North Temperate Lakes LTER: Northern Wisconsin Lake Resident Survey 2005, 2008, 2012

The purpose of this survey was to understand what lake characteristics people value most, what activities they enjoy most, and what they expect for the future of northern Wisconsin lakes. Questions covered aspects such as the property search process individuals went through leading up to their purchase of lakeshore property in Vilas County WI, what activities the individual's household participate in on lakes in Vilas County WI, their attitude about the future of their lake, their perception of the current state of their lake, and lake qualities they would like improved on their lake. Demographics of the respondents and background information about their lake were also collected. Two types of surveying methodologies were used for this survey, one being an internet-based survey, while the other was a mail survey. Surveys were conducted in 2005 and repeated in 2008.