Both lakes will benefit from healthier shorelines, but we will need to work at it.

Lake Kawaguesaga is now listed by the Wisconsin DNR as Impaired/Poor because of high levels of total phosphorus, andthe impact on fish and aquatic life.

Lake Minocqua was listed by the WDNR as Impaired/Poor for high total phosphorus levels from 2014 to 2024 but was taken off the impaired list because it looked like the condition was improving.

LINK: https://apps.dnr.wi.gov/water/waterSearch.aspx

“I think your natural shorelines initiative is a really good fit for where the Lake Minocqua is now, and it should help keep the phosphorus levels in check.”

“Lake Kawaguesaga is currently listed as impaired. We have a decent chance of getting the TP lower and delisting Lake Kawaguesaga in the next 5-10 years maybe. It’s hard to know, but it’s definitely looking more promising than a lot of other impaired lakes in the state. I think it make sense to look at improving shoreline condition for this lake as well.”

Justin Chenevert

Water Resources Management Specialist – Bureau of Water Quality
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources