A new study commissioned by the Clean Lakes Alliance found that Madison’s five lakes — Mendota, Monona, Wingra, Waubesa and Kegonsa — bring in $220 million annually in business sales, the Wisconsin State Journal reports. They’re also responsible for roughly $1.2 billion in property value and 2.7 million visitors each year.
The study of the Yahara chain of lakes aimed to understand how they contribute to regional economic health, which can affect project funding and policy-making decisions. James Tye, who founded the Clean Lakes Alliance in 2010 and currently serves as its executive director, says showing the value of the lakes can lead to more investments, whether in lake quality, fish stocking programs, park improvements, bike path or public access point additions or other improvements.
The study included a survey that asked about visitor spending across a range of categories, including costs for transportation, watercraft operation, permits and licenses, groceries, entertainment, lodging and meals. Another set of data centered on local businesses that depend on the lakes, such as restaurants located on the lakes, marinas, boating supply companies and bait shops. The lakes overall support 1,800 jobs and generate $13.5 million in tax revenues.
The study also addressed visible blooms of toxic blue-green algae, which can decrease spending by $3.2 million per day countywide.
