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.
Articles and publications Resources for protecting our lakes and rivers
2023 6-county lakes & rivers conference
This year’s 6-county lakes & rivers meeting will take place on July 14th and include updates on Wisconsin legislation, invasives and other issues of interest to our lake community, plus highlight the role of law enforcement on maintaining the health and enjoyment of our Northwoods lakes and rivers.
Shoreland Owner Workshop
If you own lake or river shoreland property and would like to learn about best practices and programs to protect water quality and habitat, as well as permanent conservation options through NWLT, please join us on Monday, June 26 at 10 am at the Northwoods Center in Eagle River.
WCC Spring Hearing accepting input on regulating wake surfing
VCLRA is again requesting your input to the 2023 Wisconsin Conservation Congress Annual Spring Hearing on REGULATING WAKE SURFING ON WISCONSIN LAKES AND RIVERS. Input can be provided online from noon April 10 to noon April 13.
Northwoods LIGHTS OUT!
Looking for another way to enjoy the wonders of the Northwoods? Exploring the night skies, watching fireflies and stargazing are but a few ways to appreciate the darkness. Join us for two weekends of LIGHTS OUT…
Permanent Shoreland Protection
Permanent land conservation is one of the most effective ways to safeguard our lakes and rivers.
Vilas County Local Regulation of Hazardous Wakes Workshop
If your town is considering a hazardous wake ordinance, you may want to attend this workshop at the Boulder Junction Community Center on March 8, 2023. The purpose of this workshop is to offer guidance on how to regulate hazardous wakes through local ordinances.
Winter 2022-23 newsletter available
Our Winter 2022-2023 newsletter is available online (members who get print copies will get these by mail in a few weeks). Read about Hazardous Wake Issues, Blue Heron Stewardship awards, AIS prevention and much more…
Happy Holidays!
As we bring 2022 to a close, I am deeply grateful for the work we’ve accomplished together to protect the beautiful lakes and waterways of Vilas County…
Wake Boats a hot topic at Wisconsin NRB
Last week, the Wisconsin Natural Resource Board met to examine the issues surrounding wake boats to look at actions, including new laws, to address the issues.
2022 Vilas County Lakes Conservation Partners Meeting
Join other local lake organizations, professionals, and volunteers next week on Friday Oct 28 from
Partners
Click on partner logo to visit their website
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