The Wisconsin Public Land Doctrine treats our lakes and streams as common areas-free for all to use. Some lakes and streams are in danger of becoming tragedies through excessive development, pollution and destruction of natural beauty and habitats. For examples, just look at the lakes in southern Wisconsin. How can these tragedies of the common waters be prevented? By striking the right balance between free public use and preservation. We can all do our part by doing things that protect the waters and avoiding actions that would harm them. There is also a role for fair and reasonable regulation of our water commons – for example, protective shore land zoning ordinances at the local and county levels help keep our lakes rivers healthy.