Winnebago System Navigation Update

Updates from Winnebago County Parks Department about navigation aids in the Winnebago System:

1.) Blackbird Island:
Winnebago County has purchased and will be placing three lit buoys to mark Blackbird Island in Lake Winnebago in 2020

2.) Restoration of old buoys:
Winnebago County is currently in the process of restoring old buoys – this includes replacing reflective tape, patching dents, etc.
— 3-4 year process to restore all buoys managed by Winnebago County
— They started with buoys on Lake Butte des Morts
— More affordable than buying new buoys and old buoys seem to be built better than newer options.

***If you encounter a Winnebago County buoy that needs attention (light is not working, damaged, etc.), RECORD the buoy number and report it to the Winnebago County Park Department: (920) 232-1960
It’s crucial to include the buoy number in your report***

3.) Pilot Project scheduled for Menasha Channel in 2020:
Winnebago County will be installing new LED lamps that send real-time GPS location data and status of the light (whether it’s working or needs repair)
— Lamps will be installed on 2-3 buoys in the Menasha Channel
— If things go well, this could be expanded to other buoys in the system

4.) Winnebago County buoy contract will be going out for bid in October. This will be for the next 5-years of buoy placement and maintenance.

If you have a specific location that you feel should be marked by a buoy to improve the safety of navigation in the Winnebago System, please let us know. Our organization does not own or manage buoys, but we would be happy to pass the information along to those who do.

The Winnebago Waterways Program is now recruiting members for the Lake Management Plan’s (LMP) focus groups. Focus groups help fine-tune the management recommendations to be included in the LMP. Being in a focus-group consists of participating in a single three-hour meeting. It’s a really easy way to get your opinion heard and participate in the large-scale planning effort currently underway for the Winnebago System. Please click HERE for more information.