How has the algae had an impact on attitudes about these lakes and the quality of their water?

Over the last few years people have started to specifically ask about the algae when looking at property around Petenwell and Castle Rock lakes.
Paul will tell them honestly that there are times when it is a problem, that the water quality and the stench are so bad that it can make some areas
unusable for recreation. It isn’t the best part of his job, but he knows that it is a reality and that it wouldn’t be right to leave folks in the dark.
“These lakes are a great natural resource that everyone deserves to enjoy,” says Paul, “but that’s hard to do when they are polluted with algae.” He
remains optimistic though, “If people cause this problem then people can fix it too.”

What can be done about the algae problem?

State rules that limit phosphorus runoff have been adopted, but the legislature may eliminate or postpone those rules. Letting the rules go into effect, especially on agricultural lands, would be a significant step toward cleaning up the algae problems and ensuring that realtors like Paul can keep showing quality property to potential buyers.

Who can fix this?

Citizens should contact their legislators and ask them to reject proposals to weaken, postpone or eliminate the phosphorus rules. Legislators that value clean water and a healthy tourism industry in Wisconsin should support current phosphorus rules that limit how much pollution can enter waterways.

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