Clean Water Updates
Current issues updated as necessary to keep our Clean Water supporters informed.
Posted July 1, 2025- DNR releases latest PFAS well testing results for Stella and expands free well testing to Pine Lake, Pelican, Newbold, Crescent, and Sugar Camp.
Stella Updated Well Testing
As of June 20, 2025, the DNR has received PFAS results for 241 private wells in the vicinity of the Town of Stella. Of the 241 wells sampled for PFAS:
- 88 private wells have reported concentrations of PFAS greater than DHS' recommended health guidelines.
- 39 private wells have reported detections for PFAS but are less than the DHS' recommended health guidelines.
- 114 private wells have no reported detections for PFAS.
Here is the 6/2025 updated link map of PFAS sampling results [PDF] for private wells in the Town of Stella/Starks.
Expanded Testing to Pine Lake, Newbold, Crescent, Pelican, and Sugar Camp
As an expansion of a previous private well sampling project in the Town of Stella, the DNR and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are offering free PFAS sampling in private wells to some communities within Oneida County. The cost-free sampling is available to full-time and seasonal residents who receive a letter of eligibility from the DNR. This sampling is offered to a targeted number of private drinking water wells in four general locations around Oneida County in the townships of Crescent, Newbold, Pelican, Sugar Camp and Pine Lake. Those who choose to participate in this sampling effort will receive their private well's sample results and any recommendations from the DNR.
This project will begin in July 2025 and will likely run through December 2025. Eligibility letters will be sent to homeowners in batches to accommodate laboratory capacity. Therefore, not all residences will receive notification of sampling availability at the same time. Well owners can submit questions to DNRDGOneidaCountyPFAS@wisconsin.gov or 888-626-0605.
More information may be found at the DNR/Stella webpage PFAS Contamination in the Town of Stella and Oneida County | | Wisconsin DNR
WXPR coverage Wisconsin DNR expands private well PFAS testing to five Oneida County townships | WXPR
Posted July 9, 2025- A Fox 6 Milwaukee report on Wave Boats covers latest news on the controversy.
The Fox news report posted on YouTube Wakesurfing 'stalemate' in Wisconsin | FOX6 News Milwaukee covers multiple positions on the controversial issue. In a quote from the
video Scott Rolfs from Lakes at Stake said:
"On the statewide level, Scott Rolfs calls it a stalemate.
"I think there's a strong division in the Republican Party over what to do with this," he said.
Rolfs is an officer of Lakes at Stake, one of 80 organizations that now belong to the Coalition to Protect Wisconsin Lakes, formed for the express purpose of restricting what they call "wake-enhanced boating" in Wisconsin."
OCCWA is one of the 80 organizations belonging to the Coalition to Protect Wisconsin Lakes. We are not surprised at the no progress reported on state legislation on Wave Boats. Despite overwhelming public support, the boating industry as many other industries have strong influence on legislators. While the stalemate continues, many of the Northwood glacial lakes without local ordinance protection will continue to be affected. It appears no consensus is in sight, as quoted from the Fox 6 video.
"The coalition recently met with wakesurfing supporters in the office of State Senator Mary Felzkowski, a Republican from Tomahawk. In a statement to FOX6, Felzkowski called it "a good initial conversation," but said there was "no initial general consensus."
In the meantime, as reported earlier both a Texas and a Florida resident are suing to the state constitutionality of local town ordinances. This too may wind up being a battle of big money over public local control. From the Fox6 video:
While more communities consider wake-enhancement restrictions, property owners in far northwestern Wisconsin are going to court.
Republican Party donor and millionaire Chad McEver of Texas is one of three plaintiffs who own property on Birch Island Lake in the Town of Scott in Burnett County. In May, they sued over the town's newly-enacted wake-enhancement restrictions, calling the ordinance "unconstitutionally vague" and a violation of the state's Public Trust Doctrine, which ensures lakes and rivers are accessible to all.
Another big money reminder, in the picture at the top of this update we shared an advertisement run by the Water Sports Industry Association. The ad was run in a local paper just at the start of the Wave Boat controversy. We'll leave it up to you to figure out what they were trying to convey. It is possible we missed the ad thanking Wisconsinites for all the money they have spent on supporting that industry over the years.
Posted June 30, 2025- Minocqua Winter Park, "it's not just for winter anymore".
Walk on the Wild Side: Summer Wildlife Series
Whether you are in it for the science, the storytelling, or just a cool reason to get out of the house—this Northwoods speaker series has something for you. Ever seen a bear’s pawprint up close? Wondered why wolves get such a bad rap—or how a red-tailed hawk sees the world? This summer at Minocqua Winter Park, you are invited to a series of captivating talks that go way beyond wildlife trivia. Think deep stories, cultural insight, hands-on curiosities, and a few jaw-dropping facts you will want to share on social media. These free events bring together conservationists, cultural storytellers, and unforgettable animals for an hour of connection—no hiking boots or background knowledge required. Whether you are seven or seventy, nature-curious or just looking for something new to do by the lake—everyone is invited.
Come curious. Leave a little wilder.
Hosted inside the Chalet at Minocqua Winter Park 7543 Squirrel Hill Road, each talk blends science, storytelling, and immersive learning. Weather permitting, guests are also encouraged to explore the stunning views from the Squirrel Hill Tower Overlook. The first event in the series, Sleepy and Creepy: Why Animals and Plants Need the Dark, with Dr. Gretchen Gerrish, Trout Lake Station Director, welcomed an enthusiastic, intergenerational crowd. Linda, an attendee from the Fox valley area told us:
“This was great! I am glad I made the trip. This was so nice and different to do while up at the lake… everyone in my family had so much fun. That’s what made it special for my grandkids. We can’t wait for the next opportunity to learn more.“
No registration required, but seating is limited. Donations welcome.
Event details and registration can be found at: Walk on the Wild Side: Summer Wildlife Series – Minocqua Winter Park
Posted 6/25/2025- WJFW invited OCCWA to talk clean water on Tuesday June 24. Kathleen Cooper and Eric Rempala represented OCCWA in discussing Knowles Nelson funding as well as where the Wisconsin Wave Boat legislation is at. You can view the 5-minute clip here: OCCWA (6-24-25) | | wjfw.com
We at OCCWA are always grateful to Dan Hagen and Agnes Kozina and the whole WJFW family for giving us a chance to talk Clean Water and hopefully attract a few more followers. We were also promised a full 30 minutes at our next appearance. :)
Thanks to all of you at WJFW from all of us at OCCWA!
Posted June 27, 2025- Wisconsin's Greenfire shares report on statewide PFAS coalition meeting in Wausau.
OCCWA is a member of a statewide coalition on PFAS. On June 5th our organization participated in a PFAS summit hoping to advocate for our county residents affected by PFAS. To do this we need a strong voice not only in Oneida County but also in Madison. This coalition is a most effective combination of Wisconsin Environmental Gorups and local community advocates. We are proud to work with these dedicated people and thank them for all their efforts on this important issue. Below is Wisconsin's Greenfire's report on the summit.
On June 4-5, 2025, Wisconsin’s Green Fire participated in the first in-person summit of the statewide PFAS coalition. As you may know, PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. These “forever chemicals” are common in many household and industrial products but are known to contaminate drinking water in some areas of Wisconsin. This coalition of groups working on PFAS typically meets virtually each week. It includes many conservation organizations including WGF, advocacy groups, faith groups, and others from around Wisconsin. The representatives from WGF at the summit were John Robinson, Chair of our Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CEC) Work Group, and Paul Heinen, WGF’s Policy Director.
Attendees came from Marinette to LaCrosse, Peshtigo to Stella, and many other cities, towns and villages. We convened at Rib Mountain State Park to share experiences and stories of the work to clean up PFAS in their communities. Some are local officials, some are heads of local citizens groups and other are moms and dads with kids who need clean water to drink.
Many of the attendees have been working for seven or more years to get the needed funding for their hometown’s cleanups. In the meantime, they are drinking bottled water and teaching their children to avoid the taps in their homes. They have been working with a cadre of lobbyists, including Paul Heinen, to convince the Legislature to write protective standards covering this forever pollutant and have come to Madison numerous times to tell their story and lobby their representatives.
Wisconsin’s Green Fire’s CEC Work Group has been supplying the statewide group with the science, regulatory and policy information needed to address the PFAS problem. We will continue to work together until we solve the problem of PFAS in Wisconsin for all people living, working and visiting Wisconsin.
Posted 6/23/2024- Northwoods Six County Lakes and Rivers Meeting scheduled for July 11th. This informative meeting is open to the general public and free of charge!
OCLRA and VCLRA present the 2025 Six County Lakes and Rivers Meeting
Friday, July 11, 2025, will be the annual Six County Lakes and Rivers Meeting presented by Oneida County Lakes and Rivers Association and Vilas County Lakes and Rivers Association. This FREE event will be held at the Lakeside Center at Nicolet College in Rhinelander, 5364 College Dr, Rhinelander, WI 54501.
This year’s theme is: Quakes to Our Lakes: What’s Shakin’?
The focus will be on things that are shaking up the lakes and causing issues for all lake lovers. The morning will kick off with presentations on wake boats, blue-green algae, Eurasian water milfoil (EWM) management and grant opportunities for riparian owners.
The late afternoon will feature a question-and-answer time with panelists about EWM and options beyond just herbicide treatment.
Doors will open at 8:30 a.m. and guests are free to talk with presenters as well as organizations and businesses who have informational booths outside the theater. Refreshments will be available as well.
At 9 a.m., programming starts with an introduction from Eric Olson from Extension Lakes. Presenters include Ted Rulseh, who will speak about the Lakes Steward Program, a representative from Wisconsin Lakes with a legislative update, followed by panelist presenters.
- Michelle Nault of the DNR will talk about EWM management
- John Richter of Last Wilderness Alliance will give an update on wake boats
- Michele Sadauksas and Beckie Gaskill will give an introduction to lesser-known grants available to lake organizations
- Gina LaLiberte will wrap up the first part of the morning with a presentation on cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)
After a break to visit exhibitors, a panel will convene, giving attendees a chance to learn about alternative herbicide treatments and to ask various questions of the panelist's presentations. After the panel discussion, attendees are invited to head to a breakout room where attendees and lake organizations from each county will gather by county to network and discuss local lake issues. Those looking to skip the registration line can pre-register here: https://SixCountyMeeting.eventbrite.com
Posted 6/23/2025- Our friends at Northwoods Land Trust are offering a free guided Gile Flowage paddle as well as a free Landowner Lakeshore Workshop in the month of July. Details below:
Join Northwoods Land Trust for a Paddle on the Gile Flowage
Eagle River, WI – Northwoods Land Trust is delighted to announce it will host a Paddling the Gile Flowage event on Sunday, July 13 from 2-4:30 pm. The event will start at the boat landing at Gile Park.
This 3,400-acre flowage is located in Iron County and was created by a dam on the West Branch of the Montreal River. During the paddle, we will look at plants and animals we encounter, discuss federal licensing of the Gile Dam, and learn about some of the geological features of the area.
The event is open to everybody and is free to attend. Registration is required by going online to www.northwoodslandtrust.org and click on ‘News & Events’ to sign up, or by emailing Troy Walters at troy@northwoodslandtrust.org. Please register by July 11, space is limited. Participants should expect to paddle 3+ miles and need to provide their own watercraft, paddles, PFD, snack and water.
The Northwoods Land Trust is proud to host this event during the seventh annual Wisconsin Land Trust Days event series organized by Gathering Waters: Wisconsin’s Alliance for Land Trusts. Wisconsin Land Trust Days is an annual celebration of land trusts featuring family-friendly events that take place every year in July, August, and September. Guests learn about the benefits and importance of protecting natural places in their communities. A full list of Wisconsin Land Trust Days events is available at www.HaveFunOutside.org.
Northwoods Land Trust permanently conserves natural shorelands, woodlands and other natural resources to benefit present and future generations in Vilas, Oneida, Forest, Florence, Iron, Price and Langlade Counties. Visit https://northwoodslandtrust.org/ to learn more about land conservation services available to private landowners, protected lands, and future events.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Troy Walters – Outreach & Monitoring Coordinator
(715) 479-2490
Free Lakeshore Workshop opportunity in Newbold!
Do you own lake or river shoreline? Are you interested in learning about how to best maintain and improve it, or even preserve it for the future? If so, you are encouraged to attend a free workshop and lunch for shoreland owners on Thursday, July 24 from 10 am – 12:30 pm at the Newbold Town Hall on Highway 47 north of Rhinelander. The topics that will be covered by three Northwoods organizations (Northwoods Land Trust, Oneida County Land and Water Department, and Oneida County Lakes and Rivers Association) include:
- · Using shoreland best practices to improve water quality, increase property values, and increase the biodiversity of your shoreline. Michele Sadauskas, County Conservationist and Baerbel Ehrig, Lakeshore Restoration Specialist both from Oneida County Land & Water Conservation Department will discuss bee lawns, pollinator habitat, cost share grant opportunities, and more!
- · Permanent shoreland and upland conservation options for private landowners including the basics of conservation easements. John Heusinkveld, Conservation Outreach Specialist, Northwoods Land Trust.
- · Programs and resources for new shoreland property owners and lake associations. Ted Rulseh, President, Oneida County Lakes & Rivers Association.
Pre-registration is requested by going to www.northwoodslandtrust.org. Navigate to the news and events page, and there you’ll find the workshop with a link to register. Preregister for an online ZOOM link if you are unable to attend in person.
For in person attendees: Arrive at the Newbold Town Hall & Community Center on Highway 47 by 10 am. Address: 4608 Apperson Dr., Rhinelander, Wi., 54501. A light lunch will be served for those who RSVP'd. Lunch is at noon.
Contact me with any questions or cancellations: John Heusinkveld, Conservation Outreach Specialist, at john@northwoodslandtrust.org or (715) 612-0694 (cell)
We look forward to seeing you.
*Posted 6/9/2025- Wisconsin Lakes at Stake newsletter provides latest news on Wakeboat legislation.
We at OCCWA are just one of 80 Wisconsin based groups supporting meaningful wakeboat legislation. We would like to share the latest update from Wisconsin Lakes at Stake. The message below is a direct copy of their latest newsletter. If you would like to join their email list, you can do so at Join Our Email List — Lakes at Stake
Important Wakeboat Legislative Update
Welcome to the latest edition of the Lakes at Stake Wisconsin newsletter! We are dedicated to preserving the beauty and safety of Wisconsin’s treasured glacial lakes. This is a brief update on what is happening in Madison. On May 28th there was a meeting at the Capital with a group of legislators along with wakeboat lobbyists and our Lakes at Stake Wisconsin lobbyist. The purpose of the meeting was to see if consensus could be reached on statewide wakesurfing legislation. During the meeting State Senate President Mary Felzkowski (R-Tomahawk) made it clear to all meeting participants that she would oppose any state legislation that limited or qualified local control in any respect on this issue. We applaud Senator Felzkowski for this position. Lakes and rivers in Wisconsin are unique and different, and many towns have already implemented their own ordinances or are contemplating enacting something in the months ahead. We welcome other legislators and the Governor to also affirm or reaffirm that full local control is their position as well. The wakeboat industry’s primary goal with any statewide legislation is to pre-empt this local control, whether an outright prohibition on local ordinances or by putting some type of collar on local control. Examples of a collar might be: Your town may only have a wakesurf ordinance if you have a certain amount of annual water patrol hours, or the ordinance would need to be passed by unanimous vote, etc. Sen. Felzkowski’s commitment doesn’t mean we are out of the woods on the local control issue but having her as a champion on this point is very important and welcome. There still is a push by a small handful of legislators to want watered down wakeboat operational standards, such as only 200 or 300 feet from shore and zero or minimal depth requirements. We’d like to remind those in Madison that:
- Public opinion on this issue is now heavily on the side of serious reforms, whether in polls, surveys or Wisconsin Conservation Congress votes.
- The reputable science is on the side of serious wakesurfing reforms
- 53 municipalities and counting, who have enacted town ordinances covering 310 of the 2,350 lakes over 50-acres are on the side of serious wakesurfing reform
- A growing and bipartisan coalition of 80 Wisconsin based groups are on the side of reform.
Over the past two years the wakeboat industry has continued to maintain that wake surfing 200’ from shore with no minimum depth requirement is sufficient to protect Wisconsin’s glacial lakes. The wakeboat manufacturers seem to be oblivious to the fact that existing state statutes mandate a minimum 100’ slow-no-wake zone to protect shorelines and swimmers and that many municipalities, exercising local control, have increased their slow-no wake zones to 200’ and in some cases 300’. Thus 200 feet from shore isn’t any different than existing slow-no-wake regulations for a number of Wisconsin lakes. All of the reputable in-water studies that have been undertaken in the U.S. have concluded that wake surf waves require 600’ to diminish in size and energy to equal other typical power boats at 200’ from shore. There is no justification for allowing perhaps less than 1% of Wisconsin’s registered boat owners to risk damaging shorelines, docks and boat lifts, not to mention endangering swimmers near shorelines.
And this is before accounting for lake depth. We’re only beginning to understand the full impacts of downward prop wash on lake bottoms. Testing on Lake Waramaug in Connecticut in 2024, produced video of disturbance as deep as 26 feet. Additional testing is on-going. Bottom scouring is a serious issue in that it damages fish habitat, increases nutrients in the water column that can lead to algae blooms, and increases turbidity. Before Wisconsin legislators rush forward with industry recommended regulations, they should ask the wake boat industry to prove why their numbers are sufficient to protect our glacial lakes. You can draw your own conclusions as to why their industry has yet to agree to transparent testing on lakes here in Wisconsin. We’ve challenged the wakeboat manufacturers to no avail. The vast majority of Wisconsin lake users have made their position clear that they do not want to see their lakes continue to be battered by these boats designed to produce massive artificial wake. We don’t allow Monster Trucks to run through public parks. We need to protect our lakes in the same way. Hold the wakeboat manufacturer’s accountable for their products and vet their claims before putting our lakes at risk.Thank you!
