MADISON, Wis. -- The face of Lake Koshkonong could change with efforts to protect wetlands and increase recreational activities.

It might not have been a perfect day for a boat ride Tuesday, but the rain, wind and waves provide evidence of erosion -- the reason efforts are continuing to protect shorelines.

"If these wetlands are more protected, they could expand and that would provide, depending on how it's managed, for various wildlife or waterfowl-type benefits," said Rob Montgomery, of Montgomery Associates.

His company is being contracted by the Rock Koshkonong Lake District to study the waterway.

Assembly Speaker Mike Sheridan and state Rep. Andy Jorgensen joined the Department of Natural Resources and Lake District officials to take a look at how to better manage the lake.

Potential projects would increase the lake's depth, which currently averages only 6 feet.

That would make navigation easier, improving recreational activities as well as lakefront property values.

"A lot of the projects are going to include some level of dredging, and then the dredge material will be placed someplace that produces an additional benefit," said Montgomery.

Dredging would help improve lake access for boaters since much of the lake is too shallow to travel on. Dredged material could then be used to fill breakwaters or build man-made islands.

"We hope that the islands will break up that wind fetch -- it will protect the wetland shoreline areas around Lake Koshkonong. But it will also create new habitat for migratory birds like ducks," said Brian Christianson, of the Rock Koshkonong Lake District.

Officials said the long-term benefit could create a healthier ecosystem for generations to come.

"There is this sense of, 'We've studied the lake a lot, let's put some boots on the ground and let's start building some stuff,'" said Christianson.

All parties involved are working together to create a comprehensive plan by next summer to determine how to proceed with projects.

To cover those costs, $100,000 has been approved in the state budget to match a federal Army Corps of Engineers grant.