Is Apple River Flowage Lake Polluted?
Yes — Apple River Flowage Lake in Polk County, Wisconsin is on the EPA's Clean Water Act 303(d) impaired-waters list (2024 assessment cycle). It is cited for Nutrients (phosphorus, nitrogen). No cleanup plan (TMDL) has been completed yet. "Impaired" is a legal designation, separate from the lake's EPA condition class water-quality readings: it means at least one designated use (such as swimming, aquatic life, or fish consumption) does not meet state standards for the listed pollutant.
EPA 303(d) Listing
| On 303(d) impaired list | Yes |
| Cleanup plan (TMDL) | Not yet written |
| Assessment cycle | 2024 |
| EPA IR category | 5R |
| Uses not supported | Aquatic life, Recreation |
| EPA names this lake in the listing | Yes |
| Location | Polk County, Wisconsin |
Pollutants Cited
- Nutrients (phosphorus, nitrogen) — Excess phosphorus and nitrogen fuel algae growth and summer blooms. This is the classic agricultural-runoff and shoreline-development impairment, and the one most likely to affect swimming via blue-green algae.
Specific parameters in the EPA record: Phosphorus, Total.
What this means for using Apple River Flowage Lake
Because Apple River Flowage Lake is listed for Nutrients (phosphorus, nitrogen), swimming can be affected — check for posted beach advisories, especially after heavy rain or during visible algae. An impairment listing does not mean the lake is closed — most impaired lakes remain open for boating and swimming. It means a specific pollutant exceeds a standard for a specific use. Apple River Flowage Lake measures phosphorus at 78.5 µg/L. See the full breakdown on the lake report. The official EPA assessment is available in the ATTAINS waterbody report.
Stays via Stay22
Where to stay near Apple River Flowage Lake
Compare cabins, hotels, and vacation rentals near Apple River Flowage Lake in Polk County, Wisconsin. Live availability and prices for your nights. Switch the map to Satellite to see how close each stay is to the water.
Top-rated places to stay near Apple River Flowage Lake
Prices for Oct 30–Nov 1, 4 adults. Change dates on the map below.
Availability and prices from Stay22 partners (Booking.com, Vrbo, Expedia). We may earn a commission from bookings, at no extra cost to you.
Planning a trip to Apple River Flowage Lake?
Get lake water-quality updates plus the best cabin & lodging deals near Apple River Flowage Lake — straight to your inbox. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Watch Apple River Flowage Lake water quality
Get an email when the clarity or algae readings change. Unsubscribe anytime.