Research shows that the health of a lake or stream is usually a direct reflection of the use and management of the land within its watershed. Research also shows that interventions are often necessary to maintain or improve the conditions of these resources. Located within U.S. Public Land Survey Sections 23 and 26, Township 9 North, Range 19 East, in the Village of Richfield, Washington County (see Map 1), Bark Lake, together with its tributaries, and associated wetlands, is a high-quality natural resource. The purpose of this plan is to provide a framework to protect and improve the land and water resources of Bark Lake and its watershed with a focus on protecting this existing high-quality resource from human impacts and preventing future water pollution or resource degradation from occurring. The recommendations provided in the plan are appropriate and feasible watershed management measures for enhancing and preserving the water quality of Bark Lake as well as for providing the public with opportunities for safe and enjoyable recreation within the Lake’s watershed. It is important to note that this plan complements other existing programs and ongoing management actions in the Bark Lake watershed and represents the continuing commitments of government agencies, municipalities, and citizens to diligent land use planning and natural resource protection. Additionally, it was designed to assist State and local units of government, nongovernmental organizations, businesses, and citizens in developing strategies that will benefit the natural assets of Bark Lake and protect sensitive habitats within the watershed. By using the strategies outlined in this plan, results will be achieved that enrich and preserve the natural environment. This planning program was funded, in part, through a Chapter NR 190 Lake Management Planning Grant awarded to the Bark Lake Association (BLA), in collaboration with the Village of Richfield and Washington County, and administered by the WDNR. The inventory and aquatic plant management plan elements presented in this report conform to the requirements and standards set forth in the relevant Wisconsin Administrative Codes.

The Village of Richfield will hire a contractor to conduct a plant survey and create the first aquatic plant and lake management plan for Bark Lake. The plant survey will be a point intercept survey totaling 274 points. The lake will be sampled in mid-summer. The final report will contain the following elements: 1) Results of the points sampled, including sediment type found and maximum rooting depth; 2) Results of a general lake survey to map general plant beds, map localized plant beds, map species distribution and a list of plant species found; 3) Review of existing conditions of the watershed, identify and quantify potential point and nonpoint sources of pollution, and identify nutrient and contaminant input and balances; 4) Results of WILMS and UAL modeling; 5) Results of a recreational use survey; 6) An aquatic plant management plan that meets the requirements of NR 109.09; 7) A lake management plan and 8) Minutes from one public meeting regarding lake plan issues.