WDNR Outdoor Report as of June 18, 2009
Summer officially arrives this Sunday with the summer solstice, and with warmer weather in the forecast, outdoor activity will be picking up on lakes and rivers. In the Northwoods, this is also the time when loon chicks are hatching and for the first few weeks of their lives will ride on their parents backs as they swim around lakes. Boaters should watch for loons and keep their distance. Approaching too near can cause the parent to dive, leaving the chick on the surface alone and vulnerable to predation by a variety of other animals.
This is also the time that black bear are more visible as their breeding season has begun. Adult male bears are moving extensively as they search for females. Female bears have also begun to chase off their yearling cubs, leaving these curious and sometimes troublesome young bears out on their own. People living or recreating in bear country should remove any food sources that may attract the young bears, such as bird feeders, dog food, and garbage. If a young bear does approach make loud noises to scare them off.
Erratic weather conditions have continued to make for some variable fishing success. Panfish action has been very good for both bluegill and crappie in the north. Bluegill have been showing up on the spawning beds in increasing numbers and look for their spawning period to peak out during the coming week. Musky anglers have been out but action has been on the slow side with just a few reports of 34- to 40-inch fish being caught. Mayflies continue to hatch on many northern lakes and this has upset the walleye bite on most of these waters.
Most largemouth and smallmouth bass have completed spawning, though some males can still be found guarding their school of young fish. The northern zone bass harvest season opens this Saturday, June 20. Catch-and-release has caught on so big in the bass fishing world that Wisconsin anglers are only keeping about 5 percent of what they catch. As a result, on some northern lakes bass have become very abundant and fisheries managers are encouraging harvest on these waters to keep the numbers in balance and to improve bass growth rates. As always, larger bass are less common and anglers should consider releasing them. Check the DNR Web site for prime bass fishing waters and for some recipes for preparing bass.
Panfish have also been active on the Lake Winnebago system and anglers have been working the reefs of Lake Winnebago for walleye. Walleye and smallmouth bass have been biting on the lower Wisconsin River, despite high water.
Fishing on Green Bay and Lake Michigan slowed a bit over the past week. Walleye action that has been excellent on the Bay the last few weeks has slowed some, but on the up side anglers fishing for walleye have begun to catch more yellow perch. The yellow perch season is now open as of June 16 on Lake Michigan as well. Anglers trolling on Lake Michigan had mixed success targeting trout and salmon during the week. Catches were comprised mostly of chinook salmon and lake trout with some coho salmon mixed in and some brown trout still being taken up around the northern tip of the Door peninsula. Smallmouth bass fishing was fair to good throughout the Door County.
The Mississippi River rose slightly early in the week but then leveled off to 8.15 feet at Prairie du Chien. Bluegill, crappie and perch fishing was spotty but walleye and sauger action continued to be very good. Catfish have also been biting well and sheepshead have become very active.
Upland game birds are now hatching so keep your eyes open for wild turkey, pheasant and grouse broods. Spring ephemeral wildflowers are nearly finished but summer wildflowers are coming on strong, with lupine, black-eyed daisy buttercup, birds-foot trefoil, daisy, and orange hawkweed blooming. Biting insects have come out in force in the Northwoods, with black flies and gnats a big nuisance during the day and mosquitoes out in increasing numbers at dusk.
# # #
A three-minute audio version of this report can be heard by calling (608) 266 2277.
A new report is put on the line each week.
DNR Northern Region
Superior DNR Service Center area
Brule River State Forest - The roadsides are quite colorful with the variety of flowers blooming. buttercup, birds-foot trefoil, daisy, orange hawkweed, and the garden variety lupine are the most obvious at this time. Blue and yellow flag iris are also visible in the wet areas. Also along the roadways, turtles are laying eggs on warm, sunny evenings. The month of June is their peak nesting month. Several turtles have been hit recently...drivers should be on the lookout when coming up on wetlands and rivers. If seen crossing the road, motorists are encouraged to move the turtle across the road in the direction that they were traveling (as long as the traffic conditions are safe). Black bears are more visible as their breeding season has begun. The black bear breeding season is early June to early July. Adult male bears are moving extensively as they search for females to breed with. Female bear have emancipated their young leaving curious and sometimes troublesome yearlings out on their own. These youngsters will be trying to avoid other adult bears, which often brings them in close proximity to peoples houses. Any food sources that may attract the young bears, such as bird feeders, dog food, and garbage should be taken in. If the young bear won't leave make loud noises to scare them off. With the Fourth of July coming up the Brule River State Forest reminds visitors that it is illegal to set off fireworks in Wisconsin State Parks and Forests. Sparklers are ok to use but anything that goes "boom", is self propelled, or has flames coming out is considered illegal. This law is in effect to protect the fireworks users, other recreationists, and the natural resources.
Park Falls DNR Service Center area
Upper Chippewa Basin fisheries report (Price, Rusk, Sawyer Taylor and inland Ashland and Iron counties) - The erratic weather conditions of the past week have made for some variable fishing success. Musky fishing seems to have been the highlight of the week and quite a few anglers have been out trying their luck. But action has been on the slow side with just a few reports of 34- to 40-inch fish being caught. Most of the fish were being seen along the deeper weed lines, and smaller bucktails and stick baits have been the favorite lures. Mayflies continue to hatch on many northern lakes and this has upset the walleye bite on most of these waters. The jig and minnow combinations are no longer being successful and most of the action is taking place on leeches or night crawlers. Panfish action has been very good, with bluegill and crappie providing some excellent action. Crappie have been found in shallow along any emergent weed lines, in lily pad beds and on top of deeper weed beds. Bluegill have been showing up on the spawning beds in increasing numbers and look for their spawning period to peak out during the coming week. Northern pike action continues to be good, with fish still being found in shallow water around and over any new weed beds. Most largemouth and smallmouth bass have completed their spawning period, though some males can still be found guarding their school of young fish. Anglers are reminded that the Northern Bass season opens this Saturday, June 20. One word of caution to all recreationalists coming to the Northwoods -- biting insects have started to come out in force so bring your insect repellent. The black flies and gnats have been a big nuisance during the day time hours and, at dusk, the mosquitoes have been coming out in increasing numbers.
Woodruff DNR Service Center area
Northern Highland American Legion State Forest - Conditions are excellent for most outdoor activities, particularly for biking, hiking, and kayaking. Fishing enthusiasts will also experience some success. Bluegills and bass are active right now. Please remember that bass are catch and release until June 20. After June 20, you may keep bass that you catch, but make sure you follow the size limit guidelines. As always, visitors staying in campgrounds should remember that we share the forest with the wildlife. Bears are present and will visit campsites if campers do not remove trash and food waste or keep a clean campsite. Deer have had their fawns and some visitors have reported finding fawns along hiking and biking trails. Please try not to disturb or touch fawns, as the mother is nearby and the fawn is safe. Loons have also hatched their young and visitors have seen loon chicks riding on the backs of their parents, which is a unique and special sight for anyone to witness. The Northern Highland American Legion State Forest offers some Naturalist Programming at the Crystal Lake Nature Center. Dates and times for these programs are listed at the Crystal Lake and Clear Lake Ranger Stations. Some of the upcoming programs for the month of June include “Magnificent Monarchs” and “Floating Wet World of Bogs.”
DNR Northeastern Region
Green Bay DNR Service Center area
Brown County - The fishing over the past week has slowed a bit. Although anglers are still doing well fishing in the Fox River, most are catching a combination of drum and catfish with a few walleyes being caught. Bayshore Park walleyes were still being caught but in less numbers most anglers were using crawler harness in 15 – 20 feet of water. Also a few perch were being caught.
Manitowoc County – Anglers fishing in Manitowoc experienced a fair week of fishing. Angler activity, on boats and on the piers picked up over the weekend as nice weather and good lake conditions were found in the area. Boat anglers trolling on Lake Michigan had mixed success targeting trout and salmon during the week. Successful anglers were fishing in 80 to 170 feet of water that produced catches comprised mostly of chinook salmon and lake trout with a couple coho salmon mixed in. On Sunday, one lucky angler fishing the south pier landed two nice brown trout. In Two Rivers anglers had a slow week of fishing. Fishing success was mixed over the weekend with mixed catches comprised mostly of chinook salmon and lake trout. Most anglers were running down riggers with a fly and dodger combination. One angler casting spoons from the north pier on Saturday morning landed a nice rainbow trout that weighed 7 pounds. Inside the harbor bass anglers had some success casting spinners and small spoons.
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Door County – The weather this week started out being not so beautiful. Cool and rainy days dominated the first part of the week; however, warmer temperatures and bright sunny days moved in making for a nice end for the week and a beautiful weekend. Salmon action out on Lake Michigan can best be described as slow to fair. Most of the salmon taken, along with a few lake trout, came from the bank reef north of the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal. Some brown trout were reportedly still being taken up around the northern tip of the peninsula, by anglers trolling in the top 25 to 30 feet of water. Northern pike are continuing to be taken along the channel in the area between the bridges in the Bay of Sturgeon Bay, as well as Little Sturgeon, Riley’s Bay, Sand Bay and Sawyer Harbor. Walleye action continues to be good with anglers trolling at night with stick baits and jerks in 8 to 25 feet of water. Henderson Point, Sherwood Point, the Sturgeon Bay flats and Dunlap Reef, as well as the area around Fish Creek and Peninsula State park were all reportedly producing some fish. Daytime action also remains good for walleyes with reports of some nice fish being taken from the area between Henderson Point and Chaudoir’s dock, trolling in 8 to 30 feet of water. Crawler harnesses and Rapalas seem to be the baits of choice for daytime walleyes. The perch fishing has been the high point over the last week with some anglers finding some decent numbers of fish. Some anglers reported taking some nice yellow perch while trolling crawler harnesses for walleyes north of Chaudoir’s dock. Smallmouth bass fishing was fair to good throughout the county. Little Sturgeon, Riley’s Bay, Sand Bay and the Sturgeon Bay flats, along with the shoreline off Potawatomi State Park continue to produce smallmouth. Tube jigs, stick baits, grubs, and Katelands remain the baits of choice. A nice 19.5-inch smallmouth was taken on a white spinner bait out of Little Sturgeon Bay. Up north, Anderson’s dock in Ephraim, as well as Baileys Harbor, Rowley’s Bay, Egg Harbor and Sister Bay are produced a few smallmouth.
Whitefish Dunes State Park - What happened to the beach!? With the lake level increasing 8 inches from last June, the shoreline looks very different. Since 1999 the lake level has been going down. This decrease is caused by many different factors; low snowfall, warmer days, sunny day, less rainfall. With the decrease in lake level, the shoreline increased allowing for larger beach area. This area has allowed for the native shoreline vegetation to establish and more area for park users to enjoy. After the lake levels reached almost record lows in 2007; the lake level has begun to rise again due to increase snowfall, cooler days and more rainfall. With this rise the beach is beginning to become part of the lake once again. The native vegetation actually helps save the shoreline from being washed into the lake through its netlike root system. This rise and fall of the lake is part of the natural cycle. A large male turkey can be seen and heard in the morning hours showing off for the hens. he turkeys can also be seen on segments of the red trail and yellow trail. Another large bird can be found in the woods – the pileated woodpecker has been busy on trees along the black trail. Large rectangular holes are made by the woodpecker in search for an insect meal. Keep an eye to the sky for the bald eagle. Seen mornings scanning the beach for washed up fish, the eagle has nested near the bay. Spring wildflowers are nearly finished but summer wildflowers are starting. Hike the Brachiopod and Green trails for a variety of flowers. Keep a close eye out for the blue-eyed grass in the forest openings. With summer wildflowers comes summer invasive species. Check in with park staff to find out how you can help stop the spread! Dog owners are reminded that the first segment of the beach is now closed to dogs. The dog beach is still open. You can access it by hiking the red trail to the third beach access. Please remember to keep your dog on a leash for their safety and the safety of the park wildlife. A map to the dog beach is available in the nature center.
Kewaunee County - Weather this week started out cool and rainy, but then much warmer temperatures and dry days moved in for the weekend. Anglers have been reporting some success in the morning casting spoons for trout and salmon off of the piers in Algoma and Kewaunee. Anglers that have been going out on the lake have been met with some success. Fish are being found out in the deeper waters off of Algoma and Kewaunee. Most fish are being found in depths between 100 feet and 150 feet. Some fish are being found in depths even deeper. Primarily the fish being caught are kings of various sizes and there have also been a few lake trout mixed in as well. Most anglers have been using a mix of spoons, plugs, and flashers. Action out on the lake has been slow due to the low water temperatures. Surface water temperatures out on the lake are still holding in the upper 40s to around 50.
Oshkosh DNR Service Center area
Slip bobbers with jigs holding minnows, night crawlers, or leeches are working well on panfish in the Winnebago system. Walleye fishers are trolling the reefs of Lake Winnebago. Sunday is the first official day of summer and thus should begin black-eyed susans and butterfly weed blooming. Sunday is also Father's Day and it looks like a great day forecasted to take your dad out fishing or hiking in northeastern Wisconsin.
Waupaca DNR Service Center area
Hartman Creek State Park - Deer fawns are now out. There is nothing more beautiful to see in the wild than a new born deer fawn! If you see one out in the park that appears to be alone, please leave it alone as the mother is probably not far away. It is also egg laying time for snapping turtles. If a turtle happens to cross your campsite, just leave it alone. The turtle is well equipped to defend itself with claws and a bite for which it is named. A hiss is a warning to stay clear and do not touch!
DNR Southeast Region
Kohler-Andrae State Park - Nature trails and hiking trails are open. A tree swallow has laid six eggs in the bird house near the office. The eggs have hatched. Come see the feeding activity. The Wisconsin Great Lakes Beach testing is conducted on Thursdays. Results can be viewed at
http://www.wibeaches.us.
Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit - All trails are open to hiking and in good condition. A few damp areas remain on the trails and temporary planks have been placed in those areas to keep hikers' feet dry. The swim area is marked for the season and the water is warming up. The lake water is tested four days per week for elevated bacteria levels. Any advisories will be posted. Swim area buoys will remain in place through Labor Day weekend. Check out the new pier on the accessible trail north of the beach area. This pier was donated by the Kettle Moraine Lions of Hartford.
Lake Michigan fisheries team report
Sheboygan County - In Sheboygan shore fishing has been slow, but trollers have been catching a mixed bag of chinooks, coho, rainbows, and lake trout in 80 to 100 feet of water. Most fish have been scattered throughout the water column and were taken on flies.
Ozaukee County - Shore fishing has been generally slow in Port Washington, although a few browns have been caught near the power plant. Trollers out of Port have reported chinooks, lake trout, and coho taken in 90 to 150 feet of water. Both spoons and flasher and fly combinations have been productive.
Milwaukee County - In Milwaukee shore fishing remains slow. Trollers out of Milwaukee have been catching some coho. Most fish have been 20 to 40 feet down in water anywhere from 50 to 120 feet deep.
Racine County - Shore fishing in Racine has started to pick up, with a few rainbows taken off the south pier on spawn. Trollers out of Racine have been catching mostly coho along with a few chinooks in as shallow as 65 feet of water or out to 200 feet. Coho have come from a wide range of depths, and chinooks have been 65 to 70 feet down. White or silver dodgers or flashers coupled with flies in a variety of colors have produced the most fish.
Kenosha County - In Kenosha shore fishing remains slow, but trollers have been catching coho, along with occasional chinooks. Most fish have been caught in 80 to 120 feet of water on flashers and flies. Perch season opened June 16, and there have been reports of perch along the Kenosha shoreline.
DNR South Central Region
Dodgeville DNR Service Center area
Iowa County - The walleye and smallmouth bass have been biting on the Wisconsin River on night crawlers and on crank baits between Arena and Sauk City despite the high water lately. Anglers are reporting that northern pike have also been biting as have the channel catfish.
DNR West Central Region
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
The public is reporting many deer fawn observations throughout the area. Fawns do not typically travel with does for the first several weeks of their lives. Does are very protective of their fawns and tend to be intolerant of other adult does during the majority of the summer. By autumn, does become less protective of their fawns and will associate with offspring of the previous year and other family groups. The public is also reporting an abundance of cotton-tailed rabbits and their associated nuisance problems. Keep your eyes open for wild turkey and pheasant broods, which will be showing up soon if they have not already. Hayfields are especially good areas to spot these animals.
Crawford County - The Mississippi River rose slightly early in the week but then leveled off. The current river stage is 8.15 feet. The forecast for the Mississippi River is for a gradual drop. After last week’s rain the Wisconsin and Kickapoo Rivers are up a little bit and are a little dirty. A fair amount of aquatic vegetation is starting to grow especially in the backwater areas and marshes. All trout streams in the area are in good shape with normal flow and water clarity is good. Bluegill, crappie and perch fishing remains spotty. In the Prairie du Chien area anglers have been fishing Horseshoe (aka Sturgeon, aka McGregor) and the Lower Bottoms with some success but not every day. The Ambro Slough complex north of Prairie du Chien has seen a fair amount of fishing pressure however the “catching” has been slow to spotty. Try fishing the snags on the Ambro Slough, Fish Lake, the Upper and Lower Doubles and Big Missouri or Gremore Lake. The most popular bait has been a chunk of night crawler or garden worms. Anglers fishing off the long wall at the Lynxville dam have taken a few decent bluegill using a chunk of night crawlers. Perch action has been slow. Fishing at Cold Spring was spotty this week. There were some reports of a few decent bluegills being taken however. Walleye and sauger action continues to be very good. Trolling and casting crank baits or drifting with live bait is the primary method of taking walleyes. Some of the hot spots have been on the Roseau Slough, Harpers Ferry Slough, and on the wing dams. Fishing up by the dam has been spotty. Night crawlers and leeches have been the best live bait so far. Smallmouth bass have been very active on closing dams and wing dams. Live bait and artificial baits have worked well. Largemouth bass action has been decent. Largemouth bass can be found in a variety of habitats. Plastics and spinner baits have worked well. Catfish, both flathead and channel have been biting very well. A variety of live baits has produced cats. Move around until active fish are located. Sheepshead have become very active. A piece of night crawler fished off the bottom has been the best tactic. Trout fishing has been very good. Vegetation and insects are staring to make fishing a bit more difficult. Many local streams produced some very nice brown and brook trout. June bugs were out in force last week but their numbers are down this week. There was another hatch of “pesky” gnats. Mosquitoes have been very bad, especially in the river bottoms. Wild baby animals are starting to show up every where. Fawns, baby mammals, waterfowl broods, and song bird babies are all out and about. Please view baby wild animals from a distance and do not pick them up or harass them.
Eau Claire DNR Service Center area
Brunet Island State Park - The park trails are in very good condition. Hikers have many great opportunities within the park. Whether it’s using the island’s trail system, exploring the wilder areas of the park, or a brisk walk on the park road, you’re sure to enjoy these beautiful woodlands. The painted and snapping turtles have been crossing roads in the area and digging nests throughout the park property. Blue flag, dog violet, orange hawkweed, wild columbine, ox eye daisy, wooly yarrow, grove sandwort, blackberry and raspberry vines, and common and wood strawberry are in bloom. The wood strawberries are beginning to produce fruit. The Canada geese goslings are quite numerous this year and are growing quickly. Other species of birds seen or heard include: belted kingfishers, loons, red winged blackbirds, bufflehead and mallard ducks ,bald eagles, ravens, crows, phoebes, northern juncos, chickadees, nuthatches, flickers, red headed and piliated woodpeckers, great horned and barred owls, mourning doves, sandhill cranes, blue birds, Canada geese, great blue herons, robins and blue jays. Dragonflies, damselflies, and fireflies are in abundance.
UPCOMING EVENTS AT STATE PARKS, FORESTS, AND TRAILS
WATCHABLE WILDLIFE OPPORTUNITIES AND INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS
Check with the park or forest of your choice for additional activities and special events not listed. Most events are free of charge; park admission sticker required unless otherwise noted. Events and times subject to change.
Friday, June 19, 2009
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Snakes and Lizards from Around the World. Stop by and visit with Naturalist Barb Walker and learn more about some of the most fascinating and feared creatures on earth. Meet Copper, our own resident fox snake and Jade, an iguana from the tropical jungles of South America. Ice Age Center. 3 p.m.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Nature Storytime: a Tale of a Tree's Life. Join us as we spin a tale of a tree's life from seed to rotting log. We'll even head to the woods to visit some trees and find out their stories. This hour of nature fun awaits 3- to 6-year-olds with accompanying adults. Ice Age Visitor Center. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Night Hike: Fading into Darkness. As the sun sets and the light fades from the sky, the day animals retire and a new group of animals awakens. We will explore the world of the crepuscular (active at dusk and dawn) and nocturnal (active at night) animals. Bring insect repellent and sense of adventure. The theme for this hike is night lights. Long Lake Recreation Area Picnic Shelter. 8:30-10 p.m.
• Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. , Kayak Tour. Paddle Peninsula's incredible coast, learning about geology and history. Must pre-register at Nature Center (920) 854-5976. Children under age 16 must be in a kayak with an adult. $15 plus tax rental payable at Nicolet Boat Rental, with $4 donation going to park education. 10 a.m. - 12 Noon. Arrowhead Necklaces. Nature Center. Did you know a Potawatomi Chief is buried at Peninsula? Do you know about his people, the People of the Fire? Learn about First Nations of Door County then bead an arrowhead necklace to take home. Suggested donation $1/arrowhead. 10 - 11 a.m. Centennial Exhibit - Anderson Museum. Celebrations start with the opening reception of a historical exhibit featuring Peninsula State Park. This event is free and open to the public. Contact: Ephraim Foundation (920) 854-9688 for more information. 4 - 6 p.m.
• Whitefish Dunes State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 823-2400 - Big Red Tent - Flower Fairies. Discover nature, check out a beach toy, and learn something new. Programs begin on the hour and involve a craft and educational activity. Each week focuses on a different theme. Will be canceled of rain or lightening. Sponsored by Friends of Whitefish Dunes State Park. On the beach by the second access.. 1-3 p.m.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
• Blue Mound State Park, Blue Mounds, (608) 437-HURT (-4878) - Horribly Hilly Hundreds Bicycle Challenge Ride. Weave in and out of valleys untouched by the glacial activity that left most of the upper Midwest flat. Two challenging options await the cycling enthusiast, 100 and 200 kilometers. Sponsored by Friends of Blue Mound State Park.
• Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - One Wild Saturday Morning Drop-in: Bees. When we think of bees, we think of honey. Drop in and do some honey taste-testing, learn how bees find flowers, play in a giant beehive, and much more! You and your family or youth group can drop in between 9 a.m. and noon to discover cool things about nature through hands-on activities, experiments, crafts, games, and picture books. No admission sticker required.
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - All Around Lake O’ the Dalles. Join Naturalist Julie Fox for a 1-mile walk around scenic Lake O’the Dalles and discover what makes the lake unique and learn about the flora and fauna that live there. Meet at the lake side of the Beach House. 1 p.m. Molten Lava and Melted Ice: The Gee Whiz Geology of Interstate Park. Join the naturalist for a relaxing hike on the Pothole Trail while learning about the unique geology of Interstate State Park. Pothole Trail sign. 3 p.m. Twilight Paddle: The Summer Solstice. Meet National Park Ranger Dale Cox to embark on a 6.5-mile paddle to observe the river at twilight in the spring. The summer solstice marks the first day of summer and was perhaps the first seasonal event to be celebrated. Participants must provide their own canoe/kayak and other gear, including a personal floatation device which must be worn at all times while on the river. Rentals and shuttle services are available through area outfitters licensed by the National Park Service. The program will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather. For more information contact the St. Croix River Visitor Center at (715) 483-2274. Meet at the Wisconsin Interstate St. Croix River landing. 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Exploring Nature: Sssssnakes! Slithering across the ground with their tongues flicking, snakes arouse our curiosity or sometimes our fears. Uncover some truly astonishing facts about these legless reptiles and the habitats where they live to gain an appreciation of their role in nature. This program is best for families/groups with children between the ages of 5 and 12 years. Sponsored by Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit. Ice Age Visitor Center. 9:30-11 a.m. Drop In at the Beach: Summer Sun Celebration. Celebrate the sun reaching its annual zenith. Discover what work the sun can do for us from cooking food to powering a car or flashlight. Create a special solar piece of art. Try some sun experiments and maybe even get a peek of the sun through a solar scope. There will be something for everyone. Just keep those sunny thoughts. Long Lake Recreation Area South Beach. Drop in any time 1-4 p.m. Twilight Paddle. Join us for an evening canoe trip around Mauthe Lake and up the Milwaukee River. As we paddle, we will keep our eyes and ears open for evening birds and other wildlife. Call by June 19 to register. Limit: 24 to 30 people without canoe equipment. Basic canoe skills will be covered. No experience is necessary. In the event of threatening weather, the program will be canceled. This program is best for adults and children over the age of 8 years. Sponsored by Friends of the Kettle Moraine. Mauthe Lake Recreation Area Boat Launch. 6:30-8:30 p.m.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest--Southern Unit, Eagle, (262) 594-6200 or (262) 594-6220 - Kenny Lonnquist's Father's Day Concert. Join us for one of Wisconsin State Parks' favorite performers for a night of song, laughter, and reflection. Kenny sings about the environment, loveable creatures such as bats and alligators, and other topics. Don't miss this evening of excellent family fun! Regular park entrance fees apply; donations for the Kettle Moraine Natural History Association will be collected during intermission. Sponsored by Kettle Moraine Natural History Association. Ottawa Lake Amphitheater, or in case of rain, DJ Mackie Picnic Shelter..7 p.m.
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Search the Sky with the Naked Eye. Join Joe and Mary Glover to learn to read the night sky without a telescope. After class move outdoors to test your skills. Bring a chair or blanket and flashlights, and remember to dress for lakeside weather. No pets allowed. The program is free, but a vehicle admission sticker is required. Meet at the Sanderling Nature Center. 8 p.m. Wild Edible and Medicinal Plants. Come hike with John Johnston to search for these unique and interesting plants found at Kohler-Andrae and learn about their uses. Wear comfortable shoes. Hike will last about an hour. Free program, but a vehicle admission sticker is required. Meet at the closed gate west of the camp host site. 2 p.m. Solar System Hike. Join Solar System Ambassador Kevin Koski on a hike of our solar system. Learn fun and fascinating facts about the planets in our solar system. Hike is best for those ages 8 and up. Please wear comfortable shoes to hike on the beach. No pets allowed. Meet at the Sanderling Nature Center. 1 p.m.
• New Glarus Woods State Park, Wausau, (608) 527-2335 - Universe in the Park. Join the UW-Madison Astronomy Department for a 20-30 minute talk and slide presentation covering a broad overview of astronomy and recent news. At the end of the talk (if the sky is clear) they will have telescopes set up outside for park visitors to view whatever astronomical objects are available. No pets allowed. Free program. Vehicle admission sticker required. 8:45 p.m.
• Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. , Chasing Summer Birds. Meet at Weborg Shelter. Birds are nesting, but we may still spot killdeer, redstarts and indigo buntings. Bring binoculars if you have them. 8 - 9 a.m. Flashing Fireflies. Nature Center. Firefly story, facts and glow stick craft. $1/glow stick. 10 - 11 a.m. Kids Unite-Weed Warriors. Meet at Tennison Playground. Pull garlic mustard, earn Nature Center coupons. 4 - 5 p.m. Evening Program: Enjoy the fireworks!
• Pike Lake Unit, Kettle Moraine State Forest, Hartford, (262) 670-0560, ext. 204 - Making Tracks for the Arts. Run or walk 2 miles through the great outdoors on a challenging single-loop course while supporting the local Schauer Arts and Activities Center. Fees are $25 for ages 18 and up, $12 for 13-17, $7 for 12 and under. Fee includes day park sticker, goody bag, and T-shirt. Hope Zvara of Copper Tree Wellness Studio will lead yoga stretching for runners from 9 to 9:15 and family yoga from 9:30 to 9:40 a.m. Sponsored by West Bend - A Mutual Insurance Company, Berndt-Ledesma Funeral Home, Rueben’s County Market, and West Bend Clinic/Froedtert & Community Health, with media support from The Booster and WTKM.. Register at the beach. Register starting at 7 a.m., run/walk starts at 8. Also 1K fun run/walk for ages 12 and under at 9 a.m., Kids' fun 8:15-8:45 a.m.
• Potawatomi State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 746-2890 - Banana Boats and Apple Barrels. You are invited to make and taste some campfire desserts and even grab a few recipes to make your camping trip even tastier! Please bring any campfire cooking tips you would like to share, along with your appetite! Picnic Area. 7 p.m.
• Rib Mountain State Park, Wausau, (715) 842-2522 - Concert in the Clouds. The Friends of Rib Mountain State Park sponsor the summer Concert in the Clouds series [exit DNR]. Randy Sabien and Corey Carlson will be performing in the park amphitheater. 6 p.m. Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Leather Treasure Boxes. Make a great little round leather box to store your treasures. Sewing or lacing experience helpful. Space is limited; please call ahead. For ages 10 to adult, adults must accompany children. Fee is $5, payable at the door. Sponsored by Bong Naturalist Association. Visitor Center. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Celebrate the Solstice! Learn how others have celebrated the solstice through the years then do some of your own celebrating as you hike. Amphitheater. 8-9 p.m.
• Whitefish Dunes State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 823-2400 - Big Red Tent - Plant Invaders. Discover nature, check out a beach toy, and learn something new. Programs begin on the hour and involve a craft and educational activity. Each week focuses on a different theme. Will be canceled of rain or lightening. Sponsored by Friends of Whitefish Dunes State Park. On the beach by the second access.. 1-3 p.m.
• Wyalusing State Park, Prairie du Chien, (608) 996-2261 - Guided Canoe Trip. Take a guided canoe trip through the backwaters of the Mississippi River, led by former Park Ranger, Bruce Klang. Sponsored by the Friends of Wyalusing. Arrange for canoe rental at the concession if needed. Meet at the boat landing. 9 a.m. Bruce will also lead an Introduction to Fishing program at 1 p.m. at the boat landing.
• Yellowstone Lake State Park, Blanchardville, (608) 523-4427 - Universe in the Park. Join the UW-Madison Astronomy Department for a 20-30 minute talk and slide presentation covering a broad overview of astronomy and recent news. At the end of the talk (if the sky is clear) they will have telescopes set up outside for park visitors to view whatever astronomical objects are available. No pets allowed. Free program. Vehicle admission sticker required. 8:45 p.m.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
• Aztalan State Park, Lake Mills, (920) 648-8774 - Summer Solstice Party. Guest speaker Bill Iseminger of the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Illinois will talk about the importance of the sun in the religion of the Mississippian and Aztalan people. Food and refreshments will be provided by the Friends of Aztalan. There is no fee for this event, but a park admission sticker is required. 6 p.m.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Drop In at the Beach: Summer Sun Celebration. Come celebrate the sun reaching its annual zenith. Discover what work the sun can do for us from cooking food to powering a car or flashlight. Create a special solar piece of art. Try some sun experiments and maybe even get a peek of the sun through a solar scope. There will be something for everyone. Just keep those sunny thoughts. Sponsored by Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit. Mauthe Lake Recreation Area Beach. Drop in any time noon - 3 p.m.
• Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. , Dad Rocks! Nature Center. Story and craft (a paperweight present for your #1 Pop). 10 - 11:30 a.m. Snakes Alive. Nature Center. See a live snake, learn how it survives, then sew up a snake from a colorful necktie and a recycled hanger. 1 - 2 p.m.
• Potawatomi State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 746-2890 - Camping With Dogs. Camping is a family experience and your four-legged family members can have a great time camping too. You'll learn tips to make camping with your dog a treat rather than a trauma. Come and meet Strickeen, the famous camping beagle. Children, accompanied by an adult, are welcome. Amphitheater. 10 a.m.
Monday, June 22, 2009
• Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. , Eagle Trail. Meet at Eagle Tower. Hike Peninsula's most spectacular trail, learning about park geology and forests along the way. Two miles. Difficult. 10 a.m. - 12 Noon. Mystery Critter. Stop by the Nature Center any time to identify a Mystery Critter. Campfire. Nature Center. The dynamic duo is back - Charlie and Don! Crazy songs and terrific stories promise fun for all ages! 8 - 9 p.m.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Rock Collecting For Fun. Join Ed Mindock for a presentation on rock collecting as a hobby. A hands-on approach to beginning and understanding rock collecting and having fun doing it. All ages welcome. Free program. Vehicle admission sticker required. Meet at the Sanderling Nature Center. 2 p.m.
• Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. , Bear Hunt. Special Guest Ms. MacReady will share bear stories. Then families will be given five clues that lead them to their very own teddy bears. $12/bear. Limited to ten families. Must pre-register at the Nature Center. 10 a.m. - 12 Noon. Kids Unite-Weed Warriors. Meet at Tennison Playground. Pull garlic mustard, earn Nature Center coupons. 4 - 5 p.m. World Premier: Sunsets & S'Mores. American Folklore Theatre presents a special show celebrating Peninsula's centennial year. Smokey Bear will shake paws with kids before the show. 6:30 start.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Hike to Horizon Rock. Meet the naturalist for a short hike to Horizon Rock, appropriately named because of the incredible view. Horizon Rock Trail sign across from the Pothole Trail. 2 p.m.
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Search the Sky with the Naked Eye. Join Joe and Mary Glover to learn to read the night sky without a telescope. After class move outdoors to test your skills. Bring a chair or blanket and flashlights, and remember to dress for lakeside weather. No pets allowed. The program is free, but a vehicle admission sticker is required. Meet at the Sanderling Nature Center. 8 p.m.
• Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. , Timberdoodle Talk. Nature Center. See this stuffed game bird up close and learn about its amazing adaptation. 10 - 10:30 a.m. Bug Mobiles. Nature Center. Take a break from the beach to learn about insects. Then craft a mobile from recycled egg cartons, pipe cleaners and googly eyes. 1 - 2 p.m.
• Whitefish Dunes State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 823-2400 - Nature Painting. Join Artist Elaine Cregan for an afternoon of water coloring in Nature. Adults can learn basic techniques while enjoying the natural beauty of Whitefish Dunes. Call by August 24 to reserve a spot, but if there is space, walk-ins will be welcome. $10 charge for materials. We suggested that you bring a nature photo or object. Sponsored by Friends of Whitefish Dunes State Park. Shelter. 1-3 p.m.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
• Devil's Lake State Park, Baraboo (608) 356-8301 - Universe in the Park. Join the UW-Madison Astronomy Department for a 20-30 minute talk and slide presentation covering a broad overview of astronomy and recent news. At the end of the talk (if the sky is clear) they will have telescopes set up outside for park visitors to view whatever astronomical objects are available. No pets allowed. Free program. Vehicle admission sticker required. Meet at the park amphitheater in the Northern Lights Campground. 8:45 p.m.
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Nature Storytime. Naturalists Julie Fox and Barb Walker will share a story and activity with preschool through kindergarten children and their parents. The short activity after the story will reinforce the story's nature-related theme. Nature Storytime generally will last 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the participants. 10 a.m.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Canoe Adventure. Venture with us by canoe around Mauthe Lake and up part of the Milwaukee River. Get a close look at a flood-plain forest and tamarack swamp. Basic canoe skills will be covered. Call by June 23 to register. Limit: 24 to 30 people without canoe equipment. No experience necessary. In the event of threatening weather, the program will be canceled. This adventure is for people over the age of 12 years. Mauthe Lake Recreation Area Boat Launch. 6:30-8:30 p.m.
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - 400 Years Of Astronomy. Celebrate International Year of Astronomy with Kevin Koski of Rustic Skies Astronomy for the DVD presentation of 400 Years of Astronomy. Learn about Galileo, his first telescope and the next 400 years. See a replica of a Galileo telescope. Sponsored by the Friends of Kohler-Andrae. Meet at the Sanderling Nature Center. 2 - 3:30 p.m.
• Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. , Bug Woman Takes a Dip. DNR Entomologist Linda Williams will venture to a wetland to teach us about aquatic insects. Contact the Nature Center for more information. 10 - 11:30 a.m. Bat Watch! Meet at Welcker's Shelter. Discover amazing bat facts, then watch them fly from their day time roost to feast on mosquitoes. 8:30 - 9:30 p.m.
• Whitefish Dunes State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 823-2400 - Big Red Tent - Nest Builders. Discover nature, check out a beach toy, and learn something new. Programs begin on the hour and involve a craft and educational activity. Each week focuses on a different theme. Will be canceled of rain or lightening. Sponsored by Friends of Whitefish Dunes State Park. On the beach by the second access. 1-3 p.m.
Wisconsin DNR Outdoor Report
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/or/
