Water Quality Mangement Plan
An affirmative vote at the 2025 Annual Meeting approved the preparation of a Silver Lake Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) at a cost not to exceed $20,000.
The proposed WQMP will be prepared by the Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission (SEWRPC), based on the results of a study to be undertaken by the agency's water quality specialists. The study will examine several Silver Lake water quality concerns including stormwater outfalls, pollutant loading sources, beach closures, shoreline conditions, boating carrying capacity, and aquatic habitat.
At its September 2025 meeting, The District Board approved the scope of the SEWRPC work proposal and the preparation and submittal of a Surface Water Grant application to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) to offset some of the cost. The application was submitted prior to the November deadline. In early February 2026, the WDNR awarded the District a $13,400 grant to support the development of the WQMP.
The Silver Lake Protection Association will donate $2,000 to the District to support the effort.
As a result, the District's net cost will not exceed $4,600.
Next Steps:
- The District will finalize the grant with WDNR.
- The District will contract with SEWRPC to undertake the summer 2026 field study and prepare the WQMP.
- A presentation of SEWRPC's scope of work, timeline, and the goals of the WQMP will be made at the District's 2026 Annual Meeting.
- The field study will take place during summer 2026.
- Preliminary study findings will be presented in early fall 2026.
- A draft WQMP will be available for public and agency review in late fall/early winter 2026.
- After review and revision, the District Board will consider adoption of the final WQMP in spring
Documents:
