EPISODE · Dec 19, 2025 · 13 MIN
A dispute over beach access in Shorewood, and the what the 'Public Access Doctrine' tells us
from Lake Effect Spotlight · host WUWM 89.7 FM - Milwaukee's NPR
Wisconsin has about 400 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. But a dispute in Shorewood has ignited a debate about who has access to that shoreline. The public can get to the water at Atwater Beach in Shorewood. But residents with homes to the north and south of that beach own everything down to the water’s edge. A Shorewood resident challenged that policy in municipal court earlier this month, and a judge will announce a ruling early next year. This debate has been going on for decades and has been settled in other states, according to David Strifling. He’s an associate professor at Marquette University’s Law School. He joins WUWM environmental reporter Susan Bence to explain the Public Trust Doctrine.
What this episode covers
Wisconsin has about 400 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. But a dispute in Shorewood has ignited a debate about who has access to that shoreline. The public can get to the water at Atwater Beach in Shorewood. But residents with homes to the north and south of that beach own everything down to the water’s edge. A Shorewood resident challenged that policy in municipal court earlier this month, and a judge will announce a ruling early next year. This debate has been going on for decades and has been settled in other states, according to David Strifling. He’s an associate professor at Marquette University’s Law School. He joins WUWM environmental reporter Susan Bence to explain the Public Trust Doctrine.
NOW PLAYING
A dispute over beach access in Shorewood, and the what the 'Public Access Doctrine' tells us
No transcript for this episode yet
Similar Episodes
Apr 20, 2026
Apr 14, 2026
Apr 7, 2026
Mar 30, 2026
Mar 23, 2026
Mar 16, 2026