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

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.

NBCW Business Partners

Click on partner logo to visit their website

A Sustaining Member is a business that steps beyond its initial conservation promise and shows long-term commitment, initiative and leadership to safeguard the lakes and rivers that fuel our economy, shape our identity, and sustain our way of life.

Contact us

Let's start the conversation

Name
Address and street
City, state zip
Where did you learn about this program...