"Resource classification is one of the basic tools used by resource managers. While each lake is unique and deserving of an individual management plan, it is impractical and unrealistic for broad units of government to strive to manage all lakes individually. Classification suggests that it makes sense to place lakes into categories with management strategies best suited to the types of lakes found in each category. For example, lakes can be classified to apply varying shoreland development standards.

Lakes can be grouped based on hydrology, average depth, surface area, shoreline configuration, as well as sensitivity to pollutants and recreational use. This is a rational approach which allows us to manage lakes in a manner which considers the lake's capacity to support growth and development.The idea is that some categories of lakes are more vulnerable to problems associated with over use or are better suited to some uses than others. In recognizing these differences, a county or other unit of government is in a better position to implement appropriate management."

Excerpted from "What is Lake Classification? (Fact Sheet #1 of the Shoreland Management and Lake Classification Series)," drafted by Carroll Schaal, WDNR Lakes Team Leader

Read the Wisconsin Lake Partnership's Shoreland Management and Lake Classification Fact Sheet Series for details.

OBJECTIVE OF LAKE CLASSIFICATION

" The intent of lake classification is to protect and manage the state's lakes in the best interests of the citizens of the state of Wisconsin while taking into consideration local issues and needs. Minimum state standards often fail to account for variation in the biological and physical characteristics of lakes; counties are thus encouraged to develop lake specific management strategies which are sensitive to these differences. Funds are available for the development and application of a wide array of management tools such as zoning upgrades, educational programs and land management plans to implement objectives established for each lake class by the county.
The overall goal of the program is to encourage the management of lakes and their watersheds on the basis of lake-specific characteristics. "

-Excerpted from "A Guide for County Lake Classification," prepared by the Lake Classification Advisory Committee, June 1999.