Madison, Wis. – Governor Tony Evers has proclaimed September as Coastal Awareness Month in Wisconsin in recognition of the important impact that the Great Lakes have on the state. Lake Michigan and Lake Superior are integral to Wisconsin’s economy, recreation, tourism, cultural history, and quality of life. The Governor’s proclamation is a reminder for the people of Wisconsin to protect, promote, and enjoy the state’s Great Lakes.“Wisconsin’s coastal communities and waterways serve as critical gateways to our state, supporting thousands of jobs, bolstering local economies, and providing countless opportunities for recreation and enjoyment for residents and visitors alike,” said Gov. Evers. “This month and every month, we celebrate Wisconsin’s coastal communities and Great Lakes shorelines that are critical to who we are as a people and a state and our shared commitment to preserving the health and well-being of our coasts and coastal communities for generations to come.”


In recognition of Coastal Awareness Month and the importance of the Great Lakes, the Wisconsin Coastal Management Program (WCMP) at the Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA) is proud to announce the release of the 2026 Wisconsin Great Lakes Chronicle. The Chronicle promotes public awareness of Wisconsin Great Lakes issues, provides a vehicle for experts to educate public policy leaders, and creates an historical record of Great Lakes events and perspectives. The 2026 edition features articles on the history of the Chronicle, Resiliency in the East River, Ishkode (Good Fire) on Wisconsin Point, and Great Lakes collaboration. The 2026 Wisconsin Great Lakes Chronicle, including past issues, is available on the WCMP website.

The WCMP works cooperatively with Great Lakes stakeholders to help protect and enhance the natural, cultural, and historical resources of the Great Lakes while encouraging sustainable economic development. The policy direction for WCMP is set by the Wisconsin Coastal Management Council. Members of the Council are appointed by the Governor and represent state agencies, local and tribal governments, and the general public.

The program is supporting the following local events highlighting the importance of the Great Lakes in the community:

  • Paddle Palooza, Two Rivers – Saturday, September 12, 2026
  • Valley Week, Milwaukee – September 19-26, 2026
  • Sturgeon Fest, Milwaukee – Sunday, September 27, 2026

WCMP is currently accepting grant proposals to enhance and protect resources within Wisconsin’s coastal zone, anticipating the award of approximately $1.2 million in grant funding for 2027. Applications are due November 3, 2026, with information available on the WCMP website. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact WCMP staff early to discuss proposal ideas and application requirements.

The WCMP was the first program in the Great Lakes and among the first ten nationally established through the federal Coastal Zone Management Act. Its mission since 1978 is a balance of resource protection and sustainable development within Wisconsin’s 15 Lake Michigan and Lake Superior counties.