Healthy watersheds make healthy lakes and higher property values. The quality of our lakes and streams is ultimately a reflection of how we take care of our land. A watershed is the land area that drains to a lake or stream. Waterfront property owners, inland residents, recreational users, resort owners, and other businesses all can play a positive role in maintaining and improving the water quality of our lakes.

 What you and our Lake Association do to sustain or improve water quality will improve your property investment and resale potential. On the other hand, if water quality is degraded, lower property values could result. The resources links provided are developed for people who live on a waterfront lot and describes a menu of opportunities to protect your property and work toward protecting your valuable shoreline to sustain our lakes and protect your investment.

Runoff from waterfront property impacts water quality and may cause unsightly erosion problems for you. Use the checklist to the right to assess the need for water quality improvements on your property.

Native Plant Benefits – Information From Natalie Erler – Sawyer County

Native plants offer many benefits to our natural eco-syste.. Here are some key advantages of incorporating native plants into landscapes:

1. Biodiversity conservation: Native plants provide habitat and food sources for local wildlife, including birds, butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects.

2. Water conservation: Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, requiring less water once established. Their deep root systems help absorb and retain rainwater, reducing runoff and erosion. This makes them ideal for water-wise landscaping and helps conserve water resources.

3. Low maintenance: Native plants are generally well-suited to the local environment, requiring minimal care once established. They are adapted to the natural cycles of the region and are typically more resistant to pests, diseases, and extreme weather conditions. This reduces the need for chemical pesticides and fertilizers, resulting in lower maintenance costs.

4. Soil improvement: Native plants often have deep root systems that improve soil structure and stability. Their roots help prevent soil erosion, promote water infiltration, and enhance nutrient cycling. Native plants can also contribute to soil fertility by adding organic matter as they naturally decompose.

5. Pollinator support: Many native plants have co-evolved with local pollinators, making them excellent sources of nectar and pollen. By planting native species, you can provide essential food resources for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, helping to support their populations.

6. Aesthetics and cultural significance: Native plants offer unique beauty and a sense of place. They reflect the natural character of the region, contributing to a sense of local identity and cultural heritage.

7. Reducing invasiveness: By using native plants, you can help prevent the spread of invasive species that can outcompete and displace native vegetation. Native plantings can serve as a barrier and create a more resilient landscape against invasives.

Here’s some presentation links from Natalie Erler from Sawyer County regarding native plants. When choosing plantings for your Northwoods property, keep in mind that Sawyer County is within the Zone 3 hardiness area. Nursery sources in the area will often have a local genotype of a particular plant which will be more successful.

Presentation on Native Plants – Getting Started : LINK

Native Plant Brochure – Options: LINK

NATIVE PLANT EDUCATIONAL SITE at Nelson Lake: LINK