Vilas County Lakes and Rivers Association
For 30 Years (1994-2024), VCLRA Has Worked to Keep Our Lakes and Rivers Amazing
Our Vision and Mission
Vilas County in Wisconsin’s northwoods is a special place — over 1300 lakes and 70 rivers and one of the highest concentrations of fresh inland water on the planet. Whether you come here to live, work or play, chances are you were drawn here by its amazing lakes and rivers. They inspire and connect us – and drive our Vilas County economy!
In fact, the health of our environment and economy depends on the vitality of our natural waters. Achieving a sustainable, vibrant community requires working together to preserve our precious lake and river heritage. That’s what drives our vision of a future where our natural waters are protected and cherished for the high value and quality of life they provide.
Vilas County Lakes and Rivers Association was formed 30 years ago with the mission to sustainably preserve, protect, and enhance our lakes and rivers for the benefit of all. We accomplish our mission by working with partner and supporting member families, businesses and lake organizations to foster an informed and engaged community committed to the welfare of our lake and river heritage.
Our approach
Ways we protect Vilas County's natural waters on which our environment and economy depends.
Advocacy
VCLRA works with our partners and supporting member families and lake organizations to advocate for sensible, science-informed policy to protect our natural waters and shorelands. We engage in DNR and town hearings, develop position letters to policy makers, have a presence in key committee meetings and events, and sponsor or co-sponsor scientific research studies that support sound policy.
Education
VCLRA exhibits at local fairs/fests, holds workshop events, distributes two print newsletters annually, maintains a year-round website presence, and offers a speaker's bureau service. Our Blue Heron Stewardship Award raises awareness and showcases excellence in lake-friendly waterfront development. We also developed a shoreland class for middle schools and award high school scholarships annually.
Conservation
We assist in the formation of lake associations and districts — the first line of defense for protecting our natural waters — and provide them with support, including training and access to lake and river monitoring equipment. We also develop programs for shoreland and waterways conservation, and sponsor or co-sponsor worthy projects and scientific research studies that support these efforts.
WITH ALL THE CHALLENGES FACING OUR LAKES AND RIVERS
One of the great strengths of VCLRA is our members, and VCLRA needs your help to grow even stronger. Help support our efforts to keep our lakes and rivers amazing by renewing your membership or joining VCLRA Today!
This year we celebrate VCLRA’s 30th anniversary. Will you consider adding a donation of $30 or more to your membership? Your added support will go a long way in helping us do even more in .
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North Lakeland Woods & Waters Conference Held May 3rd
27 Mar , 2024The North Lakeland Woods & Waters Conference to be held at the North Lakeland Discovery Center in Manitowish Waters, WI on Friday May 3rd, 2024.
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Northwoods Six-County Lakes Meeting Set for July 12, 2024
22 Mar , 2024“Protecting Our Waters: We’re All Connected” is the theme for the annual Northwoods Six-County Lakes Meeting, set for Friday, July 12, at Nicolet College. The program will include discussion on the connections among water resources and the people who use them, along with presentations on the impacts of climate change.
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Wake Boats and Lakes
20 Feb , 2024Wisconsin’s Green Fire (WGF) released a new report on the effects of wake boats on Wisconsin lakes. WGF’s report “The Effects of Wake Boats on Lake Ecosystem Health: A Literature Review,” compiles findings from over 175 scientific studies in the U.S.
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Vilas Youth Conservation Poster & Speaking Competitions
04 Feb , 2024Students from Vilas County schools took part in the Vilas County Youth Conservation Poster & Speaking Competitions, hosted by Vilas County Land & Water. Overall 84 students submitted material, and an awards ceremony was held at the Olson Memorial Library in January.