This is a newsletter of ideas about protecting our lakes--and about the wider issues of creating livable cities. It's focused on local issues in Madison, WI, but sometimes spotlights wider concerns.
Researchers at the UW-Madison have played an enormous role in conservation. But the UW Administration has not been a good steward. Despite owning a large fraction of the lake shore, the UW avoids basic responsibilities, such as controling litter, controlling construction site erosion, protecting the shore, and building rain gardens. The UW sends too much salt to the lake. How can we encourage the University to do more?
Keeping nutrients out of the lakes
Most important for water quality is keeping nutrients out of our lakes. Phosphorus and nitrogen fertilize excess growth of toxic algae, causing odor and beach closings. Nutrients throw the lake out of balance, killing fish. How phosphorous travels to lakes