The State of Madison’s Lakes with James Tye
Jan. 29, 2027 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Madison's lakes help define our community — but what will it take to keep them healthy for generations to come? James Tye, Founder and Executive Director of Clean Lakes Alliance, joins Madison West Middleton Rotary for a conversation about the health of our lakes, the challenges facing the Yahara Watershed, and the work underway to protect these extraordinary community resources.
About the Program
From Mendota and Monona to Waubesa, Kegonsa, and the waterways that connect them, the lakes of the Yahara Watershed are an essential part of life in Greater Madison. They're places where we swim, boat, fish, gather, and experience some of what makes our region special.
They're also part of a complex watershed facing significant water-quality challenges. James will provide an update on the health of our lakes and discuss the factors affecting water quality, the progress being made, and the work that still lies ahead.
He'll also take us inside the work of Clean Lakes Alliance and its efforts to bring together businesses, government agencies, scientists, nonprofits, farmers, community organizations, and residents around the shared goal of healthier lakes and a healthier watershed.
The conversation will explore how science, community engagement, partnerships, and individual action can all contribute to protecting Greater Madison's lakes — and what each of us can do to help preserve them for future generations.
About James Tye
James Tye is the Founder and Executive Director of Clean Lakes Alliance, a Madison-based nonprofit dedicated to protecting and improving the lakes, streams, and wetlands of the Yahara River Watershed.
A lifelong Madison resident, James grew up swimming, waterskiing, and sailing on Lake Mendota, developing a personal connection to the lakes that would ultimately lead to his work on their behalf.
In 2010, James developed the original business plan for Clean Lakes Alliance and helped recruit its founding board. Today, he leads the organization's strategic mission and works to build partnerships across the community focused on improving and protecting Greater Madison's lakes.
Introduced by Andrew Drake.
Guests Are Welcome
You do not need to be a Rotary member to attend. Come hear an important local conversation, meet members of our community, and see what Madison West Middleton Rotary is all about.