WDNR Outdoor Report as of July 2, 2009With good weather in the forecast for this weekend?s Fourth of July holiday, state recreational safety specialists are expecting people to be out in force on Wisconsin lakes and rivers. But conservation wardens are urging boaters to think twice before drinking while boating this weekend. Wisconsin is joining a national effort known as ?Operation Dry Water,? and wardens and patrol officers will also be out in force looking for boat operators whose blood alcohol content exceeds the state limit of 0.08 percent. Alcohol use has become the leading contributing factor in fatal recreational boating accidents and was involved in 35 percent of the 20 boating fatalities in Wisconsin last year.
State park and forestry officials are also reminding visitors that any fireworks that move, jump, explode or emit balls of fire, including bottle rockets, firecrackers, jumping jacks and roman candles, are illegal on all state properties. While good rain last week is keeping fire danger generally low, illegal fireworks are still a threat to parks, forests and woodlands. Remember, anyone who causes a wildfire is responsible not only for the cost of suppressing the fire, but for any damage it causes.
The cool and wet weather of the past week kept fishing pressure down in many areas but action has been good to excellent. Bass fishing has been good, with both largemouth and smallmouth providing some great action. Walleye success has been good in and around the mid-depth weed beds. Musky action has been mixed, with some fish were being found in suspended summer patterns others still found cruising the shallows. Panfish action continues to be good. Bluegill have pretty much finished spawning, with rock bass and pumpkinseed now on beds.
The cooler weather also kept many people off Lake Michigan and Green Bay this week. Action for walleyes continues to be good off the reefs on Green Bay. Smallmouth bass fishing also continued to be fair to good along Door County. There have started to be more reports of some decent perch being taken by anglers fishing the weed beds with minnows and slip bobbers. Lake Michigan anglers targeting chinook salmon were trolling in 70 to 130 feet of water. Those anglers that were seeking rainbow trout or coho salmon were fishing in deeper water. Along southern Lake Michigan, near-shore waters were relatively warm until Sunday, when strong west winds caused the water temperature to drop from the 60s into the upper 40s and low 50s. Perch fishing had been good before the water cooled off, but cooler temperatures may bring trout and salmon in closer to shore.
The Mississippi River dropped slowly this past week and reached the 7.5 feet stage at Prairie du Chien this week, so boaters should use caution as wing dams, closing dams, and sunken logs are now dangerously close to lower units. Walleye and sauger action was generally good. Smallmouth bass have been very active on closing dams and wing dams. Sheepshead have also become very active. Trout fishing on Coulee Region streams has been very good.
White, red, and jack pine pollen has been coating everything with a fine layer of yellow for the past couple of weeks in the north. On windy days clouds of yellow pollen can be seen coming from the trees. Summer wildflowers blooming include white wild indigo, spiderwort, harebell, prairie larkspur, butterfly weed, coneflowers and common yarrow. Showy lady's slippers are making a striking show along the Bois Brule River and some rare water plants like the carnivorous pitcher plant that traps bugs for nutrition, can be viewed now on northern lakes, Please remember do not pick them any of these wild and sometimes rare plants.
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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 holiday weekend is looking great for getting out and recreating in the northland. The weather forecast is calling for mostly sunny conditions with temperatures in the 70s. Have a happy and safe Fourth of July! The Bois Brule River is flowing at 103 cfs (cubic feet per second). The 64 year average is 151 cfs. Common tern eggs have begun hatching on Interstate Island in the St. Louis River estuary. There are about 200 pairs of common terns that nest on this island. The young grow rapidly and will be able to fly in about 18 to 21 days. By about 24 days of age they are strong flyers and soon thereafter leave the island. Showy lady's slippers are making quite a show with their striking pink and white flowers. It is reported that some large bunches can be viewed while paddling the Bois Brule River. Other flowers that have just started blooming are valerian, yarrow, and spreading dogbane. in the sand country purple milkwort, three-toothed cinquefoil, harebell, and wood lily are blooming. Visitors who want to keep cars clean should keep them away from the pine trees. White, red, and jack pine pollen has been coating everything with a fine layer of yellow for the past couple of weeks. On windy days clouds of yellow pollen can be seen coming from the trees. With the July Fourth holiday coming up the Brule River State Forest wishes to remind people 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 cloudy, cool and wet weather of the past week has kept fishing pressure down -- but action has been good to excellent. The highlight of the week has been bass angling, with both largemouth and smallmouth providing some great action. Largemouth are settling into their typical summer pattern and have been found near woody cover, along bog edges and in/along lily pad beds. Top-water baits and soft plastics have been the favorite baits and many 18- to 20-inch largemouth have been reported. Smallmouth have been showing up in increasing numbers near mid-depth woody cover and small finesse plastics have been key in getting the smallmouth to bite. Walleye success has been good with some very nice catches being made in and around the mid-depth weed beds. A leech or piece of night crawler fished on a slip bobber or small jig (1/32 or 1/16 oz) and dropped into pockets in the weeds has been the key to catching these mid-summer walleye on many northern waters. Musky action has been generally slow with many anglers having a tough time finding fish. The few reports of success have come from deep weed lines and the most productive lures have been bucktails and stick baits. Panfish action continues to be good with some nice catches of bluegill, crappie, pumpkinseed and rock bass being reported. Bluegill have pretty much finished their spawning period on most waters, with rock bass and pumpkinseed now in the middle of theirs. Crappie are still being found along emergent weed lines and over mid-depth cover such as fish cribs, brush piles and weed beds.
Woodruff DNR Service Center area
Musky action is reported to be wide and varied. While some fish were being found in summer patterns of being suspended others have been found cruising the shallows. Anglers will have to experiment on the body of water they are fishing, as there seems to be no real pattern to this activity. Bluegills are done spawning and can be found in weed edges in about 6-8 feet of water. Deer are more on the move lately at dusk so be very careful when travelling about. The antler development on deer is in the heavy velvet giving a very impressive look right now. Wild flowers are in full bloom all across the Northwoods and cover the roadside ditches.
DNR Northeastern Region
Peshtigo DNR Service Center area
Marinette County - - The changing weather patterns are keeping everyone guessing what's next. Get out and enjoy some of the beautiful lakes and streams we have in the area. Some rare water plants can be viewed on northern lakes, please remember do not pick them as they grow very specific to their habitats. The pitcher plant for one can be found in specific boggy areas. It is one of our carnivorous plants that passively traps bugs for nutrition. Does are traveling with fawns now in good numbers. Keep them in mind when traveling to and from work as deer are more active at these times. Water temperatures at the landings have dropped to a comfortable 72 degrees. Water clarity is good, yet with the cooler weather, wind, and rain, fishing pressure has been extremely light. The Menominee River below the first dam is producing good numbers of fresh water drum by both shore and boat anglers. Walleye were being caught from the rail road bridge to the turn basin in good numbers but the fish are running small. Due to the limited number of anglers, fish numbers are low. Trolling out by Green Island has produced a few browns and salmon, but information is lacking as to depth and baits.
Oconto County - With very few anglers out and about fishing success reports have been very sketchy. A few bass and panfish are being caught by the Stiles Dam using crawlers and spinner baits. Oconto Breakwater Park and Oconto Park II are producing a few walleye and perch. Anglers are also trolling with crawler/harness.
Green Bay DNR Service Center area
Brown County - The Fox River fishing over the last week has been decent, for walleye just out of the metro Ramp in Green Bay, with most anglers tolling harness in 10 feet of water to catch fish. Anglers were also catching a lot of catfish and sheepshead. Anglers fishing the Fox were getting mostly rough fish. Bayshore Park anglers were still catching walleye but it has slowed a bit over the last week. Perch have been hard to come bye. Suamico anglers have been doing quite well trolling for walleye, with most running crawler harness. Chaudoir?s Dock has been producing some great perch catches over the last week with some angler getting limits. Anglers have been using night crawlers and minnows to catch them. These anglers have been finding the perch to the south in 15 to 30 feet of water.
Manitowoc County - Although anglers in Manitowoc County experienced good weather this past week, fishing was only fair. In Manitowoc, boat anglers targeting trout and salmon on Lake Michigan had fair fishing week. Although the fishing was on the slow side, most trips produced at least a couple fish. Favorable weather on Saturday increased the number of boat anglers that were able to land some nice catches. Anglers targeting chinook salmon were trolling in 70 to 130 feet of water. Those anglers that were seeking rainbow trout or coho salmon were fishing in deeper water and were spread out in 120 to 250 feet of water. A few lake trout have also been mixed in some catches. Pier anglers had a slow week of fishing with very few fish caught. Successful anglers have landed a few chinook salmon or brown trout. In Two Rivers, boat anglers have landed mixed catches comprised of chinook salmon, rainbow trout, and coho salmon. During the past week boat anglers were trolling in 70 to 300 feet of water. Rainbow trout anglers that were running high lines and trolling in 200 feet of water had some good trips that produced some nice fish. Trout and salmon anglers were also casting a variety of baits off the north pier and inside the harbor with little success.
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Door County - Sunny, hot and humid: summer arrived with a vengeance this week. The salmon action out on Lake Michigan was good this week. The bank reef north of the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal produced lots of nice kings and lake trout, with anglers trolling in 60 to 100 feet of water early in the mornings, and late in the evenings. Later in the day successful anglers were moving out to deeper waters, up to 400 feet. The top 20 to 30 feet of water was accounting for nice catches of rainbow trout, while most of the salmon were coming 80 to 120 feet down. Good success was also reported out of Baileys Harbor and around Washington Island. The daytime action for walleyes continues to be good with some nice fish being taken from areas north and south of Chaudoir?s dock and off the reefs. Anglers trolling crawler harnesses in 8 to 20 feet of water accounted for the majority of the walleyes taken. The nighttime walleye action also continued to be good with anglers trolling stick and jerks baits in 8 to 25 feet of water. Henderson Point, Sherwood Point, the Sturgeon Bay flats and Dunlap Reef all remain good spots to try for walleye. Up north the walleye action was only fair this week. Smallmouth bass fishing continues to be 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 smallies. Tube jigs, stick baits, grubs, and Katelands remain the baits of choice. Up north, Anderson?s dock in Ephraim, as well as Baileys Harbor, Rowley?s Bay, Egg Harbor and Sister Bay were all producing fish. There have started to be reports of some decent perch being taken by anglers fishing the weed beds with minnows and slip bobbers. Northern pike action seems to have slowed down a bit, with only the occasional northern being taken, by anglers working hard for them.
Peninsula State Park ? The park?s campgrounds are expected to be full for the busy Fourth of July weekend. Sunset and S'mores, the new American Folklore Theatre production celebrating the Park's 100th anniversary, has been receiving many positive reviews. Trails are dry and in good condition. Watch for squadrons of white pelicans, bald eagles, great egrets and osprey. Peninsula State Park golf course is open until the end of October. Tee times are generally available, and reservations may be made. Visit the Golf Course website at
www.peninsulagolf.org or call 920-854-5791.
Wautoma DNR Service Center area
The Wild Rose Fish Hatchery Education Center will be open Wed through Sunday, including the July Fourth holiday, from 8 am to 3:30 pm. Guided tours are at 10 am and 1 pm.
Oshkosh DNR Service Center area
Stream shocking for trout is underway in Waupaca, Waushara and Marquette counties. The fish are now just beginning to move up to the colder water tributaries. On Lake Winnebago, the heat wave has caused fish to move into the mud. Anglers are having success trolling crank baits and crawler harnesses. Calm conditions have really contributed to clear water on the big lake as seditment settles down to the bottom. This will soon change as algae blooms are evident. The Fourth of July weekend always brings heavy boat traffic, so use extra caution while operating on the busy waterways.
DNR Southeast Region
Havenwoods State Forest - Trails are in good condition. Deer, coyote, mink, owls, turkey, hawks, ducks, bluebirds, heron, and kingbirds have been seen. Golden Alexander, false white indigo, wild geranium, wild quinine are blooming.
Kohler-Andrae State Park - Nature trails and hiking trails are open. A wren has started nest construction in the office bluebird house. Come watch the progress on the office bird cam. The Wisconsin Great Lakes Beach testing is conducted Monday through Thursday. 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. The campground is open for the season and all campground facilities are up and running. The swim area is marked for the season. Swimmer's itch has been reported by beach users. Swimmers should towel off immediately after swimming and shower as soon as possible after swimming to reduce their chances of getting swimmer's itch. Contact staff for more information. 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.
Lake Michigan fisheries team report
Near-shore waters were relatively warm until Sunday, when strong west winds caused the water temperature to drop from the 60s into the upper 40s and low 50s. Perch fishing had been good before the water cooled off, but cooler temperatures may bring trout and salmon in closer to shore.
Sheboygan County - In Sheboygan shore fishing has been generally slow, but an occasional brown trout has been caught off the south pier on spoons. Sheboygan trollers have been struggling to find fish, with most boats only catching a couple. A mixed bag of chinooks, coho, rainbows, and lake trout has been taken from the surface to 50 feet down in 230 to 300 feet of water.
Ozaukee County - Shore fishing has picked up somewhat in Port Washington, with perch taken near the power plant on minnows and off the pier on jigs. Trollers out of Port have reported chinooks, coho, lake trout, and rainbows taken anywhere from 200 to 350 feet of water. Most fish have been caught from the surface to 70 feet down, and both spoons and flasher and fly combinations have been productive.
Milwaukee County - In Milwaukee perch anglers have caught fish early in the morning off both McKinley pier and South Metro pier on minnows or soft plastics. Boaters have also been catching perch at the boils. Shore anglers have also caught a few browns off McKinley pier, but fishing has been inconsistent. Trollers out of Milwaukee have been catching a few coho, but fish have been quite scattered.
Racine County - Shore anglers in Racine have been catching decent numbers of perch off the north pier and from the rocks near the DeKoven Center. Fathead minnows and plastics have produced the most fish. Trolling out of Racine has been relatively slow, although a few coho, chinooks, and lake trout have been taken in as close as 65 feet of water or out as far as 275 feet of water.
Kenosha County - In Kenosha perch have been hitting off the north pier and in Southport Marina, and boaters have been catching perch at the bubbler. Fatheads, small golden shiners, and plastics have all produced fish. Trolling has been relatively slow out of Kenosha, with reports of occasional chinooks, coho, lake trout, and rainbows taken out past 200 feet of water. The Kenosha harbor is being dredged over the next couple of weeks, and water in the harbor has been somewhat turbid at times.
DNR South Central Region
No reports.
DNR West Central Region
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
Crawford County - The Mississippi River dropped slowly this past week. The current river stage is 7.5 feet. . The forecast for the Mississippi River is for a gradual drop. Boaters on the Mississippi River should use caution now that the river is below the 8 foot mark as wing dams, closing dams, and sunken logs are now dangerously close to lower units. Boaters unfamiliar with the Big River should stay in the navigation channel or slow down and trim up. The Wisconsin and Kickapoo Rivers have finally settled down after the heavy rains a couple weeks ago. Aquatic vegetation is rapidly filling in the back water areas. 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), the Lower Bottoms and wing dams with some success. The Ambro Slough complex north of Prairie du Chien has seen a fair amount of fishing pressure however success has been spotty. Try fishing the snags on the Ambro Slough or 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. Most anglers that are finding some bluegills report that the average size is smaller that normal. Panfishing at the dam has been spotty with reports of some bluegill and perch being taken primarily on night crawlers. Fishing at Cold Spring continues to be slow. Most of the bluegill are running on the small side. Cold Spring is considered inland water, not boundary waters. Different fishing regulations are in effect there and non-residents must possess a non-resident fishing license. Walleye and sauger action was generally 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 up and down the river. 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, activity was pretty good also. 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. There was some pretty decent white bass action at the dam last week. Angler are casting small crank baits or using One-Eyes. Trout fishing has been very good even though vegetation and insects are staring to make fishing a bit more difficult. Many local streams produced some very nice brown and brook trout. After last week?s hot temperatures a variety of ?pests? have shown up in force. Insects like mosquitoes and deer flies are out in large numbers. Mosquitoes are really a problem in the river bottoms while the deer flies are in the wooded areas. The June bug hatch has subsided while another hatch of gnats came out. Wild baby animals are starting to get older but even so please view baby wild animals from a distance and do not pick them up or harass them. Parsnip, stinging nettle and poison ivy are out so outdoor users should take appropriate precautions.
Perrot State Park - The trails are in good condition. The boat dock has been installed. Water levels are close to normal. Fishing is slow. White wild indigo, spiderwort, harebell, prairie larkspur, butterfly weed, coneflowers and common yarrow are currently blooming in the park.
Great River State Trail - The trail is open and in dry condition. Prairie wildflowers are really shining! White Wild Indigo, coneflowers and butterfly weed are the current standouts!
Wildcat Mountain State Park - Horse and hiking trails are in good condition. Conditions are good for canoeing on the Kickapoo River. Canoe rentals and shuttles are available nearby in the Village of Ontario. Most of the spring flowers are done blooming. Trout fishing has been excellent.
Black River Falls DNR Service Center area
Mill Bluff State Park - All trails are open and in good condition. All campsites are currently open and in good condition. The swimming pond and beach are in good condition and is a big draw to the park. The water is tested and always has very good readings. Butterfly weed is in full bloom around the area as well as the coreopsis, milkweed and many other species. Due to the wet conditions the mosquitoes are plentiful in the area. Bring insect spray for a more enjoyable visit to the park.
Eau Claire DNR Service Center area
Brunet Island State Park ? 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. 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, a few brown eyed Susan?s, wooly yarrow, grove sandwort, blackberry and raspberry vines, and common and wood strawberry are in bloom. The wood strawberries are beginning to produce fruit.
Wisconsin Rapids DNR Service Center area
Buckhorn State Park - The two beaches and picnic areas have been busy with people swimming and enjoying the warm weather (the mosquitoes have not been bad at the beach). The accessible fishing pier is located by the north shelter. Canoes and kayaks are available for renting at the park and many visitors have been enjoying them. Ticks are out and new mosquitoes have hatched with the warmer weather and rain so they are still bad. Remember to use bug spray and do a tick check after hiking.
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, July 3, 2009
? Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 -The Skinny about Skins. Critter coverings ? they come in the form of feathers, fur, scales and more. Meet Naturalist Barb Walker and Copper, our resident fox snake, and see examples of how amazing and different critter coverings can be. Ice Age Center. 2 p.m. Hike to the Summit. Join the naturalist for a hike to the summit and learn fascinating facts about the history and geology of the area and see spectacular views of the St. Croix River. Summit Rock Trail sign. 4 p.m. Owls: Silent Hunters of the Night. Owls are among the most successful predators of the night because of their wonderful adaptations. Learn all about them with Naturalist Barb Walker and her live owl Aztec. Park Amphitheater behind the beach parking lot. 7 p.m.
? Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Nature Storytime: Totally Cool Toads. Toads are cool from their fast-flicking tongues to their warty bumps! Don't miss this chance to meet a toad nose to nose. This hour of nature fun awaits 3- to 6-year-olds with accompanying adults. Sponsored by Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit. Ice Age Visitor Center. 9:30-10:30 am 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 your insect repellent and sense of adventure. The theme for this hike is nocturnal mammals. Sponsored by Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit. Zillmer Trails. 8:30-10 p.m.
? Pattison State Park, Superior, (715) 399-3111 - Hard Rock History Hike. Geology hike with Jim Haasis. Hike around Big Manitou Falls. 7 p.m. Night Hike. Intermediate No-Lights Night Hike with Park Naturalist Jim Craig. Introduction to the night as wildlife experience it. 9:30 p.m.
? Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. - Kayak Tour (tentative): 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. Red, White and Blue Morning. 10 - 11:30 a.m. Nature Center. Flag raising. Gettysburg Address by Charles Dickson. Crafts and much more. Plus Shine Your Lincoln Pennies!
? Potawatomi State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 746-2890 - Wisconsin Explorer Activity. Start the weekend off by being one of the first to nab a copy of the New Wisconsin Explorer booklets. We'll do one of the funtastic activities and show you how to earn a collectable state symbol patch! Ages 5 and up. Campground Shelter Building. 7 p.m.
? Whitefish Dunes State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 823-2400 - Big Red Tent - Wisconsin Uniqueness. 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. Sponsored by Friends of Whitefish Dunes State Park. On the beach by the second access. 1-3 p.m.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
? Hartman Creek State Park, Waupaca, (715) 258-2372 - Snapshot or Photograph. Things to think about before you click the shutter-- some basic tips to help beginners take better photos. Allen Lake fishing dock, or in case of inclement weather, Hellestad house. 10 a.m.
? Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 -Wisconsin Explorer. Meet the naturalist and receive free booklets and guidance for fun activities for parents and their children ages 3 through 12. Amphitheater behind the beach parking lot. 2 p.m. The Secrets of Eagle Peak. Join Naturalist Barb Walker for a hike up the trail to learn the secrets of the peak and see a beautiful view of the St. Croix River Valley. Eagle Peak Trail sign in the Pines Group Camp. 4 p.m. A Billion Years on the Pothole Trail. Join the naturalist for a hike back in time to see the geological wonders created over the last billion years. Meet at the Pothole Trail sign. 7 p.m.
? Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Exploring Nature: Ice Age at the Beach. The glaciers have returned to Mauthe Lake! Discover how the glaciers created kames, eskers, kettles, and moraines through some fun hands-on activities. Be prepared to get a little wet. This program is best for families/groups with children between the ages of 5 and 12 years. Mauthe Lake Recreation Area Beach. 9:30-11 a.m.
? Pattison State Park, Superior, (715) 399-3111 - Aliens of Interfalls Lake with Park Naturalist Jim Craig. Capture andexamine the darting creatures of the park lake. 1 p.m. Compass Geocache. Orienteer to the treasure! with Park Naturalist Jim Craig. Limit 10 people. Sign-up in the office. 2:30 p.m.
? Potawatomi State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 746-2890 - Tower Talk. Start the 4th of July out on top of the world (or at least on top of the peninsula)! Check out the view from the Park's observation tower and you'll get a peak at what there is to see as you travel around the Door County peninsula. Observation Tower. 10 a.m.
? Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Butterfly Neighbors. Capture, identify and release some winged jewels. Learn which butterflies call the park home. Visitor Center. 10-11 a.m. Meet the Ranger. Learn about a park ranger's job first-hand. Discover what equipment they use and visit the squad car. Beach Playground. 1-1:30 p.m. Old-Fashioned Campfire. Come on down for songs, stories and old-fashioned fun. You bring the marshmallows, we'll have the sticks! You'll still have time to go see fireworks! Amphitheater. 6-7 p.m.
? Whitefish Dunes State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 823-2400 - Big Red Tent - State Symbols. 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. Sponsored by Friends of Whitefish Dunes State Park. On the beach by the second access. 1-3 p.m.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
? Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - A Different Pace: The St. Croix by Kayak. Discover a different way to experience the river?s pace, slough, and backwaters as National Park Ranger Caroline Stedman shares the basics of kayaking, a mode of transportation that has over 4,000 years of history. Those interested will have an opportunity to try their hand at paddling a kayak around the lake?s beach area. For more information contact the St. Croix River Visitor Center at (715) 483-2274. Meet at Lake O? the Dalles beach. 11 a.m.
? Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Drop In at the Beach: Water Wonders. Dive into the wonders of water. Try your hand at some wild and wet experiments to discover the amazing properties of water. You will also uncover how plants and animals use these properties to survive. Adults are encouraged to participate with their children. Sponsored by Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit. Mauthe Lake Recreation Area Beach. Drop in any time noon - 3 p.m.
? Pattison State Park, Superior, (715) 399-3111 - Mysterious Loons. Intriguing highlights about this unique bird by Park Naturalist Jim Craig. Nature Center. 7 p.m. Shepherd?s View. Introduction to the night sky by Park Naturalist Jim Craig. Bring blankets and binoculars. Nature Center. 9:45 p.m.
? Potawatomi State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 746-2890 - Ancient Shoreline Hike. Enjoy a peaceful walk along Potawatomi's nature trail with out Park Naturalist. You'll stand on top of two ancient shorelines, peek into woodpecker holes, and uncover some salamander hideaways. Trail conditions are gravel surfacing, slight inclines. Ancient Shorelines Nature Trailhead. 10 a.m.
Monday, July 6, 2009
? Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Figure Out Feathers. Youngsters ages 6-8 working toward their Explorer patch are invited to join volunteer Paula Olig on a hike to find and identify feathers. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No pets allowed. Meet outside Sanderling Nature Center. 9:30 a.m.
? Pattison State Park, Superior, (715) 399-3111 - Wild Talking Birds by Park Naturalist Jim Craig. English phrases to identify local birds. Nature Center. 7 p.m.
? Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. - Bear Hunt: Nature Center. Learn about Door County bears. Then find five clues that lead you to your very own teddy bear. $12/bear. Limited bears available; please pre-register at (920) 854-5976. 10 a.m. - 12 Noon. Hello Smokey Bear: Nature Center. Shake paws with the most famous bear in the world! 11 - 11:30 a.m. Kids Unite: Weed Warriors: Meet at Tennison Playground. Pull garlic mustard, earn Nature Center coupons. 4 - 5 p.m.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
? Hartman Creek State Park, Waupaca, (715) 258-2372 - Hellestad House Open. Hellestad House. 1-4 p.m.
? Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Twilight Paddle: The Full Thunder Moon. Meet National Park Ranger Dale Cox and embark on a 6.5-mile paddle to observe the river and learn about the special nature of this protected area. 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. 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 call Dale Cox at (715) 483-2274. From 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. from Wisconsin Interstate Park to Osceola Landing.
? Pattison State Park, Superior, (715) 399-3111 - Blood Thirsty Critters by Park Naturalist Jim Craig. Ticks, mosquitoes, flies, leeches presentation. Nature Center. 7 p.m.
? Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. - Happy Birthday Peninsula! Nature Center. Join us for a turtle-themed birthday bash that celebrates Peninsula's 100th year. Meet Atlantis the Red-eared Slider, craft a turtle to keep, and play party games. Fun! 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
? Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Adopt a Highway. Help pick up litter on the highway in front of the park. All materials supplied, must be at least 12 years old. Sponsored by Bong Naturalist Association. Visitor Center. 6-7 p.m.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
? Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Family Fun: Dragons and Damsels. Meet Naturalist Julie Fox and learn about nature?s helicopters! Lake side of the Beach House. 10 a.m.
? Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Meet The Ranger. Families are encouraged to meet a park ranger to learn about a ranger's job in the park and see the equipment they use. Park shelter between sites 13 and 15. Begins 7 p.m.
? Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976. - Naturalists on WDOR 93.7 FM: Tune your radio dial to this local station to hear all the latest centennial news - and have your nature questions answered! Watercolor Workshop with Elaine Cregan: Weborg Shelter. Whether you want to know the basics, or are interested in refining your technique, this watercolor workshop is for you. A donation of $10 will cover the cost of watercolor paint, brushes and paper. Register at Nature Center (920) 854-5976. Best for ages seven and older. 1 - 3 p.m.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
? 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 - Outdoor Adventure: Birding by Ear. "Konk-la-ree!" What bird said that? We'll traverse the fields and forests to find just what birds are singing. Tricks and tips to identifying birds by their songs and calls will be shared. This adventure is for people over the age of 12 years. Meet at the Ice Age Visitor Center and then car pool to several different sites within the forest. 6:30-8 p.m.
? Pattison State Park, Superior, (715) 399-3111 - Meet Mrs. Martin Pattison with Rachel Martin. Hear the story of the Pattisons by a charming lady in period costume. 7 p.m.
? Whitefish Dunes State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 823-2400 - Big Red Tent: Aquatic 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.
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/
