Wisconsin DNR News
July 24, 2007
Mild winter expected to result in above average deer population growth
Public hearings set on 2007 Wisconsin waterfowl hunting seasons
Forestry operations improve protection of water quality
Great Lakes beaches water quality information available online
Plan ahead for hunter education courses
Hunting knife sharpening made easy
Sept. 1 is deadline for disabled gun deer hunt applications
Plans proposed to clean up four streams in Wisconsin
Bike trail relocation may result in incidental take of rare snake
Mild winter expected to result in above average deer population growth
MADISON – For the third year in a row, relatively mild winter weather across the north is expected to result in high level of survival and good reproductive rates in white-tailed deer, according to state wildlife biologists. They estimate that the Wisconsin whitetail population will be between 1.6 and 1.8 million animals this fall.
Each winter Department of Natural Resources wildlife biologists across the north record weather data to establish what is called the Winter Severity Index (WSI). Temperature and snow depth are the main components of the index as they have a direct impact on white-tailed deer over-winter survival and reproductive rates the following spring.
The WSI is calculated by adding points. One point is scored for each day with a minimum temperature of zero degrees Fahrenheit or less and one point for each day with 18 inches or more of snow on the ground. If both conditions exist, a day can total two points. Scores are taken at 32 stations across northern Wisconsin between Dec. 1 and April 30.
An average score of less than 50 is considered mild; 50 to 80 moderate; 80 to 100 severe; and over 100 very severe. None of the 32 recording stations reported severe conditions. Moderate conditions were reported only at Upson in Iron County. This was the third consecutive mild winter noted.
“Region-wide, this winter ranked as mild with an average WSI of 33 compared to the 30-year average of 56,” said Keith Warnke, DNR big game ecologist. “These kinds of conditions generally promote above average birth rates and survival in the yearling age class.”
“Most of the accumulated index points were low temperature points,” said Michele Woodford, the report’s author. “Low temperatures occurred sporadically with the coldest overall month being February. The majority of snow cover points were generated in March with deep snows gone by April when deer are most vulnerable to winter effects.
“During this time of national interest in climate change it is noteworthy that the first 30 years of WSI history produced an average index of 68, while over the most recent 30 years that average has dropped to 56.”
WSI is measured only in the DNR’s northern deer management region where tough winter conditions can exist and have had significant impacts on deer populations in past seasons. Winters are considered generally too mild to have any significant impact on deer populations in the southern two-thirds of the state.
“There is no doubt that mild winter weather the last few seasons is at least one factor in keeping northern deer herds at high numbers,” adds Warnke. “There will be ample deer hunting opportunity across the north and throughout the state in 2007.
“That doesn’t mean every stand will have a deer under it,” says the biologist, “successful hunters are the ones who do a lot of pre-season scouting – patterning deer in their area – so that when the season rolls around, they know where the deer will be.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Keith Warnke, DNR big game ecologist - (608) 264-6023 or Michele Woodford, wildlife biologist-report author - (715) 365-8862
Public hearings set on 2007 Wisconsin waterfowl hunting seasons
MADISON – Waterfowl hunters in Wisconsin would have an 85-day season in the Exterior zone with a two goose daily bag limit, six tags in the Horicon and Collins Canada goose zones, and a 60-day duck season under a preliminary season proposal state officials will present this week at the Mississippi Flyway Council.
“This proposal reflects very positive duck and goose populations across the continent in 2007 and efforts by state biologists to provide abundant waterfowl hunting opportunity. If water conditions improve before fall across a currently dry Wisconsin, we should have a good waterfowl hunting season,” says Kent Van Horn, Department of Natural Resources migratory game bird ecologist. Special considerations this year include abundant blue-winged teal and green-winged teal populations which should provide good hunting early in the season and the establishment of Canada goose seasons for a five year trial stable framework of days and bag limit.
The council, which is made up of waterfowl specialists from the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, and Wisconsin and the Canadian provinces of Manitoba, Ontario, and Saskatchewan meets each summer to review the latest science on waterfowl populations and advise the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) on regulations before the federal agency establishes a framework under which states can set waterfowl hunting seasons.
Following the flyway council meeting and after the USFWS sets a season framework, public hearings on Wisconsin’s proposed waterfowl seasons will be held on August 6-9. The final Wisconsin seasons will be set by the state Natural Resource Board at its Aug. 15 meeting in Bayfield.
The state’s preliminary proposal calls for an Exterior Zone goose season that would run: Sept. 16 through Sept. 21 and Sept. 22 at 9 a.m. through Dec. 9 in the North Zone with a daily bag limit of two; and Sept. 16 through 28 and Sept. 29 at 9 a.m. through Dec. 9 in the South Zone, also with a daily bag limit of two. The Mississippi River Subzone season would open Sept. 29 at 9 a.m. and run through Oct. 7 and reopen Oct. 13 through Dec. 12 with a daily bag limit of two.
The Horicon and Collins zone hunting periods would begin Sept. 16, with six tags issued for each hunting period and a daily bag limit of two.
The duck season would open Sept. 22 at 9 a.m. in the Northern Zone and run straight through until Nov 20. The Southern Zone would open Sept. 29 at 9 a.m. and run through Oct. 7 and then reopen Oct. 13 and run through Dec. 2. The daily bag limit would be six ducks to include not more than four mallards of which only one may be a hen, one black duck, two redheads, two wood ducks, two scaup, one pintail and one canvasback (for the entire season). In addition five mergansers to include not more than two hooded mergansers. The coot bag limit would be 15.
All of these season proposals are preliminary and may be changed at the flyway meeting or to meet the framework set by the USFWS. The final proposal will be presented at the public hearings which will all begin at 7 p.m. on the following dates at the locations listed:
• August 6, La Crosse - Rooms B-19 and B-20, State Office Bldg., 3550 Mormon Coulee Road
• August 7, Rice Lake - Room R228, Meggers Hall, UW-Barron County, 1800 College Drive
• August 8, Appleton - Main Conference Room, Agricultural Services Center, 3369 W. Brewster St.
• August 9, Waukesha - Main Conference Room, State Office Bldg., 141 N.W. Barstow St.
In addition, a public informational meeting will be held on August 4 prior to the hearings to present information on waterfowl populations and to discuss season proposals with hunters. This meeting will begin at 1pm in the Bayberry meeting room of the Best Western Midway Hotel at 2901 Hummingbird Road, Wausau.
“The opportunity for public input into the state process for setting waterfowl hunting seasons is short because of the timing of the federal waterfowl regulatory process,” Van Horn notes that. “However, we do our best to get out and hear from folks during this short period. We welcome comment on season proposals via public hearing, phone calls, letters or emails until August 9”.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Kim Benton – (608) 261-6458 or Kent Van Horn - (608) 266-8841
Forestry operations improve protection of water quality
MADISON – Practices to protect water quality while harvesting timber were correctly applied over 94 percent of the time on federal and industrial timber sales in 2006, based on the results of a monitoring effort coordinated by the Department of Natural Resources Forestry Division.
In the fall of 2006, monitoring teams visited more than 60 timber sale sites across northern Wisconsin and did not observe any adverse impacts to water quality in nearly all instances where forestry Best Management Practices were correctly applied, according to Kristin Shy, a DNR forester who oversees the program.
“Best Management Practices, or BMPs, are actions that landowners, loggers and foresters can take to reduce or eliminate problems during timber harvests,” said Shy. “When logging first began in the state, vast tracts of cleared land contributed to excessive amounts of surface runoff, which in turn degraded water quality and destroyed fish habitat. Today, that pattern has been reversed as landowners commit to sustainably managing their woodlands.”
According to the 2006 BMP report, the correct application of BMPs rose from 91 percent in 1995 – 1997 (the baseline years) to more than 94 percent in 2006 for both federal and industrial timber sales. The 2006 report focused on industrial and federal timber sales, areas where statistically valid data had not been previously gathered..
The purpose of the Forestry BMP for Water Quality program, which began in 1995, is to address the problem of nonpoint source pollution and the possible impacts forestry-related activities (such as timber harvesting) can have on Wisconsin’s lakes, streams and wetlands. It is estimated that 3 to 5 percent of the state’s nonpoint pollution comes from forestry activities on Wisconsin’s 16 million acres of forest land.
Nonpoint source pollution occurs when runoff from rainfall or snowmelt moves across the ground, picking up and carrying pollutants into streams, lakes, wetlands, and groundwater. During timber harvests, skid trails – which are temporary trails along which felled trees or logs are dragged to a gathering point for further processing and loading and forest roads that cross or are near streams, lakes, or wetlands, have the potential to contribute to nonpoint source pollution.
As in previous years, monitoring teams did observe some impacts to water quality in 2006 when BMPs were not applied where needed. Examples included the lack of seed and mulch on disturbed areas and the failure to install diversion ditches to divert runoff away from roads and side ditches. Shy said it was important to note that there were only a couple of instances where major negative impacts were observed on timber sales where BMPs could have been applied, but were not.
Continued monitoring of BMP application and effectiveness, as well as education and training, is crucial to maintaining the voluntary nature of Wisconsin’s BMP Program say forestry officials. Wisconsin’s Forestry BMPs provide a practical, cost-effective method for landowners, loggers and foresters to protect water quality during forestry operations.
“We believe that a non-regulatory BMP Program, along with existing water quality regulations, can protect water quality during forestry operations,” says Paul DeLong, Wisconsin’s chief state forester. “Random monitoring of timber sales has documented the commitment of forest landowners to protecting Wisconsin’s lakes, streams and wetlands and that a voluntary program can be as or more effective than a regulatory program.”
The publication “Wisconsin’s Forestry Best Management Practices for Water Quality 2006 BMP Monitoring Report” (FR-291) is available online
http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/land/forestry/Usesof/bmp/bmpmonitoring2006.html or from a DNR Service Center
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/cs/servicecenter/locations.htm .
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Kristin Shy (608) 266-9275.
Great Lakes beaches water quality information available online
MADISON – People looking to cool off from the summer heat by taking a dip at a Great Lakes beach can find daily online updates on water quality at 120 public beaches along Wisconsin’s shores of lakes Michigan and Superior.
The
www.wibeaches.us Web site is part of Wisconsin’s Great Lakes Beach Monitoring program, a uniform program to regularly test for bacteria and inform swimmers about water quality conditions. The Web page also has links to water quality conditions at more than 100 inland beaches, and allows people to sign up to receive a personal water quality forecast through an e-mail notification.
“The Web site is a great way for people to know water quality conditions at more than 120 beaches before they leave their home,” says Toni Glymph, the Department of Natural Resources toxicologist who coordinates the program. “We hope more people will become aware of this online resource and take advantage of it.”
The program, administered by the Department of Natural Resources and carried out by local governments, aims to reduce the public’s risk of exposure to water-borne illnesses.
A beach user survey conducted during summer 2005 revealed that 84 percent of the people surveyed preferred receiving information via the Internet before arriving at a beach that may be posted with an advisory. The Beach Heath Web site has been accessible to the public since 2003.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Toni Glymph (608) 264-8954
Plan ahead for hunter education courses
Don’t wait until October to find a hunter education course
MADISON -- Every year, about two weeks before the gun deer season, Department of Natural Resources Tim Lawhern gets a flurry of calls from people trying to find a hunter education course. The problem is, they are too late.
“More than 98 percent of our courses have already been offered before deer season each year,” Lawhern says.
Because so many new hunters plan to take to the woods to participate in the various hunting seasons, hunter education classes tend to fill up in a hurry.
Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1973, must pass a hunter education course to buy a hunting license. Wisconsin’s corps of nearly 5,000 volunteer hunter education instructors offer 1,200 hunter education classes throughout the year.
“In Wisconsin, we’ve reduced hunting accidents by 90 percent since the program began,” Lawhern says. “Hunting is safe and getting safer because of the volunteer instructors that teach hunter education.”
The basic hunter education course features a DNR-certified curriculum that covers the history of hunting and firearms, firearm safety, hunter responsibility, wildlife conservation, management and wildlife identification. Game care, introduction to bow hunting and other specialty hunting, survival and first aid and water safety are other topics covered in the curriculum.
An Internet version of hunter education is also available. Students who take the class on-line are also required to pre-register for and attend a hands-on field day to test their knowledge and skills before receiving their hunter education certificate. Because field days are limited across the state, prospective students should consult the DNR website for the dates and locations of available field days before taking the Internet course.
For information about hunter education and bowhunter education classes, contact your local DNR service center or visit [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/es/enforcement/ safety/safed.htm].
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Lawhern, DNR hunter education administrator - (608) 266-1317
Hunting knife sharpening made easy
By Tim Lawhern, Wisconsin DNR hunter education administrator
MADISON -- Want to sharpen up your skills for the hunting season? Like any other piece of hunting equipment, it’s important to get your hunting knife in shapte now so that it’s ready to use when hunting season rolls around. Many people don’t try to learn more about knife sharpening because they think that it takes too much skill or you have to have costly equipment. Neither is true.
First, remember that sharpening knives is inherently dangerous. Knife safety, especially during sharpening, is all about common sense.
It is important to keep your fingers and everything else out of the path of the blade. You should go slowly, pay attention to what you are doing and stay focused. You want your environment to be quiet with no distractions.
Don’t worry about the differences in knife steel; stainless versus carbon. Just follow a few basic principles with some inexpensive equipment and you’ll be fine.
The Equipment
You need a coarse or medium sharpening stone; sharpening oil or water for the corresponding stones (if you don’t want to buy commercial sharpening oil you can make your own by mixing equal amounts of mineral oil with mineral spirits); a flat surface to work on; good lighting; and either a medium or fine stone.
For stones use Arkansas stones (natural stones), ceramic, carbide, Japanese water stones, or diamond stones. Diamond stones can be used wet (with water) or dry. You can substitute one of those crock-stick type sharpening systems by using the appropriate grit sticks in place of a flat stone if you prefer.
The Geometry
Knives have either one or two angles (bevels) on the blade. Flat grinding (V-edge) is the same as is used on razors at the barber shop. There’s only one angle to the blade edge and that’s whatever the angle happens to be from the blade spline (back) to the cutting edge.
For a two-angle (double bevel) sharpening technique there’s a second, more acute, angle behind the edge bevel. This secondary bevel is sometimes called a back bevel or relief angle. Its purpose is to thin the metal behind the edge, because the thinner the knife edge, the greater the cutting ability.
The primary bevel should be somewhere around 15 degrees. A good rule of thumb is to hold the blade so the back of it is about one blade width up from flat on the stone.
The secondary bevel, which must be more acute, is applied to the primary bevel and is where the cutting edge meets whatever it being cut. The secondary bevel should be somewhere around 25 and 30 degrees. To get to 22.5 degrees you can fold a square piece of paper from one corner to the other to create a 45 degree angle. Then fold the 90 degree corner over to the creased edge. That will form angles of 90, 70, and 20 degrees at each corner respectively. Twenty degrees is very close to 22.5 and will work as a guide to create a secondary bevel.
The Process
• Hold the correct grind bevel.
• Stroke the blade with even pressure along its entire length.
• Maintain contact with the sharpener.
• Alternate sides for each stroke.
This process works well for putting the primary and secondary edge on a blade. Use the course or medium stone for creating the primary edge. For a final polish you need the fine or extra fine grit of stone. Each stroke of the blade should be the full length of the blade. This keeps the edge even.
For a polished edge use a razor strop or sharpening steel. When stropping you can use a piece of leather with some valve grinding or polishing compound rubbed onto it. The difference between stropping and a sharpening steel is the direction the blade travels. With the steel, you are running the knife edge along the steel. For the strop, you are moving the knife blade across the strop in the direction that avoids cutting into it. (Like spreading butter on your toast).
Testing for Sharpness
There are several ways to test for sharpness but the easiest is by cutting a piece of regular typing or computer printing paper. If the knife cuts through the paper easily without stopping then you have a sharp edge.
Maintenance
When you are finished, clean your stones with cotton cloth or paper towels. You can wash the ceramic stones with powdered household cleaner. Put a small amount of oil on your knife blade with a cotton cloth. This should be done for stainless steel as well.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Lawhern – - (608) 266-1317
Sept. 1 is deadline for disabled gun deer hunt applications
MADISON – Disabled gun deer hunters who qualify for a Class A, long-term Class B or Class C disabled hunting permit and hunt sponsors have until September 1 to complete the application process for the October 6-14 disabled gun deer hunt.
Hunters interested in participating should review the list of disabled hunt sponsors and disabled hunt information posted on the DNR website,
www.dnr.wi.gov. Hunters must contact a sponsor directly to indicate interest and find out if the sponsor has space available. It is then the sponsor’s job to submit names of participating sponsored hunters by Sept. 1.
The sponsor list and hunt information are available by contacting Linda Olver, DNR Bureau of Wildlife Management, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707-7921, (608) 261-7588.
“Wisconsin laws provide a variety of hunting and fishing permits designed to help people with disabilities enjoy our natural resources,” said Linda Olver, DNR assistant big game ecologist. “The early dates of the gun deer hunt also reduce problems associated with cold weather and access.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Linda Olver (608) 261-7588
Plans proposed to clean up four streams in Wisconsin
Public has until Aug. 22 to comment on proposed cleanup plans
MADISON -- The public has an opportunity to comment on plans to clean up four streams in Wisconsin that currently do not meet state or federal water quality standards. The plans set levels for how much pollution the individual streams can receive from all sources – known as Total Maximum Daily Loads, or TMDLs – and still support designated aquatic life and recreational uses.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has developed TMDLs for Martin Branch, Martinville Creek, and Rogers Branch in Grant County and for Parson’s Creek and its unnamed east tributary in Fond du Lac County. The plans spell out the amount of pollutants the streams can hold without exceeding water quality standards and include strategies for reaching these pollution reduction goals and ongoing monitoring efforts.
A public informational session will also be held to discuss the Parson’s Creek TMDL on July 26, 2007 from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Moraine Park Technical College at 235 North National Avenue, Fond du Lac, WI 54935-1940, in Room A112.
As part of the review and submittal process for TMDLs, a 30-day public comment period begins July 24 and ends on August 22, 2007. People can view the most recent TMDL reports on the DNR Web site at [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/water/wm/wqs/303d/Draft_TMDLs.html].
FOR MORE INFORMATION: on the Martin Branch, Martinville Creek, and Rogers Branch TMDL contact Mike Gilbertson - (608) 264-8964; on Parson’s Creek contact Kristi Minahan - (608) 266-7055
Proposed Incidental Take Authorization for the Beloit Avenue in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin.
[EDITOR’S NOTE: Wisconsin’s endangered species law (s. 29.604, Wis. Stats.) requires the Department of Natural Resources to notify the public when it proposes to authorize the incidental taking of a state endangered or threatened species.]
Bike trail relocation may result in incidental take of rare snake
MADISON -- The relocation of the Beloit Avenue Bike Trail near Greenfield in Milwaukee County may result in the "incidental taking" of the state threatened Butler’s Gartersnake under an authorization the Department of Natural Resources is proposing for the project.
The County of Milwaukee plans to relocate the existing Beloit Avenue Bike Trail, which runs along Beloit Avenue. The project involves extending a 10 foot wide asphalt bike path from the existing bike path on the west side to a trail underpass for Beloit Road that was constructed when the bridge over the Root River was replaced in 2004. The new total length of the trail is approximately 600 feet. The proposed Beloit Avenue Bike Trail relocation project was initially approved by the DNR in 2002 as part of the Beloit Avenue bridge replacement and road expansion project. However, the bike trail relocation work did not occur during road construction and is now proposed for 2007.
The trail relocation occurs within a site along the Root River that is occupied by Butler’s gartersnake habitat. To minimize impacts of the project, a snake removal was completed in June 2007 in the area where the new trail will be relocated and snake fencing has been installed to prevent snakes from re-entering the construction area. Fences will be maintained during the snake’s active period until the bike trail and revegetation of the area has been completed.
Through the Incidental Take Consultation process, DNR staff determined that the proposed project minimizes the impacts to the snake by having removed and keeping snakes from the project area. The department has determined that this project will not likely jeopardize the continued existence and recovery of the state population of these snakes or the whole plant-animal community of which they are a part; and has benefit to the public health, safety or welfare that justifies the action.
Copies of the jeopardy assessment are available on the Incidental Take page of the DNR Web site at [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/er/take/overview.htm} or upon request from Lisie Kitchel, Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Endangered Resources, 101 South Webster, Madison, WI 53707, (608) 266-5248. Public comments will be taken through August 7th, 2007 and should be sent to the address above.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Lisie Kitchel - (608) 266-5248
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.*
August 1
• Fall turkey hunting applications due.*
• Deadline to apply for goose hunting permits for the Collins and Horicon zones.*
• Sharp-tailed grouse permit application due.*
• Deadline to apply for bobcat, fisher and otter permits.
• Deadline for successful applicants to purchase or transfer Class A Bear License.*
August 6, 7, 8, & 9
• Public hearings on the proposed 2007 migratory game bird season hunting zones, season length and bag limits. The public hearings will all begin at 7 p.m. on the following dates at the locations listed.
o August 6, La Crosse – State Office Bldg, Rooms B-19 and B-20, 3550 Mormon Coulee Road
o August 7, Rice Lake – University of Wisconsin at Barron County, Room R228, Meggers Hall, 1800 College Drive.
o August 8, Appleton – Agricultural Services Center, Main conference room, 3369 West Brewster St.
o August 9, Waukesha – State Office Building, main conference room, 141 N. W. Barstow St.
August 25
• Over the counter sales of antlerless deer tags begin at noon at all license vendors.
• Permits to hunt deer in State Park deer management units during one or more deer hunting seasons including the archery, gun and muzzleloader seasons go on sale at noon on a first-come, first-served basis until they are all sold. The number of hunters allowed in these state parks is limited. In the past, hunters applied for access to hunt in one of these state parks through the Hunters’ Choice program, which has been discontinued this year. Now, hunters must purchase a $3 access permit online or at any DNR license sales location (same cost as the old hunters’ choice permit) for the park of their choice.
August 31
• Bear dog training by pursuing bear closes. It is illegal to train dogs from April 15 through July 31 on DNR lands, unless dogs are on a leash no longer than 8 feet, except for Class 1 field trail grounds or for bear dog training on DNR lands other than state parks after July 1.*
[EDITOR’S NOTE: Waterfowl seasons will be set by the state Natural Resources Board on August 15 and added to the outdoor calendar at that time.]
September 1
• Mourning dove hunting season opens through Oct. 30.*
• Wild ginseng season opens; through Nov. 1.*
• Early September Canada goose hunting season open in designated areas through Sept. 15. The season is open to all hunters who possess an Early September Canada Goose Hunting Permit. Hunters can purchase their permit for $3 from DNR offices and many license vendors through the last day of the season.
• Deadline for hunters with disabilities to apply to participate in a sponsored hunt.
• Hook-and-line lake sturgeon season opens on designated waters through Oct. 15*, except Wis./Mich. Boundary waters close Nov. 1. See current Guide to Wisconsin Hook and Line Fishing Regulations.
September 6
• Turkey hunting permits that remain after the drawing for the fall season will go on sale at 9 a.m. over-the-counter.
September 15
• Fall turkey hunting season opens through Nov. 15
• Early archery deer season opens statewide through Nov. 15 (late season runs Nov. 26 - Jan. 6, 2008; see current regulations for special zones).
• Ruffed grouse season opens in the Zone A through Jan. 31, 2008. (Zone B opens Oct. 20 - Dec. 8.)
• Cottontail rabbit season opens in the northern zone, runs through Feb. 28.
• Gray and fox squirrel season opens, runs through Jan. 31.
• Fall crow season opens, runs through Nov. 15.
• Early September Canada goose hunting season closes.
September 15-16
• Special two-day youth duck hunt. Open to youth 12 to 15 years of age who are hunter safety certified; all other state license requirements are waived except for HIP registration and Canada goose permit requirements; youths must be accompanied by adult. The bag limit and tag requirements apply for the respective zone. These days overlap with open goose season in most zones so adults will also be able to shoot geese but not duck during the youth hunt.
September 15 through December 31
• Illegal during this time to shine for wild animals between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.
September 15 through First Saturday in May
• From Sept. 15 through the first Saturday in May, hook and line fishing is prohibited from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise in all Lake Michigan tributaries except the Oconto River and its tributaries and the downstream portion of the Peshtigo River (see regulations for details).*
September 22
• Woodcock season opens through Nov. 5.
September 30
• Trout season closes on inland waters and on rivers flowing into Lake Superior from their mouths to the first impassable permanent barrier (unless listed otherwise in trout regulations).*
• Lake trout season on Lake Superior closes.*
• Set or bank pole and setline fishing season on specified waters in the Wolf and Fox river basins closes. Check the current Setline, Set or Bank Pole Regulations for open waters.*
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
July 24 – A public hearing on the preliminary determination on an air pollution control permit to construct and operate an air contaminant source located at Van Der Geest Dairy Cattle Inc. will be held at 7 p.m. in the Basement Meeting Room of the State Patrol Headquarters, 2805 Martin Ave., Wausau. Van Der Geest Dairy Cattle Inc, 5555 County Hwy A, Wausau, has submitted to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) permit applications (Air Pollution Construction Permit No.: 06-SDD-189 and Air Pollution Operation Permit No.: 737003630-S01), including plans and specifications, for the construction and operation of a manure collection, drying and combustion process. The DNR Bureau of Air Management analyzed these materials and has preliminarily determined that the project should meet the applicable criteria for permit approval as stated in §§ 285.63 and 285.64, Wis. Stats., including both the emission limits and the ambient air standards and should, therefore, be approved. The issuance of a construction permit allows the construction or modification and initial operation of the emissions units identified in the construction permit. The issuance of an operation permit allows continued operation of the new or modified emissions units. Issuance of the operation permit may be delayed until the permittee demonstrates compliance with the applicable requirements in the construction permit. This type of proposal normally does not have the potential to cause significant adverse environmental effects and the DNR has not prepared an Environmental Assessment of the proposal. This preliminary determination does not constitute approval from the Air Management Program or any other DNR sections which may also require a review of the project. Information, including plans and the DNR’s preliminary analysis, is available for public inspection at the Department of Natural Resources Bureau of Air Management Headquarters, First Floor, 345 West Washington Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin, 53703-2701; West Central Region Air Program, Wisconsin Rapids Area Office, 473 Griffith Avenue , Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494; and at the Marathon County Public Library, 300 N. First St., Wausau, WI 54403-5405; or contact Steven Dunn, 608-267-0566. This information is also available for downloading from the Internet using a World Wide Web browser at:
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/aw/air/permits/APM_toc.htm. People wishing to comment on the preliminary determinations should submit written comments to: Wisconsin DNR, Bureau of Air Management, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707-7921. Attn.: Steven Dunn. For information contact Steven Dunn at - (608) 267-0566.
July 24, 25, 26, 31 & August 2, 7 & 8 - the Department of Natural Resources will hold public hearings pursuant to §§ 59.692, 227.11(2)(a) and 281.31, Stats., interpreting §§ 59.69, 59.692, 59.694 and 281.31, Stats., on revisions to ch. NR 115, Wis. Adm. Code, relating to minimum standards for county shoreland zoning ordinances. Major provisions of the proposed rule include changes to vegetation management in the primary shoreland buffer and changes to regulation of nonconforming structures. New requirements include minimum lot size and density requirements for multi-unit residential development, mobile home parks and campgrounds; two formulas to calculate reduced shoreland setbacks; an impervious surface standard; and mitigation standards. The proposals include:
Land Division Review – NR 115.09
1. The requirement for land division review is changed from the creation of “3 or more lots” to the creation of “one or more lots” to ensure that all new lots created meet minimum lot size requirements.
2. If new lots are created that are divided by a stream or river, one side of the lot shall have a compliant building location.
Lot Size and Development Density – NR 115.11
1. Minimum lot size and density standards have changed eliminating a distinction between sewered and unsewered areas. The new minimum lot size for all lots created after the effective date of the rule is 20,000 square feet and 100 feet of width at the building setback and ordinary high water mark. Counties may allow development on a substandard lot.
2. Counties are required to develop minimum area or lot size requirements for multi-family residential structures, mobile home parks and campgrounds.
3. Counties may request the approval of standards for alternative forms of development with reduced lot sizes for planned unit developments, cluster developments, conservation subdivisions and other similar alternative forms of development if they include larger shoreland buffers, larger lot sizes or larger setbacks on those lots adjacent to the water.
Shoreland Setback – NR 115.13
1. Language is added to address structures exempted by other state or federal laws from the shoreland setback standards.
2. Provisions are added to allow counties to exempt structures from the shoreland setback if they meet certain requirements outlined in § NR 115.13(4).
3. The construction of new dry boathouses is still exempted; however, a size limit of 250 square feet has been added to the rule.
4. Standards are established to qualify a lot for a reduced setback if there is not a compliant building location.
Height Requirements – NR 115.15
1. A new section on structure height was added to protect and preserve the natural scenic beauty of lake and riverine environments.
Shoreland Vegetation and Buffers – NR 115.17
1. Language governing management of shoreland vegetation in the primary shoreland buffer is improved, resulting in a more functional buffer protecting habitat and water quality.
2. Tree and shrubbery pruning is allowed. Removal of trees and shrubs may be allowed if they are exotic or invasive species, diseased or damaged, or if an imminent safety hazard, but removed trees and shrubbery must be replaced.
3. Provisions are added to allow counties to exempt 7 types of activities from the shoreland vegetation provisions.
4. A formula for the width of access corridors is provided, replacing the “30 feet in any 100 feet” provision, which was confusing if a lot had less than 100 feet of frontage. A second formula for lots with greater than 200 feet of frontage was also added to address larger developments adjacent to the water.
Impervious Surfaces – NR 115.19
1. Development is regulated through the use of percentages of total impervious surface rather than through the use of a nonconforming structure provision. The impervious surface percentages of 10% for new principal structures or 15% for existing development may be exceeded up to a maximum of 20% total impervious surface within 300 feet of the ordinary high water mark if mitigation measures are implemented and maintained.
2. Provisions are also included for shared impervious surfaces, expansion, enclosing existing impervious surfaces, replacements and relocation.
Mitigation Provisions – NR 115.21
1. Provisions are now a performance measure to protect, preserve and enhance water quality and wildlife habitat while achieving natural scenic beauty.
2. There is a water quality standard and a wildlife standard that the counties will have to flesh out in their individual ordinances. The water quality standard will require infiltration of runoff.
3. A provision on proportionality has been added to ensure the mitigation measures required will not outweigh the impacts of the proposed project.
Land Disturbing Construction Activities – NR 115.23
1. A county permit is required for land disturbing construction activities in the shoreland zone to minimize erosion and sedimentation.
2. Counties shall exempt from the permit requirement activities that have already received permits from other identified permitting authorities.
The proposed rule revision is not expected to have significant adverse impacts. The Department has made a preliminary decision that an Environmental Impact Statement will not be necessary for this action. The Department has prepared an Environmental Assessment (EA). This environmental review document summarizes the department’s consideration of the impacts of the proposal and reasonable alternatives. The proposed rule, environmental analysis and fiscal estimate may be reviewed and comments electronically submitted at through the DNR Web site at [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/water/wm/dsfm/shore/news.htm] or through the State of Wisconsin Administrative Rules Web site [http://adminrules.wisconsin.gov]. Written comments on the proposed rule may be submitted via U.S. mail to Toni Herkert, Bureau of Watershed Management, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707. Comments may be submitted until Sept. 7, 2007. Written comments whether submitted electronically or by U.S. mail will have the same weight and effect as oral statements presented at the public hearings. For more information or a copy of the proposed rule and fiscal estimate contact Toni Herkert at (608) 266 0161. The department will hold an open house from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. prior to each hearing. Department staff will be available to answer questions regarding the proposed rules. The hearings will all begin at 5:45 p.m. on the following dates at the locations listed:
July 24, Wausau - Auditorium, Health & Science Bldg., North Central Tech College, 1000 W. Campus Dr.,
July 25, Rhinelander - Auditorium, Rhinelander High School, 665 Coolidge Avenue
July 26, Rice Lake - Blue Hills Masonic Center, 225 West South St.
July 31, Tomah - Community Room, Farmers & Merchants Bank, 1001 Superior Ave.
August 2, Green Bay - Neville Museum Theater, 210 Museum Place
August 7, Pewaukee - Waukesha County Technical College – Pewaukee Campus - Richard T. Anderson Education Center – 800 Main St.
August 8, Stoughton - Opera House, 381 E. Main St.
July 26 - The Department of Natural Resources will hold a public hearing pursuant to §§ 29.03 and 29.972, Stats., interpreting §§ 29.03 and 29.972, Stats., on the creation of NR 8, subch. II, Wis. Adm. Code, relating to implementation of the Wildlife Violators Compact. 2005 Wisconsin Act 282 authorized the department to enter into a Wildlife Violator Compact with other states at 2 p.m. Room 405, State Natural Resouces building (GEF 2), 101 South Webster St., Madison. Under the compact, convictions of wildlife law and revocation of license privileges and approvals that authorize the pursuing, taking or possession of wildlife that occur in any member state are treated as if they occurred in all member states. Before the department can formally become a member state, rules need to be promulgated which establish procedures to: (1) Assure all violators receive notification when their license privileges and approvals have been revoked by this state or any other member state; (2) Assure the exchange of information between the department, the district attorney and the clerk of courts; and (3) Provide an administrative appeal process by which the department can establish if sufficient grounds exist to deny a person’s application for an approval or the revocation of their existing approvals. The proposed rules require the department to revoke all issued hunting, fishing or trapping license privileges and approvals or deny new applications for approvals, for any person who fails to respond to a summons or warrant, fails to appear on their court date without having made a deposit, or fails to appear before the court and is subject to a bench warrant. These rules are also required to ensure that due process is accorded to individuals subject to revocation in this state or who are revoked in another member state. These rules are also necessary to assure records and information on revocations is shared with the clerks of court in the counties where the violation occurs. Once the new rules and procedures are in place, the department will apply to become a member state. The proposed rule and fiscal estimate may be reviewed and comments electronically submitted through the State of Wisconsin Administrative Rules Web site [http://adminrules.wisconsin.gov]. Written comments on the proposed rule may be submitted via U.S. mail to Mr. Thomas Van Haren, Bureau of Law Enforcement, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707. Comments may be submitted until July 27, 2007. Written comments whether submitted electronically or by U.S. mail will have the same weight and effect as oral statements presented at the public hearings. For more information or a copy of the proposed rule and fiscal estimate contact Thomas Van Haren at (608) 266-3244.
July 31 – A public hearing on the preliminary determination on an air pollution control permit to modify / construct and an air pollution control operation permit for an air contaminant source located at Didion Milling, Inc., 501 South Williams Street, Cambria, will be held at 1 p.m. in the Cambria Community Room, 115 W. Edgewater St., Cambria. Didion Milling, Inc., has submitted to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) permit applications (Air Pollution Construction Permit No.: 07-DCF-003 and Air Pollution Operation Permit No.: 111081520-F02), including plans and specifications, for the modification of the grain dryer, construction of additional DDGS silos and grain toasters and for the modification of portions of the draft operation permit for its ethanol plant and grain storage / milling operation. DNR staff analyzed these materials and determined that the project should meet the applicable criteria for permit approval as stated in §§ 285.63 and 285.64, Wis. Stats., including both the emission limits and the ambient air standards and should, therefore, be approved. The issuance of a construction permit allows the construction or modification and initial operation of the emissions units identified in the construction permit. The issuance of a operation permit allows continued operation of the new or modified emissions units as well as continued operation of the existing emissions units at the source. Issuance of the revised operation permit may be delayed until the permittee demonstrates compliance with the applicable requirements in the permit. This type of proposal normally does not have the potential to cause significant adverse environmental effects and the DNR has not prepared an Environmental Assessment of the proposal. However, an EA was prepared for a project of similar scope and complexity to address the technological and policy issues associated with Bio-Fuel facilities. For the current project, the content and procedural requirements of the previous EA meet the Prior Compliance provisions in § NR 150.20(2)(c), Wisconsin Administrative Code. DNR has made a preliminary determination that neither an Environmental Impact Statement nor an EA will be required for this action. This preliminary determination does not constitute approval from the Air Management Program or any other DNR sections which may also require a review of the project. Information, including plans and the DNR’s preliminary analysis , is available for public inspection at the Department of Natural Resources Bureau of Air Management Headquarters, Seventh Floor, 101 South Webster, Madison, Wisconsin; 53707-7921; South Central Region Air Program, Reedsburg Area Office, PO Box 281, Reedsburg, WI, 53959; and at the Jane Morgan Memorial Library, 109 W. Edgewater St. PO Box 477, Cambria, WI 53923-0477; or contact Don C. Faith III, (608) 267-3135. This information is also available for downloading from the Air Permit page of the DNR Web site [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/aw/air/permits/APM_toc.htm]. Interested persons wishing to comment on the preliminary determinations should submit written comments to: Wisconsin DNR, Bureau of Air Management, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707-7921. Attn.: Don C. Faith III. All comments received by DNR on the proposed project will be considered by DNR prior to making its final decision regarding this project. For information contact Don Faith at (608) 267-3135.
August 6, 7, 8 & 9 - The Department of Natural Resources will hold public hearings pursuant to §§ 29.014, 29.041, 29.197, 29.885 and 227.11(2)(a), Stats., interpreting §§ 29.014, 29.041 and 29.885, Stats., on revisions to ch. NR 10, Wis. Adm. Code, relating to the 2007 migratory game bird seasons. Season dates and bag limits will be set for ducks and Canada geese. The daily bag limit is expected to be six (6) ducks, including no more than four (4) mallards, of which only one may be a hen, one black duck, one pintail, two (2) wood ducks, two (2) redheads and 3 scaup. The season lengths for Canada geese are expected to be: Collins Zone – 62 days; Horicon Zone – 62 days; Exterior Zone – 85 days; and Mississippi River Subzone – 70 days. The department is also proposing to: require the use of non-toxic shot for rail, snipe and moorhen statewide; require the use of non-toxic shot for mourning doves on department-managed lands only beginning in 2008; allow the placement of decoys and shooting at birds that are within a 75-yard area around the boundary of the Horizon National Wildlife Refuge as long as the hunter is more than 75 yards from the boundary; and relax Canada goose nuisance control requirements for airports. The department has made a preliminary determination that this action does not involve significant adverse environmental effects and does not need an environmental analysis under ch. NR 150, Wis. Adm. Code. However, based on the comments received, the Department may prepare an environmental analysis before proceeding with the proposal. This environmental review document would summarize the Department’s consideration of the impacts of the proposal and reasonable alternatives. The proposed rule and fiscal estimate may be reviewed and comments electronically submitted through the State of Wisconsin Administrative Rules Web site [http://adminrules.wisconsin.gov]. Written comments on the proposed rule may be submitted via U.S. mail to Kim Benton, Bureau of Wildlife Management, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707. Comments may be submitted until August 9, 2007. Written comments whether submitted electronically or by U.S. mail will have the same weight and effect as oral statements presented at the public hearings. For more information contact Kim Benton at (608) 261-6458. The hearings will be all be held at 7 p.m. on the following dates at the location listed:
August 6, La Crosse - Rooms B-19 and B-20, State Office Bldg., 3550 Mormon Coulee Road
August 7, Rice Lake - Room R228, Meggers Hall, UW-Barron County, 1800 College Drive
August 8, Appleton - Main Conference Room, Agricultural Services Center, 3369 W. Brewster St.
August 9, Waukesha - Main Conference Room, State Office Bldg., 141 N.W. Barstow St.
August 9 - A public informational hearing for the purpose of giving all interested persons an opportunity to make a statement with respect to the proposed reissuance of Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (WPDES) Permit No.WI-0061514-02-0 for United Liquid Waste Recycling Inc., located at N2797 State Highway 26, Village of Clyman, in Dodge County will be held Thursday, August 9 at 10:00 a.m. in the basement room of the Watertown Community Center, 514 S. First Street, Watertown. Discharge is to the groundwater of the Rock River Basin via land application. United Liquid Waste Recycling (ULWR) collects wastewater from a number of industrial sources and land applies the wastewater on DNR approved sites for beneficial use as fertilizer or soil conditioner. Some of the wastes are spread directly on farm fields. Other wastes are stored in large tanks located on ULWR property and spread on fields when crop and weather conditions allow. In the future ULWR may also be accepting municipal bio-solids for land application. The proposed permit contains requirements for tracking, handling, and land applying the industrial wastewater. Additional requirements become effective at the time municipal bio-solids are accepted. Pursuant to Sections 283.39 and 283.49, Wisconsin Statutes, persons wishing to comment on or object to the proposed permit action are invited to do so by attending the public hearing or by submitting any comments or objections in writing to the Department of Natural Resources, at the permit drafter’s address. More information, including a copy of the proposed permit, is available for downloading at the WPDES public notices page [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/water/wm/ww/drafts/pubnot.htm] and for inspection at the Department of Natural Resources, WPDES Permits - 2nd Floor, 101 S. Webster St., Madison, WI 53707-7921; or contact Rick Reichardt at (608) 267-7894.
Meetings
July 25 – The state Natural Resources Board will tentatively meet if necessary at a location to be announced. For information contact Laurie J. Ross, Natural Resources Board Executive Staff Assistant at (608) 267-7420.
July 25 – The Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming - Electric Generation Work Group will meet from 1:30 to 4 p.m. in the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin Building, Pecatonica River Conference Room (basement level), 610 North Whitney Way, Madison. The work group meeting will discuss work group process, future meeting dates and locations, and initial policy options for conservation and energy efficiency in support of the Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming. The meeting is open to the public. For information contact Lori Sakk at (608) 266-1383.
July 26 - The Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming - Carbon Tax / Cap and Trade Work Group will meet from 1 to 4 p.m. in Room 213 (2nd Floor) of Pyle Center, UW-Madison Campus, 702 Langdon St., Madison. The agenda includes a review of the mission of the Global Warming Task Force and the Work Group; introduction of work group members; review of open meetings law requirements; discuss schedule for future meetings of Work Group; discuss current list of possible policies regarding carbon tax/cap and trade. For information contact Lori Sakk at (608) 266-1383.
July 26 - The Private Water Advisory Council will hold a conference call originating from the State Natural Resources Building (GEF 2), 101 S. Webster St., Madison, at 10 am. to discuss the proposed revisions to chs. NR 812 and NR 146, Wisconsin Administrative Codes, to reflect changes to ch. 280, Wis. Stats. For information on how to join the call contact Dorie Turpin at (608) 266-0162.
July 26 - A public informational session to discuss a proposal to identify Parson’s Creek and its East Tributary (unnamed) in Fond du Lac County as an impaired water under Section 303(d)(1) of the federal Clean Water Act and to establish total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) for specific pollutants entering these waters will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. in Room A112 of the Moraine Park Technical College, 235 North National Ave., Fond du Lac. The US Environmental Protection Agency [EPA, 40 C.F.R. §130.7(c)(1)], require TMDLs for waters identified as impaired. TMDLs for this watershed have been prepared for sediment, phosphorus, and ammonia. As part of the review and submittal process for TMDLs, a 30-day public comment period begins July 24 and ends on August 22, 2007. A copy of the proposed set of TMDLs is available on the TMDL page of the DNR Web site at: [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/water/wm/wqs/303d/Draft_TMDLs.html]. Upon review of public comment and revision if necessary, the department will submit these TMDLs to the EPA for approval as final. People may comment on the proposed TMDLs in writing (by mail or e-mail) no later than August 22, 2007 to: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Watershed Management, Attn: Kristi Minahan, WT/2, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707-7921. Comments received will be provided to the EPA in a summary of public comment and DNR responses. For information contact Kristi Minahan at (608) 266-7055 or [kristi.minahan@wisconsin.gov].
July 27 – The Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming - Transportation Work Group will meet from 9:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. in Room 511 of the State Natural Resources Building (GEF 2), 101 S. Webster St., Madison. The agenda provides an opportunity for public comments at the start of the meeting followed by informational presentations and/or a discussion of Work Group organization, assignments and scheduling. The majority of each meeting will focus on policy options and recommendations to be made to the full Global Warming Task Force. For information contact Ed Jepsen at (608) 266-3538.
July 30 & 31 - The DNR Public Land Management Specialist Committee will meet at 10 a.m. July 30 and 8 a.m. July 31 at the DNR Peshtigo Service Center, 101 N. Ogden Road, Peshtigo regarding policy and new technology related to WISFIRS and public land management, and handbook updates. For more information, contact Jeff Barkley, DNR Division of Forestry at (608) 264-9217.
August 2 – The Groundwater Advisory Committee created by 2003 WI Act 310 will meet from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in room G09 of the Natural Resources building (GEF 2) at 101 S. Webster St., Madison. Contact Jill Jonas at (608) 267-7545 for more information or view updated agenda on the drinking water pages of the DNR Web site.
August 4– The 2007 Post-Flyway Wisconsin Waterfowl Hunting Season Meeting for the Wisconsin Conservation Congress Migratory Bird Committee will be held at 9 a.m. at the Best Western Midway Hotel, Birch meeting room, 2901 Hummingbird Rd, Wausau to discuss Wisconsin migratory game bird hunting season proposals based on the season frameworks announced by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the decisions of the Mississippi Flyway Council. DNR staff will provide background information and preliminary proposals for review by the Conservation Congress Migratory Bird Committee. For information contact Kent Van Horn, DNR waterfowl specialist at - (608) 266-8841 or AnnMarie Kutzke, DNR Conservation Congress assistant at - (608) 266-2952.
August 4– The 2007 Post-Flyway Wisconsin Waterfowl Hunting Season Meeting to discuss proposals passed at the Mississippi Flyway Council meeting that will be forwarded to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for consideration in setting the Mississippi Flyway waterfowl hunting season framework will be held at 1 p.m. at the Best Western Midway Hotel, Bayberry meeting room, 2901 Hummingbird Rd, Wausau. DNR staff receive input at these meetings regarding citizen suggestions for the development of Wisconsin’s waterfowl regulations given the federal framework. Public hearings will be held around the state to solicit additional input on the proposed annual waterfowl rule that will be submitted to the state Natural Resources Board. For information contact Kent Van Horn at - (608) 266-8841.
August 8 - The Woody Biomass Task Force of the Wisconsin Council on Forestry will meet from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center, 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point. The meeting's sole focus will be the Task Force's final report. Please contact Mary Brown at (608) 261-7599 for more information.
August 9 – The DNR Nonmetallic Mining Advisory Committee will meet at 10 a.m. at the DNR Darwin Road facility conference room located at 2421 Darwin Road, Madison. The agenda includes: a report on status of ordinance revisions and emerging issues such as the use of the ordinance revision process to incorporate new and unanticipated requirements such as to conduct groundwater flow modeling and input from partners and public. For information contact Tom Portle at (608) 267-0877.
August 10 – The Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming - Transportation Work Group will meet from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. in Room 511 of the State Natural Resources Building (GEF 2), 101 S. Webster St., Madison. The agenda provides an opportunity for public comments at the start of the meeting followed by informational presentations and/or a discussion of Work Group organization, assignments and scheduling. The majority of each meeting will focus on policy options and recommendations to be made to the full Global Warming Task Force. For information contact Ed Jepsen at (608) 266-3538.
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/
