The Yahara Lakes Association (YLA) is dedicated to representing waterfront property owners and advocating for the vitality of the Yahara chain of lakes so all citizens may enjoy them.
What does Yahara Lakes Association do?
Keep our members informed and involved in lake issues and events.
Take direct action and advocacy on lake, shoreline, and property issues.
Provide legislative representation and interaction with local and state officials.
Support and coordinate outreach and research on lake issues with farmers, government officials and communities.
The Yahara Lakes
The Yahara River is 62 miles long and connects lakes Kegonsa, Mendota, Monona, Waubesa, and Wingra in a chain that winds through south-central Wisconsin.
Lake Mendota
The first and the largest lake in the chain of Yahara lakes, Lake Mendota. Mendota is known for it’s ongoing studies and is considered the most studied lake in the United States. Lake Mendota has five maintained beaches by the City of Madison, three of which staff lifeguards.
Lake Monona
Lake Monona surrounds the south side of Madison’s isthmus and is lined with homes and condominiums. The word “Monona” comes from the Chippewa word, believed to mean beautiful.
Lake Wingra
The smallest of the Yahara lakes, Lake Wingra is connected to Lake Monona via the Wingra Creek and is technically a part of the Yahara watershed. This shallow lake encounters many challenges due to excess nutrients and road salt from urban run off.
Lake Waubesa
The third lake in the Yahara chain is Lake Waubesa with a surface area of slightly over 2,000 acres, flowing south from Lake Monona through Upper Mud Lake. The north end is surrounded by the Capital Spring State Recreation Area and features the newly built Yahara River Trail and bike-pedestrian bridge.
Lake Kegonsa
The final lake in the chain of Yahara lakes is Lake Kegonsa, which is one of the shallower lakes. Lake Kegonsa State Park boarders the northeastern shore, filled with prairie, forest and marsh habitats.