What is the difference among various lake conservation groups?
The Clean Lakes Alliance (CLA) focuses on water quality, specifically phosphorus reduction in the Yahara watershed.
Yahara Lakes Association (YLA) represents lakeshore property owners and advocates for the vitality of the chain of lakes.
LWCA is solely dedicated to 'advancing the well-being of Lake Waubesa.' Our mission is specific: "to Preserve, Protect, and Enhance the Lake Waubesa Ecosystem for all to enjoy." How we are different?
How are membership dues and donations used?
Funds are primarily used for projects such as the pier aquatic plant pick-up program, leaf collection sites and water quality and clarity monitoring.
Who is in charge of controlling lake levels?
The Dane County Land & Water Recourses Department is responsible for management of the four major lakes in the Yahara chain under state statues issued by the DNR. This link provides more information on responsibilities and monitoring efforts: Dane County Lakes Level Management
What is considered normal level for Lake Waubesa?
During the summer, Dane County’s goal is for Lake Waubesa to be from 844.5’ and 845’ above sea level…a range of 6”. This link provides more information on the monitoring station used by Dane County: Waubesa Level Monitoring
Why aren't there more aquatic plant harvesters on Lake Waubesa?
There are twelve mechanical harvesters used on the Yahara Lakes & rivers. The harvesters are managed by the Dane County Land & Water Resources Department. Presently, none of the harvesters are dedicated to a particular lake of the Yahara chain of lakes. The harvesters are rotated based on immediate need. LWCA has proposed to the county a dedicated plant harvester for Lake Waubesa. This link provides more information on the plant harvester program: Dane County Plant Harvester Program
When are aquatic plants pick up scheduled?
The pier pickup schedule can be found at this link: Pier Pickup Schedule
How will dredging affect Lake Waubesa?
Presently, dredging on the Yahara Chain of Lakes is restricted to the Yahara River Channel. The purpose is to increase the flow in the river and lakes to move water more quickly downstream in an effort to assist in managing water levels. Currently there are no plans to dredge Lake Waubesa.
What is the biggest threat to the health and well-being of the lake?
Nutrient loading to the lake and internal cycling of nutrients in the sediments to the water column are the greatest threat. Other threats to the lake include impacts from invasive species, both plant and animals.
What can I do to help with lake quality?
Do not use phosphorus fertilizers on your yard if you live on the lake. Keep leaves out of the water during the fall. Don’t dump yard waste or chemicals into the lake. Leave natural vegetation along the lake shore and on steep hillsides to prevent erosion and to provide habitat. Redirect runoff from your roof and all impervious surfaces, making sure it doesn’t go directly to the lake. Collect and dispose of pet waste.
Is there any lake quality data available?
You can find recent data on the quality of all the Yahara Lakes including Lake Waubesa at: Yahara Lakes Data and the DNR webpage for Lake Waubesa at this link: DNR Lake Waubesa
Where can I find information on beach closures on Waubesa?
This link provides information on monitoring and beach closures throughout the Yahara chain including Lake Waubesa: Beach Monitoring and Closures
What is the Lake Waubesa Conservation Association (LWCA)?
LWCA is a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to promoting the preservation, protection and enhancement of the Lake Waubesa Ecosystem for all to enjoy.
When is the LWCA annual meeting?
The annual meeting is held in the month of May. A notice stating the place, day, and hour of the annual meeting shall be communicated to membership not less than 5 days prior to the event.
When are LWCA board meetings?
Board meetings take place on the 3rd Wednesday of the month (except May). Members are welcome to attend. Contact waubesa.org@gmail.com for time and location information.
Are LWCA board members compensated?
All board members serve on a volunteer basis and are not paid.
How can I become more active in the organization?
Contact LWCA at waubesa.org@gmail.com and express your interest, and someone will get back to you.