Wisconsin DNR Outdoor Report as of January 17, 2008
Some bitterly cold weather is in the forecast for this weekend across Wisconsin and recreational safety specialist are urging people spending time outdoors to make sure they are prepared with adequate clothing and equipment. The National Weather Service is forecasting low temperatures of minus 10 to minus 20 degrees with winds of 10 to 15 miles per hour yielding wind chills nearing 30 below zero. Almost the entire state has received some additional snow in the last week, with only the far southern part of the state reporting just traces of snow on the ground as of Thursday. Areas of northern Wisconsin received nearly a foot of snow in the last week, and additional snowfall is in the forecast for this week, ranging from 9 inches in the north to 3 or 4 inches in the south.
Snowmobile trails are being reported as fair, though central Wisconsin and fair to good in the north on the Department of Tourism’s Snow Conditions Report. Cross-country trails are reported as good to excellent in the central and northern part of the state and poor to fair in areas of the south. Additional snowfall this week may improve conditions, but with the frigid temperatures it may be difficult for snowmobile clubs and park and forest staff to groom trails, so call ahead for the most current conditions.
Recent colder temperatures increased the thickness of the ice on lake across the state, but conditions may vary from lake to lake so check conditions before ice travel. Fishing activity has increased as ice conditions improve. Success has improved with catches of northern pike, panfish and walleye reported on Northwoods lakes. However, the cold blast of air that is forecast for Wisconsin will likely put a damper on both angling pressure and fish activity.
In the south, ice conditions are improving but anglers still need to use caution especially near shore and on larger water bodies. Panfish action has been good at times and an occasional walleye was also being reported.
On Green Bay, ice conditions have been very poor around Door County with many spots not being safe enough to fish. There were some perch and northern pike being caught in areas with decent ice. Water levels on southeastern Wisconsin Lake Michigan tributary rivers have been dropping steadily since last week, and there are still good open water fishing opportunities available. Shore anglers in the inner Milwaukee harbor have been catching good numbers of brown trout on shiners and spoons.
The Mississippi River has been on a very slow rise this past week. The reading as of Jan. 15 was 8.5 feet at Prairie du Chien. Ice thickness ranges from less than an inch to over a foot of ice. Most of the main channels of the Mississippi and lower Wisconsin rivers are frozen over. Bluegill, perch, and crappie action this past week was pretty good. Some anglers have been fishing below the Lynxville dam for walleye and sauger.
A mid-winter aerial survey wildlife biologists conducted last week found 282 bald eagles along the Lower Wisconsin River corridor. Eagle watching in the Lower Wisconsin River valley has become a very popular activity and the number of eagles this year should provide excellent viewing opportunities at many locations along the river as well as farm fields and wetlands, according to the biologist. Observers counted about 150 bald eagles along the stretch between the Prairie du Sac Dam and Lone Rock, so there should be ample birds in the area for the annual Bald Eagle Days scheduled for this weekend at Prairie du Sac and Sauk City, but anyone planning on attending the event will need to dress warm.
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A three-minute audio version of this report can be heard by calling (608) 266 2277.
A new report is put on the line each week.
DNR Northern Region
Superior DNR Service Center area
Brule River State Forest - Living in the snow belt has its advantages. Lake effect snow has helped ski conditions at the Afterhours trails off and on for the 2007/2008 ski season. Four inches of very fluffy Lake Superior lake effect snow has fallen recently at the Afterhours Ski trail. The trail groomers were out touching up the trails as soon as the snow stopped. The groomers report that the conditions don't get much better than this. The National Weather Service has some very interesting information on their Web site about the difference between regular snow and lake effect snow, how it develops, who/where is affected by it, and how to forecast it. [http://www.crh.noaa.gov/dlh/science/LES/lakesnow.php]. Looking for a place to do some snowshoeing? How about the North Country Trail? The North Country Trail is a trail that stretches from New York to North Dakota. The Brule River State Forest contains a 20 mile stretch of this route. The state forest stretch of the trail crosses through the Brule Bog, the Pine Barrens, and upland hardwoods, providing a variety habitats to hike through. For more information on the local chapter (Brule-St. Croix chapter) for the North Country Trail Association and to see some maps of local trail sections see [www.northcountrytrail.org/bsc/index.htm]. The home website for the North Country Trail is [www.northcountrytrail.org]. Most bucks are reported to have shed their antlers. Many bucks began shedding their antlers in late December, which is much earlier than the past few years. Stress is one of the triggers that start antler shedding. The cold weather and the snow accumulation last December are both considered stresses for deer. The warm weather last week melted quite a bit of the accumulated snow. This will help reduce the stress on numerous wildlife for a while. The melting snow brought turkeys and grouse out along the roadsides to search for the grit that was previously covered up. The 2008 Bear regulations are online now [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/regs/08BearRegs.pdf]. Hard copies will be out in print around March.
Ashland DNR Service Center area
Bayfield County - Snowmobile Trails are fair, though there are a few bare spots, groomers have helped to fill in rough areas. There are still many sleds using the local trails. Ice conditions have improved; there is no more slush on the lakes. Ice fishing has also picked up, with many walleye being caught on the Eau Claire Chain, and people were finding luck on many smaller inland lakes also with bag limits of bluegill and crappie being seen. Minnows working best for walleye, and some anglers were having luck jigging with pinky gigs tipped with a minnow, while spikes/waxes have been the best baits for panfishing on the lower Bayfield County lakes. Cross Country trails are still groomed, though the snow has hardened, trail still very usable.
Copper Falls State Park - Winter is in full swing at Copper Falls. As of Jan. 16, there was more than 13 inches of snow on the ground. Ski and Snowshoe trails are in excellent condition, the best so far this year. Extremely cold temperatures are forecast over the next week and some additional snow. Please contact the park at (715) 274-5123 for current trail conditions. Hikers are reminded that hiking is not allowed on ski trails. Winter Camping is also an option at Copper Falls this time of year. Sites 2-4 are plowed while site number 1 is unplowed offering a true winter camping experience. All 4 sites have electric. For those willing to brave the elements, winter camping offers peace and solitude. For those of you who prefer camping when the weather is a little warmer you are reminded that camping reservations can be make 11 months in advance by calling 1-888-947-2757.
Park Falls DNR Service Center area
Colder temperatures are forecast for the Park Falls area this weekend. The colder temperatures and lack of snow cover have increased the thickness of the ice but conditions may vary from lake to lake so check conditions before you travel. Vehicles can be seen on a number of area lakes but be advised that the best ice is still just over one foot in thickness. The weight of a few vehicles in one area can create a dangerous situation. Recent fresh snow should improve area snowmobile trails and ski trails after the past warm spell melted much of the snow cover. Fishing activity has increased as ice conditions improve. Success has improved and some fish were being caught. Catches of northern pike, panfish and walleye have been reported. Late afternoon toward evening has been more productive for walleye. There are many ice fishing events planned around the area. Take the opportunity to try your luck. Take advantage of the fresh snowfall to view animal tracks in and around your favorite outdoor area. Try to identify the animals from their tracks and determine the purpose of their travel.
Upper Chippewa Basin fisheries report (Price, Rusk, Sawyer Taylor and inland Ashland and Iron counties) - Most lakes in the area have about 12 to 13 inches of ice with about 2 to 4 inches of light fluffy snow on top. Travel on the ice has been good but there are still many areas that are rutted up from the slush problem of a few weeks back. The mild days just prior to the current cold snap provided some fair fishing and many anglers were able to catch a few walleye and northern pike. The walleye were found in 8 to 14 feet of water, seemed to prefer sucker minnows and bit best in the hour before dark. However, the cold blast of air that is forecast for Wisconsin will likely put a damper on both angling pressure and fish activity. This is generally the slowest time of the winter for game fish and the sub-zero temperatures will keep many anglers at home -- especially with the Packers playing for the NFC championship! Panfish action has been fair with anglers making some decent catches of crappie and perch in deep water, with fish suspend up off the bottom.
Woodruff DNR Service Center area
Upper Wisconsin Basin fisheries report (Oneida, Vilas, Lincoln, Langlade, Forest and Florence counties) - Travel conditions on area lakes has improved dramatically this week. No more slush, but there are still some nasty frozen ruts from vehicles in most places. Fishing has generally been fair with panfish and northern pike providing the most action. Walleye fishing is slow. Perch have been biting on the larger lakes such as Lac Vieux Desert and the Minocqua Chain. Fish have been coming off weed edges or out over deep water on the mud flats. Live bait has been key, with crappie minnows working best -- tip a small jig with the minnow hooked through the back to keep it lively. Northern pike have been providing a reliable during the daytime hours along weed edges. Some fish were being caught over the tops of weeds now as well, farther back into shallow bays. Tip-ups and large golden shiners were the best bet for pike. Walleye fishing has been very slow on most lakes, although on sporadic days anglers could find fish to catch. Fish can be caught, but be prepared for a lot of time between flags. Live bait again is the key. Small golden shiners and larger fatheads will work when the bite gets finicky. The cold weather coming for the weekend may slow things down even more -- but some fish will be there to catch for anglers who brave the weather by fishing from a portable or other shack.
Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest – Cross-country ski trails are in very good condition. McNaughton, Madeline and Raven trails were groomed Jan. 14.
Escanaba was groomed Jan. 15.
DNR Northeastern Region
Peshtigo DNR Service Center area
Marinette County - Snowmobile trails will be open this weekend with considerable snow amounts. Ski trails will also have a good snow base with the added snow cover. Ruffed grouse are feeding on aspen tops and buds and have plenty of snow cover for the colder temperatures coming our way. Deer have been staying in sheltered feeding areas along with turkey flocks. There is good tracking snow in the woods for those itching for a hike outdoors. An ATV Safety course will be held at the Silver Cliff Town Hall on Feb. 9 and 10. You may register by calling the instructor at (920) 591-0210.
Oconto County - Fishing has been slow lately with some perch being caught out of the harbor. The perch are there they just need to be caught. Oconto County Park two had some fishing presser this week, with most of the catch being made up of small panfish. White Potato Lake is the location for the first area fisheree. A fine turnout is expected, it is a good fishery for bass, northern pike and panfish with walleye present. Ice thickness varies on other inland moving waters as open spots developed last week during the warm spell. Caution is recommended when crossing any frozen waters.
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Door County – Ice conditions have been very poor this last week in Door County with many spots not being safe enough to fish. There are some perch and pike being caught in little Sturgeon Bay but with varying ice conditions the task of find fish could be traitorous. The ice at Sturgeon Bay was also not safe at all. But in the few places that it has been safe, a few fish were being caught. The majority of the catches were pike and a few brown trout mixed in. Anglers were using minnows to get both to bite.
Whitefish Dunes State Park - With the recent snowfall the trails have been rolled and some segments are tracked. The over all trail conditions are fair to poor with some segments in good condition. The first segment of the green trail is not rolled nor tracked but skiable with old skies. Yellow and Red trails are rolled and tracked. Hikers, snowshoers and dog walkers can use the Black trail and the beach. Mark calendars for the annual Candlelight Ski from 6 to 9 pm. Saturday, Jan. 26. Volunteers are needed to help set out and pick up candles and staff the shelter building refreshment table. Cooks in the crowd are welcome to provide home baked goodness for the shelter building. Contact the park for more information on how you can help. The park started taking reservations Wednesday, Jan. 2, for 2008 events in our beautiful cedar shelter building. It is an enclosed building with lights and electricity. It has a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan. Many park visitors are using the shelter for (small) wedding receptions, family reunions and other gatherings.
DNR Southeast Region
Lake Michigan fisheries team report
Water levels on Southeast Wisconsin tributary rivers have been dropping steadily since last week, and there are still good open water fishing opportunities available.
Ozaukee County - In Port Washington the water in the harbor is fairly turbid. Brown trout fishing has been relatively slow but should pick up as the water clears.
Milwaukee County - In Milwaukee, the ice has broken up on the lagoon at Lakeshore State Park and in McKinley Marina, and it is not safe for foot travel. Shore anglers in the inner harbor have been catching good numbers of browns on shiners and spoons. Boats launching at Riverfront Ramp have been catching good numbers of browns in the harbor. The launch at Bender Park is also open, and good numbers of brown trout can be found near the Oak Creek Power Plant.
Racine County - In Racine water levels on the Root River are at fishable levels, but action has been relatively slow for brown trout and steelhead.
Kenosha County - In Kenosha shore anglers in the small boat harbor have been catching good numbers of browns on spawn fish under a bobber as well as casting spoons. Anglers fishing near the Holiday Inn have been catching both browns and rainbows on spawn.
Inland fisheries team report
Washington, eastern Fond du Lac, and inland Sheboygan counties - The most consistent reports of angler success have come in from Big Cedar Lake near West Bend. Panfish action has been good at times and an occasional walleye is being caught. One angler reported staring down a hole in 3 feet of water and seeing a 5-foot-long sturgeon staring back. Eighteen sturgeon were stocked into the lake around 1936 and a few are still swimming around in the lake. Anglers at Big Cedar also reported very thin ice less than 2 inches thick in parts of the south basin.
Waukesha County - Ice conditions are improving but anglers still need to use caution especially near shore and on larger water bodies. Golden lake, Nemahbin and Genesee lakes were producing good Panfishing near submergent aquatic plants on 2-pound test with spikes or waxies. Try different colors depending on light conditions and water clarity. Crappies can often be found suspended below the ice and may require live bait such as fathead minnows. Pewaukee Lake continues to produce walleyes for patient anglers. For walleyes use light tackle with low visibility line and red treble hooks. Often finicky walleyes require a "stinger" hook. Walleyes can also be coaxed into biting by using two fatheads on one hook.
DNR South Central Region
Fitchburg DNR Service Center area
Sauk County
Devil's Lake State Park - Cross-country ski trails were in fair to good condition, having been groomed and tracked on Jan. 15. Another 6 inches of snow are forecast for this week, so conditions might be very good for the weekend. When trail conditions are adequate and staffing is available, ski trails will be groomed before each weekend and after any significant snowfall. Many people bring their sleds and tubes to enjoy the hill behind the Nature Center. Access may be from the bottom, in the Quartzite Campground, or from the top near the Nature Center. The lake is now ice-covered, and some people have been fishing, though nearer the edges than usual, with no shelters or vehicles on the lake yet this season There will not be a candlelight hike/ski event at the park this winter. There have been some independent Web sites that have listed in error an event at Devil's Lake for Jan. 26.
Dane County
Governor Nelson State Park – Cross-country ski trails are open and were last groomed on Sunday Jan. 13. Trails are in fair to good condition. Tracks were set on all trails except the Oak Savanna Trail. Snow base was thin with wet snow. Snow temperatures and conditions should improve as the temperatures drop this week.
Jefferson County - Anglers were having limited success catching bluegill and crappie on Hope Lake using spikes and waxworms. On Rock Lake anglers were catching some nice sized northern pike on the north end of the lake using shiners. A couple keeper-sized walleye have been caught on the north end of the lake as well. Ice on the lakes in northern Jefferson County ranges from 5 to 8 inches thick. The shorelines are slightly broken up but freezing quickly over the past couple nights. About 5-6 inches of the ice on the lakes is good ice with frozen slush on the top. The snowmobile trails are currently closed in both Dodge and Jefferson counties as well as the ATV trail on the Wild Goose trail in Dodge County. The ATV trail may open soon with the cold weather. Call (920) 386-3705 for trail updates in Dodge County and (920) 699-SNOW in Jefferson County. Coyote hunters are having some luck with the new dusting of snow falling each day. The hunters and their dogs are able to get around a lot easier now with most of the snow having melted.
DNR West Central Region
Baldwin DNR Service Center area
St. Croix County
Willow River state park - Panfish action continues off the beach area but the fish are running smaller. It is a good time to introduce young people to ice fishing with lots of action. Deer are beginning to lose antlers. Some “half sets” have been seen on a few of the deer. With no substantial snow in over two weeks, the ski trail base is ice. The volunteer groomers have tried the best they can to turn the ice into a skiable trail for skaters. The classic track is quite variable. Any kind of downhill slope will be an exploration of speed without much control in or out of tracks. Bring your solid intermediate or better skiing skills until new snow arrives. Even the flat un-groomed areas off trail are bumpy and hard. Snow is due. Saturday, Jan. 19 a bird presentation and full moon hike will be held at the Nature Center beginning at 7 p.m. With the frigid weather, there may not be a hike. A park sticker is required on all vehicles. The Tuesday and Wednesday evening skiing sessions continue. Meet at the Nature Center parking lot at 5:30 p.m. It is not easy skiing right now. The park hopes to hold a candlei Candlelight Ski and Hike on Friday, Jan. 25. Mother Nature needs to provide new snow, about 4 inches worth, for the event to go on as scheduled. Any less and trails will not be suitable for the many beginner level skiers typically at Candlelight events. It may be to cancelled. Meanwhile, we are still looking for volunteers for set up and clean up. We’ll have the latest on the recorder at the office as the event draws near. Call the park office for details and to sign up (715) 386-5931. Saturday, Jan. 26 will feature a cross-country skiing lesson by the Willow river Nordic skiers. Sign up in advance for the skiing lesson and bring your own gear, classic or skate. Rental gear is available in Stillwater, MN. The lesson starts at the Nature Center at 9 a.m. and runs till noon. Ski students pay the instructor (donation to the friends group, the OWLs. This is a change from the previously reported date due to cold weather.
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
Crawford County - All the snowmobile trails in the county are closed. The Mississippi River has been on a very slow rise this past week. The current reading is 8.5 feet. Both the Wisconsin and Kickapoo Rivers are steady. Ice conditions vary greatly throughout the area. Travel upon the ice is dangerous this time of year especially on the Mississippi River. Ice thickness ranges from less than an inch to over a foot of ice. Most of the Main Channel of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers is frozen over. Most of the back water areas are frozen over and are in pretty good shape. Again, those unfamiliar with ice fishing in the Crawford County should not venture out alone. Bluegill, perch, and crappie action this past week was pretty good. Cold Spring was day to day but has produced some decent bluegill and a few crappie. When the weather was a bit warmer some anglers have been fishing from the shore and doing fairly well. A lot of small fish, but some decent sized bluegills were caught. Varying colors of ice fishing jigs tipped with wax worms or spikes produced the best. Those fishing through the ice have had some success using the same types of bait. Anglers were still crossing over the Ambro Slough to fish Mud Slough and Tilmont Lake. Fishing has been pretty good and some very nice catches of perch, crappie and bluegill have been taken there. Anglers were using a variety of baits and on some days need to change colors frequently to find what is working best. Some anglers have ventured up to Fish Lake and the Lower Doubles where bluegill fishing was spotty. Action farther up at Little and Big Missouri and the Upper Doubles has been spotty also. Ice conditions on the Ambro Slough upstream from the USFWS landing is a bit dangerous because of the feeder stream that enters the slough. Caution is advised in that area. Some anglers have been fishing below the Lynxville dam for walleye and sauger. The weather become colder causing ice flows to shut down the boat landing at Gordon’s Bay. The report is some decent sauger action and slow walleye action. Squirrel, rabbit, and coyote hunters are having pretty good success with the snow cover.
Eau Claire DNR Service Center area
Brunet Island State Park - The Brunet Island cross country ski trails are groomed and in fair condition. Recent warm weather has hardened the track and made it slick in some areas. There are a few spots in the flat stretches with a thin base. Panfish action has been active on Perch Lake and in the north campground bays. Anglers are reporting generally good ice conditions in the backwater areas. The park does not monitor ice conditions. The Cornell flowage water levels fluctuate throughout the year and we urge caution when venturing onto the ice. Vehicle passes are required year round. Species of birds seen or heard include: ravens, black capped chickadees, northern juncos, pileated woodpeckers, great horned owls, barred owls, and bald eagles.
Chippewa Moraine Ice Age State Recreation Area - Snow conditions are still good even with the warm weather melting much of it last week. Accumulation totals are about 5-8 inches. Many of our winter visitors’ are coming to snowshoe and if you plan on visiting us on an upcoming weekend, you may want to call ahead to reserve snowshoes. The Visitor Center has over 40 pairs of snowshoes, and can outfit all ages. If cross-country skiing is your preference, we recommend the picturesque and groomed trails at nearby Brunet Island and Lake Wissota State Parks. Ice fishermen report some luck, especially with panfish, but extreme caution should be taken before venturing out. Because of the early and heavy snowfall on area lakes, ice conditions are questionable. Migrant birds have left, but our winter mix is busy at the feeders and these include colorful and plentiful blue-jays, red-breasted nuthatches, dark eyed junco’s, and red-bellied, downy, and hairy woodpeckers. Ruffed grouse seem to be on the rise within the Reserve and many have been spotted recently. Great horned are barred owls are busy with nest building and will soon have young to take care of. Heavy snowfalls may impact the growing wild turkey populations as food supplies will be harder to obtain. Bald eagles can be seen as they fly low looking for carrion or occasionally, sitting on the frozen lake. There have been otters seen within the Reserve lately, which sometimes provide the viewer with lots of entertainment. Don't forget about our two 2008 "Moonlight Snowshoe Hikes". On Saturday, Jan. 19, and again on Saturday, Feb. 16 you are invited to join Naturalist Rod Gont on a 1 or 2 hour snowshoe hike. All ages are invited and there are 40 pairs of snowshoes available on a reservation basis. There is no charge, but donations are gladly accepted. Be here by 6:30 and we’ll head out at 7 p.m. regardless of the weather. The fireplace in the Interpretive Center will be going, with hot chocolate and hot water available. There will also be small bonfires outside, so bring some marshmallows and hot dogs to roast. Call the Interpretive Center to reserve snowshoes or for directions.
Wisconsin Rapids DNR Service Center area
Buckhorn State Park - Cross country ski trails are in poor to fair and icy condition. Hiking is not allowed on the groomed trails. Some roads are now closed to vehicles due to snow and the snowmobile trail. Many people have been out ice fishing on the lake and were doing well the past two weeks. Remember – the park does not monitor ice conditions -- be safe out on the lake! Sites 8, 9, 16 are open year-round, sites are first come, and drinking water is available at the park office. Site 8 is plowed and has electric!
Roche-A-Cri State Park - Cross-country ski trails are snow covered and skiable. Recent rain, along with warm temperatures, have depleted the snow base and melted existing tracks. A dense ice base is present, with 2-3 inches of power on top. The campground and facilities are currently closed for the season, but the park remains open for day use. Roche-A-Cri is accessible through the winter parking lot on Czech Avenue, the southern border of the park. The stairway up the Roche-A-Cri Mound is open, but not maintained for winter use.
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, January 18, 2008
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Nature Storytime: Silent Snowflakes. Come for some snowy fun! We'll count the sides of a snowflake, make our own, and, we hope, go play in the millions of piled up snowflakes. This hour of nature fun awaits 3- to 6-year-olds with accompanying adults. Ice Age Visitor Center. 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
• Chippewa Moraine Ice Age State Recreation Area, New Auburn, (715) 967-2800 - Moonlight Snowshoe Hike. Join naturalist Rod Gont on a one-hour (two-hour option available) night time snowshoe hike by moonlight. All ages are invited. More than 40 pairs of snowshoes for all ages are available for those without them. Please call ahead to reserve--no charge, but donations accepted. The Visitor Center will be open and we’ll have a fire going in the fireplace. Cocoa and hot water will be available (but bring your own tea, soup, cups, etc.). Two outside fires for sitting by, roasting hot dogs (bring your own), making smores, etc. A program about snowshoes will be presented at 6:30 p.m. Hike will be held regardless of weather. Start at the Chippewa Moraine Ice Age Visitor Center. 7 p.m.
• Governor Dodge State Park, Dodgeville, (608) 935-2315 - Candlelight Hike/Ski. Walk or ski a trail lit with glowing candlelight. Warm up by the bonfire after enjoying the trail. Limited hot drinks and snacks will be available for sale. Weather and snow conditions will determine trail location. Sponsored by Friends of Governor Dodge State Park. Sorry, no pets on the ski trail. Meet at the Cox Hollow Beach area. 6-9 p.m.
• Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - One Wild Saturday Morning Drop-in: Snow. It’s winter--a perfect time to learn about the different types of snowflakes, solve some snowflake mysteries, do some snowflake printing on a bandana, 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. Environmental Awareness Center. No admission sticker required.
Saturday and Sunday, January 19-20, 2008
• Bald Eagle Watching Days, Sauk City-Prairie du Sac - The 21st Bald Eagle Watching Days will begin at 8 a.m. Saturday and Sunday with a breakfast in the Sauk Prairie High School Cafeteria sponsored by the Sauk Prairie Kiwanis. Other events include guided eagle watching tours; an “Eagles in Wisconsin” program with Pat Manthey, DNR Bureau of Endangered Resources; a “Birds of Prey Show,” with live raptors presented by The Raptor Center from the University of Minnesota; wildlife photography with Bill Pielsticker; a “Meet and Greet Booth” with staff from the Raptor Center providing hands on teaching tools such as feathers, wings, skulls, feet and opportunity for close up photos; eagle conservation efforts presented by the Ferry Bluff Eagle Council; a program on “Fun Animal Adaptations” by David Stokes; children’s activities; and other displays and events. See a complete schedule of activities on the Ferry Bluff Eagle Council Web site or call (800) 683-2453.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit, Campbellsport, 920-467-2099 - Nordic Challenge Ski Races. Break out those cross-country skis! At 9:30 a.m. middle school students are invited to participate in a 3-kilometer race and at 9:45 a.m. a 5K race starts for all high school students. An all-ages 15K free style cross-country ski race begins at 11 a.m. and 1K kids’ event at 1 p.m. Food and refreshments will be available. The no-snow date is Sunday, March 2. Sponsored by Northern Kettle Moraine Nordic Ski Club. Greenbush Recreation Area. Register at the Greenbush Recreation Area Shelter starting at 8:30 a.m. Fees vary by race.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Nature Storytime. Naturalist Julie Fox will share a nature-related story and activity with pre-schoolers and their parents. Nature Storytime will generally last between 30-45 minutes, depending on the participants. We'll spend time indoors and outdoors, weather permitting, so dress accordingly. Ice Age Center. 10 a.m.
Friday, January 25, 2008
• Red Cedar State Trail, Menomonie, (800) 283-1862, (715) 235-9087, or (715) 232-1242 - Candlelight Ski. Ski by candlelight alongs the beautiful Red Cedar River. Free hot chocolate to skiers/hikers near the warming fire at the trailhead. Drawing for prizes including a 2008 Wisconsin State Trail annual pass, friends group membership, and Swiss Miss gift packs. Interpretive and outdoor education exhibits will be open throughout the evening at the Depot Visitor Center. Trail pass fees are waived for this event. Sponsored by Friends of the Red Cedar State Trail and Swiss Miss Corporation. Depot Visitor Center, Menomonie. 6-9 p.m.
• Willow River State Park, Hudson, (715) 386-5931 - Candlelight Ski and Hike. Ski 2 miles of easy trails and hike half a mile along candlelit trails. Enjoy refreshments at the National Guard bonfire at the boat launch or in the nature center. Visit with the hot air balloon pilots and crews that will have tethered balloons doing "moonglows." The balloon pilots will be here early in the event even if they can’t inflate the balloons due to wind. If there is no skiing snow, it may be canceled; call to confirm. Please leave the dog at home. Meet at the nature center. 6-9:30 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/
