For half a century, Lake Tides has been more than just a newsletter—it has been a bridge between science, policy, and the people who love Wisconsin’s lakes. Published by the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point’s Extension Lakes program, this quarterly publication has become a trusted source for lake enthusiasts, waterfront property owners, conservationists, and anyone curious about the health and future of the state’s waters. When Lake Tides first appeared in the mid 1970’s, its mission was simple yet ambitious. Their mission is to educate the public about lake ecology and management, share success stories from communities working to protect their waters, and connect citizens, scientists, and policymakers in a shared conversation about stewardship. Over the decades, the newsletter has covered everything from invasive species threats to shoreline restoration projects, from legislative updates to profiles of local lake associations. Its pages have reflected the evolving challenges facing Wisconsin’s 15,000 lakes and the creative, community driven solutions that emerge in response. What makes the Lake Tides newsletter unique is that it is science made accessible, it’s a statewide perspective, and it’s a platform for collaboration. One recurring theme is that while the threats to lakes such as climate change, nutrient runoff, and invasive species have grown more complex, so too has the network of people committed to addressing them. Lake Tides has been a constant thread in that network, weaving together stories of resilience and innovation. Anyone can subscribe to Lake Tides, it’s free and available both in print and online. You can find it online by searching “UWEX Lake Tides.” Readers are encouraged to share their own lake stories, volunteer for monitoring programs, or attend events like the Wisconsin Lakes & Rivers Convention, where the newsletter’s community often gathers in person. In the end, Lake Tides is more than a publication, it’s a living record of Wisconsin’s relationship with its lakes. It reminds us that stewardship is not a solitary act but a shared journey, one that spans generations and shorelines.
Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land Conservation and Land Information Department. For more information contact Lucas O’Brien, Forest County Land Conservation Technician at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at