GENERAL INFORMATION/SHORELINE RESTORATION

With the exceptionally high water, many trees along the Forest Lake shoreline are under stress or already dead.  While Forest Lake property owners may remove dead trees on their property, the DNR has provided the following guidance concerning trees that fall into the lake:


Trees that naturally fall (storms, rot, etc.) into the lake can, at the owner’s option, be removed or left there to benefit the natural habitat;

Trees that are cut and fall into the lake should be removed unless the owner obtains a permit to drop trees into the water; and

The DNR needs to be consulted (1-888-WDNRINFO or CSWEB@wisconsin.gov) whenever tree removal from the lake would involve significant dredging or bank disruption.

Shoreline Restoration:  A 35 foot Shoreline Buffer can:

  • Improve Water Quality - Native vegetation along the shoreline filters out pollutants and nutrients before they run into lakes and streams.
  • Reduce Soil Erosion - The roots of turf grass are very shallow. Native plants are better at stabilizing eroding shorelines.
  • Improve Wildlife Habitat - Native shoreline habitats provide food, shelter and homes for songbirds, fish, beneficial insects, and other wildlife.
  • Reduce Noise Pollution - Noise from motorboats and lake activity can be reduced with shoreline vegetation.
  • Increase Leisure Time - Spend less time mowing and maintaining your property, use fewer fertilizers and pesticides, and spend more time sitting back to enjoy your natural surroundings.


New Plantings: 

Thinking of planting native ferns? Or something for your shade garden or shady area in your yard? See the photo below for information on different varieties of ferns from Prairie Nursery and their contact information: www.prairienursery.com


From our friends at Vilas Co. Land & Water Conservation come these 4 simple steps you can do to protect Forest Lake and all our lakes:

  • Give wildlife space - Stay at least 200 feet away from wildlife, nests and marked breeding areas.  Close encounters can disrupt activities like resting, breeding and finding food.
  • Keep the shoreline natural.  Leave logs and submerged vegetation in place.  Keep shoreline vegetation intact.  Driftwood, downed trees and plants provide habitat for fish and wildlife, hold soil in place, and filter pollutants and excess nutrients that fuel algae.
  • Observe No-Wake Zones.  Slow to No-Wake within 200 ft. of the shoreline and wildlife.  Wakes can cause erosion - especially since the water level on Forest Lake has been so high for a number of years.  Wakes can also disturb animals and damage vegetation.
  • Prevent the spread of invasive species.  Before leaving the water access, clean, drain and dry all gear.  Invasive species can overtake native plants and animals, creating ecosystem imbalances.
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