Watershed - Lower Big Eau Pleine River (CW17)
Lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed

Details

The Lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed is located in Marathon County. There are high rates of surface run-off due to the silty soils and steep gradients in the area. This results in pollution transport to the streams during run-off. Water quality concerns include stream sedimentation, turbidity, filamentous algae growths, excessive nutrient enrichment and diurnal shifts in dissolved oxygen levels. Accelerated soil erosion rates along with manure handling practices within the townships of Bergen, Mosinee, Cassel, and Day warrant conservation assistance. The Lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed was ranked per the Nonpoint Source Priority Watershed Selection Criteria. Based on surface and ground water data, the overall ranking is high establishing the Lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed as a high priority for future grant eligibility through the Wisconsin Nonpoint Source Water Pollution Abatement Program. In 1993, a nonpoint source control plan was approved for the Lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed. The anticipated completion date was December 2002 (Haynes, 1993).

Date  2002

Population, Land Use

An area of concern involving surface water is non-metallic mining in the lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed in the Hadler-Mosinee area. Due to the decreasing availability of sand and gravel, excavations of rotten granite (grus) have increased. One particular area of concern is the Freeman Creek Watershed, where a large deposit is being mined. Studies of the current and long-term environmental impacts are warranted.

Date  2002

Nonpoint and Point Sources

The Upper Wisconsin River 208 Task Forces' Nonpoint Source Pollution Management Plan rated both the Upper and Lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed severely affected by NPS pollution. Water quality and land use information indicated the NPS problems are both intense and widespread. At that time this watershed had the highest livestock density in the Upper Wisconsin River Basin. Both the Marathon County Animal Waste and Soil Erosion Control Plans recommend the Lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed be considered as a future NR 120 priority watershed project. Accelerated soil erosion rates within the townships of Bergen, Mosinee, Cassel, and Day, plus manure handling practices, warrant conservation assistance. The Lower Big Eau Pleine River watershed was ranked per the Nonpoint Source Priority Watershed Selection Criteria. Based on NPS impacts on surface water quality, the watershed ranked "High" for NPS pollution control work. The watershed has been named a surface water priority watershed project under the Wisconsin Nonpoint Source Water Pollution Abatement pogram. The groundwater portion of the watershed ranked "Low".

Date  2002

Ecological Landscapes for Lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed

Ecological Landscapes

The Forest Transition Ecological Landscape lies along the northern border of Wisconsin's Tension Zone, through the central and western part of the state, and supports both northern forests and agricultural areas. The central portion of the Forest Transition lies primarily on a glacial till plain deposited by glaciation between 25,000 and 790,000 years ago. The eastern and western portions are on moraines of the Wisconsin glaciation. The growing season in this part of the state is long enough that agriculture is viable, although climatic conditions are not as favorable as in southern Wisconsin. Soils are diverse, ranging from sandy loam to loam or shallow silt loam, and from poorly drained to well drained. The historic vegetation of the Forest Transition was primarily northern hardwood forest. These northern hardwoods were dominated by sugar maple and hemlock, and contained some yellow birch, red pine and white pine. Currently, over 60% of this Ecological Landscape is non-forested. Forested areas consist primarily of northern hardwoods and aspen, with smaller amounts of oak and lowland hardwoods. The eastern portion of the Ecological Landscape differs from the rest of the area in that it remains primarily forested, and includes some ecologically significant areas. Throughout the Ecological Landscape, small areas of conifer swamp are found near the headwaters of streams, and associated with lakes in kettle depressions on moraines. Ground flora show characteristics of both northern and southern Wisconsin, as this Ecological Landscape lies along the Tension Zone.

Date  2010

Lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed At-a-Glance

Impaired Water in Lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed
River and Stream QualityAll Waters in Watershed

Stratford and Fenwood have municipal wastewater collection and treatment systems that discharge effluent to the Lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed. Although these treatment plants are capable of producing effluents low in BOD and total suspended solids, they are a significant source of nutrients discharged to surface waters and are not designed and operated for nutrient removal. Cheese factories are also a potential source of nutrients if washwater is discharged to surface waters. Reducing these nutrient sources is vital in cleaning up the Big Eau Pleine Reservoir.

Date  2001

Watershed Trout Streams
Watershed Outstanding & Exceptional Resources
River and Stream QualityAll Waters in Watershed

Water qualiy concerns are similar to those of the Upper Big Eau Pleine River watershed. There are high rates of surface runoff due to the silty soils and steep radients in the area. This results in efficient pollution transport to the streams during runoff. Water quality problems include stream sedimentation, turbidity, filamentous algae growths, excessive nutrient enrichment and diurnal shifts in dissolved oxygen levels. The Upper Wisconsin River 208 Task Forces' Nonpoint Source Pollution Management Plan rated both the Upper and Lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed severely affected by NPS pollution. Water quality and land use information indicated the NPS problems are both intense and widespread. At that time this watershed had the highest livestock density in the Upper Wisconsin River Basin. Both the Marathon County Animal Waste and Soil Erosion Control Plans recommend the Lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed be considered as a future NR 120 priority watershed project. Accelerated soil erosion rates within the townships of Bergen, Mosinee, Cassel, and Day, plus manure handling practices, warrant conservation assistance. The Lower Big Eau Pleine River watershed was ranked per the Nonpoint Source Priority Watershed Selection Criteria. Based on NPS impacts on surface water quality, the watershed ranked "High" for NPS pollution control work. The watershed has been named a surface water priority watershed project under the Wisconsin Nonpoint Source Water Pollution Abatement pogram. The groundwater portion of the watershed ranked "Low". Another area of concern involving surface water is non-metallic mining in the lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed in the Hadler - Mosinee area. Due to the decreasing availability of sand and gravel, excavations of rotten granite (grus) have increased. One particular area of concern is the Freeman Creek Watershed, where a large deposit is being mined. Preliminary environmental impacts due to rotten granite mining include: dewatering of water-bearing material, thus lowering groundwater levels; reducing base flow discharging to streams; discharging of sediment-laden water to surface water; destruction of trout habitat through sedimentation and turbidity; potentially reducing surface water pH via leaching of Fluorite from rotten granite. Study of the current and longterm environmental impacts due to non-metallic mining in the Lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed is warrented.

Date  1991

Watershed Trout Streams
Watershed Outstanding & Exceptional Resources

Lakes and Impoundments

Impaired Waters

List of Impaired Waters
Watershed Documents
Watershed Grants
Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
9/1/2013
Waters Involved
Big Bass Lake
Status
Complete

Marathon County: Lco-Marathon Class 7: Marathon County proposes to continue toward completion of its Phase II efforts to classify 11 lakes in eastern Marathon County. Major project elements to include: 1) Develop lake management plans, 2) Establish planning committees, 3) Review and revise shoreland zoning ordinance, 4) Hold one-day water forum, and 5) Develop guide for Zoning Board of Adjustment members.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
9/1/2010
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine Reservoir
Status
Complete

Marathon County: Lco-Shoreland Ordinance Rev.: Marathon County proposes to amend or create a shoreland zoning ordinance that complies with the requirements of NR 115, Wisconsin Administrative Code (as revised effective February 1, 2010) and retain existing regulations that exceed the water resource protections of NR 115 or are specific or unique to local needs.

Project deliverables include: 1. Copies of any fact sheets or handouts created for public hearings. 2. A summary of the comments received at public hearings. 3. A certified copy of the County Board-approved updated shoreland ordinance or ordinance language (if integrated into other codes). 4. Any GIS maps of the shoreland zone or shoreland condition surveys related to the project.

Specific conditions for this Project: 1. The WDNR will be provided electronic and hard copies of all data and or reports or surveys generated as a result of this project.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
3/15/2022
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine Reservoir
Status
Complete

Marathon County: Turning Plans Into Action; Improving Water Quality In Marathon County'S High Priorty Watersheds:
Project Scope and Description of Deliverables
This is a partial project as the entire project did not get funded. The partial funding will be used to support a staff position in Marathon County to implement BMP\2019s in the 319 Fenwood Watershed, which is a major contributor of P to the Big Eau Pleine and ultimately the Wisconsin River.

Project final deliverables include: Contact property owners, comprised chiefly of farmers, and introduce BMP\2019s and recruit landowners to participate in the BMP actions of the watershed plan \2013 turning plans into action.

Specific project activities include: Introduce information and education to farmers that are sources of sediment and nutrient NPS\2019s, conduct watershed stream inventory for buffers, assist landowners with program sign-ups to install BMP\2019s on the landscape needed to protect water quality.

Special Conditions: This partial funding can be used to assist Marathon County with the staff needed to improve water quality. It is expected that Marathon County will reapply for complete funding next grant cycle.

This scope summarizes the projects goals to hire staff needed to implement hard and/or soft practices to improve water quality as per the Marathon County plan and DNR\2019s Wisconsin River TMDL recommendations.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
3/15/2023
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine Reservoir
Status
Complete

Marathon County: 319 Match Lmi - Riparian Restoration To Improve Water Quality And Habitat: Marathon CLWC Department (County) are sponsoring a grant to implement the Fenwood Creek 9-Key Element Plan, collaborate with Marathon County lake associations and riparian owners to restore near shore habitat throughout the county and build more stakeholders.

Final deliverables 1) Reduce phosphorus to streams by 50-90% in the Fenwood Creek Watershed by installing practices on 15 new farms over 3 years, focus on riparian buffers in the Fenwood Creek watershed to have at least 25,000 linear feet of 35 foot buffer and all agricultural land to meet a phosphorous index (PI) of 2.5 2) inventory agricultural lands with and without buffers 3) Monitor for TP and TSS to track nutrients in the watershed, and in 5 other streams in the county 4) Work with Lake Wausau Association to form a Lake Wausau Watershed group, 4) Conduct education events with landowners in the Big Eau Pleine Watershed and the county.

Project activities include: 1) Sample lake and stream water quality, 2) provide technical assistance and education 3) develop relationships with property owners in the county and watersheds 4) Implement the Marathon CLWR management plan, Fenwood Creek 9 Key Elements plan, Lake Wausau Protection and Improvement Plan, and Big Eau Pleine Strategies for Reducing Fish Kills Plan.

Special Conditions: 1) Collaborate and share with DNR all monitoring data, 2) Collaborate with Wisconsin Valley Improvement Company to sample tribs and lake water quality for the BEP, 3) Work closely with EPPIC and BEPCO and other lake associations to improve shoreline stability4) Semi-annual meetings with DNR water quality staff and the Wisconsin River TMDL Coordinator for updates and data sharing.

This scope summarizes the project detail provided in the application and does not negate tasks/deliverables described therein. Data, records, and reports, including GIS-based maps, and digital images, must be submitted to the Department in a format specified by the regional Lake Biologist.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
3/15/2024
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine Reservoir
Status
Complete

Marathon County: Lmi - Restoration, Mitigation, And Education Efforts To Improve The Big Eau Pleine Reservoir: The Marathon County Conservation, Planning, and Zoning is sponsoring a project to assist with temporary improvements for reducing fish kills, replacing the aeration system, and installing long term solutions through a manure advisory system and longterm monitoring efforts including D.O. and fish movement.

Activities: 1) Improve the water quality of the reservoir via improved oxygen transfer.
2) Reduce nutrient and sediment entering the reservoir
3) Monitor fish movements during low D.O. periods

Deliverables: 1) Repair obsolete/antiquated aeration parts to maintain livable DO levels
2) Conduct education field days
3) Install remote monitoring system to track aerator efficacy
4) Conduct water quality monitoring as described in the grant application
5) Assist DNR and WVIC to track fish movement

Conditions: 1) Enter data collected into SWIMS database under the grant project number.
2) Provide DNR Biologist with draft version of the management plan for review.
3) Provide progress report with each reimbursement request.
4) All data collected is presumed to be public domain.

This scope summarizes details provided in the application and does not negate tasks and/or deliverables described therein. Data, reports, surveys, and supporting information, including photos, maps and GIS data, must be submitted to the DNR Biologist in electronic format and in any other format they specify.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
9/1/2010
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine River
Status
Complete

Marathon County: Lco-Shoreland Ordinance Rev.: Marathon County proposes to amend or create a shoreland zoning ordinance that complies with the requirements of NR 115, Wisconsin Administrative Code (as revised effective February 1, 2010) and retain existing regulations that exceed the water resource protections of NR 115 or are specific or unique to local needs.

Project deliverables include: 1. Copies of any fact sheets or handouts created for public hearings. 2. A summary of the comments received at public hearings. 3. A certified copy of the County Board-approved updated shoreland ordinance or ordinance language (if integrated into other codes). 4. Any GIS maps of the shoreland zone or shoreland condition surveys related to the project.

Specific conditions for this Project: 1. The WDNR will be provided electronic and hard copies of all data and or reports or surveys generated as a result of this project.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
3/15/2022
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine River
Status
Complete

Marathon County: Turning Plans Into Action; Improving Water Quality In Marathon County'S High Priorty Watersheds:
Project Scope and Description of Deliverables
This is a partial project as the entire project did not get funded. The partial funding will be used to support a staff position in Marathon County to implement BMP\2019s in the 319 Fenwood Watershed, which is a major contributor of P to the Big Eau Pleine and ultimately the Wisconsin River.

Project final deliverables include: Contact property owners, comprised chiefly of farmers, and introduce BMP\2019s and recruit landowners to participate in the BMP actions of the watershed plan \2013 turning plans into action.

Specific project activities include: Introduce information and education to farmers that are sources of sediment and nutrient NPS\2019s, conduct watershed stream inventory for buffers, assist landowners with program sign-ups to install BMP\2019s on the landscape needed to protect water quality.

Special Conditions: This partial funding can be used to assist Marathon County with the staff needed to improve water quality. It is expected that Marathon County will reapply for complete funding next grant cycle.

This scope summarizes the projects goals to hire staff needed to implement hard and/or soft practices to improve water quality as per the Marathon County plan and DNR\2019s Wisconsin River TMDL recommendations.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
3/15/2023
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine River
Status
Complete

Marathon County: 319 Match Lmi - Riparian Restoration To Improve Water Quality And Habitat: Marathon CLWC Department (County) are sponsoring a grant to implement the Fenwood Creek 9-Key Element Plan, collaborate with Marathon County lake associations and riparian owners to restore near shore habitat throughout the county and build more stakeholders.

Final deliverables 1) Reduce phosphorus to streams by 50-90% in the Fenwood Creek Watershed by installing practices on 15 new farms over 3 years, focus on riparian buffers in the Fenwood Creek watershed to have at least 25,000 linear feet of 35 foot buffer and all agricultural land to meet a phosphorous index (PI) of 2.5 2) inventory agricultural lands with and without buffers 3) Monitor for TP and TSS to track nutrients in the watershed, and in 5 other streams in the county 4) Work with Lake Wausau Association to form a Lake Wausau Watershed group, 4) Conduct education events with landowners in the Big Eau Pleine Watershed and the county.

Project activities include: 1) Sample lake and stream water quality, 2) provide technical assistance and education 3) develop relationships with property owners in the county and watersheds 4) Implement the Marathon CLWR management plan, Fenwood Creek 9 Key Elements plan, Lake Wausau Protection and Improvement Plan, and Big Eau Pleine Strategies for Reducing Fish Kills Plan.

Special Conditions: 1) Collaborate and share with DNR all monitoring data, 2) Collaborate with Wisconsin Valley Improvement Company to sample tribs and lake water quality for the BEP, 3) Work closely with EPPIC and BEPCO and other lake associations to improve shoreline stability4) Semi-annual meetings with DNR water quality staff and the Wisconsin River TMDL Coordinator for updates and data sharing.

This scope summarizes the project detail provided in the application and does not negate tasks/deliverables described therein. Data, records, and reports, including GIS-based maps, and digital images, must be submitted to the Department in a format specified by the regional Lake Biologist.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
3/15/2024
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine River
Status
Complete

Marathon County: Lmi - Restoration, Mitigation, And Education Efforts To Improve The Big Eau Pleine Reservoir: The Marathon County Conservation, Planning, and Zoning is sponsoring a project to assist with temporary improvements for reducing fish kills, replacing the aeration system, and installing long term solutions through a manure advisory system and longterm monitoring efforts including D.O. and fish movement.

Activities: 1) Improve the water quality of the reservoir via improved oxygen transfer.
2) Reduce nutrient and sediment entering the reservoir
3) Monitor fish movements during low D.O. periods

Deliverables: 1) Repair obsolete/antiquated aeration parts to maintain livable DO levels
2) Conduct education field days
3) Install remote monitoring system to track aerator efficacy
4) Conduct water quality monitoring as described in the grant application
5) Assist DNR and WVIC to track fish movement

Conditions: 1) Enter data collected into SWIMS database under the grant project number.
2) Provide DNR Biologist with draft version of the management plan for review.
3) Provide progress report with each reimbursement request.
4) All data collected is presumed to be public domain.

This scope summarizes details provided in the application and does not negate tasks and/or deliverables described therein. Data, reports, surveys, and supporting information, including photos, maps and GIS data, must be submitted to the DNR Biologist in electronic format and in any other format they specify.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
3/15/2022
Waters Involved
Lake Wausau
Status
Complete

Marathon County: Turning Plans Into Action; Improving Water Quality In Marathon County'S High Priorty Watersheds:
Project Scope and Description of Deliverables
This is a partial project as the entire project did not get funded. The partial funding will be used to support a staff position in Marathon County to implement BMP\2019s in the 319 Fenwood Watershed, which is a major contributor of P to the Big Eau Pleine and ultimately the Wisconsin River.

Project final deliverables include: Contact property owners, comprised chiefly of farmers, and introduce BMP\2019s and recruit landowners to participate in the BMP actions of the watershed plan \2013 turning plans into action.

Specific project activities include: Introduce information and education to farmers that are sources of sediment and nutrient NPS\2019s, conduct watershed stream inventory for buffers, assist landowners with program sign-ups to install BMP\2019s on the landscape needed to protect water quality.

Special Conditions: This partial funding can be used to assist Marathon County with the staff needed to improve water quality. It is expected that Marathon County will reapply for complete funding next grant cycle.

This scope summarizes the projects goals to hire staff needed to implement hard and/or soft practices to improve water quality as per the Marathon County plan and DNR\2019s Wisconsin River TMDL recommendations.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
3/15/2023
Waters Involved
Lake Wausau
Status
Complete

Marathon County: 319 Match Lmi - Riparian Restoration To Improve Water Quality And Habitat: Marathon CLWC Department (County) are sponsoring a grant to implement the Fenwood Creek 9-Key Element Plan, collaborate with Marathon County lake associations and riparian owners to restore near shore habitat throughout the county and build more stakeholders.

Final deliverables 1) Reduce phosphorus to streams by 50-90% in the Fenwood Creek Watershed by installing practices on 15 new farms over 3 years, focus on riparian buffers in the Fenwood Creek watershed to have at least 25,000 linear feet of 35 foot buffer and all agricultural land to meet a phosphorous index (PI) of 2.5 2) inventory agricultural lands with and without buffers 3) Monitor for TP and TSS to track nutrients in the watershed, and in 5 other streams in the county 4) Work with Lake Wausau Association to form a Lake Wausau Watershed group, 4) Conduct education events with landowners in the Big Eau Pleine Watershed and the county.

Project activities include: 1) Sample lake and stream water quality, 2) provide technical assistance and education 3) develop relationships with property owners in the county and watersheds 4) Implement the Marathon CLWR management plan, Fenwood Creek 9 Key Elements plan, Lake Wausau Protection and Improvement Plan, and Big Eau Pleine Strategies for Reducing Fish Kills Plan.

Special Conditions: 1) Collaborate and share with DNR all monitoring data, 2) Collaborate with Wisconsin Valley Improvement Company to sample tribs and lake water quality for the BEP, 3) Work closely with EPPIC and BEPCO and other lake associations to improve shoreline stability4) Semi-annual meetings with DNR water quality staff and the Wisconsin River TMDL Coordinator for updates and data sharing.

This scope summarizes the project detail provided in the application and does not negate tasks/deliverables described therein. Data, records, and reports, including GIS-based maps, and digital images, must be submitted to the Department in a format specified by the regional Lake Biologist.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
7/12/2010
Waters Involved
Mission Lake
Status
Complete

Marathon County: Lco-Marathon Class 2: Marathon County proposes to conduct detailed studies of 11 lakes in the Eastern part of Marathon County for the purpose of classifying them and developing plans for their future management. major project elements in this phased project include: 1) data collection, 2) outreach, 3) management planning and 4) plan implementation.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
4/15/2017
Waters Involved
Mission Lake
Status
Complete

Deer Lake Conservancy Inc: Lower Rock Creek Acquisition: The Deer Lake Conservancy has purchased 32.10 acres of undeveloped property on Deer Lake in Polk County. The parcel includes approximately 500 feet of shoreline, a riparian wetland and has Rock Creek flowing through the property. The property is adjacent to existing Conservancy owned property. Trails will be developed connecting with existing trails of the adjacent property.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
9/1/2012
Waters Involved
Mud Lake
Status
Complete

Marathon County: Lco-Marathon Class 5: Marathon County proposes to continue toward completion of its Phase _ efforts to classify 11 lakes in eastern Marathon County. Major project elements to include: 1) Water quality sampling and analysis, 2) Fisheries and aquatic species analysis, 3) Habitat, shoreland and paleolimnological surveys, 4) cultural surveys and outreach, 5) build-out assessment and monitoring.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
9/1/2012
Waters Involved
Mud Lake
Status
Complete

Marathon County: Lco-Marathon Class 6: Marathon County proposes to continue toward completion of its Phase 1 efforts to classify 11 lakes in eastern Marathon County. Major project elements to include: 1) Water quality sampling and analysis, 2) Fisheries and aquatic species analysis, 3) Habitat, shoreland and paleolimnological surveys, 4) Cultural surveys and outreach, 5) Build-out assessment and monitoring.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
7/12/2010
Waters Involved
Unnamed
Status
Complete

Marathon County: Lco-Marathon Class 2: Marathon County proposes to conduct detailed studies of 11 lakes in the Eastern part of Marathon County for the purpose of classifying them and developing plans for their future management. major project elements in this phased project include: 1) data collection, 2) outreach, 3) management planning and 4) plan implementation.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
4/15/2017
Waters Involved
Unnamed
Status
Complete

Deer Lake Conservancy Inc: Lower Rock Creek Acquisition: The Deer Lake Conservancy has purchased 32.10 acres of undeveloped property on Deer Lake in Polk County. The parcel includes approximately 500 feet of shoreline, a riparian wetland and has Rock Creek flowing through the property. The property is adjacent to existing Conservancy owned property. Trails will be developed connecting with existing trails of the adjacent property.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
3/15/2022
Waters Involved
Wisconsin River
Status
Complete

Marathon County: Turning Plans Into Action; Improving Water Quality In Marathon County'S High Priorty Watersheds:
Project Scope and Description of Deliverables
This is a partial project as the entire project did not get funded. The partial funding will be used to support a staff position in Marathon County to implement BMP\2019s in the 319 Fenwood Watershed, which is a major contributor of P to the Big Eau Pleine and ultimately the Wisconsin River.

Project final deliverables include: Contact property owners, comprised chiefly of farmers, and introduce BMP\2019s and recruit landowners to participate in the BMP actions of the watershed plan \2013 turning plans into action.

Specific project activities include: Introduce information and education to farmers that are sources of sediment and nutrient NPS\2019s, conduct watershed stream inventory for buffers, assist landowners with program sign-ups to install BMP\2019s on the landscape needed to protect water quality.

Special Conditions: This partial funding can be used to assist Marathon County with the staff needed to improve water quality. It is expected that Marathon County will reapply for complete funding next grant cycle.

This scope summarizes the projects goals to hire staff needed to implement hard and/or soft practices to improve water quality as per the Marathon County plan and DNR\2019s Wisconsin River TMDL recommendations.


Grant Details
Lake Protection Grant
Date
3/15/2023
Waters Involved
Wisconsin River
Status
Complete

Marathon County: 319 Match Lmi - Riparian Restoration To Improve Water Quality And Habitat: Marathon CLWC Department (County) are sponsoring a grant to implement the Fenwood Creek 9-Key Element Plan, collaborate with Marathon County lake associations and riparian owners to restore near shore habitat throughout the county and build more stakeholders.

Final deliverables 1) Reduce phosphorus to streams by 50-90% in the Fenwood Creek Watershed by installing practices on 15 new farms over 3 years, focus on riparian buffers in the Fenwood Creek watershed to have at least 25,000 linear feet of 35 foot buffer and all agricultural land to meet a phosphorous index (PI) of 2.5 2) inventory agricultural lands with and without buffers 3) Monitor for TP and TSS to track nutrients in the watershed, and in 5 other streams in the county 4) Work with Lake Wausau Association to form a Lake Wausau Watershed group, 4) Conduct education events with landowners in the Big Eau Pleine Watershed and the county.

Project activities include: 1) Sample lake and stream water quality, 2) provide technical assistance and education 3) develop relationships with property owners in the county and watersheds 4) Implement the Marathon CLWR management plan, Fenwood Creek 9 Key Elements plan, Lake Wausau Protection and Improvement Plan, and Big Eau Pleine Strategies for Reducing Fish Kills Plan.

Special Conditions: 1) Collaborate and share with DNR all monitoring data, 2) Collaborate with Wisconsin Valley Improvement Company to sample tribs and lake water quality for the BEP, 3) Work closely with EPPIC and BEPCO and other lake associations to improve shoreline stability4) Semi-annual meetings with DNR water quality staff and the Wisconsin River TMDL Coordinator for updates and data sharing.

This scope summarizes the project detail provided in the application and does not negate tasks/deliverables described therein. Data, records, and reports, including GIS-based maps, and digital images, must be submitted to the Department in a format specified by the regional Lake Biologist.


Grant Details
Large Scale Lake Planning
Date
4/1/2014
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine Reservoir
Status
Complete

Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization: Big Eau Pleine Plan 1: The Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization (BEPCO) proposes to conduct Phase 1 of its comprensive lake management planning effort on the Big Eau Pleine Flowage in Marathon County. Major project elements to include: a) dissolved oxygen modelling, b) communications planning and implementation, c) leadership development, d) plan development outreach, and e) final report.


Grant Details
Large Scale Lake Planning
Date
4/1/2014
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine Reservoir
Status
Complete

Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization: Big Eau Pleine Plan 2: The Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization (BEPCO) proposes to complete Phase 2 of its comprehensive lake management planning effort on the Big Eau Pleine Flowage in Marathon County. Major project elements to include: a) strategic plan development, b) survey and social science assessment, c) comprehensive plan development, and d) final report.

Scope amendment: Remove stategic plan development and reallocate funding to remaining deliverables


Grant Details
Large Scale Lake Planning
Date
4/1/2014
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine River
Status
Complete

Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization: Big Eau Pleine Plan 1: The Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization (BEPCO) proposes to conduct Phase 1 of its comprensive lake management planning effort on the Big Eau Pleine Flowage in Marathon County. Major project elements to include: a) dissolved oxygen modelling, b) communications planning and implementation, c) leadership development, d) plan development outreach, and e) final report.


Grant Details
Large Scale Lake Planning
Date
4/1/2014
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine River
Status
Complete

Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization: Big Eau Pleine Plan 2: The Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization (BEPCO) proposes to complete Phase 2 of its comprehensive lake management planning effort on the Big Eau Pleine Flowage in Marathon County. Major project elements to include: a) strategic plan development, b) survey and social science assessment, c) comprehensive plan development, and d) final report.

Scope amendment: Remove stategic plan development and reallocate funding to remaining deliverables


Grant Details
Small Scale Lake Planning
Date
10/1/2010
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine Reservoir
Status
Complete

Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization: Bepco Outreach: The Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization (BEPCO) proposes to upgrade its web site and financial management system to improve its outreach and capacity to implement projects for the betterment of the Big Eau Pleine Reservoir in Marathon County.


Grant Details
Small Scale Lake Planning
Date
10/1/2010
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine River
Status
Complete

Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization: Bepco Outreach: The Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization (BEPCO) proposes to upgrade its web site and financial management system to improve its outreach and capacity to implement projects for the betterment of the Big Eau Pleine Reservoir in Marathon County.


Grant Details
Targeted Runoff - Rural Construction
Date
1/1/2007
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine River
Status
Complete

Marathon County: Manure Storage Abandonments-Bep: To cost-share closure of 11 abandoned manure storage facilities within the Big Eau Pleine River basin in order to satisfy NOIs writen for violations of the performance standards and prohibitions dealing with prevention of overflow from manure storage facilities and prevention of direct runoff from a feedlot or stored manure into waters of the state.


Grant Details
Targeted Runoff - Rural Construction
Date
1/1/2007
Waters Involved
Fenwood Creek
Status
Complete

Marathon County: James Weiland Farm Noi: To cost-share installation of manure management and barnyard runoff practices in order to satisfy NOIs writen for violations of the performance standards and prohibitions dealing with prevention of overflow from manure storage facilities and prevention of direct runoff from a feedlot or stored manure into waters of the state.


Grant Details
River Planning Grant
Date
7/1/2013
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine Reservoir
Status
Complete

Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization: Fenwood Monitor, Outreach: The Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization proposes to collect data on agricultural practices within the Fenwood Creek watershed and initiate a dialogue with farmers and rural property owners for the purpose of working to reduce polluted run-off to the Big Eau Pleine Flowage in Marathon County. Major project elements to include:a) water quality monitoring and analysis, b) outreach events.


Grant Details
River Planning Grant
Date
7/1/2013
Waters Involved
Big Eau Pleine River
Status
Complete

Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization: Fenwood Monitor, Outreach: The Big Eau Pleine Citizens Organization proposes to collect data on agricultural practices within the Fenwood Creek watershed and initiate a dialogue with farmers and rural property owners for the purpose of working to reduce polluted run-off to the Big Eau Pleine Flowage in Marathon County. Major project elements to include:a) water quality monitoring and analysis, b) outreach events.


Monitoring & Projects

Projects including grants, restoration work and studies shown below have occurred in this watershed. Click the links below to read through the text. While these are not an exhaustive list of activities, they provide insight into the management activities happening in this watershed.

Grants and Management Projects
Lower Big Eau Pleine River Watershed
Watershed Recommendations
Best Management Practices, Implement
Rothschild - Stormwater Management Plan Update
Date
Status
This project is an installation of nonpoint source best management practices to contribute to the restoration of Wisconsin's waters and was funded by the 319 grant. Storm water planning activities will be undertaken by the municipality and will result in the following products: updated construction erosion control ordinance; updated storm water ordinance for new development and re-development; other updated ordinances that affect runoff from the developed urban area; updated storm water management plan for the entire developed urban area; and an updated storm water management plan for new development.
1/1/2018
In Progress
Projects
 
Best Management Practices, Implement
Marathon County Barnyard Runoff Control Project
Date
Status
This project is a landowner installation of nonpoint source best management practices to contribute to the restoration of Wisconsin's waters and was funded by the 319 grant. Specifically, the grantee will implement: a barnyard runoff control system, critical area stabilization, diversions, heavy use area protection, roofing, roof runoff systems, and underground outlets.
1/1/2016
In Progress
Projects
Documents
 
Best Management Practices, Implement
Fenwood Creek Watershed Project
Date
Status
This project is an installation of nonpoint source best management practices to contribute to the restoration of Wisconsin?s waters and was funded by the 319 grant. Specifically, the grantee will implement: agricultural nonpoint sources of pollution through the installation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) addressing sediment and nutrient loading and to address violations of the NR 151 Agricultural Performance Standards and Prohibitions relating to: sheet, rill, and wind erosion; tillage setback; manure storage facilities-new/significant alterations; manure storage facilities-closure; manure storage facilities-existing failing/leaking; process wastewater handling; clean water diversions; nutrient management; prevention of overflow from manure storage facilities; prevention of direct runoff from a feedlot or stored manure into waters of the state; prevention of unlimited livestock access to waters of the state; and remedy discharges of manure, sediment and phosphorus in runoff.
1/1/2016
In Progress
Projects
Documents
 
Monitor Fish Tissue
Confirm FCA: IW pre-2000 data
Date
Status
1427200 name Big Eau Pleine River TMDL ID 37 Start Mile 0 End Mile 16.6
11/21/2011
Proposed
 
Monitor Fish Tissue
Confirm FCA: IW pre-2000 data
Date
Status
11/8/2011
Proposed
Projects
 
Monitor Water Quality or Sediment
Eau Pleine Flowage Priority Restoration Followup Monitoring
Date
Status
Monitoring - the Department started a multi-year water quality study in 2009 to develop a TMDL for the river and flowage. Big Eau Pleine Reservoir is a 6348 acre lake located in Marathon County.
1/1/2013
In Progress
Projects
Documents
 
Monitor or Propose 303(d) Listing
Big Eau Pleine TMDL
Date
Status
The Big Eau Pleine Flowage is listed on the Federal 303 (d) list for violations of the state dissolved oxygen and pH water quality standards. The Big Eau Pleine River is also on the list for dissolved oxygen levels below the water quality standard. Both listings are a result of excessive nutrient loading, primarily phosphorus, to the river and flowage.
1/1/2013
In Progress
Projects
Documents
 
Nine Key Element Plan
Fenwood Creek Nine Key Element Plan, Marathon
Date
Status
Fenwood Creek Nine Key Element Plan, Marathon County - The Fenwood Creek Nine Key Element Plan in Marathon County covers 25187 acres.Fenwood Creek Watershed Management Plan The Fenwood Creek watershed drains approximately 39 square miles (24,958 acres) of land into the Big Eau Pleine (BEP) reservoir. Fenwood Creek represents one of three (3) major surface water tributaries that empty into the BEP reservoir which immediately flows into Lake DuBay, both flowages of the Upper Wisconsin River Central Sub Basin. The following plan will provide an overview of the physical characteristics of the Fenwood Creek watershed including land use and land management. The plan will also summarize the several environmental studies and programs that increased the understanding of the causes of water quality degradation, past conservation initiatives and investments aimed at reducing agricultural runoff, and program outcomes.
3/1/2018
In Progress
Projects
 
TMDL Development
Big Eau Pleine (1427200) TMDL Development
Date
Status
Big Eau Pleine Reservoir is a 6348 acre lake located in Marathon County. It has a maximum depth of 46 feet. Visitors have access to the lake from public boat landings. Fish include Musky, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike and Walleye. The lake's water clarity is low.
1/1/2013
In Progress
Projects
 
Water Quality Modeling
City-Wide Water Quality Model Update and BMP Feasibility
Date
Status
This project is an installation of nonpoint source best management practices to contribute to the restoration of Wisconsin?s waters and was funded by the 319 grant. Specifically, the grantee will implement: water quality model, BMP feasibility analysis.
1/1/2015
In Progress
Projects
 
Lower Big Eau Pleine River WatershedWatershed History Note

The Stratford area was once a lush forest of pristine hardwood and pine trees. The Indians followed the Big Eau Pleine River hunting and fishing for their survival. The first white men to walk on soil of what is now known as Stratford were the Fur Traders. In the late 1870’s German immigrants, Christian and Anna Weber, settled on the south banks of the Big Eau Pleine River. They built their own community called Webertown that consisted of a post office, general store, boarding house, lumber and shingle mill, and other related businesses. The rivers were the backbone of the growing lumber industry, which was responsible for the settlement of Wisconsin forest land. In 1890, it was announced that the Milwaukee Lake Shore and Western Railway Company would build a line from Wausau to Marshfield. The Connor family, wanting to expand, saw the opportunity to move to this area. W.D. Connor created a “company town” and renamed it Stratford.

Date  2010