1. Mother Nature finally relented and allowed a thick ice cover to form on the lake, resulting in a a variety of winter sports being enjoyed. With a forecast above normal temperatures over the coming weeks, lake users are reminded to be aware of potential rapid changes in ice conditions, particularly near inflowing streams.
2. Lakefront landowners, perhaps looking ahead to implementing a shoreline stabilization project this coming construction season, are reminded that an approved MPOA permission form must be obtained by the landowner and submitted to the County or the Village (depending on where they’re located) as part of obtaining their permit required under the McHenry County Stormwater Management Ordinance, which is in effect county-wide. The MPOA Permission form is currently being revamped to help expedite the MPOA approval process.
3. The repairs to the Wonder Lake Dam Sluice Gate are still pending and will begin once weather conditions stabilize to a point where safe access for the contractor’s equipment across the west dam embankment develops.
4. The 41st Annual Illinois Lakes Management Association Conference will be held in Champaign from February 16-18, 2026. This is a great opportunity for WL folks to learn more about a wide variety of lake topics. The keynote speaker will be our own Dick Hilton, who has a long history of involvement with the organization. For more details: https://ilma-lakes.org/conference-registration.