Our Vision and Mission

We firmly believe that the natural beauty and vitality of our lakes and rivers are closely linked to healthy environments and vibrant economies. That’s what drives our vision of a future where these natural resources are protected and cherished for the high quality of life they provide.

Vilas County Lakes and Rivers Association was formed 25 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 and lake organizations to foster informed and engaged communities committed to the welfare of our lake and river heritage.

Our approach

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 a high school scholarship 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.

2019 Annual Workshop: Social and Economic Value of Lakes
04 Nov , 2019
Natural shorelines and water resource protection was the focus of the annual workshop of lake group leaders and members from six northern Wisconsin counties on Friday, July 12, at Nicolet College in Rhinelander.
Noah Miller awarded 2019 VCLRA Scholarship
12 May , 2019
This year, we are pleased to recognize Northland Pines High School senior Noah Miller as our 2019 VCLRA scholarship award recipient.
New study shows the economic impact of clean lakes
10 Dec , 2018
As a follow up to investigations into the economic value of waterfront properties in Oneida and Vilas Counties, researchers from UW-Eau Claire, researched the link between water clarity and the sale prices of waterfront homes.