Ecological Restoration Master Planning

LVBrown Studios teamed with Montgomery Associates to develop lake planning options for improving water quality, aquatic and riparian habitat, and recreational uses of Decatur Lake, a 110-acre impounded reach of the Sugar River in Brodhead, WI.

Lauren studied the project area to identify opportunities for increased public access and visibility to the lake, including: developing existing easements for trail and paddling access, public park improvements, and greater connections to natural resource open spaces, regional trails and neighborhoods.

Illustrative poster map exhibits were used to communicate historic and future lake sedimentation, potential dredging projects for navigation and sediment capture, and recreational opportunities during two community open houses in Brodhead, WI. The project was funded by a DNR Lake Planning grant, and the final report was complete January 2018.