The landscape of western Wisconsin is dotted with forests, farmland and lakes. A unique feature of this part of the state is the high quality and quantity of its water resources. The Red Cedar River is one such resource that is treasured and used by residents and visitors alike. The area that surrounds and drains into the Red Cedar River is referred to as the Red Cedar River Basin. The basin encompasses nearly 2,000 square miles, including parts of Barron, Chippewa, Dunn, Polk, Rusk, Sawyer, St. Croix, and Washburn counties.

* Journey of the Red Cedar River

The Red Cedar River begins its journey flowing from Bear Lake, Long Lake and Lake Chetac in northwestern Wisconsin. As the river makes its southern descent to its final destination, the Chippewa River, it passes through forests, farmland, and several urban areas including Rice Lake and Menomonie.

Over its length, the Red Cedar picks up flow from several smaller rivers, including the Bear, Brill, Pine, Yellow, Chetek and Hay, and numerous streams including Pine, Wilson, Sand and Gilbert Creeks. In addition to Lake Chetac, the river flows through several impoundments including Red Cedar Lake, Rice Lake, the Chetek area chain of lakes, Tainter Lake and Lake Menomin.

* Land use in the basin

The diverse land uses of the Red Cedar River Basin are a reflection of its soils, climatic conditions and rich history. The primary land uses in the basin are agriculture (28%) and forestry (52%). The remaining land in the basin includes urban areas, roads and pastures.