ECONOMIC IMPACT OF GREEN LAKE
Green Lake is more than a destination—it’s an economic driver that shapes the vitality of the surrounding community. To better understand that connection, the Green Lake Association commissioned an Economic Impact Study examining how Green Lake’s water quality influences local businesses, property values, jobs, recreation, and the broader regional economy.
Focused on the area within 1.5 miles of the lake, the study uses multiple economic analysis methods to measure both the lake’s current contribution to the region and the potential impacts of improving—or declining—water quality. The findings reinforce what many in the community already know: Green Lake’s health is deeply tied to the future of the local economy and quality of life.
The Green Lake Association extends its gratitude to the Green Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for contributing support and partnership toward this study.
Explore the resources below to learn more about the study, key findings, and what they mean for Green Lake and the surrounding community.
The Economic Impact Study uses three connected analyses to better understand how Green Lake supports the surrounding community and economy. To keep the findings closely tied to Green Lake itself, the study focused primarily on areas within 1.5 miles of the shoreline, where the lake has the strongest economic influence. A Contribution Analysis measured the lake’s current role in supporting local businesses and jobs, an Impact Analysis examined how changes in water quality could affect tourism and economic activity over time, and a Valuation Analysis explored how water quality influences property values and the local tax base.
