A lakeside view with a calm body of water, surrounded by trees and a sandy shoreline, under an overcast sky.

Water Testing

Water testing results place Bear Lake in the top 15% of similar sized lakes in Michigan. Water clarity, as measured by Secchi Disk, is excellent. BLWA regularly gathers samples and coordinates water testing in and around Bear Lake.

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A lakeside scene with a tree on the left, orange autumn leaves on trees in the background, a wooden swing set in the foreground, and a dock extending into the water. The sky is clear and blue.

Stormwater, Asset Management, & Wastewater (SAW)

The Village of Bear Lake has established a long-term partnership with the Bear Lake Watershed Alliance to protect the water quality of Bear Lake

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A small landscaped area with various plants and flowers, bordered by grass and situated near a parking lot with residential houses in the background.

Rain Gardens

The Bear Lake Rain Garden, located next to the Keddie Norconk Library, was planted in 2016 by a group of BLWA volunteers. The rain garden filters some of the runoff from Virginia Street before it enters the storm drain system. The May Buell Park in Pleasanton Township rain garden was planted by volunteers in 2022 to help filter runoff from the parking area.

Blue road sign indicating entrance to Bear Lake and Bear Creek Watershed, surrounded by green trees.

Road Signs

Road signs have been installed at 18 key points around the county to inform motorists when they enter the Bear Lake and Bear Creek watershed.