Lake Facts

Hardwood Lake is located in Ogemaw County near the village of Prescott, Michigan. This 186-acre lake features a maximum depth of about 29 feet and is surrounded by a vibrant community, including approximately 102 properties, a 40+ unit campground, and a Department of Natural Resources (DNR) boat launch, making it a popular destination for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation within Michigan.

Hardwood lake is scheduled for an algae treatment on August 29, 2025,  The area to be treated is the usual 22.5 acres along the occupied shore extending out to 100 feet from shore. There are no water use restrictions for this treatment.

There is also to be two phragmites treatments totaling about .25 acres. One at the east end and the other at the west end.

 This is scheduled to be the last treatment of the year.

Lake Facts & Features
Hardwood Lake has no inflowing streams or significant, if any, springs. The watershed is from about 4,000 acres, primarily from the northeast of the lake.

• Size: approximately 186 acres
• Average Depth: 9 feet
• Deepest Points: 29 feet
• Natural Setting: The south shore is heavily forested, providing beautiful views and an “Up North” Michigan atmosphere
• Wildlife: Home to bald eagles, songbirds, and abundant fish species

Community Involvement: Hardwood Lake Property Owners Association (HLPOA)

Established in 1975, the HLPOA works to:

• Improve the Hardwood Lake area
• Develop positive relationships between local property owners
• Keep residents informed and engaged through newsletters, events, and a dedicated website

Be a Member and Get Involved

Annual Membership Dues: Just $20
Benefits include:

• Annual newsletter updates
• Access to lake news, community events, and weed control efforts via this website
• Voting rights at the annual association meeting in July
• Community involvement in preserving the lake’s beauty

To join, submit dues to the association secretary/treasurer. Contact information is published in the newsletter.

Lake Preservation & Weed Management

We often hear terms like “Lake Inspection or Lake Treatment.” 

 Why is this going on, and what is being accomplished?

In the mid 1990’s invasive weeds were becoming such a problem it was becoming difficult to power a boat through the lake. The residents determined that action needed to be taken and investigated a solution. A petition was circulated among the residents.  Eventually Richland Township, where most of the lake is located, agreed to establish a Lake Improvement Board, governed by State of Michigan laws. The improvement board would be funded by a special assessment of the lake property owners. Logan Township was also included as a portion of the lake and property owners lie in Logan Township.

After some research the Hardwood Lake Improvement Board contracted with Progressive Companies, from Grand Rapids, to oversea the treatment of invasive non native weed species in the lake. Progressive overseas about 90 lakes throughout Michigan.

An Environmental Scientist with Progressive overseas the project and secures the State permits need for the treatments. Starting in early May he will survey the shoreline by boat and do so monthly through August, looking for the invasive weeds. He will use a rake like device to take weed samples. From this survey he will determine what areas need to be treated and the herbicides to be used. This may include Eurasian Watermilfoil, Curleyleaf Pond weed, Starry Stonewort or algae. This is then relayed to the herbicide applicator and a treatment date scheduled. Over the  years Planktonic Algae, which is the green pond scum, become an issue. In an effort to make the lake more usable and enjoyable treatments are usually scheduled before the three major summer holidays and early August.

Herbicide application is done by boat, and you may see them spraying the herbicide into the water. There may be some water use restrictions, which will be listed on the yellow posters posted on each property. Algae treatments are limited to the populated areas of the lake and up to 100 feet from shore.

 Depending on what our Environmental Scientist sees, there may also be biomass harvesting

 After Labor Day there are no further surveys or treatments. The past years treatments is reviewed and plans for the next year are made during the winter season.

Ongoing Conservation Work

In 1994, the Hardwood Lake Improvement Board was created through Richland and Logan Townships. In 1995, a special tax assessment district was established to fund ongoing lake improvement projects.

Experts from Progressive Companies (formerly Progressive Engineering) of Grand Rapids, MI, were brought on board to lead the initiative. Their work focuses on:

• Carefully applying eco-friendly herbicides (permitted by the Michigan DNR)
• Reducing unwanted algae
• Maintaining a healthy balance between native vegetation and water quality

These efforts have restored the lake’s fishing quality, improved boating access, and provided a more enjoyable recreational experience for everyone.

Recreational Opportunities for All

Hardwood Lake is a four-season getaway that offers:

Boating & Water Sports

• High-speed boating allowed only between 11:00 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.
• This schedule helps preserve quiet hours for morning and evening fishing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
• All boats are required to travel counter-clockwise for skiing and water sports safety

Fishing & Wildlife

• Great fishing conditions due to improved lake ecology
• Enjoy lakeside birdwatching

Explore, Connect & Protect Hardwood Lake

Be part of a welcoming waterfront community that values conservation, fun, and responsible lake living. Whether you’re here for the weekend or for life, Hardwood Lake is a hidden gem in Michigan’s lake country.