agricultural College funds. A portion of these dollars also helps fund the statewide Environmental Education specialist in the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. This person promotes and supports environmental education in all of Wisconsin’s K-12 schools. Funding from BCPL is also being used to support a graduate research project at UW-Stevens Point’s College of Natural Resources, being led by Dr. Austin Holland. This research is kicking off in fall of 2025 and will examine the ways that lake organizations and land trusts are collaborating to protect and restore Wisconsin watersheds. Reach out to Austin to learn more about this work: auhollan@uwsp.edu. Learn more at bcpl.wisconsin.gov The BCPL Funds could not have been established or sustained were it not for state and federally sponsored settler colonialism that dispossessed and displaced American Indian nations and communities across our state. Today, Wisconsin confronts the outcomes of unjust land treaties and the harm caused by the state’s past complicity with policies of cultural and physical genocide as we seek reconciliation with Indigenous nations and communities of Wisconsin. UW-Madison’s Center for Campus History has shared new “Indigenous Lands Dispossession In Wisconsin and Beyond” education modules on their website, including PowerPoint slide sets and teaching guides for anyone seeking to learn more about this history and its implications for the present and future. https://campushistory.wisc.edu/education/indigenous-lands-dispossession-in-wisconsin-and-beyond-education-modules/ | ||||||||||||||||||
32 | Funds for Surface Water | DNR Accepting Pre-Applications For 2026 Surface Water Grants | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/02f80906-4d41-45c8-8734-19b35f2010d8/download#page=5 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Wisconsin DNR | Funding & Economics | Is your local water group looking for financial help to protect and improve surface water? The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will award more than $6 million in 2026 to eligible organizations through a competitive surface water grant process. A pre-application must be submitted by Sept. 15 to compete for the final grant deadline in November. The DNR’s Surface Water Grants Program leverages money from the water resources account of the state conservation fund to help local communities accelerate water protection and restoration efforts across Wisconsin. The funding can be used to support a wide range of locally driven projects that invest in watersheds and surface waters. Activities eligible for funding include: Organizational capacity building Educational programs on surface water Data collection and ecological assessments Lake and river management planning Water quality improvement Habitat restoration projects Aquatic invasive species prevention and control Conservation easements and land acquisition Eligible Organizations Counties, municipalities, local units of government, lake and sanitary districts, natural resource agencies, tribal governing bodies, colleges and school districts, lake associations, nonprofit conservation organizations, river and surface water management organizations, and producer-led groups are all eligible. Individuals are not eligible for grants (with a few exceptions) but may partner with an eligible organization willing to sponsor a project. Search for “environmental grant specialist” on the DNR website to find your local specialist and confirm your organization’s eligibility. Available Funding The amount of funding available varies by project: Education projects - up to $5,000 Planning grants - up to $10,000 Larger management plan implementation grants - up to $200,000 Grants operate on a reimbursement basis and require matching funds from 25% to 33% of the total project cost. How To Apply Submit a pre-application by Sept. 15. This will connect you to local assistance and ensure you are eligible to submit a final application by Nov. 15. Pre-application forms can be found under the “Applying” tab on the DNR’s Surface Water Grants Program webpage. Right-click the link to Surface Water Grant Application Form 8700-284 and download or “save as” to create a copy of the form on your computer. Open the form from your local drive and fill out the sections labeled “pre-application.” Email the form by Sept. 15 to DNRSurfaceWaterGrants@wisconsin.gov. The department will be in touch with more information following your submission. For More Information Visit the DNR’s Surface Water Grants Program webpage for more information on applying and managing a grant project. Make sure to read the recently-updated DNR Surface Water Grant Applicant Guide to navigate the grant program from application to closing: Section 1: high-level introductory information Section 2: summary of each grant type Appendix A: evaluation criteria used for ranking | ||||||||||||||||||
33 | European Frog-bit | An Unlikely Partner Builder | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/02f80906-4d41-45c8-8734-19b35f2010d8/download#page=8 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Amanda Smith | AIS - Aquatic Invasive Species | “Frrooogg!” That’s what I hear Matt Puz, Wetland Invasive Plant Specialist and my trusty coworker, exude at least twice – maybe four times on an extra lucky day – when we’re out and about doing fieldwork. For the past three growing seasons, Matt and I have been donning our waders, dragging around kayaks, slathering on gallons of sunscreen, and packing endless supplies of protein bars and electrolyte water to get ourselves into some of the most elusive, unique, and flat-out beautiful coastal wetlands and tributaries in the Bay of Green Bay. We’re out there looking for European frog-bit. Ever heard of it? (No, it’s not a frog – and no, it doesn’t bite – but it’s always an exciting moment to come across a frog friend during fieldwork adventures!) European frog-bit, commonly referred to as EFB, is an aquatic plant. It’s petite (think mini lily pad), free-floating, and the latest newcomer to Wisconsin. While we love and appreciate plant diversity, EFB is listed as an NR40 Prohibited invasive species meaning it is only in a few places, can cause environmental and/or economic harm, and is illegal to possess or transport. EFB’s ability to clone itself into large dense mats is why it is listed as an NR40 invasive species. These mats are truly impressive, but can shade out native plants, decrease open water habitat for friends like waterfowl, and make it especially difficult for recreation. It thrives in slow moving water, usually along shorelines or emergent vegetation, so places like wetlands are the ideal habitat in addition to tributaries and even drainage ditches. The Bay of Green Bay, the world’s largest freshwater estuary, is prime habitat for EFB and has become Matt’s and my outdoor office for four years. In response to EFB being discovered in the Bay in 2021, a collaborative team of 15+ organizations, local governments, volunteers and DNR programs have implemented countless hours of early detection surveys, inventories, manual removal, broadcast and drone herbicide treatment, outreach, and pre/post-treatment monitoring. The fieldwork is not for the faint of heart with much of it consisting of wading miles upon miles in deep muck or paddling through thick vegetation, since even the nimblest of jon boats can have a tough time reaching these sites. Still, we have managed to host numerous workdays with many of the same colleagues and partners coming back year after year to help with manual removal. There is something therapeutic about plucking these free-floating plants out of the water and embracing the nuance of these habitats that one might never have had the chance to experience or may have just paddled by. Challenges Lead to Strong Partnerships As much as the journey of frog-bit in Wisconsin has been a challenge, it’s also brought about strengthened partnerships to the state and throughout the Great Lakes region. Matt now serves as a board member on the recently formalized EFB Collaborative, hosted by the Great Lakes Commission (GLC). This Collaborative has deepened Wisconsin’s connection with the GLC staff who we’ve learned are a stellar group of professionals that you can count on to show up and follow through with top notch work and leadership. Further, counterparts from Michigan agencies and organizations made the trip here to teach us about their EFB experiences and evaluate our situation, having worked with this species much longer than we have (Wisconsin hospitality in the form of fresh cheese curds were offered, of course). More locally, partners who hadn’t ever encountered an opportunity to work together were soon learning the names of each other’s pets while helping each other get unstuck from muck or load bags upon bags of EFB into the truck to be composted. Partners from all five counties that make up the Bay were working together – there’s no better way to strengthen partnerships than getting stuck in the muck. Overall, the results of these partnerships have shown through, especially this past winter when the team had to facilitate some tough discussions surrounding prioritization and shifting the strategy from response to long-term management. Despite the inevitable establishment of EFB in the Bay, the team has developed a wealth of knowledge and strong foundation to set up successful response approaches when EFB reaches inland waters. Amanda Smith, AIS Biologist, with a boat load of frog-bit during a workday at Long Tail Point, Brown County. Matt Puz, Wetland Invasive Plant Specialist, marveling at the mats of EFB in Dyers Slough, Marinette County. DNR staff and contractor pose with Herbie the herbicide drone along the West shore of Green Bay, Oconto County. See if you can spot some of the Extension Lakes team in this group from a workday on the Peshtigo River in Marinette County. | ||||||||||||||||||
34 | Capacity Corner #30: Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Benefit Our Lakes | Internal and External Functions | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/02f80906-4d41-45c8-8734-19b35f2010d8/download#page=10 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Sara Windjue | Capacity Building, Lake Groups | In each issue of Lake Tides, we introduce different ideas and resources to help you increase your organization’s capacity to care for lakes. In this issue, we’re focusing on internal functions and external relationships. We’re sure you’ve heard about and seen examples of how Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is being used. There are many creative videos being shared on social media and students of all grade levels are using it to “help” with their homework. While AI can be used negatively, it also offers many positive options. We’d like to shine some light on how AI can be used to benefit our lake organizations, and ultimately, our lakes. What is AI? AI is the ability of computers to perform complex tasks that historically required human intelligence, such as reasoning, learning, or solving problems. AI encompasses a wide range of technologies, including machine learning, deep learning, and natural language processing. One of these technologies is ChatGPT – an artificial intelligence chatbot from OpenAI that enables users to “converse” with it in a way that’s meant to mimic natural conversation. As a user, you can ask questions or make requests through prompts, and ChatGPT will respond. The intuitive, easy-to-use, and free tool has already gained popularity as an alternative to traditional search engines and a tool for AI writing, among other things. How can this help lakes? AI is being used effectively to reduce the time and effort required to do somewhat menial or tedious tasks. Few people get involved in lake organizations to spend hours at their computer typing up minutes or reading long, complex reports. Here are some suggested ways we can use AI to make our lake work more efficient and effective: Meeting Minutes It is still a best practice to have a real person charged with recording minutes during meetings; however, if you record the meeting via video or audio and feed the recorded file into AI using a tool such as Google’s NotebookLM, it will summarize the main points, organize the information, and remove all the extraneous pieces. When meeting online with Zoom, you have an option to turn on an AI tool that automatically summarizes the meeting for you. If you do this a couple of times and compare it to the secretary’s notes, you may find that the summary from AI is just as accurate! It may even be put together in a better, more organized way. And, it only takes seconds to do what can take a person much more time. Now you can spend that time planting more native trees, shrubs, and flowers around the lake! Lake Management Plans Does your lake have a management plan? How long is the document? How many people around the lake do you think have read it? Instead of asking residents to read this large document, you could feed it into NotebookLM and turn the text into a podcast! Google’s tool has a way to summarize complicated material into relatively concise, radio-style conversations. The discussion will only draw from the content you provide – you can upload just about any file type, including youtube videos. The AI voice actors are surprisingly realistic, even mimicking human vocal tics. A podcast of your plan allows people to learn more about your lake while walking, driving, cooking, or planting natives along the shoreline. Refining Mission and Vision Statements Let’s revisit our Capacity Corner article from the summer of 2021 about mission and vision statements. A few tips to creating an effective mission statement include: Keep it short and concise but don’t make it too limiting Think long term (i.e. future generations) Get feedback from others Don’t be afraid to change it in the future Does your organization have a mission statement? Does it tell your supporters/community why you exist as an organization? Could it be better? Get a boost from AI to develop or revise your mission statement. One lake organization in Wisconsin decided it was time to revise their mission statement so they chose four key words representing their group and used ChatGPT to create a mission statement as a starting point. Now, they can tweak it as needed. Here are other ways you might use AI to benefit your lake organization: Develop policies, position descriptions, and other documents Analyze documents from other organizations to pull out key statements Help write emails and newsletter content Have other ideas? Email lakes@uwsp.edu and let us know how you use AI so we can share your example with other lake organizations. Data Centers and Natural Resources Most AI depends on large data centers that are basically enormous supercomputers carrying out complex algorithms. They require energy to operate and often use water evaporation to cool the processors so that they do not overheat. New data centers, like those currently being built in Wisconsin, incorporate closed-loop water cooling systems that can dramatically reduce water consumption. Wind turbines and solar panels are now the least expensive way to produce electricity, and these power sources are rapidly replacing plants that burn coal and gas, which also consume large amounts of water. Free AI Tools The tools we mention in this article are free to use at this time: ChatGPT from OpenAI is used for natural language processing tasks like answering questions, generating creative text formats, and assisting with writing/translating needs. NotebookLM from Google combines note-taking with large language models to help users learn, research, and write more effectively. Example of Text to Podcast Transformation Extension Lakes used Google’s NotebookLM to generate a podcast that summarizes the DNR’s Surface Water Grant Guidance in combination with two recorded presentations from DNR staff giving advice for writing good grant proposals. We’ve posted a snippet of the AI conversation on our YouTube channel, along with a link to the audio file. Just go to https://www.youtube.com/uwexlakes and search for “Surface Water Grants Advice: An AI Audio Overview”. | ||||||||||||||||||
35 | The Giant Water Bug | Hunter of the Shadows | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/02f80906-4d41-45c8-8734-19b35f2010d8/download#page=12 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Paul Skawinski | Plants & Animals | In the shallows of most Wisconsin lakes, streams, and wetlands lives an impressively large and confident bug. One of the “true bugs” belonging to the taxonomic order called Hemiptera, the giant water bug lies in wait just under the water’s surface, pointed downward. It can lie motionless for hours, quietly breathing through a slender tube on its backside that reaches above the surface to capture atmospheric oxygen. At the other end, Schwarzenegger-grade forelegs are poised to grab and squeeze any reasonably small creature that stumbles by. This is typically another aquatic insect, but could be a small fish, a tadpole, or even an adult frog! Once their prey has been nabbed by those bulging forelegs, the giant water bug pokes its sucking mouthparts into it and escape becomes very unlikely. To be fair to the insect world, there is more than one “giant water bug”. This common name is given to a whole family of related insects, with the “common giant water bugs” in the genus Belostoma and the “American giant water bug” (Lethocerus americanus) being the most likely to be observed in Wisconsin. The American giant water bug can grow to more than four inches long, making it a formidable predator in the aquatic world. Does the giant water bug hunt dogs, cats, and children? No. But it will defend itself if it gets squeezed or stepped on, which has earned it another common name – the toe biter. It has been known to give human feet a quick poke to say, “Hey! Watch where you’re walkin’!” This feels somewhat like a bee sting, and the frightened water bug will most likely scramble away. The males of the common giant water bug (Belostoma) carry their broods of eggs on their backs. This is a great way of protecting their eggs from predators, who will have to tango with Dad if they want to mess with his eggs. The larger American giant water bugs have it a little easier – their eggs are laid on aquatic vegetation near the surface, and Dad simply hangs close by to defend the eggs as needed. As air-breathers, they can also tuck a bubble of air under their wings and dive underwater for extended periods of time. The oxygen from the bubble slowly diffuses into their body and allows them to “breathe” using their own tiny self-contained underwater breathing apparatus! Giant water bugs can also fly, and may take short flights to water gardens or swimming pools at night, attracted by moonlight or residential lighting. This brings up yet another common name for these bugs – the electric light bugs. If you want to see a giant water bug in the wild, take a stroll into shallow water with abundant floating or emergent vegetation. Bring a small net, scoop through the vegetation, and wear boots on your feet! | ||||||||||||||||||
36 | Wisconsin Lakes | Welcoming a New Executive Director | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/02f80906-4d41-45c8-8734-19b35f2010d8/download#page=14 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Ben Wojhan | Lake Groups | Wisconsin Lakes is proud to announce the hiring of Ben Wojahn (pronounced Woah-yahn) as its next Executive Director! Ben will take over fully from current Executive Director Michael Engleson starting in October, working a part-time training schedule through the rest of the summer. Ben comes to Wisconsin Lakes with a deep history largely rooted in county land and water conservation departments. He has served primarily as the County Conservationist for Vernon County, and also has experience in Taylor, Ashland, and Bayfield Counties. He has been active on the board and integral in the successful redevelopment of Wisconsin Land+Water since 2010. Wisconsin Land+Water is a statewide nonprofit organization that serves county conservation departments similar to how Wisconsin Lakes serves Wisconsin lake organizations. Ben also served on the Legislative Committee for Wisconsin Land+Water, and has experience testifying in support of conservation initiatives. “We were excited to see his experience working with farmers and conservation projects, his strong partnerships and experience throughout the state, and most importantly, his passion for the lakes of Wisconsin,” stated Susan Trier, Board Chair of Wisconsin Lakes. Rising out of his experience early in his career as an Americorps VISTA Alumni serving the Bad River Reservation on Lake Superior, he became an avid wild rice harvester, a “hobby” (he may describe it as an obsession) he continues to take part in each fall. Wojahn also has developed knowledge and experience with nutrient management planning, managed grazing, habitat restoration, GIS mapping, and watershed modeling. Ben resides on his farm between Viroqua and La Crosse Wisconsin where he raises vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers. He has three children, with his oldest daughter attending UW-Eau Claire and his younger two in high school. “I love everything about Wisconsin. I am honored to have the opportunity to develop and strengthen partnerships, to serve the Board, the people, the land, and especially the lakes of Wisconsin,” Ben enthusiastically expressed. With his passion for conservation, clean water, and deep connections to the state, Wisconsin Lakes Board of Directors is extremely excited to usher in this new era with Ben at the helm of the organization. Welcome to Wisconsin Lakes, Ben! Connect with Ben at bwojahn@wisconsinlakes.org I love everything about Wisconsin. I am honored to have the opportunity to develop and strengthen partnerships, to serve the Board, the people, the land, and especially the lakes of Wisconsin. | ||||||||||||||||||
37 | Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention | Decades of Dedication | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/02f80906-4d41-45c8-8734-19b35f2010d8/download#page=15 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Amy Kowalski | Partnerships, Lake Groups | Save the Date! April 15-17, 2026 Stevens Point, Wisconsin 48th Annual Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention Decades of Dedication When tackling a monumental challenge, it sometimes takes a long time to see results. The 2026 Convention will look back on the long-term programs and the accumulated actions of countless people that have persevered through many decades. Their dedication has ensured that the programs developed in the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s are still going strong today. We will also celebrate the people who will continue to carry the torch for water protection and restoration into the future. Reserve your lodging Rooms at the Holiday Inn Convention Center fill quickly. Make your hotel reservation now! Submit a presentation proposal Share your project, research, success story, or expertise. Workshop proposal deadline: October 1, 2025 Concurrent Sessions proposal deadline: October 1, 2025 Lightning Talk proposal deadline: March 1, 2026 (or until filled) Poster proposal deadline: April 1, 2026 (or until filled) Nominate someone for a Lake Stewardship Award Do you know an outstanding person or group who dedicates time and talent to our state’s water resources? Nominate them today! Deadline: December 1, 2025 “As a first time attendee I was blown away with the quality and organization of this convention. The vendors were top notch and the networking was endless. I learned new skills, gained knowledge and made new friends! Thank you!” - 2025 Convention attendee | ||||||||||||||||||
38 | Reflections | Lakes are an indispensable thread woven into the... | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/02f80906-4d41-45c8-8734-19b35f2010d8/download#page=16 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Robert Korth | Reflections | “Lakes are an indispensable thread woven into the tapestry of land and water that makes Wisconsin an exceptional place to live. Our history of oblivious abuse and overuse of Wisconsin’s lakes is a flaw in that tapestry. Our growing awareness, our capacity to weave partnerships, and our collective wisdom will help remove past imperfections.” | ||||||||||||||||||
39 | Taking the Long View on Lake Recreational Conflicts | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/1c441c23-85fd-4815-a382-9be4b0fc2653/download | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Eric Olson | Water Policy | "It’s hard to miss the level of public conflict across Wisconsin regarding the relatively new sport of wake surfing and the motorboats people use to generate surfable waves (aka “wake boats”). Rather than stake out a position in the debate, we think it’s helpful to take a longer view on the matter and see how citizens and lawmakers have settled some past controversies related to lake recreation. In the spirit of marking the 50th volume of Lake Tides, we thought it might also be a chance to highlight the extensive set of articles that make up our archive. We hope this tour through time helps some people see the recurring themes and solutions that have popped up from time to time. 1950s: the Wisconsin “flushed waste” controversies The Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Partnership’s origin story is rooted in debates over recreational activities on lakes. This story is captured in Volume 22 of Lake Tides in an article explaining how the statewide nonprofit representing lake interests – now called Wisconsin Lakes – came into existence. Robert Schrameyer, Past President of the Wisconsin Federation of Lakes, sets the stage by noting that in the 1950s the Wisconsin Legislature was prepared to allow the use of houseboats on lakes, and permit the flushing of houseboat toilets as long as it occurred more than 300 feet from shore on all lakes except Lake Winnebago, where the distance was set at 100 feet. This activated leaders from across seven different lakes to band together and form the Federation of Wisconsin Lake Property Owners’ Associations, Inc. The new group set their sights on the houseboat and flushed waste issue and were successful; laws passed by the legislature in the late 1950s and early 1960s prohibit the dumping of marine sewage and waste into all inland lakes. Today, any boat with a wastewater system operating on a lake must disable any mechanism that would allow direct dumping of waste into surface waters. On several larger inland lakes and the Great Lakes, marinas provide pump out facilities that safely move on-boat waste to proper treatment facilities. 1980s and 90s: Advent of personal watercraft Jet Skis, Waverunners®, and similar personal watercraft (PWC) were an emerging activity in the late 1980s, appealing to young recreationists seeking thrills on the water. In the fall of 1994, a Lake Tides article noted that the number of PWC in Wisconsin had doubled from 1989 to 1993 – from 5,000 to over 10,000. Local officials, lake organization leaders, and lawmakers were getting an earful from residents who viewed the new watercraft as a nuisance. The watercraft manufacturers were leery of laws and rules that might limit a fast growing business sector, and one that introduced more people to water sports. State and local officials contemplating regulations on PWC needed to navigate Wisconsin’s Public Trust Doctrine, derived from Article IX of the State Constitution which provides that the waters of the state are “common highways and forever free.” Over time, this has largely been interpreted to allow greater recreational access to our lakes and rivers. To prevent a certain type of watercraft from being used in a lake (or portions of a lake), advocates would need to demonstrate substantial differences between the regulated watercraft and others to justify the stricter regulations. In September 1994, Wisconsin’s Attorney General James Doyle shared an informal opinion with the Legislature concluding that state law “authorizes the enactment of ordinances that treat different types of watercraft differently if justified by reasons of public health, safety, or welfare…(t)here is no indication that the Legislature intended to prohibit municipalities from doing precisely what the Legislature itself did – namely, enacting craft-specific regulations.” State laws were passed at the time requiring that PWC operate at a slow-no-wake speed anytime they are within 200 of the shore or 100 feet of another watercraft. A series of articles in Lake Tides in the early 1990s documented the back-and-forth in the Legislature that resulted in those regulations. Thirty years ago, to mark the 20th anniversary of this newsletter, there was a lead story summarizing a range of water recreation safety issues in the 1990s. 2020s: Loving lakes to death Things seemed relatively quiet on the lake recreation front in the early portion of the 21st Century. The boat operator training requirement passed in the 1990s, along with the PWC rules, meant that a growing share of lake users were at least exposed to the state’s boating safety laws. More recently, the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a sharp increase in outdoor recreation in general and boating in particular, as more people sought out the lake environment for family recreation. In 2020, boat registrations in Wisconsin grew by 2%, and angler license sales increased by 11%. The increase in lake use has been accentuated by the growing popularity of wake surfing and the sale of boats designed to create surfable waves. This lower-speed water sport is viewed by many as a more accessible way for people of all ages to enjoy being on the lake. However, the impacts of large wakes on other lake users, shallow lake bottoms, and shorelines can be significant. Much like the debates around PWC in the 1990s, there are competing viewpoints on the best approach to managing the activity and the related watercraft. Since some boats that are not specifically marketed as “wake boats” can be modified and operated to generate large surfable wakes, many of the local ordinances focus on regulating the activity of wake surfing and/or generating large wakes. As of this summer, dozens of communities have passed local ordinances restricting or prohibiting wake surfing on all or a portion of specific lakes. A coalition of conservation organizations has formed that focuses heavily on the wake sports issue, including Wisconsin Lakes (the heir to Wisconsin Federation of Lakes) and Wisconsin Wildlife Federation, as well as two relatively new organizations – Lakes at Stake and Last Wilderness Alliance. Looking all the way back to the 1950s, there has consistently been a focus in Wisconsin on matching new lake recreational activities with the types of lakes – and locations on lakes – that can safely and sustainably support them. There has been, and continues to be, a way for citizens and lake organizations to inform and connect with state lawmakers about statewide minimum standards. This has been complemented by citizen-led efforts to promote and support local regulations that reflect specific lake conditions. For decades, Wisconsin’s state and local boating regulations appear to have worked well in balancing new boating activities with a diverse collection of lakes. Do you think this system is still working? If you would like to have your voice heard on this or other lake-related regulations, contact your local lake organization, one of the aforementioned groups, and/or your local and state representatives. Find your representatives at https://www.commoncause.org/find-your-representative/addr/." | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/95125/vol50-1_spring2025web.pdf | ||||||||||||||||||
40 | Lake Tides Turns 50! | Retro look and feel takes us back | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/1c441c23-85fd-4815-a382-9be4b0fc2653/download#page=2 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Amy Kowalski | Success Stories | This year marks a monumental milestone for Lake Tides as we celebrate churning out the 50th volume of the “newsletter for people who are interested in Wisconsin’s lakes.” For half a century, Lake Tides has been a constant source for anyone passionate about Wisconsin’s beautiful inland lakes, providing valuable information, important updates, and stories that connect and inspire us all. We thought it might be fun to take a trip down memory lane and remember the stories and the people who shared them. Looking through the past five decades of Lake Tides, a song popped into my head: The Pretenders’ Hymn to Her, which reminds us, “Some things change, some stay the same.” Boats – bigger, faster, more The carrying capacity of a lake, or the amount of human recreation it can handle before conflict arises (social carrying capacity) or signs of degradation appear (biological carrying capacity), has not changed, but the types of recreation have. Our feature story covers how these recreational use conflicts have evolved over time and how they’ve been documented in Lake Tides. Climate – then and now Acid rain, one of the topics from the 1981 Lake District Commissioners Convention, thankfully has not been on our radar (literally) since the early 1990s, when amendments to the Clean Air Act were passed at the federal level. These amendments, along with Wisconsin’s own 1986 law, led to a substantial reduction in sulfur dioxide emissions, the main cause of acid rain. However, as the planet continues to warm at an accelerated rate, the increased warming of our inland lakes and streams have negatively affected fish species like brook trout and manoomin (wild rice) populations. In addition, increased heavy rain events have caused flooding, affecting both aquatic and human communities. Nature knows best Throughout the decades, Lake Tides has shared best practices for keeping our inland lakes healthy and thriving. It’s comforting to know that many of these practices have remained constant (often inexpensive or even free) over the years – see the examples below. We have taken our cues from nature and tried to impress upon our readers, specifically waterfront property owners, the importance of living in harmony with the land, water, and other creatures. It is a simple way to keep our watery jewels sparklingly fabulous! Shoreland best practices 1975: Maintain a natural shoreland buffer Leave existing vegetation Don’t fertilize Use phosphorus-free detergents Maintain adequate septic tank filter field size Don’t rake leaves into the lake Don’t pile or burn trash on the ice Clean your septic tank every other year From 1975: Vol. 1, No. 2 Shoreland best practices 2020: Let trees be Don’t mow - let it grow Seed yourself (harvest native plant seeds and propagate them) Skip the fertilizer Get duff (leave the leaves - don’t rake into storm drains, the street, or the lake) Make a swerve (redirect water from downspouts away from lake) Plan now, save later (don’t add more hard surfaces to property) Seize nature (protect existing natural areas) Don’t flip the switch (try outdoor composting instead of using the garbage disposal) Scoop the poop (pick up pet waste - especially in urban areas). From 2020: Vol. 45, No. 2 Students have the best ideas Did you know that two popular Wisconsin water programs began from the ideas of students? That’s right, the Wisconsin Citizen Lake Monitoring Network (CLMN), made up of 1,000+ volunteers who collect high-quality lake monitoring data, came from an idea developed by high school students in Ohio. Lake Tides editors asked for feedback in the November 1975 issue to help determine if folks in Wisconsin were interested in collecting water quality data on a regular basis. Although the CLMN didn’t officially begin until 1986, several Wisconsin lakes have records of water quality data that predate that year. Similarly, the Clean Boats, Clean Waters watercraft inspection program bloomed from a group of middle-schoolers in Minocqua, Hazelhurst, and Lake Tomahawk, Wisconsin, who were researching the impact tourism had on their town and the negative impacts aquatic invasive species (AIS) might have on the surrounding lakes. These young activists proposed a plan to prevent the spread of a particular AIS – Eurasian watermilfoil – among the lakes in their area. They received a cash award from the Christopher Columbus Fellowship Foundation for their innovative idea and used it to create educational kits for boaters – covered in Volume 27, No. 4, Fall 2002. Not only did they create awareness of AIS, but also the prevention steps each boater needs to take when leaving a waterbody. The state of Wisconsin continues to use this model today! Blending art and science One of the traditions we have tried to continue is using pen and ink drawings to help tell the story. Although a picture is worth a thousand words, sometimes a drawing or cartoon can do a better job of conveying our message or getting your attention. Many creative minds and hands have contributed to Lake Tides over the years, with a few standards that have stood the test of time. We hope you enjoy some of the past artwork sprinkled throughout this anniversary issue. The future Although the creation and distribution of Lake Tides is faced with budget shortfalls and reduced staff, we remain committed to providing high-quality news about lake ecology, laws and regulations, and related water resource opportunities. Because our dedicated staff continue to tackle this charge (something that has remained the same), we are offering more frequent and up-to-date online content through social media and our website – a new look and updates coming this summer. Additionally, we started a new bi-monthly E-news service in January called Lake Ripples (a change that gives our readers more frequent updates and resources). As we celebrate this golden anniversary, we look forward to many more years of Lake Tides – and now Lake Ripples – continuing to educate, engage, and unite those who cherish Wisconsin’s lakes. Here’s to 50 years and to the countless more to come! The theme for the 1997 Lakes Convention was “Water from Another Time,” so Jeff Bode (now retired Wisconsin DNR) and Bob Korth (now retired Extension Lakes) dressed the part. We celebrate the visionary efforts of these two, along with many other exceptionally intelligent folks, whose dedication and insight were instrumental in shaping lake policies that continue to protect and preserve Wisconsin’s treasured waters. A way to help financially An endowment fund was started to eventually support undergraduate fellowships, graduate assistantships, newsletter production expenses, and other Lake Tides expenses. To contribute to this endowment account, please go to https://give.uwsp.edu/g/wisconsin-lakes For more about this effort, read the article “Can We Fly this Balloon...Forever?” on page 6 of Lake Tides’ Vol. 42, No. 2 (Spring/Summer 2017). Sign up for Lake Ripples Go to uwsp.edu/uwexlakes and click Newsletter to find the “subscribe now - it’s FREE!” button. Searchable database Go to uwsp.edu/uwexlakes and click “Newsletter” to find a searchable database of all our past Lake Tides articles. Connect with us on: Website: uwsp.edu/uwexlakes Instagram: extensionlakes Facebook: wilakespartnership LinkedIn: company/extension-lakes YouTube: uwexlakes | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/95125/vol50-1_spring2025web.pdf#page=2 | |||||||||||||||||
41 | Congrats to the Wisconsin Lakes Partnership Scholarship Winners | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/1c441c23-85fd-4815-a382-9be4b0fc2653/download#page=5 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Students & Youth | Congrats to the Wisconsin Lakes Partnership Scholarship Winners The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources (CNR) selected Shannon Kearney and Eathan Zimmerman to receive the Wisconsin Lakes Partnership Scholarship this year. This award is given to deserving students studying or researching in fields relevant to the preservation and enhancement of inland surface water resources in Wisconsin. These scholarships are made possible through a generous donation from Roger Dreher, who has been active in Partnership activities for many years at the local and state level. Shannon is majoring in Environmental Education and Interpretation with a Wildlife minor and hails from Rosemount, MN. She has also been a Student Assistant with our Extension Lakes team since 2023. Shannon says, “I absolutely love working for Extension Lakes, they have helped me grow professionally as well as personally. They are such a supportive group of people who truly care about the conservation of lakes, and being part of their team has been an incredible experience.” Eathan is from Stevens Point, WI and is working toward a degree in Water Resources. He says, “I plan to pursue a career in lake and river management once I graduate. Thanks to your generous scholarship, I am now one step closer to achieving my goal.” | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/95125/vol50-1_spring2025web.pdf#page=5 | |||||||||||||||||||
42 | We Say Hello, Goodbye | Leadership changes come to Wisconsin Lakes | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/1c441c23-85fd-4815-a382-9be4b0fc2653/download#page=6 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Mike Engleson | Partnerships | 2025 is shaping up to be a year of major changes in leadership for Wisconsin Lakes. While the organization says hello to three new directors, its president and Executive Director either departed or are departing soon. Here’s the rundown: The organization welcomed three new directors in late 2024 and early 2025, replacing outgoing directors David Zelinger, Nick Homan, and Kristin Charlton. Donna Carlson of the Grindstone Lake Association joined the board, along with Jacob Schmidt, who owns Good Earth Consulting, LLC and is the former Executive Director of the Geneva Lake Environmental Agency. Dan Johnson from the Waupaca Chain of Lakes also recently took a board seat and is one of the volunteers who runs Wisconsin Lakes’ Lakekit program of websites for lake organizations. Welcome Donna, Jake, and Dan! Departing the organization are Executive Director Michael Engleson and President Dan Butkus. As was announced last fall, Engleson will be leaving to take on other pursuits, shifting to part-time status at the end of June and finishing up in early fall. A search for his successor is ongoing at the time of printing and more information can be found at wisconsinlakes.org. The biggest surprise came with the unexpected resignation of Dan Butkus from the Presidency and the Board due to a serious health issue that made it difficult for him to serve effectively. The recent recipient of two awards, the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation’s 2025 Conservationist of the Year and the Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Partnership’s 2025 Lake Stewardship Award for Excellence in Building Partnerships, Dan will be sorely missed. One of Dan’s nominators for his Stewardship Award put it best, saying Dan “put the good of Wisconsin’s waters ahead of self.” A new President – chosen in early May – can be found on the Wisconsin Lakes website. The board of directors is also involved in a long-term planning process, currently working to establish a two-way communications system between the organization and local lake organizations. As part of that effort, look for a board-led series of online and in-person presentations on topics of interest to the community coming soon. Despite all these changes, Wisconsin Lakes continues its work to advocate for sound, science-based lake policy in Wisconsin, evidenced by advocacy for legislation limiting the impact of wakesports on the state’s lakes and the revision of the statutes covering lake district governance. Wisconsin Lakes is a 501c3 nonprofit organization working on conservation of our state’s lakes and waters. We also serve as the association of local and regional lake organizations for Wisconsin. Membership and donation information are available at wisconsinlakes.org. | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/95125/vol50-1_spring2025web.pdf#page=6 | |||||||||||||||||
43 | Community-based Research | Communicating water quality research through data stories | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/1c441c23-85fd-4815-a382-9be4b0fc2653/download#page=7 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Becky Abler, Rick Hein | Students & Youth, Research | As faculty working with undergraduates in community-based research on water quality, one of the most important aspects of our work is teaching students how to tell “data stories”. Our research focuses on several small tributaries of Lake Michigan, located in Manitowoc County. Specifically, we study how intensive restoration projects, land use, and environmental factors like rainfall affect these streams, and ultimately Lake Michigan. Over the summer sampling season, student researchers become adept at field and laboratory techniques to collect thousands of data points that evaluate water quality. Still, these students are beginning researchers and find it challenging to work with large sets of quantitative data. So when they are presenting their findings to others, these students often focus too much on reporting the numbers without thinking about how to make their discoveries have meaning to a wider audience. In order to help them think outside the academic and research setting, we rely on the robust partnerships we have formed with local nonprofits, government organizations, and members of the community. Representatives of these groups attend student practice presentations to provide feedback. Likewise, our focus as faculty members is to help students communicate with a goal of fostering data-driven decision making around water quality management. Students use the data they have collected to identify and develop their observations into major “data stories”. We encourage them to pick a few stories that illustrate the most important impacts on the stream. Once students identify their stories, they develop graphs and photographic details that can best illustrate the critical issues affecting our local streams. Our community partners help ensure that students are presenting these stories in a clear, concise manner. A key outcome of these partnerships is that, by the end of the sampling season, students have created well-developed “data stories” that effectively inform a wide audience – from homeowners to government officials. Through this hands-on research and sharing, students foster public awareness and support evidence-based decision making. Outcomes of this work can include simple changes with immediate impact. For example, students realized that a local institution was allowing grass clippings to enter a nearby stream – causing oxygen and nutrient issues. A simple conversation with that stakeholder resulted in changed mowing practices, and water quality improved. Longer-term outcomes include development and implementation of watershed management plans, enhanced local partnerships, and increased citizen engagement. This collaboration improves water quality, develops students’ professional skills, and strengthens ties between the university and the community. Students Karen Bergen, Rachel Hock, Tony Skupas, and Ashley Muench sample water quality in a Manitowoc County stream (Summer 2024). Presenting their results at the Lakeshore Water Summit in October are (L to R) Morgan Burnside, Timbre Kott, Karen Bergen, Caleb Newberry, and Ashley Muench. | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/95125/vol50-1_spring2025web.pdf#page=7 | |||||||||||||||||
44 | Water Scorpion | Master of disguise, fearsome predator, aquatic acrobat | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/1c441c23-85fd-4815-a382-9be4b0fc2653/download#page=8 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Grace Hasse | Plants & Animals | Have you ever wandered along the banks of a pond or marsh and spotted what looks like a twig floating near the water’s edge? You might have thought it was just a piece of natural debris. But if you took a closer look, it might be something far more intriguing – imagine an underwater walking stick, stealthily lurking among the reeds and aquatic plants. Chances are, you were actually eyeing a water scorpion from the genus Ranatra. Sometimes these bugs go unnoticed by even the most observant nature enthusiasts. Sneak attack Those long appendages at the front are not antennae, but rather the forelegs that are used to grasp their prey. These “raptorial” limbs are specialized for attack. Much like a praying mantis, Ranatra uses the sit-and-wait strategy to ambush their prey. The water scorpion’s forelegs are elongated and jointed for a much wider range of motion than a human’s elbow capability. This flexibility allows for an instantaneous strike and capture of unsuspecting prey. The forelegs are not just designed for brute strength; they are also incredibly sensitive. The tiny hairs on the limbs detect vibrations and movements in the water, alerting Ranatra of danger or potential prey. Their raptorial limbs showcase the efficiency of these specialized appendages, and are the key to the water scorpion’s aquatic success. Good eats The water scorpion’s meal of choice is aquatic invertebrates and insects, although they will sometimes go for tadpoles or small fish. Among their favorite snacks are mosquito larvae. So, if you spot a Ranatra, give it a nod of appreciation for keeping those summer pests in check. To consume these tasty treats, Ranatra will insert their piercing rostrum into the insect and inject an enzymatic fluid. The fluid causes the insides of the prey to become mush, allowing the water scorpion to drink it like a Slurpee®. Bon appétit! Impressive equipment The name water scorpion may cause fear to those who hear it – conjuring images of venomous stingers and menacing pincers. But fear not, our aquatic friend is nothing like its desert-dwelling namesake. The “stinger” extending along the abdomen is really no stinger at all; it works like a snorkel! This is why you might see a water scorpion tilted at an angle under the water’s surface. It will leave the tube tip above the surface to wait for prey for extended periods of time. If its snorkel equipment didn’t impress you, this aquatic insect can take flight. Yep, you read that right, these fearsome predators are also aquatic acrobats! Water scorpions have fully developed wings tucked away, only revealing them when the time is right to show off their flying skills. Functional camo These three-inch-long bugs are sneaky and rarely seen, due to their excellent camouflage. Water scorpions hide along the banks of ponds, marshes, or lakes, and when it’s time to reproduce, they continue to use their ability to blend in. Females will lay their eggs on aquatic plants while ensuring that their offspring won’t be disturbed. The eggs are often camouflaged to look like tiny plant parts, making them nearly invisible to predators. Once the nymphs hatch, they are already equipped with the skills of their parents. As they grow, these young water scorpions will molt several times. Each time, discarding their old exoskeleton and emerging with an even better disguise. This cycle of life ensures their camouflaged existence. Appreciating small wonders Despite their elusive nature, these insects are important to freshwater ecosystems. By preying on mosquito larvae and other aquatic invertebrates, Ranatra helps control populations. They are a sign of good water quality and contribute to the health of their habitats. Next time you’re out by your favorite waterbody, take a moment to appreciate the masters of disguise lurking just beneath the surface! Can you pick out the two water scorpions that Grace found while collecting aquatic plants and animals during the 2024 Waupaca County Field Day event for elementary school students? It’s difficult to see this Ranatra that was found near the Wisconsin River last month. You can get a clearer view by checking out our online Lake Tides where the images are in color. Grace Hasse enjoyed teaching these students about aquatic insects during the 2024 Waupaca County Field Day event. | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/95125/vol50-1_spring2025web.pdf#page=8 | |||||||||||||||||
45 | Capacity Corner #29: Communicating With Your Members | Membership | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/1c441c23-85fd-4815-a382-9be4b0fc2653/download#page=10 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Sara Windjue | Capacity Building, Lake Groups | In each issue of Lake Tides, we introduce different ideas and resources to help you increase your organization’s capacity to care for lakes. In this issue, we’re focusing once again on membership, which reflects the value of an organization to their current and possible future supporters. Specifically, we’d like to explore how to best communicate with your members, or potential members, through email. We want to focus on email because it is easy, widely used, and can be a very successful way to increase and retain members. Background In the United States, about 10 billion emails are sent daily. In comparison, the United States Postal Service reports they handle 318 million pieces of mail daily. Whether you love or hate email, there is no denying that it is part of our daily life and a growing medium for communication. Benefits of using email Low cost Relatively easy (and easy to delete) Most people are currently using it Can set up and manage multiple accounts (personal, professional, organizational) Easy storage by topic/folder/tags Organizational ownership can be handed off from one person to another We all need to use email to function in western society and lake organizations are no different. The medium itself is very similar to snail mail, but there are nuances that we might forget, occasionally. It is important for lake organizations to approach using email – just like snail mail – in an organized and positive way to communicate with members and their community. Don’t let the perfect become the enemy of the good. Instead, get your organization to try some best practices and evolve email habits over time to get the most out of your communications. Email best practices Develop an email plan. Frequency – how often emails go out (What is realistically manageable?) Content – be informative and engaging: Alerts/Calls to action Event invitations and reminders Thank you notes to volunteers Membership renewal notices Official notices from lake districts Success stories/highlights Style, language, and tone – A lake district, as a form of government, will likely have a more formal tone than a lake association, but try to keep the language geared towards your audience: those who care about lakes. Invite reader feedback and contributions. Can folks respond to surveys, polls, or questions? If so, how? Create a design. This will help differentiate your emails from others and provide consistency (Ex: include your logo and repeat colors). Use subject lines to your advantage. Resist being too clever and try to communicate in the subject line what the email is all about. Use preview text. Preview text is the bit of text below or next to an email’s subject line in the inbox that gives extra insight into what’s inside the email. Consider it a sneak peek! Check to see if your email provider includes this as an option. Abide by email law. You can find an example compliance document from the Federal Trade Commission here: https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/resources/can-spam-act-compliance-guide-business Be inclusive and accessible. Use legible, readable fonts Use proper color contrast, or shapes/text to help differentiate colors Offer an electronic version of your newsletter Add alt text to meaningful images Provide descriptive hyperlinks Use responsive design (easy to read on a phone, tablet, and computer) If using a PDF, follow ADA guidelines How to plan content Use a shared calendar. A shared calendar allows multiple people to be on the same timeline when it comes to drafting, submitting, and publishing emails. You can assign tasks to specific people and see if they’ve accepted or rejected your task. You can then easily follow up via email with questions and reminders. Use a spreadsheet. Accountants may have invented spreadsheets, but communicators have adopted them as handy ways to structure information using multiple tables in a single online document. The ability to copy entire tables through tabs saves time and allows you to organize your plan in whatever way suits you best. Online shared spreadsheets available through Google® or Microsoft® make it possible for multiple volunteers to collaborate in real time without passing around attachments via email. We’ve created a generic email communications planning spreadsheet that you can copy and use with your organization to get the ball rolling. You can find it by navigating to “Capacity Corner” under “Lake Organizations” at uwsp.edu/uwexlakes, then clicking on “Membership.” Recognize the annual cycle and use it to help recycle content. This chart is meant to show what a typical “year in communications” might look like for Wisconsin lake organizations. This example is “keyed’ to a May annual meeting; your group might have a different annual meeting date. In addition to sharing the basics about your annual meeting – time, place, and agenda – work backwards to include timely reminders about renewing membership or signing up for volunteer opportunities – particularly as they relate to board elections at the annual meeting. Lake districts do not have “membership drives,” but they do have legally binding timelines to communicate the annual meeting agenda, which must be publicly announced AT LEAST 14 days before the annual meeting. If the lake district’s agenda and draft budget are ready before that time, then it can be sent earlier. This circle graphic shows how the annual cycle simply repeats. A new person taking over communications could refer to the graphic and see what topics are on the horizon. Ideally, they would have access to previous years’ communications to adapt and build upon what was previously shared. To learn more about communicating effectively using email, watch our monthly “Lake Org Chat” from February. Navigate to “Capacity Corner” under “Lake Organizations” on our website at uwsp.edu/uwexlakes. | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/95125/vol50-1_spring2025web.pdf#page=10 | |||||||||||||||||
46 | Great Lakes Landing Blitz | Join the effort! | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/1c441c23-85fd-4815-a382-9be4b0fc2653/download#page=12 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Erin McFarlane | AIS - Aquatic Invasive Species, Partnerships | Clean Boats, Clean Waters (CBCW) watercraft inspectors across the state will work together to educate the public about aquatic invasive species (AIS) during the Great Lakes Landing Blitz, June 30-July 13, 2025. Hundreds of boaters and anglers will be out enjoying Wisconsin’s waters during the July 4th holiday, which means busier boat landings and higher potential for spreading AIS. Enthusiastic CBCW participants are stepping up to greet landing visitors, demonstrate the AIS prevention steps, and answer questions about invasive species. Wisconsin’s AIS program launched the first Landing Blitz campaign in 2008 and, thanks to the energy and commitment of our CBCW participants, the outreach event was a great success! Fellow water-rich states took notice. In 2018, the event became a collaborative education effort among all of the Great Lakes states and provinces. We can all protect lakes and rivers while we enjoy Wisconsin’s waters! Everyone should follow these prevention steps, required by state law, to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species in our waters: Inspect boats, trailers and equipment before and after use. Remove all mud and attached aquatic plants and animals. Drain all water from boats, vehicles, and equipment, including livewells and fish buckets. Never move plants or live fish away from a waterbody. Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash. Buy minnows from a Wisconsin bait dealer. Only use leftover minnows when fishing with them on the same body of water. They can be used on other waters only if no lake or river water or other fish have been added to their container. To learn more about CBCW and AIS prevention, visit the Extension Lakes website and click the CBCW logo: uwsp.edu/uwexlakes. To learn more about invasive species and their impacts on Wisconsin’s waters and economy, visit the DNR’s Invasive Species webpage: dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Invasives. 2025 Drain Campaign: June 6-8 During DNR’s Free Fishing Weekend, CBCW inspectors will be out across the state reminding anglers and boaters to always drain the water from their livewells, boats, and other equipment before leaving the boat landing and fishing access points. Draining is an important step towards preventing the spread of AIS! CBCW participants around the state will be promoting AIS prevention over July 4th, like this inspector on Rock Lake in Jefferson County. CBCW inspectors with the Turtle Lakes Chain Association in Vilas County celebrate a successful summer season! | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/95125/vol50-1_spring2025web.pdf#page=12 | |||||||||||||||||
47 | AIS Snapshot Day | Join us to make a difference | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/1c441c23-85fd-4815-a382-9be4b0fc2653/download#page=13 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Emily Heald | AIS - Aquatic Invasive Species, Partnerships | Snapshot Day is a statewide event that brings together volunteers and local conservation groups for a day dedicated to monitoring aquatic invasive species (AIS) in Wisconsin’s rivers and lakes. This event helps protect our waters from invasive plants and animals that can harm local ecosystems, wildlife, and recreational spaces. On Snapshot Day, volunteers gather at local training sites hosted by community conservation partners. After a brief training on how to identify target AIS and follow search protocols, participants visit designated monitoring sites to search for invasive species. Any potential invasives found will be cataloged with the Wisconsin DNR, supporting efforts to control and manage these species. Best of all, this is a free event and no prior experience or special equipment is needed! Snapshot Day offers a hands-on, community-driven approach to science, allowing volunteers to directly contribute to preserving Wisconsin’s water health. Past volunteers have shared their appreciation for the learning experience, saying it was rewarding to identify species, get a closer look at local waters, and connect with a community to share similar interests. In addition to helping monitor aquatic invasive species, Snapshot Day volunteers strengthen their connection to the natural world. By understanding and protecting these systems, we’re not only preserving biodiversity but also ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same natural world we cherish today. Get involved, enjoy the outdoors, and help protect our waterways — sign up for Snapshot Day today! https://wateractionvolunteers.org/events/aquatic-invasive-species-snapshot-day-2025/ Wood County Snapshot Day participants pose proudly with the invasive species they collected and documented during the event. Snapshot Day: August 9, 2025 This is a free event and no prior experience or special equipment is needed! | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/95125/vol50-1_spring2025web.pdf#page=13 | |||||||||||||||||
48 | Find A New Favorite Fishing Spot This Year | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/1c441c23-85fd-4815-a382-9be4b0fc2653/download#page=13 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Technology, Plants & Animals | Find A New Favorite Fishing Spot This Year There are lots of great places to fish in Wisconsin, including over 15,000 inland lakes, 42,000 miles of perennial streams and rivers, 1,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline and 260 miles of the Mississippi River. With so many places to choose from, picking the perfect place to wet a line can sometimes feel overwhelming. The DNR’s new Wisconsin Fishing Finder is here to help! Search for “Fishing Finder” at dnr.wisconsin.gov. The Wisconsin Fishing Finder works using any internet browser to give anglers access to various fishing information, including regulations like bag and length limits for lakes and trout streams, boat launch locations and access points, lake habitat information, fish stocking data, and more. Grab your license and gear and select a lake, river, or stream to discover your next favorite fishing spot! Don’t forget the first weekend in June is free fishing weekend in Wisconsin - no license needed! Also remember — draining all water from livewells, boats, and equipment prevents the spread of AIS! | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/95125/vol50-1_spring2025web.pdf#page=13 | |||||||||||||||||||
49 | The Power of Words | 2025 Lakes and Rivers Convention recap | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/1c441c23-85fd-4815-a382-9be4b0fc2653/download#page=14 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Partnerships, Lake Groups | The 2025 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention was a huge success with approximately 578 people in attendance over the course of the three-day event – 57 virtual attendees. Thank you to the 125 presenters who brought us 55 engaging and informative concurrent sessions, 18 hands-on workshops, two special sessions, and a field trip. We appreciate the knowledge and passion you shared! An extra special thanks to our keynote speakers, Dr. Kelsey Leonard (Shinnecock Nation and University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada) and Chris Heeter (The Wild Institute), who bookended the event. You can find many presentations in our searchable Convention Collection on the wisconsinwaterweek.com website. Celebrating the 2025 Wisconsin Lake Stewardship Award winners at the Convention are (standing LtoR): Michelle Nault (DNR Lakes and Rivers Section Manager), Pamela Toshner (Excellence in Professional Service award), Dan Butkus (Excellence in Building Partnerships award), Dave Zelinger (WAMSCO - Excellence in Public Engagement award), Chris Sampson (WAMSCO), Christine Neff (Programmatic Excellence in Lake Health award), Eric Olson (Extension Lakes Director) – (seated LtoR): Mike Engleson (Lifetime Achievement award), Shanda Hubertus (WAMSCO), Kori Halstead (WAMSCO) SAVE THE DATE April 15-17, 2026 Wisconsin Lakes & Rivers Convention | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/95125/vol50-1_spring2025web.pdf#page=14 | ||||||||||||||||||
50 | Let's Make Healthy Lakes & Rivers Together | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/1c441c23-85fd-4815-a382-9be4b0fc2653/download#page=14 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Lauren Haydon | Healthy Lakes & Rivers | Healthy Lakes & Rivers is celebrating 10 years of partnership, practices, and protecting water quality! Since 2015, the DNR Surface Water Grant program has awarded nearly $2 million in Healthy Lakes & Rivers (HLR) cost share grants to over 1,000 landowners in 38 counties. Through those grants, 1,921 shoreland health best practices have been installed along 205 lakes and rivers across the state. What makes these facts and figures even more impressive is the method in which the program is run. Since the program’s inception, HLR has been a partnership among Wisconsin DNR, Extension Lakes, Wisconsin Lakes, and the local partner organizations who make it all possible. Even though there is not a single staff person devoted entirely to supporting HLR, each group contributes a critical component to making this program tick: grant administration, communications, partnership building, technical guidance, site visits, project design, outreach, and more! When waterfront property owners are asked how they heard about this program, word of mouth from neighbors is often the answer. Making Healthy Lakes & Rivers is truly contagious and it often takes just one local champion to plant the seed. The HLR partnership is here to help water that seed, shine a light on local efforts, and ensure it thrives. If you’re ready to help us reach the next 1000 landowners, visit healthylakeswi.com to get started! 1.82M State Investment The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has invested nearly $2 million toward Healthy Lakes & Rivers projects since 2015. 1101 Properties Let's keep increasing this number and making healthy lakes and rivers together! 38 Counties Over half of Wisconsin's counties have projects. | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/95125/vol50-1_spring2025web.pdf#page=14 | ||||||||||||||||||
51 | Welcome Aboard | Partnership gains new faces and expertise | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/1c441c23-85fd-4815-a382-9be4b0fc2653/download#page=15 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Partnerships | Anna Bartsch Surface Water Grants Specialist, Wisconsin DNR I have a bachelor’s degree in water resources from UW-Stevens Point. My first introduction to invasive species management was during college, when I interned as a watercraft inspector and as an environmental restoration technician. After graduating, I worked for Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance; first as the AIS Coordinator in Shawano and Menominee Counties, and then as the Coordinator of the Northeast Wisconsin Stormwater Consortium. For the last year and a half, I have assisted the DNR’s Aquatic Invasive Species Program as an AIS Specialist. Now, I’m eager to continue engaging in AIS Pathways efforts within my new role managing the Clean Boats, Clean Waters and Lake Monitoring & Protection Network grant programs. Meg Domroese Water Program Manager, UW-Madison Division of Extension In my free time, I enjoy hiking, fishing, and playing rugby for my local club. In my 20+ years leading conservation initiatives, the throughline has been connecting people with tools to solve problems and increase equitable access to nature’s benefits. At Gathering Waters: Wisconsin’s Alliance for Land Trusts, I facilitated training and fostered peer networks across 43 organizations to advance habitat protection and water quality. Previously, at the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts, and Letters, I convened discussions on statewide water and energy issues. Leading international partnerships at the American Museum of Natural History’s Center for Biodiversity and Conservation, I worked with scientists and community leaders to develop locally relevant educational and participatory research programs. You can find me around Madison pulling invasive plants in city parks as part of my Master Naturalist service. I love cycling, stand-up paddle boarding, and cross-country skiing. And reading lots of fiction, lately exploring the solarpunk genre. | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/95125/vol50-1_spring2025web.pdf#page=15 | ||||||||||||||||||
52 | Reflections | "Do not burn yourselves out. Be as I am - a reluctant enthusiast... | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/1c441c23-85fd-4815-a382-9be4b0fc2653/download#page=16 | 2025 | Newsletter (Lake Tides) | Edward Abbey | Reflections | “Do not burn yourselves out. Be as I am - a reluctant enthusiast....a part-time crusader, a half-hearted fanatic. Save the other half of yourselves and your lives for pleasure and adventure. It is not enough to fight for the land; it is even more important to enjoy it. While you can. While it’s still here. So get out there and hunt and fish and mess around with your friends, ramble out yonder and explore the forests, climb the mountains, bag the peaks, run the rivers, breathe deep that yet sweet and lucid air, sit quietly for a while and contemplate the precious stillness, the lovely, mysterious and awesome space.” ― Edward Abbey taken from a speech to environmentalists in Missoula, Montana and Colorado, circa 1976 | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/95125/vol50-1_spring2025web.pdf#page=16 | |||||||||||||||||
53 | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention Agenda | https://minds.wisc.edu/bitstreams/d59d892b-f5e8-4710-884f-c1e4221cdd02/download | 2026 | Convention | Amy Kowalski | Lake Groups, Partnerships | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
54 | Convention Welcome - Decades of Dedication: A Long-term Perspective | Recording | https://youtu.be/8UA_Aps23lI | 2026 | Convention | John Greendeer, Steven Marking, Marco Mascitti, Adalyn Howe | Reflections, Success Stories, Partnerships | 2026 is a year of significant milestones in Wisconsin’s collaborative approach to lakes and rivers management: Wisconsin’s Citizen Lake Monitoring Network marks 40 years of volunteer-collected lake data, and the UW-Madison’s Division of Extension Water Action Volunteer program is observing 30 years of similarly collected stream data. We are also celebrating 10 years of the Healthy Lakes & Rivers program and over 20 years of Clean Boats, Clean Waters. To fully embrace our “Decades of Dedication” theme, the Thursday morning Welcome Session will take us on a journey starting in the 17th Century. We’ll meet a retired shopkeeper who penned one of the earliest books on fisheries and water conservation, travel through the 20th Century when Wisconsin made a splash in lake and river care, and move from the present into the future, where emerging contaminants pose new threats that we are just starting to understand. | ||||||||||||||||||
55 | Fish Monitoring in Green Bay and the Fox River Area of Concern | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle | 2026 | Convention | Sam Schiack, Jason Lins | Restoration | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
56 | Why Culverts Matter: Designing for Fish, Floods, and the Future | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97359/ChrisEster-AnnalieseFord_WhyCulvertsMatterDesigningForFishFloodsAndTheFuture.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Chris Ester | Restoration, Rivers & Streams | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
57 | Wondering While Wandering: The Logistics and Metaphysics of Paddling Rivers | Recording | https://youtu.be/hiMs5KQgf68 | 2026 | Convention | Timothy Bauer | Rivers & Streams | Every river tells a story. Some are blunt and punchy, others span generations. Many are poetic, some are mundane. But every river sings, and every watershed comprises a chorus of voices. Every river is a quarreling family. Paddling lakes is simple and straightforward: you end where you began, and you can generally see the big picture before you leave land. Paddling rivers is more nuanced and mysterious: you start at the end, return to the beginning, and every meandering bend in between begs wondering “what happens next?” Is the water high or low? Are there rapids – and if so, are they dangerous? Am I trespassing or are rivers passports? How long will it take, and how do I get back to the car? Come join local author, Timothy Bauer, for a thoughtful discourse on the beguiling beauty that is paddling rivers. Got a question about logistics or a concern about skill level? Need to be convinced that rivers are rich in mischief and metaphysics? Timothy will dabble in both practicalities and poetics. | ||||||||||||||||||
58 | Protecting Paradise in the Driftless: How the Kickapoo Valley Reserve Came to Be | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97361/MarcyWest_ProtectingParadiseintheDriftlessHowtheKickapooValleyReserveCametoBe.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Marcy West | Protection | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
59 | Stream and River Monitoring in Wisconsin | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97362/KimberlyKuber-CamilleBruhn_StreamandRiverMonitoringinWisconsin.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Kimberly Kuber, Camille Bruhn | Rivers & Streams | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
60 | Writers on Rivers: A Sharing of Some of the Best Essays from Rivers as Large as the Mississippi to as Small as Childhood Creeks | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97363/JohnBates_WritersonRivers.pdf | 2026 | Convention | John Bates | Rivers & Streams | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
61 | Have You Thanked a Diatom Today? Using These River Algae for Bioassessment | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97364/GinaLaLiberte_Haveyouthankedadiatom.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Gina LaLiberte | Water Quality, Rivers & Streams | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
62 | Boating Ordinances and Wisconsin's Local Legal Framework | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97365/PhillipsJung_BoatingOrdinancesandWisconsinLocalLegalFramework.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Richard Phillips, Mary Jung, Jeff Meessman, Fred Silloway | Water Policy | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
63 | Lake Carrying Capacity Analysis | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97366/JustinPoinsatte_LakeCarryingCapacityAnalysis.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Justin Poinsatte | Water Policy, Water Quality | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
64 | Wake Boats and Lakes: Physical, Ecological, and Policy Implications | 2026 | Convention | David Ortiz | Water Policy, Lake Science | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | ||||||||||||||||||||
65 | How Do I Talk About Neonicotinoids? How Diverse Perspectives Help Create Actionable Outreach | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97367/AjJeningaNehls_HowDoITalkAboutNeonicotinoids.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Aj Jeninga-Nehls | Human Health, Plants & Animals, Water Quality | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
66 | Long View on Recreational Impacts on Lakes | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97368/TimAsplund_LongViewonRecreationalImpactsonLakes.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Tim Asplund | Lake Science, Water Policy | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
67 | Chloride Conditions and Trends Among Lakes in Southeastern Wisconsin: 1960-Present | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97369/ThomasSlawski_ChlorideConditionsandTrendsAmongLakesinSoutheasternWisconsin.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Thomas Slawski | Water Quality, Lake Science | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
68 | Celebrating a Decade of Healthy Lakes and Rivers: Reflections and Next Steps | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97372/ArnoldVanEgeren_CelebratingaDecadeofHealthyLakesandRiversReflectionsandNextSteps.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Scott Van Egeren, Tracy Arnold | Healthy Lakes & Rivers, Reflections | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
69 | Protecting Critical Habitat with WDNR Designation | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97373/ArthurWatkinson_ProtectingCriticalHabitatWithWDNRDesignation.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Arthur Watkinson | Lake Science | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
70 | Mapping Critical Habitat Informs Lake Shoreland Management | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97374/JimKreitlow-MichaelMeyer_MappingCriticalHabitatInformsLakeShorelandManagement.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Michael Meyer, Jim Kreitlow | Lake Science, Management | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
71 | Oneida County Lakes Have Class! | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97375/JoanneLund_OneidaCountyLakesHaveClass.pdf | 2026 | Convention | JoAnne Lund | Management | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
72 | From Plants to Dragonflies: Life Returns to Restored Shorelines | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97376/MadelineHetland-KatieHein_FromPlantstoDragonfliesLifeReturnstoRestoredShorelines.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Madeline Hetland, Katie Hein | Restoration, Plants & Animals | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
73 | Monitoring Lake Shorelands and Shallows for Lake Health | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97377/KatieHein-ScottVanEgeren-DanielleMatuszak_MonitoringLakeShorelandsandShallowsforLakeHealth.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Katie Hein, Scott Van Egeren, Danielle Matuszak | Restoration, Healthy Lakes & Rivers | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
74 | County Land and Water Workshops for Shoreline Contractors | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97378/MicheleSadauskas-KaylaLittleton-QuitaSheehan_CountyLakeandWaterWorkshopsforShorelineContractors.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Kayla Littleton, Michele Sadauskas, Quita Sheehan | Management, Restoration | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
75 | The Northern Lakes Toolbox Workshops: What's in the Toolbox for Your Lake? | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97379/MichaelMeyer-JimKreitlow_NorthernLakesToolbox.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Michael Meyer, Jim Kreitlow | Water Quality, Technology, Management | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
76 | A Local Water Quality Trading Program to Reduce Phosphorus and Sediment Delivery to the Rock River | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97380/PatriciaCicero-MaureenMcBroom_ALocalWaterQualityTradingProgramtoReducePhosphorusandSedimentDeliveryttheRockRiver.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Patricia Cicero, Maureen McBroom | Partnerships, Water Quality | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
77 | Healthy Watersheds, High-Quality Waters Prioritization: Yellow River Case Study | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97381/LaurenHaydon-AustinHolland_HealthyWatershedHighQualityWatersPrioritizationYellowRiverCaseStudy.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Lauren Haydon, Austin Holland | Watersheds, Technology | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
78 | Watershed Monitoring and Restoration in the Southern Lake Superior Basin | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97382/KevinBrewster_WatershedMonitoringandRestorationintheSouthernLakeSuperiorBasin.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Kevin Brewster | Restoration | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
79 | Investigating Beaver Dam Lake for Long-Term Management Solutions | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97383/KatieBollini-EmilyKilstrom-LexiGuzman_InvestigatingBeaverDamLakeforLongtermManagementSolutions.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Katie Bollini, Emily Kilstrom, Lexi Guzman | Research, Water Quality | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
80 | The Wisconsin Landscape: Are We Still Good with the Tradeoff? | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97384/JohnStauser_TheWisconsinLandscapeAreWeStillGoodwiththeTradeoff.pdf | 2026 | Convention | John Strauser | Water Quality, Protection | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
81 | Brook Trout Connectivity in Headwater Streams | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97385/AnnalieseFord_BrookTroutConnectivityInHeadwaterStreams.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Annaliese Ford | Research, Plants & Animals | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
82 | Bass Management in Wisconsin: Updating the WI Bass Management Plan | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97386/ScottToshner_BassManagementinWisconsin.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Scott Toshner | Management | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
83 | 13 Years of Eurasian Watermilfoil Management Success in Porters Lake, Waushara County, WI | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97408/PaulSkawinski-SkipHansen_ThirteenYearsofEWMManagementSuccessinPortersLakeWausharaCo.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Skip Hansen, Paul Skawinski | AIS - Aquatic Invasive Species, Management | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
84 | Insights from Long-Term Surface Water Monitoring in Wisconsin | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97390/MadelineMagee_InsightsFromLongtermSurfaceWaterMonitoringinWisconsin.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Madeline Magee | Research, Rivers & Streams | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
85 | Perseverance and Partnership: Two Decades of Purple Loosestrife Management on the Michigamme River, Michigan | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97391/LindsayPeterson_PerseveranceAndPartnership-TwoDecadesOfPurpleLoosestrifeManagement.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Lindsay Peterson | AIS - Aquatic Invasive Species, Partnerships | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
86 | Manual Removal of EWM in the Right Situations | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97409/ChrisHamerla-GerryGabor_ManualRemovalofEWMintheRightSituations.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Gerry Gabor | AIS - Aquatic Invasive Species | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
87 | Lessons from Long-Term Lake Research and Collaboration in Wisconsin Lakes | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97392/CarolWarden_LessonsFromLongtermLakeResearchandCollaborationinWisconsinLakes.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Carol Warden | Water Quality, Partnerships | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
88 | Mussel Monitoring in Chippewa County | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97393/BreKlockzien_MusselMonitoringofChippewaCounty.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Bre Klockzien | Research, Plants & Animals | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
89 | Cyanobacteria (Blue-Green Algae) Blooms and Monitoring 101 | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97394/GinaLaLiberte_CyanobacteriaBloomsandMonitoring.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Gina LaLiberte | Water Quality, Lake Science | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
90 | Cyanobacteria (Blue-Green Algae) Blooms and Monitoring 101 | Recording | https://youtu.be/t1JSev95r1A | 2026 | Convention | Gina LaLiberte | Water Quality, Lake Science | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | ||||||||||||||||||
91 | Introduction to Lake, River, and Watershed Associations | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97395/SaraWindjue-JillSunderland-DaveQuady-JohnsonBridgwater_IntroductionToLakeRiverAndWatershedAssociations.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Sara Windjue, Jill Sunderland, Johnson Bridgwater, Dave Quady | Lake Groups, Rivers & Streams | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
92 | Detecting Invasive Species in Our Riparian and Stream Ecosystems | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97396/MattWallrath_DetectingInvasiveSpeciesinOurRiparianandStreamEcosystems.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Matt Wallrath | AIS - Aquatic Invasive Species | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
93 | WI DNR Fisheries Management Funding: Follow the Dollars | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97397/ToddKalish_WIDNRFisheriesManagementFundingFollowingTheDollars.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Todd Kalish | Funding & Economics | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
94 | Wisconsin Fisheries Genetics Management Plan: Implications for Private Fish Stocking | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97398/ToddKalish_WisconsinFisheriesGeneticsManagementPlanImplicationstoPrivateFishStocking.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Todd Kalish | Management | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
95 | Restoring Nongame Fish in Our Lakes | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97399/LiannaSpencer_RestoringNongameFishInOurLakes.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Lianna Spencer | Management, Restoration | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
96 | Assessing Behaviors of Trout Anglers Related to Aquatic Invasive Species in the Upper Mississippi Basin | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97400/AdamDriscoll_AssessingBehaviorsofTroutAnglersRelatedtoAISintheUpperMississipppiBasin.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Adam Driscoll | AIS - Aquatic Invasive Species, Research | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
97 | From Weeks to Minutes: Lessons from Rapid BGA Monitoring in Green Lake | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97401/TaylorStrauser-GraceStClair-AveryJames_LessonsfromBGAMonitoringinGreenLake.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Taylor Haag Strauser, Grace St. Clair, Avery James | Lake Science, Water Quality | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
98 | Revelations and Mysterious Based on Benthic Studies in Five Vilas County Lakes | https://minds.wisconsin.edu/bitstream/handle/1793/97402/WarrenMueller_RelevationsandMysteriesBasedonBenthicStudiesinFiveVilasCountyLakes.pdf | 2026 | Convention | Warren Mueller | Research, Plants & Animals | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
99 | Revelations and Mysterious Based on Benthic Studies in Five Vilas County Lakes | Recording | 2026 | Convention | Warren Mueller | Research, Plants & Animals | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive | |||||||||||||||||||
100 | Tomorrow's Ecological Nutrient Management | 2026 | Convention | Rand Atkinson | Management, Restoration | 2026 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention online Archive |