Neoga, Illinois · Coles, Cumberland & Shelby Counties

Protecting Lake Mattoon
For Generations to Come

Clean Water, Strong Economy

Dedicated to promoting the preservation, conservation, and responsible recreation of Lake Mattoon — a vital water source serving the communities of Central Illinois.

Learn More

Clean Water·Strong Economy·Healthy Communities

3
Counties Served
1
Vital Water Source
100%
Community Driven
501(c)
Nonprofit Organization

Who We Are

Guardians of a Community Treasure

Lake Mattoon isn't just a beautiful natural resource — it's the drinking water source for the City of Mattoon and the lifeblood of communities across Coles, Cumberland, and Shelby counties in Illinois.

"Clean Water, Strong Economy"

The Friends of Lake Mattoon

A healthy lake means healthy communities. Clean water sustains local businesses, supports property values, draws recreation and tourism, and protects the long-term economic vitality of our region.

Friends of Lake Mattoon is a community-led nonprofit working to ensure the lake's health, clarity, and long-term vitality through conservation efforts, community education, and responsible recreation stewardship.

Lake Mattoon, Illinois

Our Work

Three Pillars of Lake Stewardship

Conservation

Monitoring water quality, protecting shoreline ecosystems, and advocating for policies that safeguard the lake's long-term environmental health for both wildlife and people.

Community Education

Engaging residents, anglers, boaters, and local youth with programs that build awareness about clean water stewardship and the importance of Lake Mattoon.

Clean Water, Strong Economy

Economic Stewardship

Clean water is the foundation of a thriving local economy. We champion the connection between a healthy lake and the prosperity of businesses, families, and communities who depend on it.

Take Action

Get Involved

Become a Member

Join a growing community of lake stewards. Your membership supports ongoing conservation work and gives you a voice in protecting Lake Mattoon.

Volunteer

From shoreline cleanups to outreach events, there are many ways to roll up your sleeves and make a direct difference for the lake and your community.

Stay Informed

Follow us on Facebook for updates on water quality reports, community events, conservation milestones, and ways to help protect Lake Mattoon.

Spread the Word

Tell your neighbors, your fishing buddies, and your family about the work we're doing. Awareness is the first step toward a healthier lake.

Our Efforts

Keeping Our Shoreline Clean

From early spring through fall, Friends of Lake Mattoon organizes hands-on cleanup events along the lake's shoreline and surrounding areas. Our volunteers remove debris, invasive plants, and litter that threaten water quality and the health of local wildlife — keeping Lake Mattoon clean for everyone who depends on it.

Volunteers collecting trash along a lake shoreline

Community members removing debris from the water's edge

Group of volunteers working together on a shoreline cleanup

Protecting local wildlife on Lake Mattoon

4+
Cleanup Events Per Year
500+
Lbs of Debris Removed
56
Miles of Shoreline Maintained

Mark Your Calendar

Upcoming Events

Loading upcoming events…

Stay Connected

Follow Our Journey

Stay up to date on cleanup events, water quality reports, conservation news, and ways to get involved. Follow us on Facebook to join the conversation and help spread the word.