Bark Lake Advancement Association

04/24/2026

The Burn Ban in Richfield has been lifted as of April 24, 2026.

The fire department follows guidance from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources burning map.

Even after a ban is lifted, restrictions can change quickly based on weather (wind, humidity, and dryness).

🔥 Fire Safety Reminder 🔥
Even though our area is currently at Low Fire Danger per the Wisconsin DNR, conditions this time of year (March–June) can change quickly.

Dry leaves, dead vegetation, and recent high winds mean fires can start easily—and spread fast.

Even a small spark from equipment, ci******es, or embers can ignite a fire, especially in grassy or brush-filled areas near our lakes and rural properties.

⚠️ Please stay alert and take precautions:�• Avoid burning on windy days�• Properly dispose of ci******es�• Use equipment carefully�• Never leave fires unattended

Let’s all do our part to prevent accidental fires and keep our community safe.

Thank you!

To check the current fire danger in your area, bookmark the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources burning map at https://apps.dnr.wi.gov/wisburn/ #/

04/23/2026

From late May through early July, it’s common to see more turtles out crossing roads in both public and private areas. This is a normal part of their seasonal movement, but it also means they need a little extra help staying safe.
If you come across one and choose to assist, please keep a few important safety tips in mind:
🐢 Only stop and get out of your vehicle if it’s safe. Pull well off the road, stay alert to traffic, and never put yourself or others at risk. Helping is great—but safety always comes first.
🐢 Move the turtle in the same direction it was already going. Their instincts are strong, and turning them around often just leads them right back into traffic later.
🐢 Don’t relocate turtles to a different area, even if it seems safer. Moving them away from their original path can disorient them and cause more road crossings as they try to find their way back.
🐢 Never lift a turtle by its tail. The tail is an extension of the spine and can be seriously injured.
🐢 Use caution with larger or defensive species like snapping or softshell turtles. If needed, use something like gloves, a car mat, or a flat tool (like a shovel) to gently guide them across.
🐢 If you do handle a turtle, wash your hands afterward. Turtles can carry salmonella, which can be harmful to people.
A few mindful steps can make a big difference in helping them safely continue on their journey this season.

04/23/2026

Due to elevated fire danger levels across Wisconsin, the Richfield Fire Department is asking area residents to refrain from burning brush, leaves, and yard debris.

Please remember open burning is prohibited within the Richfield/Hubertus/Colgate areas.

Outdoor burning greatly increases the risk of fires spreading quickly. Smoke can also impact your neighbors and reduce air quality.

If you have questions regarding the fire danger in your area visit the Village of Richfield website when you can also find information about obtaining a burn permit.

We appreciate your cooperation in helping keep our community safe

04/23/2026

Hi Bark Lake neighbors!

Just an FYI-some students from Richfield school district will be cleaning up around the lake today (Thursday, April 23rd) as part of the annual day of service. Here’s a message from one of the teachers:

“Tomorrow is our Day of Service for our middle school students and staff. If you're out driving, please be cautious of students and staff members that are cleaning up along the roads in the area. We have a group working on Bark Lake Road and the park. They will be wearing high visibility vests.”

Thank you!

04/17/2026

This raft got away and is alongside Marlena Ward’s pier on the south side. Please claim if it is yours!

04/16/2026

Paddle boat on raft floating on west end side of the lake!

04/16/2026

FYI neighbors!!!!!

04/14/2026

The Village has been notified by the Bark Lake Advancement Association that the Lake has reached 'No Wake' levels.

12/09/2025

Always a good visual to reference as you think about heading out on the ice!

With winter's arrival, a friendly reminder about ice safety is provided. A safe rule of thumb is that 4 inches of solid ice is safe to walk on. Please see the chart below!

11/05/2025

Please be advised, the Village will be removing the pier at the Bark Lake Boat Launch this coming Friday, November 7th.

CC: Bark Lake Advancement Association

(Disclaimer: Actual pier not shown.)