With funding from the Wisconsin Coastal Management Program, the Bay-Lake RPC isdeveloping a coastal recreation study for the lakeshore counties of Kewaunee, Manitowoc, and Sheboygan. The project supports regional planning efforts, as well as county and local efforts to enhance and promote coastal recreation, tourism, and economic sustainability. By gathering economic and spatial data, and conducting a coastal recreation users survey, the study aims to provide a better understanding of Lake Michigan coastal recreational preferences and participation in northeast Wisconsin. Tourism and recreation are vital to the social and economic success of coastal communities. With this study, the Commission and its local government partners can capitalize on opportunities to enhance and expand coastal recreation and tourism, and to more effectively advocate for the protection of special places.

The study will gather information on the coastal recreation supply, conduct a needs assessment, and develop recommendations and an action plan for implementation to enhance and expand coastal recreation. Final products will include an infographic report, survey results, and an ArcGIS Story Map of coastal recreation in the three counties. The project will conclude in July 2018.

With funding from the Wisconsin Coastal Management Program, The West Foundation, the City of Two Rivers, and the Village of Michicot, and help from paddling partners, the Bay-Lake RPC is conducting an inventory and assessment of all public access locations on the East Twin and West Twin rivers. The extend on the West Twin River will be from Lake Michigan in the City of Two Rivers to the Shoto Dam, and on the East Twin River from Lake Michigan in the City of Two Rivers to VFW Park in the Village of Michicot.

 

The inventory will be used to develop an action plan and maps to establish and promote a water trail on the East and West Twin Rivers in Manitowoc County. The plan will offer recommendations for improving water access and supporting amenities for the water trail. Each site will also be evaluated for opportunities to incorporate art, history, and cultural significance to the water trail.

 

Please contact Angela Kowalzek-Adrians for additional information.