Land use planning

Dramatically changing land use patterns, can directly effect the quality of lakes. Increasing development density within a lake's watershed can negatively impact lakes by reducing water quality by increasing the amount of polluted runoff making its way into our lakes from roads, lawns, construction sites, storm sewers, and other sources. Loss of habitat for fish and wildlife, recreational use conflicts, and changing aesethics can also occur as landscapes change.

Local governments have used a variety of tools—lake classification, comprehensive "Smart Growth" planning, strengthening shoreland zoning standards, developing ordinances— to help protect lakes and plan for development within the watershed.

Many lake people are involved in local land use planning processes at the town and county levels. Participating in land use planning can help ensure that lake interests are considered in the larger community planning process.

Planning is policy-oriented, and a planning process is designed to foster public input; the plan should be a reflection of the community’s desires. A comprehensive plan is prepared by a planning commission or committee and is adopted by the governing body. The plan sets forth broad goals, objectives, policies and recommendations that may be implemented using a variety of tools.

In Wisconsin, local land use actions and regulations such as zoning and land division regulations must be consistent with a locally adopted comprehensive plan by January 1, 2010.

Comprehensive planning resources (exits site)

Citizen's guide to land use planning (exits site)