2007 archery deer season opens Sept. 15
2007 venison donation program up and running in participating counties
2007 ruffed grouse and fall wild turkey seasons open Sept. 15
Groundwater rules kick in Sept. 1
Flood safety is more than just high water
All boaters, anglers, paddlers need to take prevention steps
Watercraft inspectors, wardens out in full force
2007 archery deer season opens Sept. 15
MADISON – The first of the fall deer hunting seasons is set to open on Sept. 15 with the start of archery deer hunting. The early archery season runs Sept. 15 through Nov. 15 and the late archery season runs Nov. 26 through Jan. 6, 2008. Archery hunting in both CWD zones is open continuously Sept 15 – Jan 6.
State wildlife officials say the statewide preseason white-tailed deer population projection is between 1.6 to 1.8 million animals, which should provide plenty of opportunity for hunters who have scouted hunting spots, renewed permissions from landowners if they hunt on private lands, and have equipment ready.
“Deer hunting opportunity should be great again this season,” said Keith Warnke, deer and bear ecologist with the state Department of Natural Resources. “Hunters put in a great effort last year and archers set a new state harvest record for bow-killed deer. The potential is good again this year as populations are above goals in most deer management units across the state and there are an unlimited number of inexpensive antlerless deer tags available for all herd control and earn-a-buck units.
“But remember,” he adds “high deer populations don’t make them any easier to kill. Deer will still use the best available habitat and they continue to make every effort to avoid hunters. To be a successful hunter requires scouting and patience.”
With the exception of the statewide youth deer hunt on Oct. 6 and 7, and the CWD units, there is no gun deer hunting in October again this year. This is the second year of a trial moratorium on October gun hunting and archers who do their scouting should be successful in filling earn-a buck requirements. The return of October gun hunting hinges on meeting a two antlerless deer for every buck ratio in herd control and earn-a-buck units. Hunters met that goal in the central forest area last year but fell short in other areas. “It will take well more than two to one antlerless to antlered ratio this year in herd control units (not including EAB) or October gun hunting will return in 2008.”
Hunters can donate extra venison to the venison donation program so nothing goes to waste, remind officials. Details of the donation program are available on the DNR Web site and at DNR service centers. Due to impending budget cuts there will not be a donation program for deer from the CWD zones.
“Each archery license will come with an antlerless carcass tag good in any herd control or EAB unit in the state,” Warnke says. “And there are unlimited inexpensive antlerless tags for the herd control and EAB units available over-the-counter. For those archery hunters who also gun hunt and plan on gun hunting in an EAB unit, archery season is a great time to prequalify for a buck sticker. That way you can hit the woods opening morning of the gun deer season with a buck sticker in your pocket giving you the option of shooting any deer of your choice right off the bat.”
Archers need to keep in mind that in any area of the state where a firearm deer season is open, including the regular nine-day hunt, muzzleloader season, Oct. 7-8 youth hunt, December four-day antlerless only hunt or CWD hunts, all hunters except water fowl hunters must meet blaze orange clothing requirements. Officials also remind hunters to be careful in the use of tree stands.
The 2007 deer hunting regulations are available on the Department of Natural Resources Web site and at DNR service centers as well as most license vendors.
Earn-a-buck
Fifty-seven of Wisconsin’s 130 deer management units have earn-a-buck rules in 2007. A map of the 2007 EAB units [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/HUNT/DEER/dmu.htm] is available on the DNR Web site.
More than 65,000 hunters “prequalified” for a buck sticker in 2007 by registering an antlerless deer during 2006.
If the unit where the antlerless deer was killed was under EAB last year, the hunter received a purple buck authorization sticker on the spot. The sticker could be used immediately to shoot and tag a buck last year or saved for this year. An EAB buck authorization sticker is good in any EAB unit.
If the unit where the antlerless deer was killed was not EAB in 2006 but is under EAB in 2007, the hunter should be in the EAB Prequalification Database. Hunters in this category will be mailed a buck sticker beginning in August 2007. An EAB buck authorization sticker is good in any EAB unit.
Hunters can also earn a buck sticker for the gun deer season by killing and registering an antlerless deer during the early archery deer season in any EAB unit.
Hunters looking ahead to the 2008 seasons can get an idea of which units might be in Earn-a-Buck by looking at the “EAB Watch List” described below.
The following units are on the “watch list” for 2008: all 2007 EAB units, plus units 1, 1M, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 30, 36, 51A, 51B, 52, 53, 54A, 55, 57, 57A, 57C, 58, 59A, 59D, 60B, 72, 73B, 73D, 74B, and 77M.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Keith Warnke - (608) 264-6023
2007 venison donation program up and running in participating counties
MADISON – The 2007 Venison Donation Program is up and running with cooperating meat processors being added to the list weekly. Hunters anticipating the opening of the 2007 deer hunting seasons may want to check the Department of Natural Resources Web site [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/damage/donation/mainindex.htm] regularly for additions to the processor list in their area.
“The process for donating extra venison hasn’t changed from previous years,” said Laurie Fike DNR venison donation program coordinator. “If you think you’d like to donate to the program there are only a few simple steps you need to know.
“First, call ahead to the processor to be sure of their hours and workload. Then harvest, tag, field dress and register the deer as you normally would. Once it’s registered simply bring it to the processor. There is no cost to the hunter other than transporting the deer and it puts high quality meat in food pantries for needy families.”
“Donating deer to the program does more than provide food to families,” Keith Warnke, DNR big game ecologist. “By harvesting additional deer you also help reduce crop damages, deer-vehicle collisions and the impacts of selective deer browsing on the forest.”
Since the fall hunting season of 2000, hunters have donated more than 54,000 deer which have provided over 2.4 million pounds of ground venison to needy families. A large network of volunteers including sports groups, church groups, civic organizations, Hunt for the Hungry and food pantry staff work together to distribute the meat from the processor to the food pantries. USDA – Wildlife Services staff, Department of Natural Resources staff and county wildlife damage staff also help administer the program.
No Deer accepted from CWD Zones
Due to expected funding cuts to the chronic wasting disease operations budget by the legislature’s Joint Finance Committee, processors will not be accepting deer harvested in either the disease eradication zone (DEZ) or the herd reduction zone (HRZ) for the venison donation program. This action was necessary so that remaining CWD funds could continue to pay for CWD-testing of deer hunters plan on taking home for personal consumption. Deer harvested in CWD zones will be tagged with red registration tags at registration stations.
Deer harvested from outside the DEZ and HRZ will be tagged with silver registration tags. If counties within the CWD zones elect to participate in the pantry program meat processors in those counties could choose to accept deer for the donation program but could only accept deer with silver registration tags.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Laurie Fike – - (608) 267-7974
2007 fall wild turkey and ruffed grouse seasons open Sept. 15
Hunter safety should be a top priority
MADISON – The 2007 fall wild turkey and ruffed grouse seasons are set to open at the start of shooting hours on September 15. The grouse population continues to climb as it is still on the upward side of this popular game bird’s 10-year population cycle and wildlife officials have increased the number of fall turkey permits to 94,800 from last year’s 90,600 as the wild turkey continues to expand its populations in Wisconsin.
Hunters need to keep safety in sight due to the nature of hunting these challenging game birds.
“There’s something very special about turkey and grouse hunting,” says Tim Lawhern, hunter education administrator for the state Department of Natural Resources. Lawhern notes. “And with the enthusiasm that goes with this type of hunting, we should all be mindful of making sure we return home safe and sound at the end of each hunt.”
Here are some things Lawhern says hunters need to keep in mind when going afield after ruffed grouse and fall turkey:
• In grouse hunting, two is company and three is definitely a crowd. Any hunt with more than two will become difficult to manage from a safety aspect.
• Communicate. Grouse cover is thick and sometimes it will be difficult to see a hunting partner who might only be a few yards away.
• Plan your hunt and hunt your plan. Keep it simple. Know in advance how far and in what direction you will be going and when turns will be made.
• Advise someone else of where you will be hunting and when they should expect you back. Then, if something goes wrong, at least someone will know where to start looking.
• Know your safe zone of fire. If you are on the left, your safe zone is to the left and slightly forward. The opposite is the case if you are on the right. Always advance forward in unison and don’t get ahead or behind your partner.
• In heavy cover, shoot only at birds that are at least eight feet above the ground. Don't shoot at low birds that could have a hunter or a dog behind them!
• Wear blaze orange clothing and stay in visual contact with your partner at all times. If you lose sight of your partner stop hunting, call and listen until you locate each other.
• Turkey hunters need to be sure of their target - shooting into heavy brush without positive identification can lead to tragedy
• Follow the four basic rules of firearms safety: TAB+K.
o Treat every firearm as loaded;
o Always point the muzzle in a safe direction;
o Be certain of your target and what’s beyond it;
o Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until you are ready to shoot.
Grouse and turkey hunters also need to be aware that there might be other hunters afield at the same time after other types of game. Bow hunters may be perched in tree stands and other turkey hunters may be under a tree. Most of them will be wearing full camouflage and very hard to see.
Lawhern suggests hunters also consider wearing some type of eye protection. A good pair of clear or light colored safety glasses can go a long way toward avoiding injury to eyes and sight.
“Famed conservationist Aldo Leopold once wrote, ‘There are two kinds of hunting: ordinary hunting, and ruffed grouse hunting,’” Lawhern says. “Don’t let careless hunting practices spoil this special tradition.”
2007 Ruffed Grouse Season Dates:
Zone (A): Sept. 15–Jan 31, 2008
Zone (B): Oct. 20 – Dec. 8
2007 Fall Wild Turkey Season Dates:
Sept. 15 – Nov. 15
Grouse and turkey hunters should also note that during any gun or muzzleloader deer season, including the Oct. 6 - 7 Youth Deer Hunt, antlerless hunts and CWD hunts (see 2007 Wisconsin Deer Hunting Regulations), Blaze Orange clothing is required. A hat, if worn, must be at least 50 percent blaze orange.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Lawhern - (608) 266-1317 Tim Lawhern, hunter safety, (608 266-1317 Scott Hull, grouse and turkey seasons (608) 267-7861
Groundwater rules kick in Sept. 1
Annual pumping reports, more review of some wells required
MADISON – Rules and recommendations aimed at getting a better handle on how much groundwater is pumped out of Wisconsin aquifers and at assuring trout streams and other high quality waters get the groundwater to sustain aquatic life take effect Sept. 1, 2007.
One of the rule’s benefits for Wisconsinites is to start getting a handle on how much groundwater is being pumped out of aquifers and who is doing the pumping, according to Larry Lynch, the Department of Natural Resources hydrogeologist who led development of the rule. The state has more than 9,000 high capacity wells and understanding how water is used and by whom is important for protecting that resource for all users.
The rules carry out a 2004 law that enjoyed broad, bipartisan legislative support and that state water officials have hailed as a first step in protecting the water resources that need protection.
A groundwater advisory committee [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/water/dwg/gac/] jointly appointed by Gov. Jim Doyle and legislative leaders has issued recommendations on how to manage groundwater in areas already experiencing significant decreases in groundwater levels [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/news/DNRNews_Lookup.asp?id=47#art5] and is due to issue recommendations by the end of 2007 advising lawmakers on additional steps.
Under the rules, owners of all existing high capacity wells -- those which alone or together with other wells on the same property pump more than 100,000 gallons a day -- are required to report annually how much water they pump.
In addition, applicants for new high capacity wells are required to submit more information and face environmental review for wells proposed within 1,200 feet of a trout stream, a water body designated as an Exceptional Resource Water (ERW) or Outstanding Resource Water (ORW), springs with a minimum flow of one cubic foot per second for a least 80 percent of the time, and wells where 95 percent of the water produced is not returned to the Mississippi or Great Lakes drainage basins.
“Before these rules, the law required people to give us information only on how a well was built – there was no information about the possible impacts of a well on a nearby lake, river or springs,” says Lynch. “Now we’ll get that information and be in a better position to understand the wells’ impacts on the rivers, streams and lakes we so value in Wisconsin.”
Applicants for wells near trout streams and the other high quality waters covered by the law will need to submit information on stream width, depth, and flow, as well as a description of the stream channel. DNR hydrogeologists will evaluate the information and potential impacts.
Proposals that have the potential to impact protected resources will undergo an environmental assessment process. If necessary to protect rivers and streams, DNR will issue an approval limiting pumping, the schedule of operation and well construction requirements to make sure the well doesn’t impact the resource, Lynch says. If the well cannot be built without causing significant adverse impacts, DNR could deny the application.
Lynch expects that only a handful of wells will face the comprehensive environmental review process, stressing that the law only applies to new wells and applications to increase pumping in existing wells. The law does not apply to all existing wells.
“How this more comprehensive review process should be applied to existing wells or to new wells near other types of water bodies is a key subject for the Groundwater Advisory Committee to comment on in their report at the end of this year,” Lynch says.
The committee’s report will address whether other types of waters should join trout streams, some springs and ORW and ERW as protected waters.
DNR is already working with well owners to make voluntary changes to protect waters, including a Vernon County trout stream that has been affected by high capacity well pumping, which was the subject of a February 2007 Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine story. [http://www.wnrmag.com/stories/2007/feb07/streamflow.htm]
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Larry Lynch (608) 267-7553; Barbara Hennings (608) 264-6021
Flood safety is more than just high water
MADISON – Record-setting rainfalls have left many parts of the southern half of Wisconsin under water, with flooding, washed-out roads, basements under water, downed electrical lines, and the uncertain safety of drinking water just a few of the hazards faced by people living in the rain-soaked and flooded areas.
There are ways people can minimize the effects of flooding on their health and safety, starting with checking for possible contamination of water supplies. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has updated its Web site with information to help people cope with flooding [http://dnr.wi.gov/emergency/flood.html].
Those with hookups to public water systems will be advised if there is contamination in the system. Homeowners with flooded private wells need to know that contaminated water may have entered their well through the well cap and that testing and decontamination must be done before the water can be used for drinking, brushing teeth, or washing dishes.
Electricity and refrigeration are also of concern. Most everyone knows that electricity and water don’t mix. But often people forget, and that is where a tragedy can occur. Always turn off the electricity before entering any flooded building or home. Wires may also be down and dangerous in flooded areas. It is vital to be aware of this danger and to take steps to eliminate it. Also, use flashlights, not candles or units that provide light by using gas and flames. It is possible that a gas main may have ruptured and open flames could spell fire or an explosion.
If the power has been off for a period of time, the items in refrigerators or freezers may have thawed or the temperature may have risen to the point above which things can be safely stored. Freezers can keep food frozen for 24 hours, refrigerators without power can keep food at safe temperatures for four to six hours. Throw out any milk, meat of other food if the inside temperature of your refrigerator rises above 40 degrees.
Flood damage can result in significant amounts of waste materials that people need to dispose of properly to ensure they protect their safety as well as the environment. The DNR’s “Coping with Recent Floods” Web page has extensive information on proper disposal of waste materials from flooding, including a pre-demolition environmental check list.
As people work to get their homes and their lives back to normal, practicing good hygiene is a must. Washing hands thoroughly with soapy water multiple times each day will help, especially when preparing food. People with any symptoms like nausea, fevers, cramps, vomiting or diarrhea, should see their doctor.
Sanitation is important, especially in areas of the home where flooding has occurred. Experts recommend that all indoor areas be scrubbed with soapy water. Pay attention to soaping down your counter-tops, cutting boards, eating and cooking utensils, the inside and outside of your stove, refrigerator and other appliances. Make a water/bleach solution from half a cup of bleach to each gallon of water. Use this solution to rinse what has already been washed with soapy water.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Wisconsin Emergency Management – (608) 242-3232
Survey shows need for all boaters to take steps to prevent spread of invasive species
40 percent move their boats from lake to lake
MADISON -- Wisconsin enters one of its busiest boating weekends of the year with 40 percent of boaters surveyed at landings this summer saying they use their boats frequently and move them from lake to lake.
Such “lake hopping” can be part of the fun of boating and fishing, but unless these boaters clean their boats every time they leave a launch and take other prevention steps, they may accidentally spread aquatic invasive species and fish diseases to new lakes or rivers, says Julia Solomon, who leads aquatic invasive species outreach efforts for the Department of Natural Resources and the University of Wisconsin-Extension.
“We want everyone to enjoy this last big fishing and boating weekend of the summer, but to recognize that moving their boats from one water to another increases their risk of bringing unwanted hitchhikers like zebra mussels and Eurasian water-milfoil along for the ride,” Solomon says.
“All boaters, especially those who move from lake to lake, need to take appropriate prevention steps every time they leave a boat landing and remind others to do the same.”
The major way that aquatic invasive species get spread to new inland waters is by clinging to boat trailers, boating or fishing equipment, or being carried in bilge water or live wells. Viral hemorrhagic septicemia, [http://dnr.wi.gov/fish/pages/vhs.html] a new fish disease, also spreads through the movement of water from infected waters and through anglers moving live infected fish from one water body to another. To help prevent possible spread of the disease, angles should buy minnows from licensed Wisconsin bait dealers or catch their own and use it to fish in the water from which it was caught.
Last week, DNR staff confirmed that zebra mussels have become established in Lake Ripley in Jefferson County, and the previous week, the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection announced the discovery of an aggressive invasive plant, hydrilla, in a manmade pond in Marinette County. [http://www.datcp.state.wi.us/press_release/result.jsp?prid=2014].
While the vast majority of Wisconsin waters don’t have zebra mussels or Eurasian water milfoil, two of the most problematic invasive species, Solomon stresses the importance of boaters taking the prevention steps wherever they boat. Wisconsin has 15,081 lakes and 44,000 miles of streams that flow year-round; close to 500 inland waters have Eurasian water milfoil and about 100 have zebra mussels.
“We can’t monitor every lake in the state, and unfortunately, the lake you boat on may have invasive species that just have been discovered yet,” she says. “Because of this, we urge all boaters to make a habit of cleaning their boats and equipment every time they leave a boat landing to keep Wisconsin waters and fish healthy.”
Every time boaters, sailors, anglers, or paddlers leave a launch they should:
• Inspect boats, trailers and equipment and remove visible aquatic plants, animals, and mud.
• Drain water from boats, motors, bilges, live wells, and bait containers.
• Not move live fish, including minnows, from one water to another.
• Dispose of leftover bait in the trash, not in the water or on land.
• Wash your boat and equipment with high pressure or hot water, or let it dry for five days
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Julia Solomon (608) 267-3531; Ron Martin (608) 266-9270
Watercraft inspectors, wardens out in full force
Focus on educating boaters on steps to prevent spread of invasive species
MADISON – Wisconsin conservation wardens and watercraft inspectors will be out in force this Labor Day weekend, helping remind boaters, anglers and paddlers to clean their boats and what’s at stake if they don’t.
“There will be a real strong contingent of wardens out to work with the public to make sure their Labor Day holiday is safe and that they’re taking the steps necessary to prevent the spread of invasive species and VHS, a new fish disease,” says Karl Brooks, deputy chief warden of the Department of Natural Resources.
Brooks said the wardens will be focusing on educating boaters about the prevention steps, about the 2001 law that makes it illegal to launch a boat with plants attached, and about emergency rules in effect now to prevent the spread of viral hemorrhagic septicemia, VHS, [http://dnr.wi.gov/fish/pages/vhs.html] from waters where the virus has been confirmed or is suspected to be in fish.
Paid and volunteer watercraft inspectors will be stationed at public landings on many popular recreational waters. The DNR has a small corps of watercraft inspectors, and provides grants to a growing number of counties for their watercraft inspection efforts. In addition, more than 1,000 people have participated in Clean Boats, Clean Waters training aimed at helping them organize a volunteer watercraft inspection team to protect their favorite lake or river from introductions of invasive species, according to Erin Henegar, who coordinates the training program for DNR and the University of Wisconsin-Extension.
Hundreds of those trained volunteers and their recruits from lake associations and other groups have logged thousands of hours on public boat launches already this summer. Many of those volunteers are expected to be out at boat launches over the holiday weekend for one last big push, Henegar says.
Clean Boats, Clean Waters watercraft inspectors will be greeting hundreds of boaters as they enter the Pike Chain of Lakes and other Bayfield County waters, according to Jane Swenson, a volunteer who works to prevent and control aquatic invasive species for the Iron River Lakes Association. She is currently working with a small group of volunteers, including SCUBA divers, who will pull Eurasian water milfoil from infested spots on the Pike Chain.
“What I try to stress to boaters and others is that we need to stay on top of these invasive species, learn about them and spread the word to others of just how much we stand to lose,” says Swenson, whose nickname is “Milfoil Lady.”
“It’s scary. Even though we already have Eurasian water milfoil on the Pike Chain of Lakes, I tell people, tune in to what’s coming.”
For more information on aquatic invasive species and what people can do to help prevent their spread, visit the invasive species pages of the DNR Web site at [http://dnr.wi.gov/invasives/].
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Karl Brooks, DNR (608) 266-7820; Erin Henegar, UWEX (715) 346-4978
OUTDOORS CALENDAR
*Indicates date remains the same each year, except some permit deadlines may be extended one day if they fall on a Sunday or Federal Holiday.
August 31
• Bear dog training by pursuing bear closes. It is illegal to train dogs from April 15 through July 31 on DNR lands, unless dogs are on a leash no longer than 8 feet, except for Class 1 field trail grounds or for bear dog training on DNR lands other than state parks after July 1.*
September 1
• Mourning dove hunting season opens through Oct. 30.*
• Wild ginseng season opens; through Nov. 1.*
• Early September Canada goose hunting season open in designated areas through Sept. 15. The season is open over the Labor Day weekend. The season is open to all hunters who possess an Early September Canada Goose Hunting Permit. Hunters can purchase their permit for $3 from DNR offices and many license vendors through the last day of the season.
• Deadline for hunters with disabilities to apply to participate in a sponsored hunt.
• Hook-and-line lake sturgeon season opens on designated waters through Oct. 15*, except Wis./Mich. Boundary waters close Nov. 1. See current Guide to Wisconsin Hook and Line Fishing Regulations.
September 5
• Black bear hunting season opens. Runs through Oct. 9. See 2007 black bear hunting regulations for zone and hunting method specific dates.
September 6
• Turkey hunting permits that remain after the drawing for the fall season will go on sale at 9 a.m. over-the-counter.
September 15
• Fall turkey hunting season opens through Nov. 15
• Early archery deer season opens statewide through Nov. 15 (late season runs Nov. 26 - Jan. 6, 2008; see current regulations for special zones).
• Ruffed grouse season opens in the Zone A through Jan. 31, 2008. (Zone B opens Oct. 20 - Dec. 8.)
• Cottontail rabbit season opens in the northern zone, runs through Feb. 28.
• Gray and fox squirrel season opens, runs through Jan. 31.
• Fall crow season opens, runs through Nov. 15.
• Early September Canada goose hunting season closes.
September 15-16
• Special two-day youth duck hunt. Open to youth 12 to 15 years of age who are hunter safety certified; all other state license requirements are waived except for HIP registration and Canada goose permit requirements; youths must be accompanied by adult. The bag limit and tag requirements apply for the respective zone. These days overlap with open goose season in most zones so adults will also be able to shoot geese but not duck during the youth hunt.
September 15 through December 31
• Illegal during this time to shine for wild animals between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.
September 15 through First Saturday in May
• From Sept. 15 through the first Saturday in May, hook and line fishing is prohibited from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise in all Lake Michigan tributaries except the Oconto River and its tributaries and the downstream portion of the Peshtigo River (see regulations for details).*
September 16
• Canada goose season opens in the North Exterior Zone and runs through Dec. 9.
• Canada goose season opens in the South Exterior Zone and runs through Oct. 7. Season reopens in the South Zone Oct. 13 and runs through Dec. 14.
• Periods 1 and 2 Horicon Zone Canada goose run through Oct 26.
• Period 1 Collins Zone Canada goose runs through Sept. 30.
September 22
• Woodcock season opens.
September 29
• Canada goose season opens in the Mississippi River Subzone and runs through Oct. 7. Season reopens Oct. 13 and runs through Dec. 27.
September 30
• Trout season closes on inland waters and on rivers flowing into Lake Superior from their mouths to the first impassable permanent barrier (unless listed otherwise in trout regulations).*
• Lake trout season on Lake Superior closes.*
• Set or bank pole and setline fishing season on specified waters in the Wolf and Fox river basins closes. Check the current Setline, Set or Bank Pole Regulations for open waters.*
• Period 1 Collins Zone Canada goose closes.
October 1
• Period 2 Collins Zone Canada goose runs through Oct. 21.
• Hook and line fishing is prohibited from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise in all Lake Michigan tributaries except the Oconto River and its tributaries and the downstream portion of the Peshtigo River beginning on Sept. 15. The rule was changed this year. Previously the date had been Oct. 1 (see regulations for details).*
October 6-7
• Youth deer hunt. Youth hunters ages 12 to 15 who have successfully completed a hunter education program and possess a gun deer hunting license may participate in this hunt. Qualified hunters may harvest one buck deer on their gun buck deer carcass tag and additional antlerless deer with the appropriate carcass tag. Adults accompanying the youth may not gun deer and cannot accompany more than two youths. All hunting regulations apply, including blaze orange clothing requirements. Archery hunting remains open but archers must wear blaze orange. See regulations for additional requirements.
October 6-14
• Special deer hunt open to people with disabilities who have a disabled hunting permit. The hunts are held by landowners who have agreed to sponsor the hunters on their property. Hunters must have registered to participate at a designated sponsor location by Sept. 1.
October 7
• Canada goose season closes in the South Exterior Zone. Season reopens in the South Zone Oct. 13 and runs through Dec. 14.
October 9
• Black bear season closes. See current Wisconsin Bear Hunting Regulations for specific season dates and zones.
October 13
• Canada goose season reopens in the South Zone Oct. 13 and runs through Dec. 14.
• Canada goose season reopens in the Mississippi River Subzone and runs Dec. 27.
October 15
• Hook-and-line lake sturgeon season on designated waters closes (except Wis./Mich. boundary waters season closes Nov. 1). See current Guide to Wisconsin Hook and Line Fishing Regulations.*
October 20
• Pheasant season opens at noon; runs through Dec. 31.
• Ruffed grouse in the zone B opens through Dec. 8.
• Sharp-tailed grouse by permit opens through Nov. 5.
• Bobwhite quail season opens at noon through Dec. 6.
• Hungarian partridge season opens at noon through Dec. 31.
• Jackrabbit season opens through Nov. 15.
• Cottontail rabbit opens at noon in southern zone through Feb. 28.
• Raccoon gun and trapping for state residents opens through Jan. 31
• Red and gray fox hunting and trapping in the northern zone opens through Feb. 15.
• Coyote trapping season opens in the northern zone through Feb. 15, 2008.
• Hunting and trapping season for bobcat north of Hwy. 64 through Dec. 31.
• Muskrat season in the northern zone opens through Feb. 28, 2008.
• Mink season in the northern zone opens through Feb. 28, 2008.
• Fisher trapping season opens in various zones, through Dec. 31.
October 21
• Period 2 Collins Zone Canada goose closes.
October 22
• Period 3 Collins Zone Canada goose runs through Nov. 16.
October 26
• Periods 1 and 2 Horicon Zone Canada goose close.
October 27
• Periods 3 and 4 Horicon Zone Canada goose run through Dec. 16.
• Fox season opens in the southern zone, through Feb. 15, 2007.
• Coyote trapping season opens in southern zone through Feb. 15, 2008.
• Mink season opens in central (through Dec. 31) and Winnebago (through March 15) zones.
• Muskrat season opens in south zone (through Feb. 28) and Winnebago zone (through March 15).
October 30
• Mourning dove season closes.*
October 31
• Lake trout season closes on waters of Green Bay and Lake Michigan and their tributaries.*
• Deadline to purchase Lake Winnebago system sturgeon spearing licenses.*
DNR Public Hearings and Meetings
Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, reasonable accommodations, including the provision of informational material in an alternative format, will be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. Please call the contact person listed for the meeting or hearing with specific information on your request at least 10 days before the date of the scheduled hearing.
Hearings
August 28 – A public hearing on the preliminary determination on an air pollution control permit to construct / modify and significant revision to an air pollution control operation permit for an air contaminant source located at United Wisconsin Grain Producers, LLC, West 1231 Tessman Road, Friesland, Wisconsin will be held at 1 p.m. in the Randolph Town Hall, 109 S. Madison St., Friesland. United Wisconsin Grain Producers, LLC, has submitted to the Department of Natural Resources permit applications, (Air Pollution Construction Permit No. 07-DCF-142 and Air Pollution Operation Permit Revision No. 111030040-F02) including plans and specifications, for the construction of an additional grain storage bin, a DDGS (distillers dried grain with solubles) loadout lane, modification of fugitive emissions and for the significant revision of its operation permit 111030040-F01. The DNR Bureau of Air Management analyzed these materials and has preliminarily determined that the project should meet the applicable criteria for permit approval as stated in §§ 285.63 and 285.64, Wis. Stats., including both the emission limits and the ambient air standards and should, therefore, be approved. The issuance of a construction permit allows the modification and initial operation of the emissions units identified in the construction permit. The issuance of a revised operation permit allows continued operation of the new or modified emissions units as well as continued operation of the existing emissions units at the source. Issuance of the revised operation permit may be delayed until the permittee demonstrates compliance with the applicable requirements in the permit. This type of proposal normally does not have the potential to cause significant adverse environmental effects and the DNR has not prepared an Environmental Assessment of the proposal. This preliminary determination does not constitute approval from the Air Management Program or any other DNR sections which may also require a review of the project. Information, including plans and the DNR’s preliminary analysis, is available for public inspection at the Department of Natural Resources Bureau of Air Management Headquarters, First Floor, 345 West Washington Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin, 53703-2701; South Central Region Headquarters, 3911 Fish Hatchery Road , Fitchburg, WI 53711; and at the Jane Morgan Memorial Library, 109 W. Edgewater St. PO Box 477, Cambria, WI 53923-0477; or contact Don C. Faith III, (608) 267-3135. This information is also available on the Air Permit page of the DNR Web site [
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/aw/air/permits/APM_toc.htm]. Written comments regarding the preliminary determination to approve the construction permit and the operation permit revision applications will also be considered prior to making final decisions regarding the modification of the proposed project and the revision of the operation permit. Revisions to the operation permit that are available for public comment are identified by gray shading within the draft. Written comments should be submitted by Sept. 7, 2007 to Wisconsin DNR, Bureau of Air Management, 101 S. Webster Street, Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707-7921. Attn.: Don C. Faith III. For information contact Don C. Faith III, (608) 267-3135.
September 7 - A telephone prehearing conference in the matter of the application for an expansion of a loading apron on Lake Michigan by Washington Island Ferry Line, Inc., Town of Liberty Grove, Door County will be held at 10 a.m., originating in the Division of Hearings and Appeals Office, 5005 University Avenue, Suite 201, Madison. On Dec. 11, 2006, Washington Island Ferry Line, Inc. filed an application with the Department of Natural Resources for a pier expansion on Lake Michigan. The proposed project is located in Town of Liberty Grove, Door County. The proposed project will consist of expanding the south loading apron of the existing ferry dock to improve the south side ramp loading capabilities. Steel pipes will be driven into the lake bed to hold the new steel deck structure measuring 20 x 90 feet. Also proposed is a new 20 x 23 foot adjustable ramp that will hinge to the existing ramp. The entire proposed ramp project will allow water to flow beneath it. The Department of Natural Resources issued Notice of Complete Application for Proposed Pier Extension and on March 19, 2007, the Department of Natural Resources approved the application with conditions. On April 18, 2007, the Department received a petition for a contested case hearing from Attorney Paul G. Kent on behalf of Washington Island Ferry Line, Inc. On May 8, 2007, the Department granted a contested case hearing pursuant to Wis. Stat. §§ 30.209(1) and 227.42. Any person, organization or governmental unit wishing to become a party to this proceeding must notify the Division of Hearings and Appeals, in writing, prior to the telephone conference call and provide the telephone number which they can be reached on that day. The Division of Hearings and Appeals will initiate the call. The purpose of the prehearing conference will be to identify all parties to the proceeding, to simplify the issues which will ultimately be contested at the hearing and to establish appropriate schedules for the submission of documentary evidence and for prehearing discovery. No testimony will be heard at the telephone prehearing conference, however, a date may be set for the hearing on the merits at the conference. For information contact the Division of Hearings and Appeals at (608) 266-7709.
September 10 - The Department of Natural Resources will hold a public hearing on revisions to chs. NR 406, 407 and 445, Wis. Adm. Code, relating to the timeline for implementation of air permit and hazardous air pollutant requirements for emissions associated with agricultural waste and minor technical corrections at 1:30 p.m. in Room 511 of the State Natural Resources Building (GEF 2), 101 S. Webster St., Madison. The State Implementation Plan developed under s. 285.11(6), Stats., is also revised. The proposed rule will extend the compliance deadline to July 31, 2011 for air permit and hazardous air pollutant requirements associated with agricultural waste under chs. NR 406, 407 and 445. The reason this rule is needed is that results of ongoing state and federal air monitoring studies of animal feeding operations will not be available in time to support implementation of current rules by the July 2007 and June 2008 compliance deadlines. Extension of the compliance deadline to July 31, 2011 will allow sufficient time for completion of these studies and development of compliance plans by affected sources. When the original rule language was adopted in 2004, it was anticipated that these study results would be available to support timely rule implementation. The results of the state study will be available by mid-2008 and results of the federal study will be available by mid-2010. The study results will provide an emissions estimation methodology for calculating emissions associated with agricultural waste, which is necessary to determine rule applicability and compliance options. In addition, this proposal includes minor technical corrections to ch. NR 445.The proposed rules may have an impact on small businesses that are sources of hazardous air emissions associated with agricultural waste. It is anticipated this rule will impact large livestock operations. The Department has made a preliminary determination that this action does not involve significant adverse environmental effects and does not need an environmental analysis under ch. NR 150, Wis. Adm. Code. However, based on the comments received, the Department may prepare an environmental analysis before proceeding with the proposal. This environmental review document would summarize the Department’s consideration of the impacts of the proposal and reasonable alternatives. The proposed rule and supporting documents, including the fiscal estimate may be viewed and downloaded and comments electronically submitted at the Wisconsin Administrative Rules Web site:
http://adminrules.wisconsin.gov. (Search this Web site using the Natural Resources Board Order No. AM 24 07. Written comments on the proposed rule may be submitted via U.S. mail to Eileen Pierce, South Central Regional Air and Waste Leader, 3911 Fish Hatchery Road, Madison, WI 53711 or by e-mail to Eileen.Pierce@wisconsin.gov. Comments may be submitted until Sept. 14, 2007. Written comments whether submitted electronically or by U.S. mail will have the same weight and effect as oral statements presented at the public hearings. More information or a copy of the proposed rule and supporting documents, including the fiscal estimate may be obtained from Robert Eckdale, Bureau of Air Management, P.O. Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707 or by calling (608) 266-2856.
Meetings
August 27 - The Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming [http://dnr.wi.gov/environmentprotect/gtfgw/] – Electric Generation and Supply Work Group will meet from 9 am to 3 pm in the Pecatonica River Conference Room, Public Service Commission Bldg., 610 North Whitney Way, Madison. The agenda includes: a discussion of policy options, rreduction targets and baseline data. For more information, or if you need special accommodations to attend this meeting, call Lori Sakk, PSC, at (608) 266-1383.
August 28 - The Department of Natural Resources will host an Open House from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the North Bristol Sportsman’s Club, 7229 N Greenway Road, located near Sun Prairie (1.5 miles southwest of County Highway V and US Highway 151). Representatives from DNR forestry and wildlife management will be on hand to provide information and answer questions on the timber harvest encompassing about 43 acres on the 1,927 acre property in the Dane County Towns of Bristol and York. This harvest is being conducted as an attempt to restore several small oak dominated woodlots. The removal of less desirable and shorter lived hardwoods, including box elder, elm, silver maple, aspen, and cherry will begin to restore some areas to oak savanna, and other areas to oak/hickory forests. For information contact Jacob Fries, DNR Wildlife Biologist, Fitchburg, at (608) 275-3250.
August 29 – The final Open House meeting to present possible route options for a proposed Ice Age National Scenic Trail corridor in Marathon County and the Town of Alban in Portage County will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a presentation at 12:30 p.m. at the Hatley Community Center, 435 Curtis Ave., Hatley in the Town of Norrie.. Staff and volunteers from the National Park Service, the Ice Age Park and Trail Foundation, and DNR will be available to answer questions, and to explain the location of the proposed corridor and its significant features. The public will have the opportunity to review maps and aerial photos of the proposed Ice Age Corridor. There will also be time to make comments and suggestions. After receiving comments, a Trailway Plan and Environmental Assessment will be developed to comply with Federal and State environmental laws. For more information contact the National Park Service office in Madison at (608) 441-5610 or Peter Biermeier, DNR, (608) 264-6136.
August 29 - The Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming - Carbon Tax/Cap and Trade Work Group, will meet from 9 a.m. to noon in the Pecatonica Conference Room (Lower Level) of the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin, 610 North Whitney Way, Madison. The agenda includes a discussion of offset and voluntary programs and carbon tax policies; review of offset programs in Oregon and Minnesota; and policy assignments. For information contact Lisa Stefanik at the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin by telephone at (608) 266-1125.
August 30 – The Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming- Transportation Work Group will meet from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. in Room G09 of the State Natural Resources Building (GEF 2), 101 S. Webster St., Madison. The agenda provides an opportunity for public comments at the start of the meeting followed by informational presentations and/or a discussion of Work Group organization, assignments and scheduling. The majority of the meeting will focus on policy options and recommendations to be made to the full Global Warming Task Force. For information contact Ed Jepsen at (608) 266-3538.
August 30 - The Private Water Advisory Council will hold a conference call at 10 a.m. to discuss the proposed revisions to chs. NR 812 and NR 146, Wisconsin Administrative Codes, to reflect changes to ch. 280, Wis. Stats. For information on how to join the call contact Dorie Turpin at (608) 266-0162.
August 30 - The External Advisory Team for the DNR's proposed Glacial Heritage Area will meet from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in Johnson Creek at the Village Hall, 125 Depot St. The Team will be discussing issues related to hosting a public open house this fall. Developing outreach materials in anticipation of the public meeting will also be discussed. For more information contact John Pohlman at (608) 264-6263.
August 30 - The Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming – Industry Work Group will meet from 9 a.m. to noon in Training Room AB at the Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation, 431 Charmany Drive, Madison. The agenda includes: a S.W.O.T. presentation, review of the policy recommendation development process and brainstorming of preliminary options. For more information, or if you need special accommodations to attend this meeting, contact Caroline Garber, DNR at (608) 264-9218.
August 30 – The Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming - the Conservation and Energy Efficiency Workgroup will meet from noon to 4:30 p.m. in Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation, Training Room AB, 431 Charmany Drive, Madison. The agenda includes industrial energy efficiency program/initiatives; review building code templates; review lighting efficiency template; review enhanced energy efficiency savings target template; review rate design template; review appliance efficiency template; review consumer education/behavior template; and public comment period. For information contact Lisa Stefanik at the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin at (608) 266-1125.
August 31 – The Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming - Technical Advisory Group will meet from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Board Room 1 at the Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation, 431 Charmany Drive, Madison. The agenda includes continued modeling initiative discussion. For more information, or if you need special accommodations to attend this meeting, contact Caroline Garber, DNR at (608) 264-9218.
September 10-11 - The DNR Silviculture Team will meet at 10 a.m. at the Lapham Peak Unit – Kettle Moraine State Forest, W329 N846 County Highway C, Delafield, regarding chapters and issues pertinent to the Silviculture Handbook, including oak, central hardwoods & red pine chapters, MFL plans & WISFIRS, team progress/ work plan, and other issues. A field trip will look at oak management in the Southeast Region. For more information, contact Julie Peltier at (262) 670-3404.
September 11 - The Groundwater Advisory Committee created by 2003 WI Act 310 will meet from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in room G09 of the Natural Resources building (GEF 2) at 101 S. Webster St., Madison. For more information, contact Jill Jonas at (608) 267-7545.
September 11 - The Natural Areas Preservation Council will meet at 9:30 a.m. at the International Crane Foundation, E11376 Shady Lane, Baraboo. The council will discuss matters related to the protection and management of Wisconsin State Natural Areas. For information contact: Thomas Meyer at (608) 266-0394.
September 12 – The Wisconsin Urban Forestry Council [http://dnr.wi.gov/forestry/UF/council/] will meet from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Forest Products Laboratory, One Gifford Pinchot Drive, Madison, WI. The Council will be discussing best ways to preserve, protect, expand and improve Wisconsin’s urban and community forest resources. For more information contact Laura Wyatt at – (608) 267-0568.
September 12 - The Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming– Agriculture and Forestry Work Group will meet from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Glacier Edge Conference Room of the DNR South Central Region Headquarters, 3911 Fish Hatchery Road, Fitchburg. For information contact Allison Hellman at (608) 266- 8130 or Allison.Hellman@wisconsin.gov.
September 13 - The Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit will hold their annual public informational meeting from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Henry S. Ruess Ice Age Visitor Center, N 2875 Hwy 67, Campbellsport. The purpose of the meeting is to share information with the public regarding the ongoing use and management of the state forest. Department resource managers will discuss current and future projects relating to endangered resources, forestry, recreation and wildlife management occurring on the state forest. For more information contact Jerry Leiterman, Forest Superintendent at (262) 626-2116.
Wisconsin DNR News
Edited by Paul Holtan
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
PO Box 7921
Madison WI 53707-7921
(608) 267-7517
Fax: (608) 264-6293
E-mail: paul.holtan@dnr.state.wi.us
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/news/
