Northwoods Six-County Lakes and Rivers meeting to focus on lake health, stewardship, conservation

RHINELANDER – Northwoods lakes don’t come with report cards – but if they did, would yours pass?

That question will be at the heart of the 2026 Northwoods Six-County Lakes and Rivers Meeting, where lake association members, waterfront property owners, conservation professionals and community leaders will gather to better understand what makes a healthy lake – and what residents can do to protect these treasured waters for generations to come.

The annual meeting, co-sponsored by the Oneida County Lakes and Rivers Association (OCLRA) and the Vilas County Lakes and Rivers Association (VCLRA), will be held at James Williams Middle School in Rhinelander on Friday, July 17, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This year’s theme is “What’s Your Lake’s Report Card?”

“The Six-County meeting has long served as a gathering point for those who care deeply about the lakes and rivers of northern Wisconsin, offering practical education, timely updates and meaningful conversation around the challenges and opportunities facing local waters,” organizers said in a press release. “This year’s program will explore several key indicators of lake health, including water quality, fisheries, aquatic habitat, shoreline stewardship and even nighttime light pollution.”

Featured speakers include John Richter of Wisconsin Lakes, who will provide an update on statewide lake initiatives; JoAnne Lund, who will discuss lake classification and what those designations speak about water quality; and Esiban Parent of the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission, who will share how manoomin (wild rice) can serve as an important ecological indicator of lake health.

Additional presentations will be provided by Ted Rulseh, who will discuss the Lake Steward Program; John Kubisiak of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources  (DNR), who will help attendees better interpret fisheries reports; and Michele Sadauskas, who will explore ways shoreline property owners can protect dark skies and reduce light pollution.

“Healthy lakes don’t stay healthy by accident,” organizers said. “They require stewardship, awareness and people who are willing to learn, ask questions and take action. Whether you live on a lake, recreate on one or simply care about Northwoods waters, this meeting offers valuable insights and practical tools.”

The event will also include exhibitors, light refreshments and opportunities for attendees to engage directly with speakers during extended discussion sessions.

Registration through Eventbrite is encouraged, though walk-ins are welcome.