How to Keep Your Wisconsin Pond Clear During Peak Summer Heat Summer in Wisconsin is the perfect time to enjoy your pond or lake, but rising temperatures can quickly create water quality challenges. From green algae blooms and excessive aquatic weeds...

Invasive Plants in Wisconsin Wisconsin is home to more than 15,000 lakes and countless ponds, making healthy aquatic ecosystems an essential part of the state's environment and economy. From private ponds and HOA lakes to golf courses, municipal wate...

Harmful Algal Blooms in Wisconsin Lakes Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are becoming increasingly common in Wisconsin lakes and ponds. These blooms can reduce water quality, impact recreation, harm aquatic ecosystems, and pose health risks to people and ...

Wisconsin’s lakes and ponds, whether you’re on Lake Winnebago, a small county lake in Vilas County, or a neighborhood pond near Madison, support rich aquatic ecosystems prized for fishing, boating, wildlife habitat, and scenic beauty. Yet these water...

As winter thaws across Wisconsin, pond owners, golf course superintendents and commercial property managers begin to see the first signs of spring and increased aquatic activity. While the transition may feel gradual, early spring is the most critica...

Spring is a critical season for lakes and ponds across Wisconsin, as rising temperatures and seasonal mixing, commonly called spring turnover, can dramatically affect water quality. Turnover occurs when the surface water warms and mixes with deeper l...

As spring arrives in Wisconsin, lake and pond owners have a key opportunity to manage aquatic invasive species (AIS) before peak summer growing season sets in. Invasive plants, shoreline vegetation, and aquatic animals can spread rapidly, disrupt eco...

Microcystis is a type of cyanobacteria that often forms thick, paint-like scums on lakes and pond surfaces, especially in nutrient-rich waterbodies. Certain strains release microcystin toxins that can be harmful to people, pets, and wildlife. Profess...

Algae are a natural part of healthy lake and pond ecosystems. Many types contribute positively—producing oxygen and forming the base of the aquatic food web. But when nutrient levels become unbalanced, algae can grow rapidly, turning clear water into...

Cattails are a common and important part of Wisconsin’s aquatic landscapes, offering food and shelter for fish, birds, amphibians, and insects. However, when non-native species like Narrowleaf Cattail (Typha angustifolia) and Hybrid Cattail (Typha x ...