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Purchasing land with lakes, ponds, or streams in Northern Wisconsin offers a unique opportunity for recreation, hunting, and nature appreciation. The picturesque landscapes, combined with abundant wildlife and outdoor activities, make water-rich properties highly desirable. However, before making an investment in land with water features, it’s important to understand the benefits and challenges that come with such properties. Water features can affect land value, recreational use, property taxes, and water rights. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision when considering land with lakes, ponds, or streams in Northern Wisconsin.
Benefits of Owning Land with Water Features
1. Increased Recreational Opportunities
Having access to water enhances the recreational appeal of your property. In Northern Wisconsin, with its abundant lakes and streams, you can enjoy activities like fishing, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, or simply relaxing by the water. If you’re a hunter, having water on your property provides additional opportunities for waterfowl hunting. Many types of game are drawn to water sources, making it an attractive feature for hunting land.
2. Aesthetic and Tranquil Value
Water features significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of a property. The sight and sound of flowing water, or a peaceful lake or pond, can offer an unparalleled sense of tranquility. If you’re seeking a retreat or a place to unwind, the natural beauty provided by lakes, streams, and ponds can create a serene environment for relaxation and enjoyment.
3. Wildlife Habitat
Water features attract a variety of wildlife, from waterfowl and fish to deer and other game. If you’re buying land for hunting purposes, the presence of water can make it a prime spot for attracting game animals, as they rely on water sources for survival. Owning land with a water feature allows you to create a diverse and thriving ecosystem, providing hunting opportunities as well as the chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
Challenges to Consider
1. Water Rights and Legal Considerations
One of the most important aspects to understand when buying land with a water feature is water rights. In Wisconsin, water rights are governed by state law, and access to water bodies can be subject to restrictions. It’s essential to confirm that you have the legal right to use the water, especially if you plan on using the water for purposes like irrigation, recreation, or other activities.
Wisconsin follows a system of riparian rights, which grants landowners the right to use water on properties that border lakes or streams, but there are limitations. For example, you might need a permit for activities like damming or altering the natural flow of water. Additionally, be sure to inquire about the potential for public access to the water feature, as some lakes and rivers may be subject to public access laws that allow others to use the water.
Before purchasing land with water, it’s wise to consult with an attorney or a local land expert who can provide guidance on water rights specific to the property you're considering.
2. Flooding and Drainage Issues
Water features can bring beauty and recreational benefits, but they also present potential challenges. One significant concern is flooding, especially in areas with streams or rivers prone to rising water levels. Flooding can impact not only the use of your land but also the structural integrity of any buildings or infrastructure you might build on the property. If the property is located in a floodplain, you may need flood insurance and should be prepared for possible land use restrictions due to floodplain zoning.
It’s important to thoroughly assess the property's drainage patterns and determine whether any steps need to be taken to manage water flow or mitigate flooding risks. Local zoning or conservation offices can provide helpful information about flood zones and any restrictions or regulations that may apply.
3. Maintenance and Management
Maintaining a water feature requires ongoing care. If you have a pond or lake, you'll need to keep an eye on water quality, ensure the balance of plant and fish life, and address any issues like algae growth. If the water feature is a stream or river, erosion control might become an ongoing concern. Managing a water feature, particularly a pond or lake, often requires regular maintenance to preserve its ecosystem, prevent stagnation, and keep it healthy.
Property owners may also need to manage invasive species in the water, especially if the area is home to certain aquatic plants or fish species. Regular monitoring and the occasional professional intervention will keep your water feature functioning optimally.
How Water Features Affect Land Value and Property Taxes
1. Increased Property Value
A well-maintained land parcel with water features often carries a higher value compared to comparable properties without water. The scenic and recreational benefits of lakes, ponds, or streams, along with the increased wildlife habitat and hunting opportunities, can make properties more attractive to potential buyers. Properties with water are generally considered more desirable, which often translates into a higher sale price.
That said, the specific value boost will depend on the size of the water feature, its accessibility, and the types of activities the water supports. Larger lakes or streams may offer more opportunities for recreation and land use, further enhancing the value.
2. Property Taxes
In Wisconsin, properties with water features are typically taxed at the same rate as other types of land, but there could be additional considerations. For example, if the property has conservation easements in place (such as restrictions that protect water quality or wildlife habitat), you might be eligible for property tax reductions. Similarly, if the land is designated as farmland or forest land, you could qualify for tax breaks that reduce the financial burden.
However, properties with water features may also require additional maintenance or inspections, and in some cases, local governments may impose special taxes or fees to support waterway management or environmental conservation efforts.
Conclusion: Managing Water Features for Hunting and Recreation
Owning land with water features in Northern Wisconsin offers incredible recreational benefits, including access to fishing, hunting, and various outdoor activities. However, understanding the legal and practical implications of water rights, property maintenance, and potential flooding is essential to fully enjoying your property. By carefully considering water rights, managing the water feature properly, and understanding how it impacts land value and property taxes, you can ensure that you make a sound investment and maximize the potential of your land. Always consult with local experts and legal professionals to ensure you have the right permissions and can fully enjoy the benefits of your water-rich property.