Green Lake Association

06/11/2026

Thank you to the volunteers from Grande Cheese Company who spent yesterday morning at Sunset Park helping prepare the shoreline for this Saturday's Native Shoreline Planting Workshop.

There's no single solution to safeguarding Green Lake, but native shoreline restoration is one way community members can support long-term water quality and a healthy lake ecosystem.

We're grateful to Grande Cheese Company and the Green Lake County Land Conservation Department for helping make this work possible.

Interested in creating a native shoreline of your own? Sign up to join the conversation here: https://www.greenlakeassociation.org/shoreline-improvement-program

06/11/2026

Last month, we welcomed our Secchi disk volunteers back onto Green Lake for an annual training.

Throughout the season, our volunteers measure water clarity by using a black-and-white Secchi disk, recording the depths at which the disk disappears and reappears into view. Water clarity is one indicator of lake health and these measurements help improve our long-term understanding of Green Lake.

During this year's training, GLA staff members, John and Grace, shared updates on how Secchi data is used alongside other water quality monitoring to track our progress and assess changes in lake conditions over time.

Thank you to our volunteers who dedicate their time each season to support this important work!

06/10/2026

Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are plants, animals, or pathogens that are brought into an area by human action where they do not naturally occur. Once established, AIS spread rapidly in their new environment due to having no natural predators.

Many AIS spread by hitching rides between lakes on boats, trailers, fishing gear, and other equipment. A few extra minutes before entering or leaving the water can help reduce that risk.

Help prevent the spread of AIS:
• Inspect boats, trailers, and other equipment
• Remove plants, animals, mud, or other debris
• Drain all water from live wells and equipment
• Use the self-service boat wash station at Dodge Memorial Country Park or CD3 cleaning station at Horner's Landing before entering Green Lake. Learn more: https://www.greenlakeassociation.org/boat-wash-station

These small actions help reduce the spread of AIS before they enter the lake. It takes all of us to do our part to help safeguard Green Lake and other Wisconsin waters.

Learn more about AIS in Green Lake: https://www.greenlakeassociation.org/invasive-species

06/08/2026

Every year, The Lake Ball brings together people who care deeply about Green Lake and its future.

It's an opportunity to connect with friends, neighbors, and partners, reflect on the progress being made across the watershed, and support the ongoing work needed to safeguard Green Lake for generations to come.

Join us on Saturday, August 1, from 5:30–8:30 pm at Heidel House Hotel & Conference Center for an evening of community, connection, and shared commitment to the lake we all love.

Tickets are available now: https://www.greenlakeassociation.org/lakeball2026

06/06/2026

Healthy shorelines do more than look beautiful—they are one of the most effective tools for protecting water quality.

Native plants help stabilize shorelines, reduce runoff, provide habitat for pollinators and wildlife.

Join Green Lake County Land Conservation and the Green Lake Association on Saturday, June 13, from 10–11:30 AM at Sunset Park for a hands-on Native Shoreline Planting Workshop. Whether you're a waterfront property owner, a lake enthusiast, or simply curious about native plants, you'll learn practical ways to support a healthier Green Lake.

We hope you'll join us!

06/05/2026

During our routine weekly sampling for blue-green algae, a bloom testing positive for toxins was identified at the County K Marsh boat launch. The Green Lake County Public Health Department has issued an advisory at that location. All other sampling sites tested negative.

Algae conditions can change quickly with shifts in wind and temperature. Always use your best judgement and look for visual signs before entering the water. Watch for signs like:

-Water that looks like green paint or pea soup
-Discolored streaks or surface scum
-An unusual or foul smell

The Green Lake Sanitary District also conducts weekly monitoring for E. coli. Sampling results this week showed no elevated levels.

UPDATE: June 11, 2026 **The Green Lake Association (GLA) confirmed today that the boat launch at County Hwy K Marsh continues to test positive for Anatoxin-a. Last year this same spot tested positive for Blue Green Algae for a majority of the testing season. The GLA will continue to test weekly and monitor the bloom. Remember: When in doubt, stay out!**

June 4, 2026
⚠️CAUTION⚠️ Blue Green Algae Bloom at County Hwy K Marsh boat launch!

We have a confirmed blue-green algae bloom in the County Hwy K boat launch that is positive for Anatoxin-a.

The Green Lake Association will continue to monitor the bloom. Please check back for updates!

Blue-green algae blooms are toxic to human and pet health. The toxins produced during a bloom can cause severe illness if ingested or contacted. Use caution around the water in the area of the advisory or if, at any time, you see the water showing the blue-green color characteristic of an algal bloom and the appearance of pea soup.

Algae conditions can change quickly with shifts in wind and temperature. Always use your best judgement and look for visual signs before entering the water. Watch for signs like:

-Water that looks like green paint or pea soup
-Discolored streaks or surface scum
-An unusual or foul smell

06/04/2026

While GLA staff were conducting our weekly water quality testing at Sunset Park, a Rhode Island Air Guard C-130 made a low pass over the lake, creating quite the backdrop for a day on the water.

We spend a lot of time out on the lake throughout the season, but it's not every day we get a view like this.

Did anyone else spot this aircraft over Green Lake? Share your photos in the comments!

06/02/2026

In Wisconsin, June is Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Awareness Month. Aquatic invasive species are part of the long-term challenges facing lakes across Wisconsin, including Green Lake.

Species like zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, and carp can affect water quality, native habitat, recreation, and lake ecology over time. Managing them requires ongoing monitoring, research, and coordinated action across the watershed.

Understanding what’s present in the lake is an important first step. On our website, you can learn more about the six known aquatic invasive species identified in Green Lake, how they impact lake systems, and what prevention efforts look like locally.

Learn more here: https://www.greenlakeassociation.org/invasive-species

05/28/2026

Have you noticed the painted storm drains throughout downtown Green Lake?

These murals are more than public art — they’re reminders that storm drains flow directly to Green Lake and the Puchyan River, Green Lake’s outlet. Unlike water from sinks or toilets, stormwater is not treated before entering local waterways.

Leaves, grass clippings, trash, road salt, and other debris that enter a storm drain can all impact water quality downstream.

The next time you pass one of these murals along Mill Street, take a closer look — and remember that keeping storm drains clear helps support a healthier lake for everyone.

Created by Marcel Hones & Ripon College students and faculty.

05/27/2026

Tickets are now on sale for The Lake Ball, returning Saturday, August 1st at the Heidel House Hotel & Conference Center.

Presented by Craig & Katie Culver, this annual evening brings together community members, partners, and supporters who care deeply about the future of Green Lake.

The event includes a cocktail hour, elegant dinner, live auction, and lakeside celebration, all in support of long-term efforts to safeguard Green Lake.

Following the gala, guests are invited to continue the celebration at The After Party at Waves Pub & Grill with live music, dancing, and a complimentary bar. After Party tickets are included with The Lake Ball admission or available separately for $25.

Tickets now available: https://www.greenlakeassociation.org/lakeball2026