Wisconsin DNR News May 6, 2008
International Migratory Bird Day May 10
Gypsy moth aerial spraying to start the week of May 12 or 19
American Lung Association’s ‘State of the Air: 2008’
Burning unwanted buildings can release asbestos
Potential health impacts of asbestos
Celebration of a conservation hero May 20 at Wyalusing State Park
Youth deer hunts offered
2008 “best of the best” state park features
Entries sought for 2009 waterfowl and pheasant stamp design contests
ATV and snowmobile registration renewals in the mail
Internet ATV safety course now available
Lightweight Utility Vehicles temporary allowed on ATV trails
International Migratory Bird Day May 10
This year’s theme is ‘Tundra to Tropics: Connecting Birds, Habitats, and People’
MADISON – Migratory birds travel long distances between breeding and non-breeding sites, often resting and sometimes nesting along the way. International Migratory Bird Day on Saturday, May 10 will focus on the birds that make these fantastic journeys, the habitats on which they depend, and the people who are important to a successful journey.
International Migratory Bird Day is held each year on the second Saturday in May to draw attention to the plight of migratory birds that make incredible journeys between their summer and winter habitats.
“International Migratory Bird Day is a time to reflect on the beauty and joy neotropical migrant birds bring us,” said Sumner Matteson, an avian ecologist with the Department of Natural Resources. “These long-distance migrants, especially the warblers and other colorful songbirds, are the crown jewels of the bird world.”
He noted the arrival of these birds from places as far away as Central and South America reminds us that not only do they have to contend with the rigors of flying long distances but with hazards such as the proliferation of tall structures such as cell towers, wind turbines and TV towers, and with dwindling or fragmented stop-over habitats along the way to their breeding grounds.
“Fortunately, in Wisconsin, there are many partner groups working together to address these migration issues, and there is a strong commitment to monitoring the breeding populations of many of out neotropical migrant birds,” Matteson said.
Great Wisconsin Birding and Nature Trail
One connection between people in Wisconsin who care about these migratory birds and their habitats is the Great Wisconsin Birding and Nature Trail. This mapped auto trail, when complete, will reach into every area of the state. Full-color viewing guides with maps and descriptions of every site will lead the nature traveler to warblers, shorebirds, eagles, loons, cranes and all manner of mammals found in some of the state’s premier wildlife areas.
“Our outstanding natural resources make this an exceptional trail,” said project coordinator Susan Foote-Martin, a conservation biologist for the state Department of Natural Resources. “The trail and its segments are a terrific way for people to connect to birds and their habitats. This is a project based on grassroots support from the public and small businesses, non-government organizations and government agencies across the state.”
To date, completed birding and nature trail segments with full-color viewing guides are available for the Lake Superior/Northwoods, the Mississippi and Chippewa Rivers, the Central Sands Prairies, and the Lake Michigan regions. The guide for the fifth and last region, the Southern Savanna Birding and Nature Trail that includes 13 counties in the southern third of the state, will be available later this year. Wisconsin bird and nature enthusiasts can nominate sites for the Southern Savanna segment until June 30, 2008. To nominate a Southern Savanna trail site and get more details about the Great Wisconsin Birding and Nature Trail, go to [www.wisconsinbirds.org/trail].
More information about International Migratory Bird Day can be found on the IMBD Web site at [http://www.birday.org]. A number of International Migratory Bird Day activities and related events are being held throughout Wisconsin in May including:
• Crex Meadows Bird Festival May 10 – 11. Wildlife enthusiasts can see up to 270 kinds of birds, including many rare and endangered species on the 30,000 acre Crex Meadows Wildlife Area near Grantsburg in Burnett County. The festival includes guided bus tours and hikes, bird banding, and various birding programs scheduled throughout the day including live Wisconsin raptors. Refreshments and food are available at the Friends of Crex food stand, and birding books, equipment and other items offered at the center’s Bog Shoe Store. More information on the Crex Meadows Bird Festival is available on the Friends of Crex Meadows Web site [http://www.crexmeadows.org/] (both links exit DNR).
• Chequamegon Bay Birding and Nature Festival May 16 - 18. Held at the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center in Ashland the festival features nearly 150 activities during the three-day weekend, including field trips, guest speakers, hands-on workshops, and youth programs. Program topics include bird ecology, landscaping for wildlife, dragonfly identification, black bear movement patterns, birdhouse building, fish hatchery tours, wildlife art and much more. More information and registration is available on the festival Web site at: [http://www.birdandnaturefest.com] (exit DNR) or by calling 1-800-284-9484.
• Horicon Marsh Bird Festival May 9 - 12. The festival includes bird watching hikes and tours, pontoon tours of the marsh, bird banding, and live birds of prey demonstrations. In all, there are more than 40 activities scheduled for the festival. Events are held at a variety of locations, including the Department of Natural Resources Horicon Service Center and the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. Registration is required for some of the activities. A complete list can be found on the Horicon Marsh Bird Club Web site at [http://www.marshmelodies.com] (exit DNR).
Other events are scheduled at the Urban Ecology Center in Milwaukee, the Gordon Bubolz Nature Preserve in Appleton, and the Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge on the Mississippi River.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Sumner Matteson (608) 266-1571 or Susan Foote-Martin (608) 266-0545
Gypsy moth aerial spraying to start the week of May 12 or 19
MADISON -- The sprouting of leaves means the arrival of gypsy moth caterpillars, a destructive pest that feeds on the leaves of many species of trees and shrubs in forests and backyards in Wisconsin.
To combat the caterpillars, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection’s Slow the Spread Program (STS) and the Department of Natural Resources’ Suppression Spray Program are scheduled to begin aerial spraying around May 15 in several southern counties.
“The Slow the Spread Program sprays in the western part of the state along the leading edge of gypsy moth infestations where populations are relatively low and emerging,” said Chris Lettau, STS program coordinator. “The objective of the program is to prevent or delay this harmful pest from getting established in the western half of the state.”
The DNR Suppression Program serves the eastern part of the state where counties are quarantined for gypsy moth. In this part of the state, gypsy moth populations are already established, and areas are treated to prevent tree damage from very high populations of the pest, according to Andrea Diss-Torrance, DNR suppression program coordinator.
“This is a voluntary program that works with landowners and municipalities in spraying to manage this invasive pest,” Diss-Torrance said.
Under the STS program, a total of 90,190 acres are scheduled to be sprayed in the following counties: Ashland, Bayfield, Clark, Chippewa, Eau Claire, Green, Iowa, Jackson, Monroe, Price, Richland, Rusk and Taylor.
Under the suppression program, a total of 12,563 acres are scheduled to be sprayed in the following counties: Adams, Brown, Columbia, Dane, Door, Green Lake, Juneau, Marathon, Marinette, Marquette, Menominee, Milwaukee, Outagamie, Rock, Sauk and Waushara.
Spraying is weather dependent and may be done on weekends as well as during the week.
Most sites will be sprayed with Foray 48B, a bacterial insecticide approved for use in certified organic production or food processing by the Organic Materials Review Institute. Foray contains Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki or Btk, which is a naturally-occurring soil bacteria that, when eaten by gypsy moth caterpillars, causes them to stop feeding and eventually die. Btk also breaks down quickly by sunlight. Three areas will be treated with a gypsy moth specific viral insecticide to prevent injury to a rare moth present at these sites.
“Btk is not harmful to people, pets or other wild animals,” Diss-Torrance said. “However, if you are concerned, you may choose to stay indoors or avoid areas to be sprayed on the day that spraying occurs.”
To achieve STS Program goals, two applications are made to ensure that early and late hatching caterpillars are treated. The second application is applied five to 10 days after the first application, depending on weather conditions. The Suppression Program treats with one application only, at a higher concentration.
Residents living in or near spray sites can expect to see and hear low-flying planes beginning at around 5 a.m., weather permitting.
“Spraying starts early in the morning because the humidity is higher and the winds are calmer than at other times of the day. These conditions allow for the best application of the product on the leaves,” Lettau said.
Planes will remain in the area until the completion of the day’s spray plans and if weather conditions allow. Spraying may last into the late morning or afternoon.
Spraying will move northward as both programs follow the development of the gypsy moth in the state. Btk treatments may continue into mid-June. Later in summer, the STS program will conduct mating disruption treatments from late June to the end of July. The treatment interferes with the ability of male moths to find females in low, isolated populations. The suppression program does not conduct mating disruption treatments because the populations it treats are much too large for this technique to be to be effective.
For more information about the programs and gypsy moths or for maps of the spray sites, visit the cooperative gypsy moth Web site at [http://gypsymoth.wi.gov]. Or, call the toll-free gypsy moth information line at 1-800-642-MOTH (1-800-642-6684) to hear a recording of the programs’ most up-to-date spray plans, talk to staff, or leave a message.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Andrea Diss-Torrance, DNR, at 608-264-9247 or Nkauj (pronounced ‘Gow’) Vang, DATCP at 608-224-4591
Demolition of buildings by burning can release asbestos and other hazardous materials
MADISON – The spring construction season has arrived and with it may come the need to demolish an unwanted building to make way for something new.
Landowners or contractors looking to demolish an old building are being cautioned against just putting a match to it. State environmental officials say it is not only illegal to burn a structure, it could also be a very polluting and possibly very unhealthy way to remove it.
“Unless you are a fire department, it is illegal to intentionally burn buildings in Wisconsin. The only exception is a fire training burn, conducted by a fire department,” said Amy Walden, statewide asbestos coordinator for the Department of Natural Resources.
Fire department burns
Fire department burns may only be conducted on standing structures that offer some training value. Buildings cannot be burned for the sole purpose of waste reduction or by anyone other than a fire department, re-emphasized Walden.
State law requires a pre-inspection for asbestos by an inspector licensed by the state Department of Health and Family Services (DHFS). Whether or not the inspector finds asbestos, DNR and DHFS must be notified.
Fire departments conducting a fire training burn must wait 10 working days after they mail a DNR notification form before they can burn in order to allow DNR and DHFS to inspect the building, if it is determined to be a priority.
Commercial buildings include any building with more than four dwelling units. Based on the quantities of asbestos found in the building, a notification of demolition and/or renovation (DNR Form 4500-113) must be sent to DNR and the state Department of Health and Family Services (DHFS), along with the appropriate fee.
Asbestos inspections can cost as little as $350 per inspection with samples running about $15 - $25. The responsibility of inspection and removal costs (should asbestos be found) ultimately falls on the property owner.
“We are trying to educate and spread the word about asbestos regulations. Education is the preferred approach because penalties for violating air pollution regulations can range up to $25,000 per day, per day of violation,” Walden says.
DNR wardens can also issue a citation carrying a maximum $1,500 forfeiture for either failing to pre-inspect or notify DNR of the demolition, fire training burn or renovation, he added.
If asbestos is found, then all of it must be removed before the fire training burn. Once the burn is over, cold ash and debris must be disposed of in a state-licensed landfill.
Certain landfills can accept asbestos. Officials recommend contacting a contractor for removal of asbestos containing materials. Contractors specializing in asbestos removal are able to remove the material safely and will know where and how to safely dispose of the debris. Contact a DNR office near you for more information and to learn about safe asbestos removal.
What is concern with Asbestos?
Releasing asbestos fibers into the air creates a public health hazard because asbestos is a known carcinogen (cancer causing) and exposure to asbestos fibers can produce serious health problems (see accompanying article).
Most forms of asbestos burn at 2,732 degrees F (1,500 degrees C), so asbestos fibers will not be consumed in a typical training burn.
“The majority of materials that contain asbestos will combust and release the unburned fibers into the air,” Walden says.
Some of the asbestos will remain in the ash, to be released into the air when the ash is disturbed, he added.
Asbestos is found in more than 3,000 building materials, including boilers, heaters, piping, electrical equipment, flooring and water heaters. It is also found in range hoods, roofing, siding and many other building materials.
Other materials commonly found in buildings may also pose environmental or health problems if burned or improperly disposed. These include lead in paint, pipes, batteries, mercury in thermostats or switches, PCBs in capacitors or specialty paints and CFCs in refrigerators or air conditioners. Many building components such as doors and windows can be salvaged for recycling or reuse. Please contact local organizations for more information on how to reduce your disposal costs by salvaging building components.
More information is available Training Burns: A guide in the Process of Fire Training available on the DNR Web site at [http://dnr.wi.gov/air/compenf/asbestos/asbestos12.htm].
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Amy Walden at 608- 266-3658 and for recycling Cynthia Moore at 608-267-7550
Potential health impacts of asbestos
MADISON – Human health is one of the many reasons why state environmental and health officials require that they be notified about commercial renovation and demolition projects. That’s because renovating or tearing down a building that harbors asbestos can release fine particulates into the air, placing the health of workers and the public at risk.
Asbestos is a known human carcinogen (cancer causing) material and exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems. Medical studies of asbestos-related diseases suggest that there is no safe level of exposure (a threshold) below which there would be no chance of disease. The following diseases can result from inhaling airborne asbestos fibers:
Asbestosis – A noncancerous respiratory disease that causes scarring of lung tissues. Advanced asbestosis may produce heart failure and death.
Lung Cancer – Inhaled asbestos particles can produce lung cancer independent of asbestosis. Lung cancer is often fatal.
Mesothelioma – A rare cancer of the thin membrane lining the chest and abdomen. Most cases of mesothelioma have been traced directly to a history of asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is always fatal.
Other Cancers – Some medical studies suggest that asbestos exposure is responsible for several cancers of internal organs, including esophagus, larynx, oral cavity, stomach, colon and kidney. It’s believed that inhaled asbestos fibers are absorbed into the blood stream and carried to other parts of the body.
Small businesses, individuals and contractors in Wisconsin need to be aware of the asbestos regulations. State and federal laws require that any commercial buildings slated to undergo renovation or demolition be inspected by a certified asbestos inspector prior to beginning any work.
Those who choose to ignore asbestos regulations are taking great risks because they can be held liable for the health of workers and the public. The attendant health risks and liability associated with asbestos in the air outweigh inspection and removal costs.
More information is available in an Asbestos Fact Sheet on the DNR Web site at [http://dnr.wi.gov/air/pdf/asbestosfactsheet.pdf].
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Amy Walden – (608) 266-3658
Potential health impacts of asbestos
MADISON – Human health is one of the many reasons why state environmental and health officials require that they be notified about commercial renovation and demolition projects. That’s because renovating or tearing down a building that harbors asbestos can release fine particulates into the air, placing the health of workers and the public at risk.
Asbestos is a known human carcinogen (cancer causing) material and exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems. Medical studies of asbestos-related diseases suggest that there is no safe level of exposure (a threshold) below which there would be no chance of disease. The following diseases can result from inhaling airborne asbestos fibers:
Asbestosis – A noncancerous respiratory disease that causes scarring of lung tissues. Advanced asbestosis may produce heart failure and death.
Lung Cancer – Inhaled asbestos particles can produce lung cancer independent of asbestosis. Lung cancer is often fatal.
Mesothelioma – A rare cancer of the thin membrane lining the chest and abdomen. Most cases of mesothelioma have been traced directly to a history of asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is always fatal.
Other Cancers – Some medical studies suggest that asbestos exposure is responsible for several cancers of internal organs, including esophagus, larynx, oral cavity, stomach, colon and kidney. It’s believed that inhaled asbestos fibers are absorbed into the blood stream and carried to other parts of the body.
Many small businesses and their contractors in Wisconsin aren’t aware of the asbestos regulations. They should be, because the state Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency require that any commercial buildings slated to undergo renovation or demolition be inspected by a certified asbestos inspector prior to beginning any work.
Those who choose to ignore asbestos regulations are taking great risks because they can be held liable for the health of workers and the public. The attendant health risks and liability associated with asbestos in the air outweigh inspection and removal costs.
More information is available in an Asbestos Fact Sheet on the DNR Web site at [http://dnr.wi.gov/air/pdf/asbestosfactsheet.pdf].
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Amy Walden – (608) 266-3658
Celebration of a conservation hero May 20 at Wyalusing State Park
BAGLEY, Wis. – The life and legacy of a state wildlife manager who was instrumental in establishing the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway will be honored with a “Celebration of a Conservation Hero” at Wyalusing State Park on Tuesday, May 20.
The Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin and Department of Natural Resources will honor Paul Brandt, a DNR wildlife biologist who passed away unexpectedly in 2006 at age 60 after serving for more than 30 years at Boscobel.
Brandt was one of the major proponents of establishing the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway. He left an astonishing legacy to support conservation along the 92-mile recreational corridor – in perpetuity.
Shortly after his retirement, Brandt created the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway Fund with a $25,000 endowment to support habitat management on public land. And just recently, foundation officials learned that he had left additional money from his estate, raising the total gift to over $600,000.
“We will salute a real conservation hero, Paul Brandt, for his lifelong dedication to the Lower Wisconsin Riverway and for his wonderful legacy gift that will support this important landscape,” said Charles Luthin, Natural Resources Foundation executive director.
The day’s events, beginning at 1 p.m. in the park’s Peterson Shelter, include a reception and presentation by Brandt family members and his colleagues. Guests will then be invited to honor his life and legacy at a dedication and placement of a stone memorial at the Millville Unit of the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway.
The Lower Wisconsin State Riverway, established in 1989, encompasses 79,275 acres, extending 92.3 miles from below the dam at Prairie du Sac to the confluence with the Mississippi River near Prairie du Chien. The riverway is administered by the Lower Wisconsin Riverway Board, composed local residents and local elected officials from along the riverway. More information is available on the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway Board Web site at [lwr.state.wi.us].
The Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin is a 501c-3 non-profit organization based in Madison, Wisconsin. For more than twenty years, the Foundation has worked with citizens, businesses, non-profits and the government to promote the protection and enjoyment of Wisconsin’s public lands, waters and wildlife.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Jeffrey Potter, director of communications, Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin, 608-261-4384 or Greg Matthews, DNR regional public affairs manager, Fitchburg, 608-275-3317
‘Learn to hunt’ workshops and hunts
offered at Buckhorn State Park and Sandhill Wildlife Area
MADISON – Young people interested in learning to safely hunt deer can register for either of two “learn to hunt deer” workshops and associated youth deer hunts that will be held this fall at Buckhorn State Park and at the Sandhill Wildlife Area and Outdoor Skills Center.
Buckhorn youth learn to hunt workshop and youth hunt
Buckhorn State Park will offer a two-day hunt Nov. 8-9 for youths who are at least age 12 but not older than 17 as of Nov. 8. The chaperoned hunt is preceded by a one-day learn-to-hunt workshop on either Sept. 6 or 7 at the LaValle Sportsman’s Club.
“We’re trying to give youngsters a quality experience where they can have a good chance at harvesting an animal and can learn to do it safely,” said Joe Stecker-Kochanski, park superintendent.
A hunting license is not required. Youngsters who have not harvested a deer with a firearm at the time of application will receive preference. The annual event is limited to 56 youngsters this year. Applicants for the event must apply by July 15. A drawing will be held on July 16, and all successful applicants will be notified by July 24.
The hunt, limited to shotguns, takes place on 2,000 acres of Buckhorn State Park and the Buckhorn Wildlife Area, south of Necedah in Juneau County. Youth can take either an antlered or antlerless deer.
Each youth must be accompanied by a qualified chaperone. Applicants can select a family member or friend as the chaperone or authorize the park to assign a chaperone. The chaperone – who is not allowed to hunt or to carry a firearm – must be at least 21 years old and have at least 5 years hunting experience.
Information and applications are available on the Buckhorn State Park page of the DNR Web site [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/parks/specific/buckhorn/lhd.html] or by writing Youth Deer Hunt, Buckhorn State Park, W8450 Buckhorn Park Ave., Necedah, WI, 54646-7338.
Each youngster selected must have completed a certified hunter education program. Both the hunter and chaperone must attend a Learn to Hunt Deer workshop Sept. 6 or 7 at the LaValle Sportsman's Club. A $20 fee for the workshop and hunt will be collected by Friends of Buckhorn State Park.
Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center
The special Sandhill Wildlife Area deer hunt will be held Nov. 1-2 and is open to youths 12 to 15 years old as well as people 16 or older who have never hunted deer with a gun before. Youths and adults must first complete a one-day workshop at the Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center that includes information on deer biology and management, instruction on compasses, scouting for sign, firearm safety, hunt rules and regulations, and hunter ethics.
Youth workshops will be held: Saturday, Aug. 2; Monday, Aug. 4; Wednesday, Aug. 6; Thursday, Aug. 7; and Saturday, Aug. 9. Each youth hunter must be accompanied by an adult, 21 years or older, who acts as chaperone and teacher.
The workshop for people 16 or older who have never hunted deer with a gun before will be held on Saturday, Sept. 27. Beginner adults must also be accompanied by an adult chaperone.
To qualify for the program, all participants must either be enrolled in a Hunter Safety course or must possess a valid Hunter Safety Certificate. Students will be required to have a license by the time of the hunt. Previous participants are ineligible.
Chaperones should have some deer hunting experience and are expected to attend the workshop as well as the hunt with the student. Their primary role is to assist the beginner in developing the skills necessary to become a responsible hunter and outdoors person. The chaperone will not be allowed to carry a firearm during the hunt. The Skills Center can provide a chaperone volunteer if an applicant cannot find a person with deer hunting experience.
Applications for the Learn to Deer Hunt Workshops will be available on the Sandhill Wildlife Area page of the DNR Web site at [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/reclands/sandhill] and DNR Service Centers. Applications must be postmarked on or before May 31, 2008. Enrollment is limited to 168 students. Applicants will be randomly selected and successful applicants will be notified by June 20. A fee of $35 will be charged to enter program. Fee waivers are available for those unable to afford the fee.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: on Buckhorn contact Joe Stecker-Kochanski at 608-565-2789 or on Sandhill contact Dick Thiel at 715-884-6333,
2008 “best of the best” state park features and calendar photo contest
MADISON – Wisconsin state park visitors will again be able to go online to vote for their favorite state park features in the third annual “best of the best” Wisconsin State Park features contest, which this year will also allow people to submit photographs taken in Wisconsin State Parks for a 2009 calendar.
Information on Wisconsin State Parks and Trails can be found at on the Wisconsin State Parks Web site at [www.wiparks.net].
“Friends of Wisconsin State Parks are asking your help picking the best features of the best state park system in the country,” said Kate Zurlo-Cuva, DNR liaison to FWSP. “It takes about two minutes for park and trail visitors to vote online.”
“We hope that hidden favorite spots and beloved secrets will surface,” notes Bill Lunney, a board member of the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks. He adds, “As volunteers who are passionate about our state parks and trails, it brings our members great joy to see what others love about the state park system as well.”
The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks (FWSP) is sponsoring the voting and contest and asking visitors to submit votes and entries through their Web site at [www.fwsp.org].
Photo contest
All state park and trail visitors are invited to submit their favorite photo or photos for a 2009 Friends of Wisconsin State Parks calendar. Entries should pertain to a season and 12 winners will be selected for each month of the calendar. The deadline for all submissions and voting is Sept. 19, 2008. Winners will be recognized at the FWSP annual meeting and banquet on Nov. 7 in Dodgeville. More details and the rules for submission can be found on the friends group Web site at [www.fwsp.org].
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Kate Zurlo-Cuva - (608) 266-7617
Entries sought for 2009 waterfowl and pheasant stamp deign contests
MADISON – Contestants for the 2009 Wisconsin waterfowl and pheasant stamp design contests will have an exciting change of venue this year. Judging will be held in concurrence with premier of the 48th Annual Art and the Animal Exhibition at the Neville Public Museum in Green Bay.
The primary focus of the Art and the Animal Exhibition is to emphasize and explore the importance of animals of all types and their relationships to society. As part of the pre-opening events for the exhibition, Department of Natural Resources wildlife management staff will give a public presentation on the history of the waterfowl and pheasant stamp programs and discuss how wildlife artwork has been central to habitat conservation efforts.
More information about Art and the Animal Exhibition and related events is available on the Neville Public Museum’s Web site at [http://www.nevillepublicmuseum.org/art-animal/].
The contest judging will take place on Saturday, August 16, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. at the Neville Public Museum and it will be followed by a reception for the artists. All artwork submitted will remain on display until August 24.
Contest entries will be accepted from June 2 through July 28, 2008.
All stamp contest applicants should take note that there have been some important amendments to the submission requirements from previous years to ensure that artwork can be properly processed and prepared for display at the museum. Please review contest rules carefully to ensure the eligibility of all entries. The 2009 contest rules, entry forms, and reproduction rights agreement for Pheasant Stamp and Waterfowl Stamp are available on the DNR Web site: Pheasant Stamp Contest Rules [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/hunt/pheasant/stamprules.pdf] and Waterfowl Stamp Contest Rules [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/wetlands/watrstmp.htm].
Artists who are on the DNR’s waterfowl and pheasant stamp contest mailing list will be mailed the appropriate contest forms in the next few weeks. Other people interested in requesting contest information should contact: Waterfowl Stamp - Michele Cipiti, Assistant Wetland Specialist, 608-266-7408 or Pheasant Stamp- Sharon Fandel, Assistant Upland Ecologist, 608-261-8458
ATV and snowmobile registration renewals in the mail
MADISON – Owners of 117,000 all terrain vehicles (ATVs) and 95,000 snowmobiles whose Wisconsin registration will be expiring on June 30, 2008 will soon be receiving registration renewal coupons in the mail. The two year registration cycle begins April 1 of the year issued and ends on June 30 two years after. Customers who do not receive an expected renewal coupon may need to contact a Department of Natural Resources customer service specialist to update their address information.
“We would like to encourage our customers to renew their registration online,” said Penny Kanable of the DNR Bureau of Customer Service and Licensing. “ATV and snowmobile owners who use our safe, easy and convenient online renewal can also print a validation receipt that will allow them to operate their recreational vehicles while they wait for their new registration certificate and decals.”
The online renewal, which carries a $3 validation fee for each ATV and snowmobile registration, is found at the DNR Web site under Recreational Vehicle Registration [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/cs/registrations/wivrs /], and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Customers can submit multiple registration requests under one payment; a $1 convenience fee applies. Customers may also update their address information using the online recreational vehicle Registration web page. Recreational vehicle registrations can also be renewed by mail or by visiting any DNR Service Center location [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/cs/registrations/snowatvstations.htm].
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Penny Kanable, (608) 264-8985
Internet ATV safety course now available
MADISON – Operators of all terrain vehicles (ATV) now have a convenient online method to receive ATV Safety Certification through an Internet Web page introduced by the state Department of Natural Resources.
“This should prove very beneficial to young adult operators and out-of-state operators who need ATV Safety Certification," said Gary Eddy, DNR all-terrain vehicle administrator.
All operators at least age 12 and born on or after Jan. 1, 1988 must complete an ATV Safety Certification course in order to operate on public ATV trails and areas in Wisconsin.
“The internet course may not be for everyone. Parents will have to gauge whether an internet course is the best fit for their child. For some students, young and old, a classroom course with instructors and hands-on learning may be a better fit," said Eddy.
Both courses provide basic information on how to operate an ATV safely and responsibly, but they don't make you an expert rider.
The Internet course is available [www.offroad-ed.com/wi]. Check the DNR’s Upcoming Recreational Safety Education Classes Web page [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/es/enforcement/safety/upcoming.htm] to find classroom courses available around the state.
Students must continue to practice what they've learned in their ATV Safety Course and parents need to reinforce what has been taught."
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Gary Eddy, All-Terrain Vehicle Administrator, (608) 267-7455 or Karl Brooks, DNR Law Enforcement - (608) 266-7820
Lightweight Utility Vehicles temporary allowed on ATV trails
Five northern counties to host pilot program
MADISON – Lightweight utility vehicles -- also known as LUVs, UTVs or side by sides -- are now temporarily allowed on certain all-terrain vehicle trails in northern Wisconsin. Lincoln, Washburn, Sawyer, Florence and Marinette counties have elected to enroll in the LUV Pilot Program, which ends on Sept. 30, 2009.
“Members of the public interested in operating LUVs within these counties, need to visit the individual county's Web site or contact the county Forestry Department for all rules and regulations. Each county should have an online registration, which is required for each county you operate in; registration is free. Additional information or trail sticker requirements should also be reviewed with each county,” said Gary Eddy, all-terrain vehicle administrator for the state Department of Natural Resources. “The counties will regulate how and where LUVs will operate on their trails and routes.”
Passed as part of the 2007-09 State Budget, the pilot program is to be administered by the DNR -- in consultation with the Department of Transportation -- to evaluate use and effects of operating lightweight utility vehicles on all-terrain vehicle trails and routes.
“After the pilot program ends, the DNR will review the data gathered during the program, consult with the counties and then forward the results to the legislature,” Eddy said, “If things go well, the DNR will evaluate whether a statewide registration program is appropriate for these vehicles.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Gary Eddy, All-Terrain Vehicle Administrator, (608) 267-7455 or Karl Brooks, DNR Law Enforcement - (608) 266-7820
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.
April 15 through July 31
• It is illegal to allow dogs to run on DNR lands and Federal Waterfowl Production Areas lands during this time unless the dog is on a leash no longer than 8 feet. Doe not apply to class 1 field trial grounds or DNR lands open to dog training.*
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).*
May 7-11
• Spring turkey hunting period D
May 14 – 18
• Spring turkey hunting period E
May 20
• Yellow perch season opens on Green Bay, the Fox River and other Green Bay tributaries through March 15 with a bag limit of 15. Yellow perch season on Lake Michigan opens June 16.*
• Set or bank pole and setlines can be used on specified waters in the Wolf and Fox river basins through Sept. 30. Check the current Setline, Set or Bank Pole Regulations for open waters.
May 21 – 25
• Spring turkey hunting period F:
May 24
• Muskellunge season opens north of State Highway 10.
June 7 – 8
• Free Fishing Weekend. No license or stamps required to fish inland waters or outlying Wisconsin waters of the Great Lakes and Mississippi and St. Croix rivers. All bag and size limits and other regulations apply.
June 8
• State Parks Open House Day -- free admission to all state parks, forests and trails.
June 16
• Yellow perch season opens on Lake Michigan with a bag limit of five (5).* (Note: the 2008009 Guide to Wisconsin Hook and Line Fishing Regulations lists an incorrect date of June 21 for this season. The season opens June 16.)
June 21
• Northern zone bass season goes from catch-and-release to daily bag limits. Check current regulations for bag and size limits.
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
May 6, 7, 8 & 9 – **Amended Schedule** A contested case hearing n the matter of the petition of United Liquid Waste Recycling, Inc. for review of WPDES Permit No. WI-0061514-02-0 will be held at the Watertown Senior and Community Center, 514 South First Street, Watertown. The hearing will be held
May 6 at 9 a.m. in the Terrace Room.
May 7 at 12:30 p.m. in the Wisconsin and Brandenstein Rooms with public comment portion commencing at 7 p.m.
May 8 & 9 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Wisconsin and Brandenstein Rooms
For information contact the Division of Hearings and Appeals at (608) 266-7709.
May 12 – Pursuant to §§ 23.09(2)(intro.), 23.091, 23.11(1), 23.22(2)(a) and (b)6., 27.01(2)(j), 29.014(1), 29.041, 29.039(1), 29.509(4) and (5), 227.11(2)(a) and 227.24(1)(a), Wis. Stats., interpreting §§ 23.09(2)(intro.), 23.22(2)(a), 29.014(1), 29.039(1), 29.041 and 227.11(2)(a), Stats., the Department of Natural Resources will hold a public hearing at 11 a.m. in Room 405, State Natural Resources Building (GEF 2), 101 South Webster St., Madison, on Natural Resources Board Emergency Order No. FH-40-07A(E) which took effect on April 4, 2008. FH-40-07A(E) revises chs. NR 19 and 20, Wis. Adm. Code, pertaining to control of fish diseases and invasive species, as affected by Natural Resources Board Emergency Order No. FH-40-07(E), which took effect on November 2, 2007. FH-40-07A(E) deals with viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS) virus, which is present in Wisconsin waters. The rule will: 1) Allow anglers to retain minnows after a fishing trip if the minnows were obtained from a Wisconsin bait dealer and have not been exposed to the water or fish of the lake or stream, or the minnows were obtained from a Wisconsin bait dealer and will subsequently be used for bait only on that same water body. 2) Allow up to 2 gallons of water in a container holding those minnows to be transported away from the water body. 3) Prohibit the harvest of minnows (except suckers) from any water body where the Department has reason to believe that the VHS virus may be present (as identified by the Department). 4) Allow suckers to be harvested from those waters, but not be transported alive away from those waters. The emergency rule and fiscal estimate may be reviewed and comments electronically submitted at the Wisconsin Administrative Rules Web site (exit DNR)
http://adminrules.wisconsin.gov. Written comments on the proposed rule may be submitted via U.S. mail to Bill Horns, Bureau of Fisheries Management and Habitat Protection, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707. Comments may be submitted until May 16, 2008. 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 fiscal estimate may be obtained from Bill Horns at (608) 266 8782.
Meetings
May 6 - The DNR Bear Committee will meet from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Ramada Hayward 10290 Hwy. 27 South (Hwy. 27 and CTH B) Hayward. Agenda items include 2008 bear drawing results, proposed changes to forms used for bear agriculture damage permits and registration, Learn To Hunt Bear program enhancements, an issue brief regarding bear damage on captive cervid farms, and bear research updates. For information contact Linda Olver, Assistant Deer and Bear Ecologist, (608) 261-7588.
May 9 – The Wisconsin Urban Forestry Council will meet from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the USDA Forest Products Laboratory in room 500, 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.
May 13 - The DNR Division of Forestry’s Private Land Management Specialist Team will meet at 9:30 a.m. at the DNR Wisconsin Rapids Service Center, 473 Griffith Ave., Wisconsin Rapids, regarding: discussion and decisions on Private Forestry Summit Report, Private Forestry Accomplishment Report Changes, Review of the MFL Cutting Notice & Report, PLMT Work Plan Review, Biomass Guideline Review, Healthy Forest Pilot Report & several miscellaneous follow up items. For more information, contact Carol Nielsen, Private Forestry Specialist, 608-267-7508.
May 15 – The Department of Natural Resources Wolf Science Committee will meet from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Wisconsin State Patrol Wausau Post, 2805 Martin Ave., Wausau. Discussions topics include: Conservation Congress vote on shooting wolves on public lands protecting property; Conservation Congress vote on wolf public harvest; 2008 wolf population estimation; 2008 wolf depredations so far, payments, management actions, and losses; update of new environmental assessment by Wildlife Services on depredation control activities; update of depredation control guidelines; and any issues raised by the wolf stakeholders group. For information contact Adrian P. Wydeven at (715) 762-1363.
May 15 - Pursuant to § 289.54(2), Wis. Stats., the Department of Natural Resources Waste & Materials Management Program will hold a public meeting at 7 p.m. at the Lakeside Park Pavilion, 71 Promen Dr., Fond du Lac. Department staff will provide information regarding the City of Fond du Lac’s request to dispose of dredge material onto the abandoned landfill at the Lakeside West site. The material will originate from the Fisherman's Pier dredging site. For information contact Lee Archiquette at 608-267-0542.
May 21– Milwaukee River Revitalization Council Meeting 5 to 7 p.m. at the Mequon Nature Preserve, 8200 West County Line Road, Mequon. Agenda includes: Southeastern Wisconsin Watershed Trust/MRRC cooperation update; Urban Stormwater Retrofit Projects, presentation by University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Professor, & Discussion of MRRC "Resolution to Support" template. For more information, contact Matthew Aho (414-263-8586).
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/
