North Central Wisconsin Regional Recovery Dashboard

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the NCWRPC was awarded a grant from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to assist with the economic recovery of the Region. Part of the scope of work for the grant included the development of a Regional Recovery Plan. The Regional Recovery Plan includes both short-term and long-term strategies intended to guide the Region’s economic stabilization and recovery from current and future economic shocks and to help foster a resilient and sustainable North Central Wisconsin.

As the Region continues to recover from the pandemic and build towards a more prosperous future, local communities and organizations can use the North Central Wisconsin Regional Recovery Dashboard to help track the Region’s progress on issues that were identified in the Regional Recovery Plan as crucial to the prosperity of North Central Wisconsin.

Great Pinery Heritage Waterway

The Great Pinery Heritage Waterway™ is a navigable water trail located in Northcentral Wisconsin. Situated on the Wisconsin River and its tributaries, the trail spans several counties and is 108 miles long.

The Great Pinery Heritage Waterway winds through scenic forests, urban landscapes and historic sites, inviting paddlers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Great Pinery, learn about the native inhabitants and European settlers who once navigated these waters, and enjoy local attractions, food and happenings.

NCWRPC mapped the trail and features along the route.

City of Merrill Outdoor Recreation Plan 2023-2027

The primary purpose of this outdoor recreation plan is to provide continued direction toward meeting the current and future recreation needs of the City of Merrill.

Adoption of this plan by the Merrill City Council and subsequent acceptance by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) will continue the City’s eligibility for Land and Water Conservation Fund (LAWCON), and Stewardship Fund money.

Non-profit groups, foundations, and the general public may also use this document to coordinate their own private efforts for developing outdoor recreation facilities.

Lincoln County Economic Profile 2022

Every few years, NCWRPC updates basic demographic and economic development information in the form of County Profiles, which provide a snapshot of current economic trends and opportunities for economic growth. Included is a map of business park locations where acreage is available as well as contacts for various economic development agencies and programs.

Grow North Region Housing Study – 2021

Housing is a crucial component of livability and is critical for regional and local prosperity. Communities that can offer a variety of housing types that are affordable across a wide spectrum of income levels are significantly more capable of providing the conditions necessary to attract and retain residents of all life phases. Housing impacts more than just residents, as housing also impacts transportation, employment, economic development, land use patterns, and communities themselves. The connection between housing and work is a fundamental function of any transportation system, as many workers are required to travel to their jobs. This relationship between housing, employment, and transportation guides land use decisions, and fosters economic development and a sense of community within communities and the
Region.

Lincoln County Outdoor Recreation Plan 2022-2026

The primary purpose of this outdoor recreation plan is to provide continued direction toward meeting the current and future recreation needs of Lincoln County. This is accomplished through an inventory and analysis of outdoor recreational facilities, asking the public what they are looking for, and the establishment of recommendations to meet identified needs.