A watershed study was performed for the St. Croix Headwaters Watershed, including all areas upstream of Gordon Dam near Gordon, WI. The study focused on priority water resource issues identified through collaboration with the local sponsor and stakeholders. This included evaluating existing conditions for river and lake water quality; wetlands presence and function; aquatic habitat; fish passage; aquatic invasive species and St. Croix Flowage Management. The potential for future development was also assessed, including the potential impact of this development on priority water resources. Finally, recommendations were made to direct future watershed management.

Friends of the St. Croix Headwaters in partnership with several lake/river groups, government agencies, non-profit conservation organizations, will undertake an expansive project to monitor, model, and provide information and education throughout the Upper St. Croix Watershed, which spans Douglas and Bayfield Counties.