Wisconsin

State Programs

Coastal Zone Management

Wisconsin Coastal Management Program. Since 1978, the program has worked cooperatively with state, local, and tribal government agencies and non-profit organizations to manage the ecological, economic, and aesthetic assets of Wisconsin's 15 coastal counties. The agency promotes a networked approach that balances the protection of coastal resources and sustainable economic development. Funding through this program also supports ongoing coastal planning, public outreach, restoration, and technical assistance to local governments.

Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. This initiative accelerates efforts to protect and restore the largest system of fresh surface water in the world—the Great Lakes. Built upon the foundation of the Great Lakes Regional Collaboration Strategy, this multi-agency initiative has provided funding to 16 federal organizations since 2010. The goal is to strategically target the biggest threats to the Great Lakes ecosystem and to accelerate progress toward achieving the organization’s long-term goals. See examples of NOAA products funded by the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative.

National Estuarine Research Reserves

Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve. Designated in 2010, the Lake Superior Research Reserve protects almost 17,000 acres in the northwestern corner of the state, at the confluence of the St. Louis River and Lake Superior, which is the largest and most pristine of the Great Lakes. Significant historical and cultural sites exist within and near the reserve, including Native American cultural sites and historical lumbering and shipping locations. The associated wetlands and boreal forest were identified as an area of continental significance, which means that many portions of the estuary remain relatively pristine. (See handout)