Privacy Policy

1. About LakeLocale

LakeLocale is an independent directory of geographic lake records and related public information. This policy describes the website's current intended operation. It should be reviewed against the actual hosting, analytics, advertising, and third-party services before launch and updated when those practices change.

2. Information involved in using the site

You can browse the public lake directory without creating an account. When you visit, the hosting infrastructure may process technical information such as IP address, browser type, requested URL, timestamps, and diagnostic logs needed to deliver, secure, and troubleshoot the service.

Search terms, selected filters, and map interactions are used to serve the results you request. Do not submit sensitive personal information through search fields.

3. Location features

If you choose a feature such as “Use my location,” your browser may request permission to access your device location. The feature should only access location after you grant permission. You can revoke that permission in your browser. Map requests or location-based searches may transmit relevant coordinates to the website or map service needed to provide the requested result.

4. External maps, imagery, and data providers

The site uses public geographic data from sources such as USGS, EPA, Michigan DNR, and Recreation.gov and may load imagery, maps, or other resources from third-party hosts, including USGS imagery and OpenStreetMap services. Requests to these providers may disclose technical connection information (for example, IP address) under their own privacy practices. External links have their own policies.

5. Cookies and similar technologies

Essential storage or cookies may be used to support security, sessions, and interactive functions. We do not represent that optional analytics or advertising cookies are enabled by this policy. Before enabling analytics, personalized advertising, or other nonessential tracking, LakeLocale must update this notice and, where required, provide applicable privacy choices or consent controls.

6. Advertising and analytics

Advertising and analytics services are not described here as active features. If LakeLocale later enables Google advertising, analytics, or another provider, this policy will be updated to explain the provider, data involved, available controls, and relevant opt-out or consent options before activation.

7. Retention and security

Operational logs should be kept only as long as reasonably needed for security, diagnostics, and applicable legal requirements. No online service can guarantee absolute security. The production operator must review the actual hosting provider's logging, retention, and data-processing practices before publication.

8. Your privacy choices

You may control browser location permissions and browser cookies in your browser settings. Depending on applicable law and the data actually processed, you may have rights to request access, correction, deletion, or information about personal data. Requests should be sent to the contact address shown below when it is configured.

9. Children's privacy

LakeLocale is a general-interest geographic directory and is not directed to children under 13. We do not intentionally ask children to submit personal information.

10. Contact and updates

This policy may be revised when the site adds services or the applicable requirements change. The updated date will appear at the top of this page.

Before public launch: the site operator must configure a working privacy contact address.