From June 1 – August 31, 2023, LWCA hosted an online public opinion survey about what the community thinks of Lake Waubesa. The results will be used to help form the LMP. Along with demographic questions the survey asked participants about perceived threats to the lake; importance of water & recreation quality; willingness to volunteer and pay for projects that help the lake, among other questions. 188 surveys were completed by the community. Below are summary results & full presentation slideshow shared with the LWCA board of directors.
Opinion Survey Summary
72% thought recreational quality was “very good”, “good” or “fair”
Nearly half thought water quality was “poor” or “very poor”. No one thought water quality was “Very Good” (Insert graphic here)
Most frequent problems:
1. Excessive aquatic plant growth,
2. Algae blooms
3. Fluctuating water levels
Willingness to support efforts:
People are most interested in installing rain barrels, rain gardens and planting native species
44% said they would volunteer with a lake improvement project
50% are willing to contribute money (~$100) for a project to improve the lake
Survey Demographics:
56% own lakefront property on Waubesa
62% who took the survey are age 55 & older
50% have used the lake for >20 years
Nearly half are LWCA members
Email is most common communication channel for community awareness