Living on the lake is both a joy and a privilege.  As lake property owners we’re charged with being good stewards of the shoreline, water and wildlife that we enjoy every day.  The resources below offer some resources that will help you make the most of your lake life.

Membership

Join us in supporting BLPA!  Membership is open to anyone regardless of shoreline property status.  Whether you’re  current property owner or someone with childhood memories of this special place, you can support our efforts to keep Blue Lake special.  Property owners are entitled to become voting members however non property owners, including family members, may join as non-voting, associate members.  All members receive mailings including the Northwoods News newsletter and have the opportunity to participate in committees and social events.  Dues are $30 annually.

Protecting Shoreline Vegetation

Trees literally stitch lakefront property together with roots, keeping soil and sediment from washing away and into.  Trees act as filters, slowing the introduction of phosphorous and other pollutants.  Trees become homes for kingfishers, frogs, butterflies, eagles and all those songbirds we try so hard to attract.  Trees shade the water, moderating temperatures for fish like walleye and perch.  Branches and trunks that fall into the water provide critical habitat for fish and the invertebrates they eat.  Studies have shown that a single hardwood tree on the waterfront produces several hundred pounds of fish food per year.  44 percent of the annual diet of lake fish originated in trees.  To read more about how trees and other lake shore vegetation effects our wildlife and lake water quality, check out Loving Lakefront to Death and Wisconsin Lakes, Shoreline and Shallows

Septic Systems

It’s important that you keep your septic system in good working order and compliant with Onieda County ordinances.  The document, What Makes a Healthy, Happy Septic System!, was shared at the August, 2015 annual meeting.

Shoreland Lighting

Enjoying the night sky is one of the attractions of living in the Northwoods.  Yet it seems that most people are not aware of the impact their outdoor lighting has on our view of the moon and stars. This publication by the University of Wisconsin-Extension discusses the issue of appropriate shoreline lighting, light pollution and considerations of neighbors.  Take a few minutes to read the on-line brochure, Sensible Shoreland Lighting, so we can all enjoy the beauty of the night.