Funding has been secured to move forward on a major conservation effort to save the declining walleye population in Franklin Lake.

Organizers managed to raise the entire $99,960 funding goal needed to begin reef construction in early 2027 through a partnership of private, tribal and federal sources.

Key collaborators on the project include the Wisconsin DNR, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Sokaogon Chippewa Mole Lake Band.

The project’s final budget covers not only materials but also the creation and upkeep of an ice road. This temporary road will allow heavy equipment to transport materials from the boat landing to the designated reef site on the lake’s east side.

Franklin Lake, an 849-acre water body located just east of Eagle River in Forest County, was once a historically famous trophy walleye fishery. However, natural reproduction has plummeted since the 1980s. State biologists estimate the population stands at a critical 0.46 walleyes per acre, placing the species on the verge of local extinction.

“This walleye spawning reef will rebuild natural spawning habitat on the lake and boost natural reproduction,” said Bryan Davis, president of the Franklin Lake Improvement Association (FLIA). “This project demonstrates that if we come together as a community, we can save our precious lakes for all stakeholders and for future generations.”

The planned intervention involves installing a rocky reef on the east side of the lake, where walleyes currently attempt to spawn. While research completed by the DNR showed the fish naturally gravitate to this area, the existing hard-packed sand substrate prevents successful egg incubation. Adding loose rock is expected to create a more optimal, protective spawning habitat.

Construction date

Construction is slated for February 2027, subject to favorable winter weather and ice conditions. Research scientists plan to evaluate the project’s biological and economic impact using pre- and post-construction studies, as well as car counters to measure angler response.
As many lakes see declines in fish populations, supporters hope the project will serve as a pilot.

“Supposing the project works, it could provide insight on other lakes that are suffering from a similar issue and open the door to future rehabilitation projects,” Greg Matzke, a DNR fisheries biologist, had previously told the News-Review. Matzke manages approximately 1,200 lakes in Florence and Forest counties and identified Franklin Lake as one of the region’s best candidates for reef rehabilitation.

While some residents previously expressed concerns regarding increased lake traffic and the potential introduction of aquatic invasive species, public feedback has shown overwhelming local support.

Last fall when approval was being sought for this project, FLIA members spearheaded a petition that garnered 994 signatures, showing a 98% approval rating among local tricounty residents in Vilas, Oneida and Forest.

“Franklin Lake Improvement Association believes this project is for the betterment of this precious resource, wildlife, and all stakeholders in the community and will continue to be for future generations,” the association said in a statement.

Though construction is fully funded, FLIA is accepting tax-deductible donations to support ongoing post-construction conservation efforts. Contributions can be made by contacting the association via Facebook, emailing franklinlakeimprovement@gmail.com, or mailing checks to PO Box 258102, Madison, WI 53725.