The North Temperate Lakes Long-Term Ecological Research (NTL-LTER) program conducts and facilitates long term ecological research on Wisconsin lakes. Housed on both the UW-Madison campus and at Trout Lake Station, NTL is part of the larger LTER network funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation since 1981. NTL is committed to promoting and valuing diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice in all aspects of our research and activities. We invite you to explore our datasets and collaborate with us.
In the News
50 years after the Clean Water Act, pollution persists in Madison lakes
Lake Mendota and Lake Monona form a central part of Madison’s identity. They enhance the surrounding area’s appeal and draw people to the beauty, recreation and vibrancy they create, according to Between Two Lakes. But underneath their glistening surfaces, the lakes tell a murkier story.
October 19, 2023
Project shares knowledge of native rice with community
Amid threats from humans, climate change, Manoomin Education and Outreach Project aims to educate on plant’s ecological, cultural significance
October 6, 2023
Mapping Methane Emissions From Rivers Around Globe Reveals Surprising Sources
Freshwater ecosystems account for half of global emissions of methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. Rivers and streams, especially, are thought to emit a substantial amount of that methane, but the rates and patterns of these emissions at global scales remain largely undocumented.
September 22, 2023
Mapping methane emissions from rivers around globe reveals surprising sources
Freshwater ecosystems account for half of global emissions of methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. Rivers and streams, especially, are thought to emit a substantial amount of that methane, but the rates and patterns of these emissions at global scales remain largely undocumented.
September 19, 2023
Yale researchers investigate methane emissions by rivers, streams
A recent Nature paper shed light on one of a few lesser-known secrets held by our rivers and streams. Like cows and humans, even our rivers can be gassy.
September 18, 2023- Archived News