Complete WDNR Outdoor Report as of January 15, 2009
Dangerously frigid temperatures descended on Wisconsin this week, ranging from minus 29 degrees at Brule in Ashland County, to minus 15 degrees in Madison Wednesday night to Thursday morning. Winds in the 10 to 20 mile per hour range were triggering wind chill advisories for minus 30 to 40 degrees. Temperatures were forecast to moderate by the weekend, with highs in the low 20s predicted for Saturday. Most of the state received additional snowfall in the last week, ranging from just over an inch in the north, to more than 5 inches in central Wisconsin. Snow depths currently range from about a foot or more across much of the state, to nearly 2 feet in the far north.
Snowmobile trails are now open in almost all counties across the state, according to the Department of Tourism’s snow conditions report, with conditions generally good to excellent, through some icy conditions have been reported with the frigid temperatures. State parks and forests are generally reporting cross-country ski trails are also in good to excellent condition, with some reporting the best conditions of the winter so far. The cold weather is expected to firm up ski trails, so conditions should remain good through the weekend.
Before the drop in temperatures, ice fishing pressure had been quite heavy, with good action reported for panfish and northern pike at many locations across the state. The frigid temperatures slowed activity, but fishing is expected to pick up with the warm-up this weekend. Whitefish action continued to be good on Green Bay, with walleye activity also picking up, but perch action remained slow. Anglers have been catching some brown trout through the ice at southeastern Wisconsin Lake Michigan harbors.
Mid January means the onset of the red fox breeding cycle. Foxes are more likely to travel in pairs at this time of the year and the fresh snow and increased activity means they are much more visible then at any other time of the year. After dark, listen for their raspy barks as they defend their territories from other foxes or unidentified intruders.
Common visitors to bird feeders include: gold and purple finches, chickadees, nuthatches, juncos, tufted titmice, blue jays, cardinals, mourning doves, and woodpeckers.
The cold weather has frozen over most of the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers, which is causing bald eagles to spread out over greater areas to look for food, but also concentrating those eagles that remain along the rivers near open water below dams. This should make for good eagle viewing during 22nd annual Bald Eagle Watching Days this weekend in Sauk City and Prairie du Sac. Events run Friday and Saturday, including guided eagle watching tours; an “Eagles in Wisconsin” program and “Birds of Prey Show,” with live raptors, wildlife photography, children’s activities; and other events. A complete schedule of activities can be found on the Ferry Bluff Eagle Council Web site at [www.ferrybluffeaglecouncil.org] (exit DNR).
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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 - Brrrrrrrr! It has been cold in the northland lately. It was 29 degrees below zero Thursday morning, Jan. 15, at the Brule DNR station. Steam rolls off the Brule River wherever it happens to be open and the frost clings to the low overhanging branches, sparkling when the sun shines on them, it is certainly beautiful...but very cold. Due to the frigid temperatures, ski activity at the Afterhours Ski Trails has slowed down. Temperatures are expected to become much more comfortable over the weekend so the activity should pick up considerably. The trails will be groomed on Friday in preparation for the weekend skiers.
Ashland DNR Service Center area
Copper Falls State Park - As of Jan. 11, about 13 inches of snow covered the landscape. Ski trails were groomed and tracked on Friday Jan. 9 and were in excellent condition with about a 8-10 inches of base. Ski trails at Copper Falls are groomed for classical skiing only and are very scenic. Copper Falls receives very little use over the winter months and ski trails receive little pressure. Hiking and pets are not allowed on ski trails within the park. Visitors are also reminded that the Cascades trail, the trail around Copper and Brownstone Falls, is closed for the season for hiking as a portion of the trail is designated ski trail. For those wishing to hike, walk a pet, or snowshoe; the Red Granite Falls Trail remains open all season for those users. Pet owners are reminded that pets must be leashed at all times. Snowshoeing is very popular on this trail. This upcoming week temperatures are forecast to be very cold with high temperatures below zero. Please check local conditions before venturing outdoors in the extreme cold. Winter camping is also an option for those willing to brave the elements at Copper Falls. Camping during the winter months offers peace and solitude. Sites 1 through 5 will be plowed throughout the winter months.
Park Falls DNR Service Center area
Upper Chippewa Basin fisheries report (Price, Rusk, Sawyer Taylor and inland Ashland and Iron counties) - More seasonal and consistent weather this past weekend made for increased angling activity on most waters across the Northwoods. Temperatures in the mid-teens with light winds seemed to bring out the panfish anglers this past weekend and success was reported as good. Anglers targeted most of the larger lakes in the area but many also spread out among the smaller lakes -- most reported pretty good success on crappie, perch and bluegill. The fish were suspended a couple feet off the bottom, with crappie minnows or small teardrop jigs tipped with waxworms providing the best action. Tip-up fishing for walleye was a bit sporadic during the past week, and many anglers have been targeting the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage. Most anglers reported catching at least a walleye or two, and some were able to ice their limit of 3 fish. Most of the walleye were in the 14 to 18-inch range, but a few in the 20 to 24-inch size were also reported. Golden shiners and medium sucker minnows continue to get most of the action, and were being fished in 6 to 12 feet of water in the hour before dark. Northern pike fishing has been fair, most fish have been in the 20 to 26 inch size and the best success has come on sunny days. Ice depths have reached about 15 inches on most area lakes and nearly all of the slush spots have firmed up. There is about 3 to 4 inches of snow on top of the ice and vehicle/ATV travel has been fair. Most ice travel has been restricted to establish trails as many lakes are very rough with a lot of frozen ruts and ice humps. The current cold snap should add a few more inches of ice depth and will keep fishing pressure down, but look for anglers to be out in force with the nicer weather predicted for the weekend.
Woodruff DNR Service Center area
Extremely low temperatures and lack of new snow have left the snowmobile trails in fair condition with most corners and heavily used sections now ice covered. Please remember that there is a statewide night time speed limit of 55 mph for snowmobiles. One of the more common violations being observed is the failure to stop at stop signs. Stop signs on the trail for snowmobiles are no different than on the street for a car, YOU MUST stop for them. Another issue of concern is the lack of compliance to the speed limits established on the snowmobile routes. Many of these routes have special posting which is typically different than the speed limit for motor vehicles. Six weeks remain for game fish season, ending March 1, 2009. Fishing results have been fair for walleye, northern and pan fish. Fish continue to hold around the green weed flats and edges near the deeper water.
Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest – Cross-country ski trails in the forest have been groomed and tracked. Escanaba - all loops leveled, cut and tracked, on Jan. 9 with full track that set up firm. Very good conditions. McNaughton skaters' loop was groomed Jan. 12. All other loops were cut and tracked Jan. 13. Mostly full track with a firm set. Very good conditions. Madeline - all loops cut and tracked Jan. 13. Full track with a firm set. Very good conditions. Raven - yellow, green and blue loops cut and tracked Jan. 13. Mostly full track. Need more snow to level trail. Good conditions. The red loop and part of blue loop are closed due to logging.
DNR Northeastern Region
Peshtigo DNR Service Center area
Marinette County - With the exception of a little snow and icy road conditions last week's temperatures made for some good fishing opportunities. Fishing pressure during the week was light with a few more anglers on the weekend. There has been little action at the Peshtigo Harbor in the last week for pike. According to the anglers pike fishing should pick up in the next couple of weeks. As an added note, trout are being caught below the dam at Peshtigo both through the ice and in the open water. The dam at Hattie Street is producing walleye in the 18 inch range.
Oconto County - There are still a good number of perch anglers inside the Oconto Breakwater Harbor as well as Oconto Park II. Again the fish are running small and being caught jigging. Reports of a whitefish bite outside the Breakwater has been reported but not substantiated.
Green Bay DNR Service Center area
Point Beach State Forest – Cross-country ski trials were groomed on Tuesday Jan. 14 and are in very good condition. Expect some debris from expected winds Wednesday and Thursday. Point beach offers 11 miles of diagonal and 3.5 miles of skate skiing. The trails wind through pine and hemlock forest providing a very aesthetic experience. Candlelight ski and hike takes place Jan. 24, from 5:30 to 9 p.m.. Call 1 (920) 794-7480 for more information. A few campsites have been plowed for winter camping,
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Door County - Perch fishing out of Potawatomi State Park continues to be slow. The few perch that were being caught were not of desirable size. Perch were being caught in varying depths with no real pattern present. Perch were hitting a combination of minnows and wax worms. Northern pike action has still been good in both the numbers and size being caught. Pike have been hitting golden shiners and suckers on tip-ups. People have been fishing pike in water depths ranging from 10-20 feet of water. Walleye have been caught at night also with some decent catches reported. At Little Sturgeon Bay, perch fishing was still slow out on the bay with anglers reporting catching small fish. The whitefish action has been constant with fishing being caught in depth varying from 10 to 30 feet of water, most fish are coming well jigging. The walleye action is starting to pick up with most fish being caught at night. Anglers are targeting the walleye's with jigging spoons and oddball jigs.
Potawatomi State Park – Cross-country ski trails are rolled, tracked, and in good condition this week. Snowmobile trails in the park are open and connect to the Southeast Zone of the Door County trail system. Fishing shanties are scattered on Sawyer Harbor. Perch anglers reported slow activity this past week.
Whitefish Dunes State Park – The park received another 3 inches of new snow on Jan. 13. There is a snow base of approximately 20 inches. All cross-country ski trails were groomed and tracked Jan. 13 and were in excellent condition.
Wautoma DNR Service Center area
Anglers have been finding it difficult to get around on area lakes due to the snow, rain, freezing rain. The snow layers make use of a car or truck nearly impossible, and access by foot not too far from the landings has been their limit. Fishing has been spotty in the area. The majority of area snowmobile trails are open.
Hartman Creek State Park – The park received 4 to 5 inches of snow Monday night. Cross-country ski trails are in good condition, but please use caution as some trails may still be icy in spots. The Pope Lake Trail was tracked and the Hillview Trail (skate skiing) was packed on Jan. 14. On Friday, Jan. 16, the Oak Ridge Trails should be tracked (depending on the weather -- if it's still too cold with the dangerous wind chills in place, then it will not be groomed).
Oshkosh DNR Service Center area
The Winnebago County snowmobile trails were open as of Jan. 14. Riders should be aware that there are some icy patches. Trail conditions can be checked by calling Winnebago County Parks at 920-232-1960, ext. 4. Trails in Fond du Lac County were open and in fair condition. One area fisherman located 2 miles east of the Fox River in Oshkosh caught 24 sauger ranging from 12 to 14 inches on Monday. He was using a Swedish pimple tipped with a minnow head. A rule change on the Winnebago system will allow anglers to harvest 5 walleyes and 1 sauger. The possession limit as always is twice the daily bag limit, which will presently be 10 walleyes and 2 saugers. Six miles west of Quinney another angler reported heavy walleye and sauger action with wax worms on a stick bait.
DNR Southeast Region
Kettle Moraine State Forest – Lapham Peak Unit - Lapham Peak got a little over an inch of dry snow early Wednesday morning. All the trails were rolled and the track was left in place. There is drifting in the open areas.
Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit – Cross-country ski trails were groomed and tracked on Friday, Jan. 9, and were in good condition. Call (262) 670-3400 for the most current trail conditions. Each skier age 16 and older must have a state trail pass. As a reminder, the only groomed trail that hikers, snowshoers, and dog walkers are allowed on is the red trail, located to the south of the beach area.
Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit - As of Thursday, Jan. 15, the state forest had received approximately five inches of new snow over the last few days coupled with frigid temperatures. Total snow accumulation on the ground is approximately 18 inches. Snow conditions should remain static throughout the weekend and into next week. Cross-country ski trails are in very good to excellent condition. Snowmobile trails are currently open however conditions are generally rated as fair to good. Because of the drifting snow, some sections of trail have little snow cover.
Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit - The Southern Unit has good winter recreation conditions. More than 12 inches of snow has fallen since Friday Jan. 9 on portions of the forest with the most recent snowfall on Wednesday Jan. 14 when more than 2 inches of snow fell throughout the forest. All three cross-country ski trail systems at the Southern Unit, Scuppernong, McMiller and Nordic, have been groomed and are in very good or better skiing condition. Scuppernong is for classical skiing only with a double classical track set around the entire trail. McMiller and Nordic are groomed for both classical and skate skiing. The Biathlon range is open for use at McMiller. For more information contact WisconsinBiathlon.com. Snowmobile trails in the forest are snow covered and opened for use. Outside of the forest the Walworth and Waukesha County snowmobile trails are open at this time. Next weekend January 24, there is a candlelight ski event at the Nordic Trail system at the Southern Unit. The event takes place between 5 and 9 p.m. Nordic is located on Hwy H south of the Village of Palmyra. For more information contact the forest headquarters at 262-594-6200. Current trail conditions can be obtained at 262-594-6202.
Lake Michigan fisheries team report
Sheboygan County - Ice fishing in the Sheboygan marina has been relatively slow, but a few brown trout and northern pike have been caught on shiners.
Ozaukee County - In Port Washington, ice anglers in the marina have been catching a few brown trout on spawn sacs. There is open water near the power plant, and aerators are running in the north slip. Open water fishing in Port has been relatively slow.
Milwaukee County - In Milwaukee, the river under the Hoan bridge is unfishable due to large ice floes, but there is open water in the Menomonee River near the post office. Anglers there have been catching browns and northerns on shiners. McKinley Marina is frozen over, and although fishing has been slow overall, occasional browns have been taken while jigging through the ice.
Racine County - In Racine most of the upstream portions of the Root River have frozen over again. Ice anglers have been out in downstream stretches of the river, as well as in the Racine harbor. Some browns and northerns have been hitting both shiners and spawn
Kenosha County - The Small Boat Harbor in Kenosha is frozen over, and ice anglers have been catching a few brown trout on tube jigs or spawn.
DNR South Central Region
Dodgeville DNR Service Center area
Wyalusing State Park - All trails are snow covered, with approximately 8 to 12 inches of snow. Bitter cold temperatures are forecast for Thursday night, with a low of -23 degrees and expected wind chill factor as low as -36 degrees. Temperatures will warm starting with a high on Friday to 6 degrees above and continuing into Saturday and Sunday with expected highs in the low to mid 20s. Due to the bitter cold and windy conditions, cross-country ski trails have not been maintained within the last week. Trails are expected to be groomed by this weekend, but skiers are welcome to call the park office at 608-996-2261 for updated weekend conditions. A change to the cross-country ski trails has been made this year. Mississippi Ridge will no longer be groomed for cross-country skiing. In addition to Whitetail Meadows, Turkey Hollow Trail will now be a cross-country ski trail. Parking for both trails will be available near the Astronomy Center. Turkey Hollow Trail is the more challenging of the two trails and beginners may want to use Whitetail Meadows Trail. Mississippi Ridge will make an excellent trail for snowshoeing. Park visitors interested in snowshoeing can park in the park office lot and travel Homestead Camp Road to Cathedral Tree Drive and Mississippi Ridge Trail. There were many ice anglers at the boat landing in the park this past weekend. With the recent plummeting temperatures, ice fishing activity has dropped substantially. The warming trend forecast for this weekend is expected to entice the anglers once again. Park office bird feeders remain a popular spot for winter residents. Dozens of cardinals brighten the wintery landscape, providing an excellent photo opportunity. A small flock of cedar waxwings are occasional visitors to the trees near the feeders. Approximately six to eight red-bellied woodpeckers can be sighted at a time, preferring to feed on the suet blocks. Recent bird sightings this week include: gold finches, purple finches, chickadees, nuthatches, juncos, tufted titmice, blue jays, cardinals, mourning doves, downy woodpeckers, hairy woodpeckers and red-bellied woodpeckers. Eagles are still being seen in the area, but the large convocation at the park entrance is gone.
Green County - The latest snow falls helped to make the Green County snowmobile trails almost perfect. With the recent grooming the Badger and Sugar River Trails are in great shape. About 90 percent of the club trails are in great shape as well with the only exceptions being a few trails over rough wind blown fields with little snow cover. Fish have been biting, with decent catches of bluegills and northern pike being caught throughout the county.
Iowa County - Anglers were catching fairly nice size bluegill on waxworms on Birch Lake. On Sunday they started to bite around noon. Some nice northern pike were being caught on Long Lake; watch for open water, though, due to the river current present in the lake. Bakkens pond has seen some nice northerns caught. Northerns were also being caught at Helen Lake just off of Highway 14. The snowmobile trails in the Arena and Ridgeway area are good, with some ice spots but generally have good snow cover.
Blue Mound State Park – Cross-country ski conditions are excellent for classic skiing, probably best so far this season. All trails were groomed and tracked Jan. 14. Track molded beautifully and is now setting up very solid. Majority of the trail system is in the woods, so wind is not much of a factor, but still dress for the cold actual air temps.
Horicon DNR Service Center area
Dodge County – As of Jan. 13, the Dodge County Snowmobile Trail System was open. Snow conditions may be marginal in some sections of the trail system and riders are cautioned that there may be several areas with icy conditions under the fresh snow, especially in low lying areas and marshes. Riders should take extra precautions and prepare for the very cold temperatures and wind chills expected in the next few days. Riders are reminded to stay on the marked trails and not cut corners. Trail sections are in danger of being lost due to some careless and disrespectful riding! Ride responsibly to do your part to help preserve the future of snowmobiling in Dodge County. To report trail violations, get registration numbers and sled description of violators and report to 1-800-TIP-WDNR or the Dodge County Sheriffs Department at 920-386-3726. The ATV Trail on the Wild Goose Trail from Hwy 60 to Hwy 49 in Dodge County remains open. The 24 Hour Trail Status Hotline (920-386-3705) should always be checked prior to riding the trail. Check the Dodge County Parks Website at
www.dodgeparks.com for additional trail information. The Marshview Riders ATV club will be holding its seventh annual Poker Run on Saturday, Jan. 17 from 8 a.m.- 3 p.m. Register at the Horicon or Juneau Rod & Gun Clubs. Check out
www.marshviewriders.com for more information.
Fitchburg DNR Service Center area
Devil’s Lake State Park - As of Jan. 13, cross-country ski trails were in poor condition with 5 inches of fluffy snow atop a crust of frozen drizzle atop a compacted crunchy base of a few inches. Throughout this winter, ski trails may not be groomed and tracked as consistently as many ski aficionados would like due to budget limitations. If you’re looking for a meticulously groomed cross-country ski trail, you may be disappointed. If you like an occasionally improved snow route into the backcountry for some beautiful views and quiet woods experience, this may be the place for you. The East Bluff Woods Trail is no longer maintained as part of the cross-country ski trail system at Devil’s Lake. Many less expert skiers found this hill difficult, beyond their expectations in the skill it required, and it was very hard to maintain with the trail grooming equipment. The surface of the lake is frozen. Ice anglers have been out on the lake, and even some vehicles have been out near the edges. The sledding hill is usable, but not ideal, with several inches of light fluff atop a crusted hard layer of frozen drizzle and packed snow.
Mirror Lake State Park – Cross-country ski trails have a 6 to 10 inch base and were in good to very good condition as of Jan. 15.
Lake Kegonsa State Park - All cross country ski trails are in fair to good condition and were last groomed and tracked on Friday, Jan. 9. Some areas are still a little icy, please use caution.
DNR West Central Region
Baldwin DNR Service Center area
Kinnickinnic State Park - All cross-country ski trails were groomed and tracked Jan. 13 and were in good condition.
Willow River State Park - Snowfall on Monday came in around 5 inches. With windy weather following, all trails were rolled only on Monday night. As of Wednesday another dusting of snow has fallen on the trails. Given the extremely cold temperatures and wind chills, grooming and new track will be set when the weather warms up. The groomers are planning to set track on Thursday. Due to the cold there has been almost no use by skiers. There seems to be more people hiking with snowshoes this season than in the past. Snowshoe hikers need to use the multiple use trails or go off trail. It is okay to cross a ski trail on snow shoes since the weight is spread out. Hikers should consider some overlooked opportunities such as the park road and the area at Trout Brook Road where the anglers are in warm weather. The parking area is not plowed. The angler’s footpaths are not maintained by the park so its “off trail” style hiking. There’s always open water flowing which attracts wildlife. The fishing results are slowing down and the bluegills are getting smaller. Trumpeter swans have been reported in the Willow River off the Purple trail. You have to ski in to see them. The winter robins are around also. The second of the three adult ski lessons on Jan. 24 is full. The lesson on Saturday, Feb. 14 has no students signed up yet. You must register in advance by calling or stopping in at the office (715) 386-5931. The Willow River Nordic skiers provide the instruction from 9 to 11:30 a.m. You need to have your own skiing equipment. The fee is $10 per person per session and payable to the Willow River OWLs. Skate and classic styles are taught. Meet at the Nature Center. Class size is limited to 14 students. The class is geared toward beginning skiers. You do not need to have been in a previous lesson. Weekly training-skiing sessions continue with the Willow River Nordic skiers on Tuesday and Thursday nights. Meet at the Purple trail head at 5:30 p.m. Bring a headlamp and skiing equipment. It’s usually a group warm up lap on the Purple or Green trail; then the skaters and striders split up. Sometimes its drills and sometimes it is just skiing. You need to have established some skiing skills. After dark is not the time to start learning with no skills. Cold weather, high wind, or poor trail conditions can cancel an event. Zero degrees and no wind are the threshold for cold for the regular trainers. If it’s colder, there’s no training. Most trainers have indoor exercise options at health clubs or at home on cold nights.
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
Mid January means the onset of the red fox breeding cycle. Foxes are more likely to travel in pairs at this time of the year and the fresh snow and increased activity means they are much more visible then at any other time of the year. After dark, listen for their raspy barks as they defend their territories from other foxes or unidentified intruders. The La Crosse River, Elroy-Sparta and 400 state trails are groomed for snowmobiling and are in fair to good condition.
Wildcat Mountain State Park – The park has a 6 to 12 inch snow base, with new snow on Monday and Tuesday. Crews groomed and tracked the entire ski trail system Jan. 14. Conditions were excellent for skating and classical skiing.
Black River Falls DNR Service Center area
Black River State Forest - This week’s snowfall has returned the trails to great conditions for winter recreation. The current arctic cold blast is expected to be over for the weekend. ATV and snowmobile trails will be groomed on Friday Jan. 16. They should be in good to excellent condition with a base of 8 to 10 inches. Cross-country ski trails were groomed on Jan. 14 and have a 10 to 12 inch base. They are in excellent condition. The ridge trail and the east half of the north loop are closed for this winter to accommodate a timber sale. The warming cabin is open for the season. Snowshoeing is allowed anyplace on the property not groomed for other uses. Three recommended trails are the five mile trail running east and west from the Pigeon Creek Campground, the nature trail at Castle Mound, and the trail from Castle Mound south to Hwy 27. Pigeon Creek campground has a loop plowed for winter camping. Backpack camping is also allowed during the winter.
Eau Claire DNR Service Center area
Cross-country ski conditions at the Red Cedar Trail and Hoffman Hills State Recreation area as of Tuesday, Jan. 13 were good. The area received approximately 2 inches of new snow this week. The Red Cedar Trail has been groomed from Menomonie to Downsville, and track has been set to Irvington. More snow is forecast and tracks may not be set until it stops. Hoffman Hills has not been groomed at this time and may not be until this weekend. Some drifting has occurred along the ridges but skiing is still good, with the exception of not being able to find a set track, in some areas.
Brunet Island State Park - Park trails are snow covered and ungroomed. Fishing action in the north campground bays has been fair with mostly small fish being caught. Anglers are reporting generally good ice conditions in the backwater areas. Species of birds seen or heard include: bald eagles, goldfinches, ravens, crows, phoebes, northern juncos, chickadees, nuthatches, red headed and piliated woodpeckers, great horned and barred owls, and blue jays.
Chippewa Moraine Ice Age State Recreation Area – The Chippewa Moraine had about 10 inches of snow on the ground as of Jan. 10, with 1-2 inches more snow forecast this weekend. Snowshoeing is great this year, and if you like to experience solitude at its best, there are 45 pairs available for use on park property. There is no rental fee but donations are appreciated. Ice fishing for crappies and bluegills has been good but spotty on area lakes. Most lakes have at least 10 inches of good ice, but take caution whenever venturing out. Some of the smaller lakes within the Reserve are prone to winter die off, and we expect this year to be somewhat worse than in other years because of the early and heavy snow accumulation. If you’re up to the challenge of early winter camping, our three primitive walk-in campsites offer a easy to get to hike. The sites are isolated and very scenic. Campsites have an outdoor privy and fire ring but bring your own water or fill up your container at the visitor center. Sites are first-come, first served and a $10 fee per night is charged. Stop at the Interpretive Center to register. “Drifts” of snow buntings are common around the visitor center. Wild turkeys are frequent visitor around neighboring bird feeders. Along with feeding birds, it is equally important to provide drinking water. If possible, add a heated water dish to your outdoor feeding stations and watch as the many birds and small mammals come to drink. The first of our popular 'Snowshoeing by Moonlight' hikes was held on Saturday, January 10, and a record breaking 196 people enjoyed the guided hike. The second one of the season will be held on Friday, Feb. 6. Registration and a short lesson on snowshoeing will begin at 6:30 p.m.; with the hike will start promptly at 7 p.m. If attendance warrants, there may be two simultaneous hikes held at once. All ages are invited and there is no charge although donations are welcomed. Come and enjoy some outdoor natural light hiking and afterward enjoy some hot chocolate by the warming fire. Snowshoes are on a reservation basis; call the Center to if you need them, or bring your own.
Wisconsin Rapids DNR Service Center area
Buckhorn State Park - Cross-country ski trails are in fair condition with a covering of snow on the tracks. Remember, snowshoers and hikers must stay off the groomed portion of trails. Small game and trapping are allowed in the Yellow River Wildlife Area and in Buckhorn Wildlife Area only, not in the park. Campsites 8, 9, and 16 are open for camping. Site #8 has electric and will be plowed out during winter ($20/night resident, $22/night non-resident). We have had a few winter campers so far. Launch C and lot D will not be plowed this winter. Many people ice fishing are accessing the lake from the launch in the park. Several roads are now closed to vehicles as the snowmobile route goes through the park. Applications for the handicapped accessible cabin can be mailed (postmarked on or after Jan. 10), or dropped off in person or faxed on/after Jan. 10. Please call the park at 608-565-2789 for more information. Applications are also available online on the DNR website.
Roche-A-Cri State Park - The main gate is now closed. Parking is allowed along Czech Ave. The parking lot will not be plowed this winter and trails will not be groomed. People will still be able to cross-country ski and snow shoe in the park. Camping is now closed for the season.
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 16, 2009
• Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Nature Storytime: Ahooooo! Call the Coyotes. In the dark of night, we hear a wailing howl and know that the coyotes are near. Discover some amazing facts about the life of a coyote. 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-Sunday, January 17-18, 2009
• Sandhill Wildlife Area, Babcock, (715) 884-6333 or (715) 884-2437 - Timber Wolf Ecology Clinic. Area biologists and volunteers from the Timber Wolf Information Network will provide instruction on aspects of wolf ecology, including status in Wisconsin and the upper Great Lakes region, population size, aspects of predation, and field study techniques. Saturday afternoon will be spent outdoors exploring wolf habitat and possibly trailing wolves in the snow. Registration is limited to 25 people ages 12 and up, first-come, first-served. Register by mailing in $75 per person, payable to DNR-Skills Center, to Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center, PO Box 156, Babcock, WI 54413, by January 9. Include the name of each participant, and the address and daytime phone number of one person in each party, and which dates you'll attend. The fee includes instructions, transportation on Saturday afternoon, Saturday supper, Sunday lunch, and dorm use. Participants may stay in the dorm on Friday evening for a donation of $15 per person. Outdoor Skills Center.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
• Governor Dodge State Park, Dodgeville, (608) 935-2315 - Candlelight Walk and Ski. Walk or ski a trail lit with glowing candlelight. Warm up by the bonfire after enjoying the trail. Limited snacks and hot drinks will be available for sale. Weather and snow conditions will determine trail location. Sorry, no pets on the ski trail. Didn't receive a park admission sticker for Christmas? Here's your chance to purchase one early and enjoy a year's worth of Wisconsin State Park memories. Sponsored by the Friends of Governor Dodge . Meet at the Cox Hollow Beach area. 6 - 9 p.m.
• Rib Mountain State Park, Wausau, (715) 842-2522. - Snowshoe Event. Sponsored by the Friends of Rib Mountain State Park. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Cross-Country Ski Clinic. Bring your skis and join instructor John Meyer to learn about waxing and other skiing tips. The diagonal stride technique will be taught and practiced. Please call to pre-register. Program is weather dependent. Shelter #1. 9-11 a.m.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Nature Storytime. Naturalist Julie Fox will share a story and activity with preschoolers and their parents at the Ice Age Center. A short activity following the story will reinforce the story's nature-related theme. Nature Storytime will generally last between 30-45 minutes, depending on the participants. Participants will spend time indoors and outdoors, weather permitting, so parents should dress their children accordingly.10 a.m.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
• Brunet Island State Park, Cornell, (715) 239-6888 - Candlelight Skiing And Snowshoeing. Come enjoy an evening in the winter woods, a candlelit trail, and a warm fireplace with family and friends! Warming fires provided in the historic log shelter. Hot chocolate, hot cider and coffee will be available. Bring your own provisions, hot dogs and marshmallows to roast in the fireplaces. Ski equipment and snowshoes may be checked out free of charge. Beach hill open for sledding until dark. No state park vehicle sticker required at this event, annual passes will be available for purchase. Sponsored by the Cornell Lions Club. Meet at the Brunet Island State Park pavillion. 5 - 8 p.m.
• Hartman Creek State Park, Waupaca, (715) 258-2372 - Candlelight Ski. A 1.3-mile cross-country ski trail will be lighted by candles, along with another 1 mile of lighted hiking trail. A great way to get rid of the winter doldrums! No trail pass is required for this event. Sponsored by Friends of Hartman Creek. Hartman Lake Shelter Building. 5-8 p.m.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest--Southern Unit, Eagle, 262-594-6200. Candlelight Ski /Hike. Ski or hike a 1.4 mile purple loop through the woods that will be illuminated by 450 candles! No hills—no spills! Ski Rental available-LaGrange Store. Hot beverages and food will be for sale in a heated shelter. Bon fire and charcoal grills will be available. Bring your marshmallows and food you would like to cook. Dogs are allowed on trail for this event only. The Nordic Trail is located on County Hwy. H, 3 miles south of Palmyra and 1.5 miles north of LaGrange. 6-9 p.m.
• Navarino Wildlife Area, Shawano, (715) 758-6999 - Snowshoeing Navarino. Snowshoe through the woods, across the bog heading for the beaver lodge on Pike's Peak Flowage. Get a great physical workout by snowshoeing and taking in the sights of the Navarino Wildlife Area. Bring your snowshoes or rent from Navarino Nature Center (NNC). Fee: NNC members $2, nonmembers $5, families $12 . 9 a.m.
• Point Beach State Forest, Two Rivers, (920) 794-7480 - Candlelight Ski and Hike.
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Cross-Country Ski Clinic. Bring your skis and join instructor John Meyer to learn about waxing and other skiing tips. The diagonal stride technique will be taught and practiced. Please call to pre-register. Program is weather dependent. Shelter #1. 9-11 a.m. Owl Prowl. Join us for this annual event to discover why owls are perfect night hunters. Dress for the weather because we will go outside in search for these predators. Visitor Center. 8:30-10 p.m.
• Willow River State Park, Hudson, (715) 386-5931 - Adult Ski Lessons. Skate and diagonal stride (classic) will be offered. Join the park's friends group and lessons are free; otherwise, it's $10 per session per person. Provide your own gear. Call to register. Sponsored by Willow River Nordic Skiers. Nature Center. 9-11:30 a.m.
• Yellowstone Lake State Park, Blanchardville, - Radar Run . A snowmobile event. Sponsored by Fayette Sno-Goers. Register at 10 a.m., race against time beginning at 11 a.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/
