August, 2005
Protect Wisconsin's Lakes! Make Your Voice Heard!

The Save Our Lakes Initiative or Rule NR 115 is currently under review by the State of Wisconsin to update the 1968 shoreline zoning rules. The proposal would bring up to date sensible measures to prevent further runoff pollution, limit soil erosion and preserve the lake areas' scenic beauty and tranquility.

The updated plan would require developers to keep new developments at least 75 feet away from the shoreline; space new developments farther apart from each other; pave over less land, so less pollution runs off into the lake and finally, make larger developments, like condominiums and hotels, equal the minimum area standards identical to single family dwellings for each residence proposed in the development.

There are three easy things you can do to protect our lakes:

1. Attend the public hearing in Delavan and tell the DNR to adopt these rules. You can even tell them that you want them strengthened. The general format is that from 4:30 to 5:45, DNR staff will be available to provide information or answer questions. Starting at 6pm, the official comment session begins. Anyone wishing to speak just needs to fill out a slip and will be called when it is your turn. You should plan to speak for three to five minutes. While speaking, clearly state that you are in favor of stronger protections for our lakes.
To be most effective, incorporate personal experiences. If you have photos of your favorite lake or know of a lake that is no longer fishable or swimable or has become too crowded, bring them along.

2. Put your comments into writing and submit them to the DNR by August 12. You can either submit them in person at the hearing in your area or submit them online at www.adminrules.wisconsin.gov. The official rule name is NR 115. Your comments don't need to be that long or elaborate. You can incorporate language from our talking points if you wish.

3. Please send copies of your testimony to your legislators and a copy to the folks at WISPIRG so that they can distribute them to members of the Legislative Natural Resources Committees. Once the Department of Natural Resources finalizes the new rules to strengthen protections for our lakes, the Natural Resources Committees in the legislature will have the opportunity to approve the rule or suggest changes to it so it is important that they get copies of everyone comments. If you don't know who your legislators are, just let us know when you send a copy of your comments to us and we'll be sure to deliver them for you. Please send a copy of your comments to 210 N. Bassett St. Suite 200, Madison, WI 53703 or bspeight@wispirg.org.

For more information on the rules, visit WISPIRG or Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Thank you for your help!

Bruce Speight
WISPIRG Field Director

WISPIRG stands for the Wisconsin Public Interest Research Group. Please visit our website for more information.