It's better when we work together.
The natural beauty and recreational value of our lakes and rivers are the foundation of our Northwoods economy. We are a partnership of conservationists and Northwoods businesses whose livelihood depends on the vitality of our natural waters.
Our common vision of the Northwoods as a place where both people and nature thrive can only be realized by working together to protect our beautiful lakes and rivers.
Our approach:
Partner
Partnerships are at the heart of what we do. Only by working together to protect our lakes and rivers can we find a sustainable path for nature and our communities to thrive.
Protect
Our efforts focus on: aquatic invasive species prevention, shoreline restoration & protection and water quality. Business partners gain access to experts and potential grant funding opportunities.
Promote
We promote our efforts to raise awareness and build support from stakeholders essential to our success. Business partners benefit from building reputation and public recognition.
Our story
The Wisconsin Northwoods is a special place — nature has blessed it with one of the highest concentrations of fresh inland waters on the planet. Our beautiful lakes and rivers inspire and connect us. However, the health of our environment and economy is closely linked to the vitality of our natural waters. That’s why we created Northwoods Bussinesses for Clean Waters. Achieving a sustainable, vibrant Northwoods community requires working together to preserve our precious lake and river heritage.
Our focus is on marinas, campgrounds, watercraft dealers & rentals, fishing guides and other businesses that rely on Northwoods’ water resources and have a vital role to play. Clean lakes and rivers are not only essential to the Northwoods’ rich quality of life, but to the future of your business as well! Each business is unique, so every partnership will look different; however, your business will be teamed with a conservation expert to create a tailored approach that reflects shared goals and values, and provides your business with useful tools and practices to protect our natural waters.
NBCW businesses in the news
Fly Shop Leader Champions Clean Water Stewardship
Early NBCW partner Bill Sherer of “We Tie It” Fly Shop leads by example—choosing environmentally safe gear, recycling materials, protecting shorelines, and preventing invasive species.. His message is simple: protecting clean water requires awareness, responsible choices, and working together.
Local Students and Business Team Up for Clean Water
SOAR Charter High School students teamed up with Wildwood Outdoor Adventures and VCLRA to clean a stretch of the Wisconsin River, collecting about 200 pounds of trash while enjoying a hands‑on conservation project supported through NBCW.
Paddling for Clean Water
SOAR Charter High School students joined the VCLRA for a 4.3‑mile cleanup of the Wisconsin River, collecting trash and enjoying a calm spring day. Supported by Wildwood Outdoor Adventures through the Northwoods Businesses for Clean Water initiative, the event highlighted how local youth and businesses can work together to protect our waters.
Click in picture to view article.
Articles and publications
Resources for protecting our lakes and rivers
Summer 2026 Newsletter: from Connection to Cleanup
We’re excited to share the VCLRA Summer 2026 newsletter. Inside, we invite you to explore upcoming events and workshops, including ...
Free Shorelines 101 Workshop
Vilas County Land & Water, Vilas County Zoning, and DNR Permitting are working together to offer a Shorelines 101 workshop ...
North Lakeland Woods & Water Conference showcasing Northwoods science and stewardship
SAVE THE DATE! Friday, April 24th 7:30 am - 5:00 pm at the North Lakeland Discovery Center register ...
2026 VCLRA Winter Newsletter Published
Articles on climate impacts, connecting youth to clean water, reaching out to new shoreline owners, a new bill on wake ...
View or print the Northwoods Businesses for Clean Waters brochure. Printed brochures are also available on request. Contact president@vclra.org.