Complete WDNR Outdoor Report as of April 16, 2009

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Complete WDNR Outdoor Report as of April 16, 2009

With nearly no precipitation reported within the last week in Wisconsin, and very low humidity, wildfire danger continued to increase in the last week and is now at the Very High level across most of the state.  Burning permits have been cancelled across most of the state no one should be conducting any outdoor burning. State forestry officials report that 425 wildfires have burned more than 1,400 acres so far this spring. Firefighters report that fire behavior is becoming more severe, with fire beginning to climb pine trees and torching tree crowns is expected.  Turkey hunters, anglers and all terrain vehicle operators should be extremely careful with any source of ignition, including campfires, smoking materials, and hot exhaust systems and sparks from vehicles.  Remember, anyone responsible for causing a wildfire can be held responsible not just for the damage it causes but for the cost of suppressing the fire.
Trails are beginning to dry out, and state parks and forests have begun to open biking trails, including the popular mountain bike trails in the Kettle Moraine State Forest.  Conditions can change quickly, and if it does rain, trails may be closed to prevent erosion.  It’s always best to call ahead to locations to confirm trails are open.  State park and forest campgrounds are also opening up.  Some shower and modern bathroom facilities have opened, but many parks and forests won’t open those facilities until the first weekend in May.
Ice conditions have quickly deteriorated on all lakes and flowages northern Wisconsin.  The larger lakes in the most northern tier of counties still have ice, but most lakes across the state are now open and streams and rivers are ice-free.  Because of lack of precipitation and most snow melt having soaked in, some northern rivers and streams are running at unseasonably low levels.
Fishing pressure has been relatively light, with most action focused on rivers and along Lake Michigan.  Sucker and redhorse runs have begun on some central and southern rivers, but not much activity has been reported on northern rivers.  Anglers fishing Lake Michigan tributaries report mixed success for steelhead and brown trout, with some good action reported this week on the Sheboygan, Milwaukee, Menominee and Root rivers.  Green Bay is now mostly open and brown trout activity was fair to good near the shore and at the Sturgeon Bay ship canal.  On Lake Michigan, boaters fishing around harbors have been catching good numbers of browns and some lake trout.
Youth turkey hunters had great weather and skilled mentors for the Youth Turkey Hunt last weekend. Registration was up 65 percent over 2008 in some areas. There was concern that winter stress would result in fewer turkeys and lighter than normal birds but that was not the case, with success rates of about 50 percent reported in some areas of northern Wisconsin.
With the recent south winds, some substantial migratory bird movements have been reported. Grassland and marsh nesters are beginning to arrive including field sparrow, vesper sparrow and Virginia and sora rails. Short-distance migrants like kinglets, fox sparrows, winter wren, sapsuckers and others are now abundant statewide. The beginning of heavy Neotropical migrant arrivals is still about two weeks away. Mourning doves, Canada geese and other early nesters are already sitting on eggs. Bald eagles and great-horned owls are already feeding young. Mid April is peak time to view lekking sharp-tailed grouse and prairie-chickens. This is also a good time to view displaying American woodcock at dawn or dusk.
Early spring woodland flowers, also known as spring ephemerals, are beginning to make their appearances, with hepatica or liverleaf, bloodroot and Dutchman's breeches emerging in the south. Chorus frogs and spring peepers have been very vocal in the south, and now the first wood frogs have been heard.
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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.



Statewide Wildfire Report
The spring wildfire season is well underway in Wisconsin and fire danger levels are at Very High for most of the state. So far this year, 425 wildfires have burned 1,446 acres in DNR protection areas. Relative humidities have been dangerously low and critically dry conditions are expected for the rest of the work week. Fire behavior is becoming more severe. Firefighters have observed fire beginning to climb pine trees. Trees are torching and crowning (fire burning in the tops of pine trees) is expected. Burning permits have been suspended in most of the state. Prescribed burning is also being put off in many areas. The public is urged to be especially cautious with anything that can start a wildfire this time of the year, such as ash disposal, equipment with a hot exhaust, campfires, and especially debris burning. With the spring turkey hunt, people are also urged to be cautious with warming fires. Make sure the area 10 feet around a campfire is completely free of fallen leaves and anything else that can burn. Don’t burn at all when it’s windy. Go to http://www.dnr.wi.gov/forestry/fire/ for more information on fire danger.
Firewise Tip: Remove the “ladder fuels.” Vegetation that serves as a link between grass and tree tops can carry fire from vegetation to your home. Keep trees pruned six to ten feet from the ground. Wildfire prevention week begins on Sunday, April 19.

Statewide Birding Report
With the recent south winds, the region has broken out of the early April doldrums and has been experiencing some substantial migratory bird movements. Grassland and marsh nesters are beginning to arrive including field sparrow, vesper sparrow and Virginia and sora rails. Short-distance migrants like kinglets, fox sparrows, winter wren, sapsuckers and others are now abundant statewide. New migrants expected this week include upland sandpiper, American bittern, Henslow's sparrow, blue-gray gnatcatcher and others. Birders can expect the highest diversity now in more open marshes and grassland/shrubland habitats.  The area is still two weeks away from the beginning of heavy Neotropical migrant arrivals. Mourning doves, Canada geese and other early nesters are already sitting on eggs. Pine siskins, bald eagles and great-horned owls are already reportedly feeding young! Mid April is peak time to go and view lekking sharp-tailed grouse and prairie-chickens. This is also a good time to view displaying American woodcock at dawn or dusk. Please consider submitting observations to Wisconsin eBird (www.ebird.org/WI) to help better track migratory bird populations.


DNR Northern Region

Northern Region Wildfire Report
Brule/Cumberland Dispatch Group - Warm weather has returned to the Northwoods. With the lack of rain since the snow melt, the fire danger has rocketed to Very High in a short time. So far this season the Brule Dispatch Group has reported a total of 33 acres burned on 19 wildfires with five structures saved and three structures lost to these fires. The Brule D.G. also responded to there mutual aid fires (i.e. outside of DNR protection boundaries). The Cumberland Dispatch Group reports 16 wildfires so far this year with 47 acres burned. In these fires, nine structures were saved and one structure lost. Cumberland also responded to two mutual aid fires that burned 27 acres. Most fires that have occurred so far this season have been due to debris burning. All burning permits in the Brule and Cumberland dispatch groups have been canceled. Prescribed Burns: One 206-acre prescribed burn to improve wildlife habitat was successfully completed in the Cumberland area this week. Year-to-date prescribed burns for Brule and Cumberland total nine burns and 1,383 acres! Burns on state lands have taken place on the Governor Knowles State Forest, Fish Lake Wildlife Area, and Crex Wildlife Area.
Park Falls-Woodruff Dispatch Groups - In Woodruff and Parks Falls dispatch groups, 41 fires burned a total of 65 acres with 12 structures saved and five structures receiving damage this week. The fire danger is Very High across the region. Debris burning, improper disposal of ashes and equipment are the leading causes of wildfires in the Park Falls-Woodruff area. One fire burned in a cultural site on the Mole Lake Indian Reservation; an ATV is the suspected cause. A sweat lodge was partially damaged by the fire. Lawn equipment caused a fire in Langlade County and left one individual with burns while attempting to suppress the initiating fire. The injured party was transported to the ER. Current fire danger is Very High for most of the area and burning permits have been suspended in some counties. Go to www.dnr.wi.gov/forestry/fire or call 1-888-WIS-BURN to find out if burning permits have been cancelled.

Hayward DNR Service Center area
Sawyer County - Some ice remains on larger lakes. Most lakes are open. Because of lack of precipitation and most snow melt having soaked in, rivers and streams are low. Fire hazard is very high. Road closures and limits are on many forest roads on county, state and federal forests and weight limits on town roads. There is still plenty of frost in the ground, but only a few remnant snow banks on shaded north slopes. Though many migrating birds, such as waterfowl, robins, blackbirds, sandhill cranes, phoebes, etc. have arrived, still no warblers seen. With nights below freezing frogs are still silent. Turkeys, woodcock and jacksnipe are actively courting.

Cumberland DNR Service Center area
Ospreys have arrived and are already working on nest construction. Great blue herons are also being seen busily working on constructing their stick nests. The first wood frogs of the year have been heard, as have chorus frogs. Youth turkey hunters had great weather and skilled mentors for Learn to Hunt and Youth Turkey Hunt seasons this last weekend. In Barron and Polk County, registration was up 65 percent compared to 2008. A Learn to Hunt event sponsored by the Rice Lake Rod and Gun Club in eastern Barron County had 11 birds harvested out of 23 participants. All 11 birds were adult gobblers. A learn to hunt program in southern Barron County had four successful hunters out of 10 participants. Some nice birds of 25 and 27 pounds were harvested and the average weight of 22 pounds is similar to other years. There was concern that winter stress would result in fewer turkeys and lighter than normal birds but that was not the case.

Park Falls DNR Service Center area
Upper Chippewa Basin fisheries report (Price, Rusk, Sawyer Taylor and inland Ashland and Iron counties) - Ice conditions have quickly deteriorated on all lakes and flowages across the Upper Chippewa Basin and many waters in Rusk and Sawyer County have opened up in the last few days. Lakes in Price, Ashland and Iron Counties still have quite a bit of ice and it should be another week or so before those waters open up. Nearly all streams and rivers are ice-free and water temperatures have climbed into the low 40s. A few sucker and redhorse anglers have been out trying their luck - but success has been on the low side.


DNR Northeastern Region

Northeast Region Wildfire Report
Waupaca Dispatch Group - In the past week, the Waupaca area responded to 28 fires that burned 44 acres. During those fires, 4 structures were lost and another 12 were threatened. On Easter Day, an 18-acre wildfire burned in the footprint of the Crystal Lake Fire that occurred in Marquette County in April of 2003. The leading cause of wildfires this week was debris burning. This time of year, disposal of ash can also cause wildfire starts when the ash contains embers and then is dumped outside. Make sure your ash is completely cold to the touch before disposing of it outdoors. Fire danger is currently Very High. Burning permits have been suspended until conditions moderate.
Peshtigo Dispatch Group - In the past week, fire control in Peshtigo responded to 27 fires that burned 47 acres. The main causes were debris burning and ash disposal. One structure was threatened. There have been reports of injuries when citizens have tried to extinguish fires that have gotten out of control. The public is urged to call for assistance in these situations. Life safety is priority number one! Current fire danger is Very High. Burning permits have been suspended. Prescribed Burning: Four burns were completed on 82 acres in the Waupaca D.G. this week. Year-to-date totals for the area include 8 prescribed burns on 417 acres. Go to www.dnr.wi.gov/forestry/fire or call 1-888-WIS-BURN to find out if burning permits have been cancelled.


Peshtigo DNR Service Center area
Marinette County - Water levels are low which seems to be affecting the fishing. Water temperatures at the landings are in the low 40s. Cool nights and windy days have combined to keep the catch rate low in some areas. Fishing pressure has been moderate to heavy depending on the time of day. Perch were being caught off the Light House Pier in the Menominee River on crappie rigs and minnows. The numbers have been small but this should pick up. Vertical jigging for walleye around the Turn Basin and at the mouth of the Menominee has produced some nice fish in the 20 to 24 inch range. Boats have also been trolling the mouth and bay area of the Peshtigo River catching walleye, trout, and northern. Most fish were being caught quite shallow. Anglers were still thick below the Peshtigo Dam fishing for walleye although the suckers are coming in thick now. Fisheries crews are out spring fyke netting in area lakes. Trout stocking will begin soon. Bluebirds are back at their houses building nests. There is a fire ban on now until the area receives much needed rain.

Oconto County - Walleye have been present by the Stiles Dam but not very cooperative when it comes to biting. Some success was being had casting crank baits and fishing them as slow as possible while still keeping as close to the bottom as possible. Suckers were being caught off the Hospital Bridge in Oconto and along the breakwater. Trolling out of Oconto Park II with stick baits and planer boards haw been producing both walleye and a few brown trout.

Green Bay
Manitowoc County - In Manitowoc, anglers had a fair week of fishing with those anglers targeting brown trout having the greatest success. Pier anglers were either on the north pier stub or on the south pier. Baits varied, with anglers casting spoons or stick baits, using a spawn sacs with a bobber or fishing off the bottom. Catfish anglers had some success landing some nice catfish ranging from 5 to 9 pounds using cut-bait or old spawn sacs. Boat anglers had a fair weekend trolling the shoreline using planer boards with diving stick baits or spoons for brown trout in 8 to 20 feet of water. Brown trout from the lake were averaging anywhere from 3 to 10 pounds in weight. On the Little Manitowoc River, angler pressure was low over the weekend. On Saturday afternoon, one angler fishing via Eighth Street and downstream landed a nicely colored rainbow trout that weighted in at 3 pounds. On the upper Manitowoc River, fishing pressure was spread out from Manitou Park to Clarks Mills Dam. Anglers fishing Manitou Park were targeting suckers and had good success using worms. At Lower Cato Falls Park, angler pressure was steady all week. Some anglers were targeting northern pike with sucker minnows and a bobber. Landed northern pike were small in size. A few smallmouth bass have also been picked up ranging in length from 10 to 14 inches. Anglers targeting suckers also had a good weekend with many anglers able to pick up large catches near the rapids. On the Branch River despite favorable weather fishing pressure was low all week. In Two Rivers fishing pressure off the piers and in the harbor was low all weekend. Boaters trolling for brown trout had mixed success. Most boats were trolling in 10 to 15 feet of water. On the West Twin River rainbow trout anglers had some success over the weekend. Angler pressure was fairly busy over the weekend. A couple anglers were able to hook up with nice rainbows that ranged in weight from 4 to 7 pounds. Anglers were fly fishing or using a bobber with spawn sacs or wax worms.

Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Door County - The weather this week was very good for the early spring. Most days were partly to mostly sunny with temperatures ranging from the low 30s to mid 40s. Brown trout activity was fair to good near the shores of Lake Michigan in 3 to 12 feet of water both north and south of the entrance to the Sturgeon Bay ship canal. Baileys Harbor was also producing some browns. A few steelhead were being taken from the Lake Michigan tributary streams, Hines, Hibbards and Stony creeks were all producing some fish. Anglers fishing for northern pike were having decent success fishing in the Bay of Sturgeon Bay, mostly on live bait. Walleye action has been improving, with the best action coming at night. Anglers fishing from shore for walleyes might try the rocks off of Bayview Park and Stone Harbor.

Potawatomi State Park - The ice in the surrounding waters is rapidly disappearing. Winds filled Sawyer Harbor with loose ice over the past day or two. Sturgeon Bay is open and large freighters are moving out from winter layup at the local shipyard. You can catch a good view of the boats from the Potawatomi shoreline as they slowly make their way out to Green Bay and beyond.

Oshkosh DNR Service Center area
Warm weather this weekend should start the sturgeon spawning on the Wolf River.  A public viewing area in Shiocton located on County Highway 54 will be the hot spot. Parking is available on the north side of County Hwy. 54.


DNR Southeast Region
The bluebirds are back and have seen sitting on nest boxes. The male eastern bluebird does a "nest demonstration display" at the nest cavity to attract the female. He brings nest material to the hole, goes in and out, and waves his wings while perched above it. That is pretty much his contribution to nest building; only the female eastern bluebird builds the nest and incubates the eggs. Goldfinch are "almost there," meaning within a week many of the males should be in full color. Red-tailed hawks are now sitting on their nests while the great horned owlets that hatched in late winter have begun "roaming" from the nest and can often be seen in nearby branches. The colors of the countryside are slowly changing. The branches of the willows are turning yellow while the tree tops of many trees appear red from a distance. Lawns and roadsides are turning green. Crocuses and snowdrops are just about done blooming, but the Siberian squill are peaking and daffodils are not far behind. Another sure sign of warming weather -- the farmers have begun disking their fields.

Kettle Moraine State Forest, Northern Unit – The Greenbush single track mountain bike trail is open for the season. Greenbush hiking trails will be closed until about Memorial Day Weekend. Late last fall, numerous sections of the trail were re-graded in response to erosion. These areas have been seeded and mulched; allowing traffic in these areas too soon will result in trail tread damage. Once these trails are re-opened, bikes will be prohibited on the hiking / ski trails and directed to the single track mountain bike trails. The New Fane trail is now open for mountain biking. The Lake to Lake Bike Trail is open. This newly constructed 6.5 mile, limestone surfaced bike trail connects the Mauthe and Long Lake Recreation Areas. The horse trails are open for the season.

Kettle Moraine State Forest, Southern Unit - Hiking trails are open. Keep in mind that anyone using any of the trails will encounter almost any kind of condition, from dirt, grass, mud, and even water on the trails. Be prepared to encounter all types of conditions. Dogs are allowed on all hiking trails, except Nature trails, but must be kept on a leash. John Muir and Emma Carlin mountain biking trails, as well as the connector trail, are open. Due to changeable weather conditions their status could change. Call our Trail hotline at 262-594-6202 for the most up to date information. Horseback riding trails are open. If the weather permits, prescribed burns will be conducted in prairie areas. Be on the look out for signs and/or smoke that may indicate a burn is in progress. Spring turkey hunting season is in progress; Wednesdays – Sundays each week, from April 15 – May 24, 2009. As during all hunting seasons anyone on the trails is encouraged to wear bright clothing. Ottawa Lake Campground has a bathroom building and a shower building open; however, water is not on at the dump/fill station. Water to fill water jugs is available at the campground. In April, staff will be available at the contact station Friday noon thru Sunday 5 p.m. to check in campers and have firewood & ice available to purchase. Pinewoods group campsites are open. The shower building is not open. Pinewoods family campsites: will open May 1. Whitewater Lake family and group camping: will open May 8. Whitewater Lake campground is a rustic campground, only vault toilets are available. Wildflower Walks with Naturalist Ron Kurowski are held every Saturday morning April 18 thru June 6. Meet at Forest Headquarters on Hwy 59 at 10 a.m. to caravan by car to the location for the day. Be prepared for the weather and for walking in all sorts of terrains. Vehicle stickers are required. For more information call 262-594-6200

Lake Michigan fisheries team report

Sheboygan County - In Sheboygan flows continue to drop on the Sheboygan and Pigeon rivers. Anglers have been catching a few steelhead in the Pigeon River, and the Sheboygan has produced steelhead between Kiwanis Park and the Kohler dam. Both spawn sacs and flies have been productive. Brown trout have been caught from both the north and south piers on spawn sacs. On good weather days, Sheboygan boaters have also been taking browns near shore on spoons and large crankbaits.

Ozaukee County - In Port Washington fishing on Sauk Creek has been relatively slow, but anglers near the power plant and in the harbor have been catching browns and rainbows on spawn sacs, minnows, and spoons. Boaters out of Port Washington have also been catching browns and lake trout on spoons and crankbaits in and around the harbor.

Milwaukee County - In Milwaukee, anglers on the Milwaukee River have been catching some steelhead on flies in Kletzsch Park. A few steelhead have also been taken from the Menomonee River near Miller Park and from Oak Creek near the mouth. Fishing near the Summerfest grounds has been slow. Boaters fishing the Milwaukee harbor and around the gaps have been catching good numbers of browns and lake trout.

Racine County - In Racine the flows on the Root River have dropped down, and good numbers of steelhead can be found throughout the river. Fly anglers have been catching most fish on small egg imitations or black and olive colored woolly buggers. Lincoln, Colonial, and Quarry Lake Parks have been holding the highest concentrations of steelhead. DNR crews processed fish at the Root River Steelhead Facility on Wednesday, April 8. Both Chambers Creek and Ganaraska strains of steelhead were spawned, and so far this season 663 steelhead have been passed upstream. Fish will be processed again on Wednesday, April 15.

Kenosha County - In Kenosha, fishing has been slow overall, but both shore anglers and boaters in the harbor have been catching a few browns and rainbows. Spawn has worked best from shore, and spoons have produced for those fishing from boats. Fishing on the Pike River has also been slow.


DNR South Central Region
South Central Region Wildfire Report
In the past week, 46 wildfires have burned 94 acres in DNR protection areas. Two structures were lost and another 27 were threatened. Over half of the fires were caused by debris burning. Other causes have been equipment and improper ash disposal. Current fire danger is Very High across the region. Burning permits have been suspended until conditions moderate. On Easter Day, several hundred acres burned in a Green County wildfire. Numerous fire departments responded and worked four hours to control the fire. Prescribed burning: So far this season, 201 prescribed burned have been completed on 6,264 acres to reduce fuels, control invasive species, and improved habitat. Due to dangerously low humidities, warm temperature, and winds, burning is currently not allowed on state lands within the region. Go to www.dnr.wi.gov/forestry/fire or call 1-888-WIS-BURN to find out if burning permits have been cancelled.

Fitchburg DNR Service Center area
Dane County - A potential world record yellow bass is alive and well and swimming in Lake Mendota. DNR fisheries crews based in Fitchburg netted, measured and released the 16-3/4 inch, 3-pound fish during spring surveys on Tuesday, April 14. The fish would better the existing Wisconsin record by almost a pound, and, according to the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame in Hayward, it would better the existing all tackle world record by half a pound.


DNR West Central Region
West Central Region Wildfire Report
In the parts of the West Central Region where DNR is responsible for wildfire suppression, 57 fires burned over 200 acres in the last week. Due to firefighting efforts, sixty–five structures were saved. Unfortunately, six structures were lost, including two homes. Fire starts have been caused by debris burning, equipment use and improper disposal of ashes. Please note that vegetation, even lawns, is very dry right now. A discarded cigarette butt in one yard caused a fire in Portage County which resulted in the loss of a home, a garage, and a shed. The fire danger is at Very High and burning permits continue to be cancelled. Please continue to be very cautious as the weather forecast Go to www.dnr.wi.gov/forestry/fire or call 1-888-WIS-BURN to find out if burning permits have been cancelled.

Baldwin DNR Service Center area
Willow River State Park – Last week we reported the crappie action should start after three 50 degree days; it is actually 60 degree days. No fishing reports are available. Those three days should be in by the weekend. The week of April 19 is the last week of the catch and release trout season. The Willow River is running at a great level for trout fishing since there has been so little rain. Bird sightings by visitors in recent times include: ruby crowned kinglet, osprey, fox sparrow, tree swallow, yellow rumped warbler, golden crowned kinglet, Swainson’s thrush, killdeer, meadowlark, song sparrow, kestrel, kingfisher, chipping sparrow, goldeneye, wood duck, and phoebe. The same visitors also reported mink on a couple of occasions. The main campground will be open for the weekend of April 17. Pit toilets will be open by site # 63. Flush toilets, showers, and the dump station will be open the first weekend of May. Although it has been dry, there are no restrictions on campfires contained in a fire ring.

La Crosse DNR Service Center area
Early spring woodland flowers, also known as spring ephemerals, are beginning to make their appearances. These early bloomers flower briefly before trees leaf-out and shade the forest floor. Hepatica or liverleaf, a member of the buttercup family, is one such early bloomer. This low-growing plant has pinkish, lavender, or white flowers and 2-2.5 inch wide, basal three-lobed leaves. These leaves bear a resemblance to a liver, and early herbalists assumed the plant to be effective in treating liver ailments. Other woodland flowers currently in bloom are bloodroot and Dutchman's breeches. As spring progresses, keep an eye open for spring beauty, wild ginger, Solomon's seal, trillium, rue anemone, wood anemone, and others.

Wildcat Mountain State Park - The hiking trails have dried out and are in good condition except for a few downed trees. The Horse trails remain closed until May 1. Turkeys are active. Gobbling can be heard in the mornings and the toms can be seen in full strut and fanned out. Bald eagles, turkey vultures, sandhill cranes, wood ducks, and mallards have been spotted.

Eau Claire DNR Service Center area
Brunet Island State Park - Park trails are generally dry with occasional muddy areas. Spring peeper and other frog choruses are beginning to be heard. Chipmunks and garter snakes are on the move. The great blue herons have arrived and have claimed, or are constructing nests. Tom turkeys are strutting in the fields. The bald eagles have moved back into the area. The barred owls have been trading territorial calls during the early night hours. The bufflehead and mallard ducks, along with the red winged blackbirds, have begun to arrive. 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, robins and blue jays have been heard or seen. Some campsites in the north campground are open with pit toilets and hand water pump available. The south campground is open with electric sites, pit toilet, and hand water pump. The park dump station is still closed.

Wisconsin Rapids DNR Service Center area
Buckhorn State Park - People are taking advantage of the nice weather fishing, boating and hiking. Boat boarding piers and the accessible fishing pier are in. There have been several campers enjoying the warmer weather. Group campsite are now open for camping. There are openings in May, June, Sept, Oct and a few single nights in July for the handicapped accessible cabin. Please call the park at 608-565-2789 for more information. New park maps are available at the park office showing the new addition. For spring turkey hunting, the park is zone 1F and hunting is by special permit only. Hunters who have Zone 1 can hunt in the Yellow River Wildlife Area.

Roche-A-Cri State Park - The main gate is still closed. Parking is allowed in the Czech Ave lot. Camping is also still closed.


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, April 17, 2009
Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit , Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Nature Storytime: Happy Earth Day!. Celebrate Earth Day with stories, games, songs, and lots of fun! This hour of nature fun awaits 3- to 6-year-olds with accompanying adults. Ice Age Visitor Center. 9:30-10 a.m.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Blue Mound State Park, Blue Mounds, (608) 437-5711 - Volunteer Work Day. Help build sustainable trails at Blue Mound State Park. Sponsored by the Capital Off Road Pathfinders.
Havenwoods State Forest , Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - One Wild Saturday Morning Drop-in: Rabbits. abbits are everywhere! Drop-in and learn about the different rabbits in Wisconsin, try to move like a rabbit, make your own rabbit to take home, 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.
Kettle Moraine State Forest--Southern Unit, Eagle, (262) 594-62900 - Wildflower Walk with Naturalist Ron Kurowski. Dress for the weather, including boots in conditions are muddy. Meet at Forest Headquarters near Eagle. We will caravan by car to the walk location, which will depend on what is in bloom. 10 a.m.
Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Orange Trail Hike. Join this Spring into Fitness event to hike the 6.-mile Orange Trail You do not have to be part of the Spring into Fitness event to join the hike. Sponsored by Bong Naturalist Association. Meet at the Visitor Center. 9:30 a.m. - about 10 p.m.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Havenwoods State Forest , Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - Preschool Storytime: This Pretty Planet. Earth is our beautiful blue and green home! Find out why it is the perfect place for us to live and how we can keep it a safe and healthy planet. This program is for preschoolers, ages 3-5, and their parents, grandparents, or other adult, not for day care centers or organizations. 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit , Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Night Hike: Sounds of Spring. Nature awakens from its long winter slumber with a symphony of sound. Journey through the spring night woods to discover who are the members of the spring choir. This hike is most appropriate for people over the age of 6 years. Zillmer Trail Area. 7:30-9 p.m.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Devil's Lake State Park, Baraboo, (608) 356-8301 - Spring Project Day. The Friends of Devil's Lake State Park are providing a day of volunteer work and service to the park. Continental breakfast and lunch will be provided. If needed, volunteer workers may have free camping (call ahead and ask). Children are welcome when accompanied with an adult. Registration is appreciated, but not required. Please call (608) 356-8301 #3102 to inquire or to sign up. If you would like to help out, meet at the Rock Elm Shelter on the north shore. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Governor Dodge State Park, Dodgeville, (608) 264-8994 - Work—Play—Earth Day. The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks (FWSP) are organizing a series of volunteer work days at many parks and forests. Join the Friends, DNR staff, and others for some hands-on work at Governor Dodge. For more information see the FWSP website. Lunch and snacks will be provided. Advanced registration is free, but required. 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - Spring NatureFest. Earth Day celebration. Join us in celebrating life on this great planet! Participants will be able to plant trees, go on an eco-scavenger hunt, make crafts from recycled materials, and learn about “green” living. This free special event is for people of all ages. . 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Great American Clean-up. Be a part of the largest annual community involvement program! Garbage bags will be provided to groups and individuals who help clean up Havenwoods or areas in their neighborhoods. Registered volunteers will receive gift certificates from local sponsors. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. (414) 272-5462 ext. 106.
High Cliff State Park, Sherwood, (920) 989-1106 - Arbor Day Tree Planting/Spring Park Cleanup. The Friends of High Cliff State Park will provide a noon lunch. Volunteers are urged to bring shovels and gloves. Meet at the park pavilion at 9 a.m. to receive trees for planting or garbage bags for litter pickup. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit , Campbellsport, (262) 626-2116 - Earth Week Litter Pickup. Help give the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive a spring cleaning. Join others for a morning of camaraderie and litter pick up. Bring your own gloves. Garbage bags and snacks will be provided. Youth and other groups are encouraged to participate. Call to register groups. Sponsored by Friends of the Kettle Moraine. Meet at the Forest Headquarters off County Highway G to get your road assignment. 8:30 a.m. - noon.
Kettle Moraine State Forest--Southern Unit, Eagle, (262) 594-62900 - Wildflower Walk with Naturalist Ron Kurowski. Dress for the weather, including boots if conditions are muddy. Meet at Forest Headquarters near Eagle. We will caravan by car to the walk location, which will depend on what is in bloom. 10 a.m.
Lake Kegonsa State Park, Stoughton, (608) 264-8994 - Work—Play—Earth Day. The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks (FWSP) are organizing a series of volunteer work days at many parks and forests. Join the Friends, DNR staff, and others for some hands-on work at Lake Kegonsa. For more information see the FWSP website. Lunch and snacks will be provided. Advanced registration is free, but required. 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Mirror Lake State Park, Lake Delton, (608) 264-8994 - Work—Play—Earth Day. The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks (FWSP) are organizing a series of volunteer work days at many parks and forests. Join the Friends, DNR staff, and others for some hands-on work at Mirror Lake. For more information see the FWSP website. Lunch and snacks will be provided. Advanced registration is free, but required. 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Red Trail Hike. Join this Spring into Fitness event to hike the 8.3-mile Red Trail. You do not have to be part of the Spring into Fitness event to join the hike. Sponsored by Bong Naturalist Association. Meet at the Visitor Center. 9:30 a.m. - about 2 p.m
Wyalusing State Park, Prairie du Chien, (608) 264-8994 - Work—Play—Earth Day. The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks (FWSP) are organizing a series of volunteer work days at many parks and forests. Join the Friends, DNR staff, and others for some hands-on work at Wyalusing. For more information see the FWSP website. Lunch and snacks will be provided. Advanced registration is free, but required. 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area, New Auburn, (715) 967-2800 - Wooly Mammoth 50K Race.
Interstate State Park , St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Moss Walk. Meet local plant ecologist and botanist Barb Delaney for an easy walk at a snail's pace. Absorb yourself in the miniature world of mosses and lichens. Look for liverworts and spikemoss, too. Learn how they grow, how they survive and reproduce. Recognize common species that occur in the forest. The walk will take place rain or shine. Pre-registration is required and attendance is limited to 12 people. The fee is $5/non-member, $3/friends group member. Sponsored by Friends of Interstate Park. Meet at the Ice Age Center. 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
La Crosse River State Trail, Rockland, (800) 540-8434 - Prairie Walk. Join volunteer naturalist/columnist Bob Lee for a leisurely walk on the trail to discover and learn about native wildflowers and grasses on this abandoned railroad prairie remnant. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather. Meet in Rockland at the trail crossing on Commercial St. 1:30 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/