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Lake Delton Progress Report

The Lake Is Full

On June 9, 2008, sustained rains caused Lake Delton to breach its shoreline and drain into the nearby Wisconsin River. This small man-made lake on the outskirts of Wisconsin Dells is rimmed with small- and medium-size resorts, a number of popular attractions, water sport rental businesses and restaurants. Reconstruction of the lake is now complete. Lake Delton is full again and more pristine than ever.

In the spirit of community, and with gratitude to our visitors, we bring you the latest news on the comeback of Lake Delton. View a time-lapse video from December 6, 2008 - May 6, 2009 showing the refilling of Lake Delton.

Welcome Back Lake Delton
Govenor Proclaims It a Celebration

Some communities might shy away from turning a date known for a lake draining into a big celebration, but we're not like other communities. In Wisconsin Dells, we held a "Welcome Back Lake Delton" extravaganza on Tuesday, June 9. We did it in fine style –
a boat parade, the release of 9,000 walleye fingerlings, lights around the lake and more.

Here's a quick review of our celebration day:

Welcome Back Lake Delton Events

10:00 am:	Boat parade in Bartlett Bay featured 15 water crafts decorated to Welcome Back Lake Delton. It was a fine day to enjoy this colorful water flotilla. The winner was presented with the first "Lake Delton Cup" award.

11:00 am:	Press conference with Governor Jim Doyle, State Department Cabinet Secretaries and local dignitaries begins on the shores of Lake Delton. Governor Doyle presented a plaque proclaiming June 9th as Welcome Back Lake Delton Day.

12:30 pm:	Release of 9,000 walleye fingerlings at Lake Delton reconstruction area. (sponsored in part by Wilderness Territory)

4:30 pm:	Afternoon Tommy Bartlett Show - free to the public.

8:30 pm:	Evening Tommy Bartlett Show - free to the public.

8:45 pm:	Resorts and businesses rimming Lake Delton lit up with tiki torches, luminaries and bonfires to signal "the lights are on and we're open for business" in Wisconsin Dells!