Big Cedar Lake PRD

Swimmer's Itch reports on Big Cedar Lake following the weekend of June 6th and 7th
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🌊 Swimmer’s Itch Info!
👉 A few quick tips to reduce your risk:
Avoid swimming in areas with dense plants or algae
Dry off and shower as soon as you get out of the water
Don’t feed waterfowl around the lake — they’re part of the life cycle of the parasite that causes swimmer’s itch

Feel free to share this with anyone who might find it useful! 🚣‍♀️🦆

If you or someone you know has questions about swimmer’s itch, check out this helpful DNR page: https://apps.dnr.wi.gov/lakes/swimmersitch/

Wisconsin Lakes Swimmer's itch occurs in some Wisconsin Lakes each year. Swimmer's itch is caused by the larvae (immature stage) of certain flatworms that can be picked up while swimming. Technically known as schistosome dermatitis, swimmer's itch appears as red itching, bite-like welts within several hours of leav...

12 people safely reach shore after boat takes on water on Big Cedar Lake | By Firefighter Dan Croft 12 people safely reach shore after boat takes on water on Big Cedar Lake | By Firefighter Dan Croft

Water Rescue Incident on Big Cedar Lake

Date: June 5, 2026
Incident Number: 26-00098
Authority: Assistant Chief Brad Schaefer, Incident Commander
Prepared By: Firefighter Dan Croft

On Friday, June 5, 2026, at 6:27 p.m., the Slinger Fire Department and Lifestar EMS were dispatched to Big Cedar Lake in the area of Timmer's Bay, located in the Town of West Bend, for a reported water rescue.

Because this area is shared with the West Bend Fire Department's response area, their Technical Rescue Team was also dispatched to assist.

Initial reports indicated that a boat had taken on water with 12 occupants aboard.

Our personnel responded to the Cedar Lake Yacht Club with freshwater rescue divers and an inflatable boat, preparing to launch for rescue.

Shortly thereafter, it was confirmed that all occupants had safely reached shore and no individuals remained in the water. No injuries were reported among the occupants or emergency responders.

The Slinger Fire Department would like to thank the Washington County Sheriff's Office Communications Center, Patrol Division, and the West Bend Fire Department Technical Rescue Team for their assistance and coordinated response to this incident.

Questions regarding this incident may be directed to Assistant Chief Brad Schaefer.

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https://bigcedarlakeprd.org/news-and-notices/washington-county-sheriffs-department-emergency-dive-team-training-activity-thursday-june-4/
CEDAR LAKE YACHT CLUB, Cedar Lake Sales and Service, Big Cedar Lake Thursday Night Fishing Club, Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation, Keith's Marina

Washington County Sheriff's Department Emergency Dive Team Training Activity Thursday, June 4 The Washington County Sheriff's Department will be having a Dive team training activity at the Big C...

Why Do Ships & Aircraft Use Red and Green Lights? The Smart Science Behind It!

Ever noticed how ships and aircraft always have red and green navigation lights? Red on the port (left) side, green on the starboard (right) side. But was this just an arbitrary decision? Not at all! This color choice is based on science, visibility, and human perception. Let’s dive in!

👊 Why Red for Port?

Red light has a longer wavelength, meaning it’s easier to see in fog and low visibility conditions. Historically, sailors used red lanterns for port-side identification to avoid collisions at sea.

🤙 Why Green for Starboard?

Green is brighter and more distinguishable at night compared to other colors, ensuring maximum visibility from long distances. When another vessel sees green, they know it’s the right side of the ship or aircraft! ✈️

The Ultimate Purpose: Collision Prevention!

When two vessels approach each other:
If you see green, you’re looking at their right side – you have the right of way.
If you see red, they have the right of way, and you must yield.

This system helps avoid confusion and ensures safe navigation in darkness, storms, and open waters.

Fun Fact: The Rule Dates Back to the 1800s!

The British Royal Navy first standardized red and green navigation lights in 1836, later becoming international law. Today, every ship and aircraft follows this crucial system! ⚖️

So next time you spot these lights, you’ll know it’s not just random—it’s a life-saving rule of the sea and sky!

Water Education: What Is Lake Turnover?
Twice a year, deeper lakes naturally mix from top to bottom in a process called lake turnover. As temperatures change in spring and fall, wind helps blend the lake’s layers, circulating oxygen and nutrients throughout the water.
This mixing refreshes oxygen in deeper areas and supports fish and other aquatic life. You may notice murkier water during this time, but it’s a normal and important part of a healthy lake ecosystem. 💧

Keep Yard Waste Out of Our Water!
Grass clippings, leaves, and yard debris might seem harmless, but when they end up in lakes, ponds, or storm drains, they cause real problems.
🔹 They add phosphorus to the water
🔹 Fuel harmful algae blooms
🔹 Create mucky buildup on the lake bottom
✅ Please collect your grass clippings and leaf litter.
❌ Never blow or dump them into lakes or storm drains.
Small actions make a big difference for clean, healthy water! 💧🌿

Road Construction Update Paving will be done on Thoma Park Dr and Woodland Summit tomorrow, Thursday, May 28, 2026.