Results of water testing place Bear Lake in the top 15% of similar sized lakes in Michigan. Regular testing allows us to monitor water quality over time. Click to learn more.

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. Related: How to create a rain garden.

Urban stormwater is a documented source of pollutants from impervious areas of a community’s business and residential districts. With the proximity of Bear Lake to this urban area, both the Village and the BLWA determined a plan was needed to protect the water quality of the lake. Learn more.

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.