The Spatial Distribution of Spring Lakes in Wisconsin

Abstract

The number of ways a lake can arise is limited only by the landscape that it is a part of. The landscape in Wisconsin is extremely diverse in a multitude of ways, most highlighted by the uneven coverage the last glaciers had on the state. For this reason, part of the state is dominated by glacial effects, while the other remained untouched, creating two completely different environments. Because of this, there are unique hydrologic systems within the state, leading to different water features. The two most prominent, springs and lakes, can integrate to make a spring lake. Spring lakes need very precise landscape factors to arise, therefore giving a strong indication of the environment for which it is a part of. In addition to the presence of glaciers, the depth to bedrock, depth to water table, and bedrock geology are all elements that influence where a lake or spring is. Through this investigation, all of these variables will be analyzed to identify common or uncommon qualities shared by all named lakes and springs in Wisconsin.