MWLA HISTORY
1992 - Incorporated in May, 1992 as the Manitowish Waters Lake Owners Association. Name later changed to Manitowish Waters Lakes Association with membership open to anyone in the Township within 1 mile of a lake or stream.
Original Officers: Bill Lambrecht, President; Bob O'Neil, Vice-President; Eleanor Butler, Secretary-Treasurer. Directors: Pete Rasey, Dick Grummon, Bert Cagney, Robb Warren, Herman Deisenroth, Dick Thoke.
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                    Purpose: "to maintain, protect and enhance the quality of the
                    Manitowish Waters Chain of Lakes and other waters in Manitowish
                    Township for the collective interests of the members."
 
                    First Decade Projects (1992-2002)
                    Three-year walleye stocking program (with minimal DNR cooperation)
                    Navigation and warning buoys purchased for strategic points in Chain
                    Boating safety course/promotion of boating regulations
                    Two Lakes Fairs at the Discovery Center: well water-testing,       
                    participants included regional environmental representatives.
                    Initiated Trout Pond for kids
                    Publication of Newsletter
                    Participation in Wisconsin Assn. of Lakes & Vilas Co.        
                    Lakes Assn. meetings and conferences
                    Monitoring of Clear Lake and Island Lake boat landings
 
                    Second Decade Projects (2003- ) in addition to continuation of  
                    Newsletter:
                    Annual 4th of July and Colorama events with Trout Pond,      
                    merchandise and informational bulletins
                    Partnered with others in DNR's Rest Lake Dam still underway
                    Assisted UW-SP study of fish spawning & migration in the Chain
                    Provided content & testimony for Comprehensive Land Use Plan and
                    rewrite of recently-enacted Town Zoning Ordinance
                    Roadside trash pickups on Hwy 51, later on County K.
                    Grants support and volunteer assistance for Rest Lake Park Shoreline
                    Restoration
                    Active partner in Town Lakes Committee dealing with Invasive Species
                    Volunteering at Boat Landings for "Clean Boats Clean Waters"
                    campaign
                    Recruitment of water quality monitors for all 10 lakes
 
Bill Lambrecht served as President until 1999. Tom Burlage served in 2000. Gayle Strand served from 2000 - 2003, Jack King 2003 - 2007, Karen Dixon 2007 - ??.
Annual dues are $25. Current membership stands at just under 350 households.