Over the past approximately seven years, the U.S. Geological Survey and the Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission, at the request of the Whitewater-Rice Lakes Management District, have been conducting lake management-related data collection and analysis efforts. These efforts have now been integrated into a lake management plan for Whitewater and Rice Lakes, which plan addresses the water quality, recreational use, and natural resource problems of the Lakes. The preparation of the plan was a cooperative effort by the Whitewater-Rice Lakes Management District, the U.S. Geological Survey, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and the Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission. This report documents the recommended lake management plan. The report describes the physical and biological characteristics of Whitewater and Rice Lakes and their watershed; the quality of the Lake waters and the factors affecting that quality, including land use and management practices; the recreational use of the Lakes; the shoreline conditions around the Lakes; and sets forth recommended management measures.

Analyze and interpret data collected as part of first lake planning grant #1011-01. All data will be published in the USGS annual report. A final report will be published by USGS and DNR shall receive copies. USGS is providing a matching grant of $6,666. Information will be disseminated to the public by newsletter mailings, local newspaper articles, public meetings and summary report mailings.

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