May is Clean Air Month
Do a little to save a lot, and it all adds up to cleaner air add campaign launched
MADISON – There are easy actions people can take every day to help keep Wisconsin’s air
clean and healthy that will also help them save money, gas and energy.
May is Clean Air Month, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources will be sharing
tips showing how homeowners, drivers, workers and kids can reap these environmental and economic
benefits through every-day actions.
Thirty-second public service TV and radio ads will air this month and convey a simple message:
Everyone can do a little to save a lot, and it all adds up to cleaner air. The DNR Web site offers even
more clean-air tips – look under “Features” and click on the “It All Adds Up to Cleaner Air”
[http://dnr.wi.gov/org/aw/air/ed/italladdsup.htm].
“Public health is a top concern for us,” says Al Shea, administrator for the DNR Division of Air
and Waste. “While Wisconsin’s air is generally healthy and improving, we do still have unhealthy
conditions from time to time. Particularly the young, elderly or people with health concerns like asthma
can experience serious health problems from air pollution in our state. But we all can do something to
help protect air and health.”
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Wisconsin DNR News, May 8, 2007
People can start by reducing their daily use of electricity and fuel “at home, work and behind the
wheel,” he says. When energy is produced or fuel burned, it contributes to air pollution problems such as
ground-level ozone, fine particulate matter and global climate change. Simple ways to protect air quality
at home and work include:
• Replacing regular incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescents.
• Running fewer loads of laundry or dishes by waiting until they are full.
• Turning off lights and appliances when leaving a room.
• Unplugging electronic gadgets when not in use.
When using a vehicle, even a step as simple as not letting cars idle can help keep the air cleaner,
Shea says. People can turn off their cars while they wait at drive-through or drive-up windows, while
picking up a passenger, or even while waiting for a train to pass or congestion to clear. Getting excess
baggage out of the trunk and keeping tires properly inflated will also stretch gas mileage and reduce air
pollution.
“These kinds of actions reduce emissions that can cause health-harming pollutants. But the great
news is they also reduce greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. And, because they help
reduce energy and gas use, you can save money too,” says Shea.
Individual actions can add up to help solve global climate change and regional pollution
problems. But Shea also emphasizes that air quality is also a local concern and individual actions can
either cause or prevent some very real, localized health problems.
Backyard burning also can affect air quality
“Burning -- particularly burning trash that give off lots of toxins and smoke -- can create nearby
health hazards for your family and neighbors,” he says. Burning trash is a significant source of dioxins
and the major cause of wildfires in the state, he notes. Additional information on the effects of opening
burning can be found on the DNR Web site [http://dnr.wi.gov/environmentprotect/ob/alternatives.htm].
Instead, Shea recommends reducing and recycling waste where possible and properly disposing
of the rest. Reycling information is available on the DNR Web site at
[http://dnr.wi.gov/org/aw/wm/recycle/reference.html].
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Anne Bogar - (608) 266-3725
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Wisconsin DNR News, May 8, 2007
Gypsy moth spraying to begin soon
Spraying will be done in eight counties to be protect trees from destructive pest
MADISON – Aerial spraying to protect trees and forests from the potentially defoliating effects
of the invasive gypsy moth could begin in Wisconsin within the next two weeks.
Trained pilots will treat approximately 1,235 acres in eight counties as part of the 2007 gypsy
moth suppression program. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources coordinates the program,
which responds to local officials’ request for spraying.
Wisconsin counties being treated this year in the DNR suppression program include Adams,
Brown, Dane, Door, Fond du Lac, Green Lake, Sauk and Waushara. Individual treatment sites vary in
size from a 21-acre block in Hobart to a 235-acre area in Madison.
Only Mother Nature can say for sure when spraying will begin
“It boils down to the weather,” said Andrea Diss-Torrance, gypsy moth program coordinator
with the DNR. “The gypsy moth caterpillars must be of a certain size and the tree canopy needs to be
developed enough to ‘catch’ the spray.”
Spraying typically begins in the early morning when weather conditions are generally most
favorable, but it can happen at any time of the day if the wind is light and there’s no rain in the
immediate forecast.
Weather conditions also dictate when planes can get in the air, Diss-Torrance added. “If it’s too
windy, we won’t spray. If it’s raining, we won’t spray. We weigh all the factors and pick the days
when it all comes together,” she says.
Because of the flexible timing of the spraying schedule, DNR offers two different ways for local
residents in treatment areas to keep abreast of plans. A toll-free information line is updated daily during
the spraying season, or residents may subscribe to receive e-mail notification of spraying activities.
The toll-free information number is 1-800-642-MOTH (6684). To subscribe for e-mail
notification, visit the state gypsy moth control Web site [http://www.gypsymoth.wi.gov/] and click on
the “Eastern: DNR” link on the left side of the page. Fill out the fields on that page under “subscribe to
email notification list” and submit. Maps of all spray areas are also available at that website.
Since its introduction into the United States in 1869, the gypsy moth has defoliated thousands of
acres of trees in both forest and urban settings across the northeast United States.
By 1989, the gypsy moth had established populations along Wisconsin's eastern shore from
Milwaukee to Green Bay. Since then, moths have been found in nearly every county and the eastern half
of the state is recognized as infested.
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Wisconsin DNR News, May 8, 2007
“Gypsy moth populations remain low in most of Wisconsin, although they appear to be on the
rise in the central part of the state. We are also starting to see nuisance level populations build in the
southeastern most counties of Wisconsin, including Milwaukee and Racine Counties,” Diss-Torrance
said.
Around the state
This spring in south central Wisconsin the DNR suppression program will be treating for gypsy
moth in Dane and Sauk counties including Madison, Sun Prairie, Lake Kegonsa State Park, and Devils
Lake State Park. “Caterpillars started hatching in the Madison area the last week of April, a little earlier
then normal, but not unexpected with the recent warm weather,” said Mark Guthmiller, DNR
suppression coordinator for southern and southeastern Wisconsin. “That means we could start spraying
as soon as mid-May, but weather between now and then will determine the final plan.”
Caterpillar numbers have been on the rise for several years in central Wisconsin,” said Bria
Radtke, DNR gypsy moth coordinator for the west central region. “We’re treating four small blocks in
the Lake Camelot area this year, and we expect other parts of Adams County to have high caterpillar
populations this summer”
“We’ve been monitoring the egg masses, and for more than a week now the caterpillars have
been hatching. That means we could start spraying there as early as May 12, but again, weather between
now and then will determine the final plan.”
What is sprayed
The department uses two insecticides for controlling the gypsy moth. One is a biological
insecticide with the active ingredient Btk. Btk is the common abbreviation for a naturally-occurring soil
bacteria that, when eaten by gypsy moth caterpillars, causes them to stop feeding and die. Btk is
generally not harmful to people, pets or other wild animals. Some people with severe allergies may
wish to avoid areas to be sprayed on the day that spraying occurs.
The other insecticide used is called Gypchek, a viral insecticide produced in limited quantities
that affects only gypsy moth. Gypchek is used in areas where there are endangered butterflies or moths
that may be harmed by Btk. This year Gypcheck will be used for the sprays in Adams and Waushara
counties only.
The DNR suppression program is separate from the Wisconsin Dept. of Agriculture, Trade and
Consumer Protection’s spraying program, called Slow the Spread (STS). That spraying is done in the
western half of the state, in places where gypsy moth populations are very small and only beginning to
emerge. STS spraying takes places over several weeks and is generally in rural areas.
More information on gypsy moths is available on the DNR Web site at
[http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/Forestry/FH/gm/].
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Dr. Andrea Diss-Torrance, (608) 264-9247;
Bill McNee, (920) 662-5430; Mark Guthmiller, (608) 275-3223, or Bria Radtke, (715) 831-3278.
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Wisconsin DNR News, May 8, 2007
New rules restrict movement of firewood to state campgrounds
Rules aimed at preventing spread of forest pests
MADISON -- As the weather warms and outdoor enthusiasts get ready for camping and
campfires, state park and forestry officials are reminding campers that transporting firewood can also
transport dangerous pests.
To help prevent the spread of pests and to protect neighborhood trees and state parks, forests and
natural areas, new state rules prohibit bringing firewood into Wisconsin from outside the state. Rules
also prohibit brining firewood from more than 50 miles away into all Department of Natural Resources
managed properties including state parks and forests.
“Many invasive, destructive pests and diseases can travel on firewood,” says Andrea Diss-
Torrance, DNR forest health specialist. “Unsuspecting campers can unintentionally introduce these pests
to the places and trees they love.”
The rule means that people who camp this year on state-managed land will need to buy firewood
at the campground or from a nearby Wisconsin firewood dealer located less than 50 miles from the
campground and within Wisconsin. All other firewood will be confiscated upon entry to the park and
destroyed.
The best way to find out about firewood availability at near a park or forest is to contact the park
or forest office directly. A list of contact numbers is posted on the DNR’s State Parks Web site at
[http://wiparks.net].
“Campers can expect a few questions and lots of useful information on how to help protect their
trees from invasive pests when they arrive at their state camping destinations this year,” says Bruce
Chevis of the DNR parks and recreation bureau. “Everyone can help protect our state’s natural
resources by making a few small changes in how we prepare for campfires.”
The most damaging pest currently threatening Wisconsin trees is the emerald ash borer (EAB).
This tiny green bug is responsible for the death of more than 25 million ash trees in Michigan and
surrounding states since 2002. Originally from Asia, this bug likely hitched a ride across the ocean in
wooden shipping crates in the 1990s.
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Wisconsin DNR News, May 8, 2007
It was first recognized in 2002 when it started killing ash trees in towns in the Detroit area.
Many neighborhoods that were once covered with full-grown ash trees are now stripped bare as the EAB
has killed all ash trees in its path. Within three years of becoming infested, a mature and otherwise
healthy ash tree will die.
Since its first appearance in the United States, the emerald ash borer has made its way into at
least seven states and may be present and undetected in even more. Firewood is now the primary way
this pest is being moved to new areas. People take the pest with them to campgrounds or summer homes
or from vacation areas to home on firewood.
“Research shows this bug typically does not fly more than three miles per year -- at the most --
on its own. That means we have a unique responsibility to make sure we do not help it out by moving it
long distances on firewood,” says Diss-Torrance.
In Wisconsin, ash trees make up an average of 20 percent of street trees, or about 717 million
trees.
“Although defending against this bug may seem to be an inconvenience to some people this
camping season, we are lucky Wisconsin still has an opportunity to try and keep this pest out of our
parks and communities,” says Diss. “While some other states had no warning, the focus for us lies in
making our defense as efficient and unified as possible to protect our amazing and unique urban and
forest resources.”
Federal quarantines have been placed on firewood from Illinois, lower Michigan, Ohio, and
Indiana. Anyone moving firewood out of these areas is subject to federal fines of up to $1,000.
Emerald Ash Borer is not the only pest that moves on firewood. Gypsy moth, oak wilt, and
many other pests and diseases also hitch a ride whenever they can. People who have reserved a
campsite at a DNR property for 2007 will be receiving a post card in the mail this month reminding
them of this firewood rule.
More information on the emerald ash borer, what’s being done, and what people can do to help is
available on the multi-state emerald ash borer Web site at [http://www.emeraldashborer.info]. More
information about Wisconsin’s firewood rule is available on the DNR Web site at
[http://dnr.wi.gov/invasives/firewood/] or call the firewood hotline at 1-877-303-WOOD (9663).
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Dr. Andrea Diss-Torrance - (608) 264-9247 or
(608) 516-2223
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Wisconsin DNR News, May 8, 2007
International Migratory Bird Day May 12
This year’s theme is ‘Birds in a Changing Climate’
MADISON – From looking back at records that renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold kept on
the springtime arrival of migrating birds at the family's farm on the lower Wisconsin River, ecologist
Nina Leopold Bradley found that birds such as the rose-breasted grosbeak are arriving up to 20 days
earlier in the spring now than they did when her father recorded their arrival more than 60 years ago.
Global climate change may be affecting many forms of wildlife, including birds. To help draw
attention to these changes, the theme of the 2007 International Migratory Bird Day is “Birds in a
Changing Climate.”
International Migratory Bird Day, which this year is Saturday, May 12, is held each year to draw
attention to the plight of migratory birds that yearly make incredible journeys between their breeding
grounds in North America and their wintering grounds in Mexico, Central, and South America. Many of
these birds are declining in numbers, primarily due to the loss of habitat, but biologists are also
concerned about how global climate change will affect populations.
“The old adage of the canary in a coal mine is based on the reality that birds have long been
known to be sensitive indicators of environmental changes,” says Sumner Matteson, an avian ecologist
with the Department of Natural Resources. “They have informed us of impacts from lead poisoning,
pesticides, and other contaminants in our air and water.”
The reactions of birds to weather have long been noted. For hundreds of years, farmers used the
arrival of migratory birds to make decisions about planting crops. Today, as the rate of warming
increases, scientists worldwide are exploring how climate change will affect birds and how we can
reduce our impact.
Matteson says these changes may include:
• Different bird species’ ranges shifting north as they move to areas that match their temperature
tolerances and habitat needs. Some Neotropical migrants, such as the Cape May and bay-breasted
warblers, have extended their ranges significantly farther north in the last 20 years by an average
distance of more than 60 miles. This effect may be problematic for birds that live in the Arctic or
mountainous regions, as they have distributions that can’t shift any farther north as the habitats
around them change due to global warming.
• Breeding and feeding habitats may change as temperature changes affect food availability for some
birds. One example is the gray jay, which relies on stored frozen food. Populations of gray jays are
declining in some areas because their stored food supply is thawing out and becoming unsuitable for
the birds to eat.
• Changes to migratory stopovers or breeding areas. The Prairie Pothole Region in the Northern Great
Plains produces 50 to 80 percent of the primary species of game ducks on the North American
continent. This region, characterized by millions of shallow depressions that fill with water suitable
for breeding and migrating ducks, is sure to be affected by climatic alterations. More droughts will
create fewer wetlands, saltier water, and plants with less nutritional value -- all of which make the
region less suitable as habitat for ducks.
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Wisconsin DNR News, May 8, 2007
• Changes in the timing of events such as egg laying. Tree Swallows are now laying eggs, on average,
a week or more earlier than they did thirty years ago because of earlier springs with higher
temperatures. Colonial waterbirds, such as cormorants, are also laying eggs earlier.
More information about International Migratory Bird Day can be found on the IMBD Web site at
[http://www.birday.org]. A number of International Migratory Bird Day activities and related events are
being held throughout Wisconsin in May including:
• Crex Meadows Bird Festival. Wildlife enthusiasts can see up to 270 kinds of birds including
many rare and endangered species on the 30,000 acre Crex Meadows Wildlife Area near
Grantsburg in Burnett County. The festival includes guided bus tours, a guided canoe/kayak tour,
guided hikes and various birding programs scheduled throughout the day, including live Wisconsin
raptors. Refreshments and food are available at the Friends of Crex food stand and birding books,
equipment and other items offered at the center’s Bog Shoe Store. More information on the
http://www.crexmeadows.org/CMWA%20Spring%20Birding%20Festival.html is available on the
Friends of Crex Meadows Web site [http://www.crexmeadows.org/].
• Chequamegon Bay Birding and Nature Festival May 18-20. The event will be held in Ashland
and feature more than 140 activities during the three-day weekend, including field trips, guest
speakers, hands-on workshops, and youth programs. Program topics include bird ecology,
landscaping for wildlife, dragonfly identification, black bear movement patterns, birdhouse
building, fish hatchery tours, wildlife art, digital photography, and much more. More information
and registration is available on the festival Web site at: [http://www.birdandnaturefest.com/] or by
calling 1-800-284-9484.
• Horicon Marsh Bird Festival May 11-14. Festival includes bird watching hikes and tours,
pontoon tours of the marsh, bird banding and live birds of prey demonstrations. A new feature this
year will be information on the new Wisconsin eBird Web site, that allows people from around the
state the opportunity to find out what birds are being seen around the state and to report their own
observations. In all, there are more than two dozen activities scheduled for the festival. A complete
list of activities can be found on the Horicon Marsh Bird Club Web site at
[http://www.marshmelodies.com]. Events are held at a variety of locations, including the
Department of Natural Resources Horicon Service Center and the Horicon National Wildlife
Refuge Visitor Center.
Other events are schedule at the Urban Ecology Center in Milwaukee the Gordon Bubolz Nature
Preserve in Appleton, and Heckrodt Wetland Reserve in Menasha. More information on these events can
be found on the Bird IQ Web site at [http://www.birdiq.com/journey/index.html].
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Sumner Matteson - (608) 266-1571
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Wisconsin DNR News, May 8, 2007
Hearings set on rules to prevent spread of deadly fish virus
MADISON – Emergency rules affecting boaters, anglers and bait harvesters and aimed at
preventing the spread to inland waters of a deadly fish virus found in Great Lakes waters are the topic of
public hearings this month in Ashland and Milwaukee.
The emergency rules affect all boaters, anglers and people who harvest bait from the wild and
they went into effect April 8 for 150 days. The rules aim to avoid the accidental spread of the fish
disease by prohibiting people from moving live fish and fish eggs from one waterbody to another, by
limiting where they can use dead bait, and requiring that all water be drained from boats and boating
equipment after being used on potentially infected waters.
Viral hemorrhagic septicemia, or VHS virus, is not a health threat for people who eat or handle
fish infected with it. But it can infect and kill more than 25 game fish, panfish and bait fish species and it
caused huge fish kills on several eastern Great Lakes in 2005 and 2006.
VHS is likely already in Lake Michigan and possibly in Lake Superior and the Mississippi River.
Wisconsin fisheries officials are concerned that if the virus enters inland waters, which are much smaller
than the Great Lakes, the virus could spread quickly among the species and potentially devastate the
fishery. Healthy fish can get the virus by eating infected fish or absorbing water carrying the virus. More
information on VHS is available online at:
http://dnr.wi.gov/fish/pages/vhs.html.
The emergency rule and fiscal estimate may be reviewed and comments electronically submitted
through the Wisconsin Administrative Rules Web site:
[https://apps4.dhfs.state.wi.us/admrules/public/Rmo?nRmoId=2443].
Written comments on the proposed rule may be submitted until May 28, 2007, via U.S. mail to
Bill Horns, Bureau of Fisheries Management, P.O. Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707 or by e-mail to
bill.horns@wisconsin.gov.
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 information call Bill Horns at (608) 266-
8782. The hearings will all be held at 5 p.m. on the following dates at the location listed:
• May 10, Ashland - Council Chambers, Ashland City Hall, 601 Main St. West.
• May 17, Milwaukee - Rooms 140 and 141, DNR Southeast Region Headquarters, 2300 N. Dr.
Martin Luther King Jr. Dr.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Bill Horns - (608) 266-8782
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Wisconsin DNR News, May 8, 2007
Wisconsin sturgeon spawning to be featured in IMAX movie
SHAWANO – The Lake Winnebago system lake sturgeon may have ended their 2007 spawning
run up the Wolf River, but people will soon be able to experience that primordial journey in living, 3-D
color.
A Canadian science center filmed the sturgeon, their human handlers and their admirers for a 40-
minute IMAX movie to be released in May 2008. The film will be shown initially at the Science North
science center in Sudbury, Ontario, and then rolled out for wider distribution.
Though not the sole subject of “Wonder of the Great Lakes,” the sturgeon are clearly the star of
the $4.5 million film -- along with the Department of Natural Resources fish crews, the citizen
volunteers who are committed to their survival, and the “spectacle” of people lined up to watch and
cheer on the sturgeon, says David Lickley, the film’s director and producer.
“This is unique and you guys (DNR) are doing amazing work with the fish,” Lickley says. “Part
of the story is that people are really rooting for this fish.”
While other sturgeon populations around the globe dwindle, the Lake Winnebago system
population is flourishing as the world’s largest naturally reproducing lake sturgeon population, thanks to
the DNR fisheries staff and the citizens who actively advise them, guard the fish during its spring
spawning runs, and pay for DNR management activities through their donations and purchase of
sturgeon spearing licenses.
Their combined efforts sustain an estimated 11,000 adult females and 25,000 adult males that
support the largest recreational lake sturgeon fishery in North America, with an average annual harvest
of 1,400 fish, and an annual economic impact exceeding $3 million annually.
The IMAX film uses the lake sturgeon, which can live up to 100 years, as both narrative device
and case study in telling the Great Lakes conservation story. Viewers will see the Great Lakes change
from pristine to polluted to recovering. They will see wild inhabitants dwindle and start to recover but
also face challenges from invasive species.
To tell the lake sturgeon’s story, Lickley and a crew of 16 specialists from all over spent five
days shooting underwater and above the water as the fish began their spawning run in late April along a
60-mile stretch of the Wolf River.
They showed the fish spawning, Ron Bruch, senior DNR sturgeon biologist, and his crew netting
the huge fish, lugging them on shore and then measuring them and tagging them. They filmed the
crowds of kids who lined the slippery plastic “slides” the fish rode down the bank and into the water as
the fish crews finished with them. And they filmed the “Sturgeon Guards,” volunteers who commit to 12
hour shifts of watching the fish while they are spawning and especially vulnerable.
“We had perfect weather, lots of fish, and amazing cooperation from Ron and his group,”
Lickley says. “We got more footage shot in three days than for any natural history film I’ve shot.”
How does the movie end? The fish swims off into the sunset.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Ron Bruch (920) 424-3059
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Wisconsin DNR News, May 8, 2007
Invasive plants should go to the landfill
MADISON – Spring is the time when many property owners and volunteer organizations are
hard at work trying to eliminate invasive plants like garlic mustard from their woods, yards and local
parks. Many invasive plants, like garlic mustard, continue to develop seeds once they have been pulled
from the ground.
For plants like this, effective control means that the flowering plants must be removed from the
site to keep the seed from spreading. Allowing the plants to dry out and burning them is an option in
some rural areas, but landowners should be aware that there are frequently restrictions or permit
requirements for open air burning.
Although backyard composting is normally the preferred method for dealing with most yard
waste, backyard compost piles and bins do not reliably generate enough heat for a long enough period of
time to destroy some plant seeds. The same problem may occur at many municipal or rural compost
facilities, thereby spreading the invasive plants when the finished compost is utilized.
To ensure that the invasive plants are destroyed and the seeds not redistributed, the Department
of Natural Resources Endangered Resources Program and Waste Management Program are asking
property owners to separate and bag any invasive plants in clear bags and label the bags “invasive plants
– approved by Wis. DNR for landfilling.” Groups removing invasive plants from public properties like
parks should make arrangements with their local public works office for collection and disposal.
“Even though landfilling of yard waste is prohibited in Wisconsin, the DNR is using its
enforcement discretion to allow invasive plants to be landfilled because that represents the best available
option for disposing of them,” said Cynthia Moore, DNR Recycling Team Leader.
“We don’t recommend composting invasive plants and their seeds because of the likelihood that
viable plants and seeds will be spread through the distribution of the finished compost. Only specially
designed and carefully managed composting operations should accept invasive plants”
More information on invasive weed species and eradication and recycling is available on the
DNR Web site.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Gretchen Wheat - (608) 267-0557 (recycling and
landfilling) or Kelly Kearns (608) 267-5066 or Tom Boos (608) 266-9276 (invasive plants)
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Few days left to fill out survey on fish and wildlife priorities
Public asked to help guide future management
MADISON – People who haven’t yet taken the opportunity to provide input on fish and wildlife
management in Wisconsin still have time to take a few minutes to fill out the online survey. Completed
surveys will be accepted until this Friday, May 11 and will be compiled and presented to the Natural
Resources Board in June.
Each year, the DNR receives about $15 million in federal grants to help manage sport fish and
wildlife populations. To receive the federal grants, the department is required to prepare a “Fish,
Wildlife and Habitat Management Plan” to show how those funds will be spent over the next six years.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Barb Zellmer at - (608) 266-8724
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Wisconsin DNR News, May 8, 2007
‘Learn to deer hunt’ course applications available
BABCOCK, Wis. – Youths and beginner adults who have never hunted deer before can learn the
basics of deer hunting and deer ecology by applying to participate in “Learn to deer hunt” workshops
that will be held this year at the Sandhill Wildlife Area near Babcock.
The one-day workshop includes information on deer biology and management, instruction on
compasses, scouting for sign, firearm safety, hunt rules and regulations, and hunter ethics. Those who
complete the workshop are allowed to return for a special hunt on Nov. 4-5 at Sandhill.
The youth workshop is offered to young hunters, 12 to 15 years old. Each youth must be
accompanied by an adult, 21 years or older, who acts as chaperon and teacher. Youth workshops will be
held on Saturday, August 4, Tuesday, August 7, Thursday, August 9, Saturday, August 11, Monday,
August 14, and Wednesday, August 16.
A one-day beginner adult workshop is offered to people 16 or older who have never hunted deer
with a gun before. Beginner adults must also be accompanied by an adult chaperon. The Beginner
Adult workshop will be held on Saturday, Sept. 22.
To qualify for the program, all participants must either be enrolled in a Hunter Safety course or
must possess a valid Hunter Safety Certificate. Students will be required to have a license by the time of
the hunt. Previous participants are ineligible.
Chaperons should have some deer hunting experience and are expected to attend the workshop as
well as the hunt with the student. Their primary role is to assist the beginner in developing the skills
necessary to become a responsible hunter and sportsperson. The chaperon will not be allowed to carry a
firearm during the hunt.
Applications for the Learn to Deer Hunt Workshops will be available throughout April and May
at DNR Service Centers or on the Sandhill Outdoors Skills Center page of the DNR Web site at
[http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/reclands/sandhill]. Applications must be postmarked on or before
May 31, 2007. Enrollment is limited to 180 students. Applicants will be randomly selected and
successful applicants will be notified by June 30. A fee of $35 will be charged to enter program. Fee
waivers are available for those unable to afford the fee.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Dick Thiel – (715) 884-6333
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Wisconsin DNR News, May 8, 2007
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.*
May 9 – 13
• Spring turkey hunting period E
May 16 – 20
• Spring turkey hunting period F:
May 20
• Yellow perch season opens on Green Bay, the Fox River and other Green Bay tributaries through March 15 with a bag
limit of 10. Yellow perch season on Lake Michigan opens June 16.*
• Set or bank pole and setlines can be used on specified waters in the Wolf and Fox river basins through Sept. 30. Check
the current Setline, Set or Bank Pole Regulations for open waters.
May 26
• Muskellunge season opens north of State Highway 10.
June 2 – 3
• Free Fishing Weekend. No license or stamps required to fish inland waters or outlying Wisconsin waters of the Great
Lakes and Mississippi and St. Croix rivers. All bag and size limits and other regulations apply.
June 3
• State Parks Open House Day -- free admission to all state parks, forests and trails.
June 16
• Yellow perch season opens on Lake Michigan with a bag limit of five (5).*
• Northern zone bass season goes from catch-and-release to daily bag limits. Check current regulations for bag and size
limits.
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DNR Public Hearings and Meetings
Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, reasonable accommodations, including the provision of informational material in an alternative
format, will be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. Please call the contact person listed for the meeting or hearing
with specific information on your request at least 10 days before the date of the scheduled hearing.
Hearings
May 10 & 17 - Pursuant to §§ 23.09(2)(intro.), 23.091, 23.11(1), 23.22(2)(a) and (b)6., 27.01(2)(j), 29.041, 227.11(2)(a) and
227.24(1)(a), Stats., interpreting §§ 23.09(2)(intro.), 23.22(2)(a), 29.014(1), 29.041 and 227.11(2)(a), Wis. Stats., public
hearings will be held on Natural Resources Board Emergency Order No. FH-22-07(E) which revises chs. NR 19 and 20, Wis.
Adm. Code, pertaining to control of fish diseases and invasive species. The rule: 1) prohibits the possession on the water and
use of live fish, fish eggs, crayfish or frogs from outside Wisconsin, except minnows imported in compliance with U.S.
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) and Wisconsin Department of
Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) import and health requirements; 2) prohibits the possession on the
water and use of dead bait, except used on Lake Michigan or on the water the bait originated from, or when preserved in a
way that would kill VHS virus; 3) prohibits the transportation of live fish or fish eggs from waters of the Great Lakes or the
Mississippi River drainage, except 1) fish being exported in compliance with USDA APHIS regulations and orders; b) fish or
fish eggs tested and found to be free of VHS virus; and c) fish or fish eggs transported with the prior written approval of the
Department; 4) requires all boaters to drain water from bilges, ballast, buckets and live wells immediately after leaving waters
of the Great Lakes or of the Mississippi River drainage, unless exempted in writing by the Department; 5) allows the
Department to deny permits for the use of non-standard minnow gear to prevent the spread of invasive species or diseases.
The emergency rule and fiscal estimate may be reviewed and comments electronically submitted through the Wisconsin
Administrative Rules Web site: [http://adminrules.wisconsin.gov]. Written comments on the proposed rule may be submitted
until May 28, 2007 via U.S. mail to Mr. Bill Horns, Bureau of Fisheries Management and Habitat Protection, P.O. Box 7921,
Madison, WI 53707. Comments may be submitted. 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 information call Bill Horns at (608)
266-8782. The remaining hearings will all be held at 5 p.m. on the following dates at the location listed:
May 10, Ashland - Council Chambers, Ashland City Hall, 601 Main St. West.
May 17, Milwaukee - Rooms 140 and 141, DNR Southeast Region Hdqrs., 2300 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr.
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Wisconsin DNR News, May 8, 2007
May 11 - Pursuant to ch. 160 and §§ 281.12(1), 281.15 and 281.19(1), Wis. Stats., interpreting ch. 160 and §§ 281.12(1),
281.15, 281.19(1) and 299.11, Stats., a public hearing will be held on the amendment of § NR 140.10 Table 1, Wis. Adm.
Code, relating groundwater quality standards for Alachlor-ESA at 11 a.m. in Room 511, of the State Natural Resources
Building (GEF 2), 101 S. Webster St., Madison. Alachlor-ESA (Alachlor ethane sulfonic acid) is a degradation product of the
herbicide Alachlor that has been found extensively in Wisconsin groundwater. In accordance with ch. 160, Stats., the
Department is required to propose rules establishing the recommendations from the Department of Health and Family
Services as groundwater quality standards in ch. NR 140. The Department of Health and Family Services has recommended
an enforcement standard of 20 Jg/L for Alachlor-ESA. A concentration of 20 Jg/L has been used as in interim health advisory
level for Alachlor-ESA in Wisconsin since 1993. Department staff have 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. The proposed rule and fiscal estimate may be reviewed and comments electronically submitted
through the Wisconsin Administrative Rules Web site: [http://adminrules.wisconsin.gov]. Written comments on the proposed
rule may be submitted until May 18, 2007 via U.S. mail to William Phelps, Bureau of Drinking Water and Groundwater, PO Box
7921, Madison, WI 53707. Comments may be. 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 William Phelps
at (608) 267-7619.
May 15 - A public hearing pursuant to §§ 29.014 and 227.11, Stats., interpreting § 29.014, Stats., on revisions to chs. NR 10, 12
and 16, Wis. Adm. Code, relating to hunting, nuisance wild animal removal and captive wildlife will be held at 1 p.m. in Room
608, of the State Natural Resources Building (GEF 2), 101 S. Webster Street, Madison. Annually the department updates
administrative code language to correct inconsistencies, update outdated language and provide clarification where appropriate.
This year, the department is proposing the following changes related to hunting, nuisance wild animal removal and captive wild
animals: 1) Clarify that a disabled person is a person who holds a Class A, B or C disabled permit; 2) establish that the rabbit
hunting season closes on the last day in February rather than February 28; 3) correct a cross reference in the firearm deer
hunting season; 4) update the fisher zone map which is based on the recently updated Deer Management Zone Map; 5) relax
bear carcass registration so that bear may be registered at stations that are adjacent to highways that form the boundary of the
bear management zone in which it was killed; 6) correct drafting errors in the rule that establishes small game hunting in state
parks; 7) clarify that landowners who are removing certain nuisance wild animals are not subject to hunting or trapping seasons;
and
update cross references and terminology so that Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection’s animal
diseases and movement rules and DNR’s captive wildlife rules are consistent. Department staff have 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 Wisconsin Administrative Rules Web site at
[http://adminrules.wisconsin.gov]. Written comments on the proposed rule may be submitted via U.S. mail to Scott Loomans,
Bureau of Wildlife Management, Wisconsin DNR, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707. Comments may be submitted until May
17, 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 Scott Loomans at (608) 267-2452.
May 15, 17, 22, 23 & 24 - Public hearings the state on proposed changes to the state’s mercury rule will be held around the
state in April. The Department of Natural Resources has proposed revisions to NR 446, which requires each utility with coalfired
electrical generating units affected by the federal Clean Air Mercury Rule (CAMR) to meet an annual mercury emission
cap. There are currently 48 such units in Wisconsin, operated by eight utilities. The proposed changes would allow the
Department to implement the CAMR in Wisconsin. The proposed changes include: requirements in the federal CAMR will
meet the consistency commitment in the current state rule; compliance with the CAMR would require each Wisconsin utility
with affected coal-fired power plants to meet an annual mercury emission cap without participating in EPA’s national trading
program; and rules to achieve a 90 percent mercury reduction at all coal-fired power plants will be adopted by June 30, 2010.
Incentives will also be developed to encourage early achievement of the 90 percent reduction. Gov. Jim Doyle directed the
agency to reach a 90 percent reduction by 2020. A January 2007 Citizen Petition submitted to the DNR requested that the
same revisions be made to Chapter NR 446, except that it called for a 90 to 95 percent reduction in emissions by 2012. For
more information contact Jon Heinrich, Bureau of Air Management Environmental Analysis Section Chief, at (608) 267-7547.
The public hearings on revisions to NR 446 will all begin at 1:30 p.m. on the following dates at the locations listed:
May 15, Green Bay - Green Bay State Office Building, Room 152-A, 200 N. Jefferson St.
May 17, Stevens Point - Portage County Annex Building, Conference Room 2, 1462 Strongs Ave.
May 22, Eau Claire - DNR Office Building, Front Conference Room, 1300 W. Clairemont Ave.
May 23, Madison - Room 041 (Department of Public Instruction’s room in GEF III), 125 S. Webster St.
May 24 Milwaukee - DNR Southeast Regional Headquarters, Room 141, 2300 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr.
May 16 & May 30 - A public hearing in the matter of the application of Flambeau Mining Company for issuance of a Certificate
of Completion of Reclamation of the Flambeau Mine near Ladysmith in Rusk County will commence at 2 p.m., and will
continue until 5 p.m. It will continue at 6:30 p.m. that evening, and at 8:30 a.m. on May 17, 2007. The hearing will be held in
the County Board Room of the Rusk County Courthouse, 311 Miner Avenue, Ladysmith. A contested case hearing on the
application will commence at 9 a.m., on May 30, 2007 in the County Board Room of the Rusk County Courthouse, 311 Miner
Avenue, Ladysmith.
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Wisconsin DNR News, May 8, 2007
The hearing will continue on May 31 – June 1, and June 4, if necessary, at the same location. All witnesses who have filed
testimony shall be present at the contested case hearing and made available for cross-examination unless all parties stipulate
that such a witness need not be present. Rebuttal witnesses will be allowed if appropriate. For information contact the Division
of Hearings and Appeals at (608) 266-7709
May 22 – A contested case hearing in the matter of the petition for review of the issuance of WPDES Permit No. WI-0028835-
08-0 issued to the Village of Roberts, St. Croix County, Wisconsin will commence at 12:30 p.m., in the Council Chambers
Room of the Hudson City Hall, 505 Third St., Hudson. It will continue, if necessary, on May 23-24, 2007 at the same location.
For information contact the State of Wisconsin Division of Hearings and Appeals at (608) 266-7709.
Meetings
May 9 – The Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming will hold its first meeting from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the first floor
conference room of the Commerce/WHEDA Building, 201 West Washington Ave., Madison. The agenda includes a welcome
by Governor Doyle, review of Executive Order 191 creating the Task Force, and a discussion of work plan, schedule and other
planning matters. For information, contact Melody Marshall at (608) 264-8851.
May 14 - Staff from the Department of Natural Resources and the US Department of Agriculture, Animal & Plant Health
Inspection Service - Wildlife Service will jointly conduct a public meeting to discuss a goose population management plan for
the Long Lake Recreation Area in the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit. The meeting will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. at
the Henry S. Ruess Ice Age Visitor Center located off of STH 67, half mile west of Dundee in Fond du lac County. Staff will
discuss an integrated plan to successfully resolve conflicts with resident Canada geese. For more information contact Jerry
Leiterman, Forest Superintendent, at (262) 626-2116.
May 15 – Sheboygan County Construction & Demolition Waste Reduce, Reuse & Recycle meeting, 4:30-5:30 p.m. at the
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Plymouth Service Center, 1155 Pilgrim Road, Plymouth. The meeting will
feature - Roger Cavanaugh of Cavanaugh's Carriage, Neenah who will update recreation, education and rental facility owners,
contractors & area residents on how a multi-million dollar recreational facility was created using recycled buildings & materials.
Cavanaugh's Carriages - Recreational Facility is set on a 140 acre farm with woods, open fields and pastures. There are
ponds within their acres, which ducks and geese fly into. Many on-site trails lead through the farm and are open year round for
hay rides, sleigh rides, hiking and educational nature and environmental programs. For more information contact Christine F.
Lilek, DNR, at (920) 892-8756, ext 3027.
May 17 - The DNR Private Water Advisory Council will meet at 9 a.m. in Room G09 of the State Natural Resources Building,
101 S. Webster St., Madison 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 contact Dorie Turpin at (608) 266-0162.
May 21 – The Mid-Kettle Moraine Partners Group consisting of individuals representing governments, private nonprofit
conservation agencies and others interested n the Mid-Kettle Moraine will meet at 9 a.m. at the Richfield Town Hall, 4128
Hubertus Road, Hubertus. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss activities related to sharing the Partners Group's vision
with local governments and others, continue to discuss increased contacts with local governments and others and to share
information on members activities. A tour of a Town of Richfield park will be part of the meeting. For information contact
Paulette Harder at (414) 263-8525.
May 22-23 – The state Natural Resources Board will meet at the 29 Pines Hotel, 5872 33rd Avenue, Eau Claire. For
information contact Laurie J. Ross, Natural Resources Board Executive Staff Assistant at (608) 267-7420.
May 23 – Wisconsin Council on Forestry advisory committee for a Wisconsin Forestry Sustainability Framework will meet from
8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the U.S. Forest Products Laboratory, One Gifford Pinchot Drive, Madison. The forest sustainability
advisory committee to the Wisconsin Council on Forestry will meet for the purpose of developing recommendations to the
Council on criteria for measuring forest sustainability in Wisconsin. The subcommittee will be selecting criteria in seven broad
categories including: biological biodiversity; forest production; forest health; soil and water; global carbon; socioeconomic
benefits; and legal and institutional criteria. Public input will be heard after Committee discussions of each criterion and at the
end of the day or the public may provide comment to the advisory committee online at
http://council.wisconsinforestry.org/framework/. For information contact Robert Manwell at (608) 264-9248.
May 24 – The DNR wolf science committee will meet from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Wausau Gander Mountain, 1560
County Trunk Highway XX in Mosinee. The agenda includes discussion of: depredation control guidelines and concerns and
consideration of modifications from the wolf stakeholders; current wolf count and implications for proactive controls; updates
on depredation management; and updates on lawsuits. For information contact Adrian Wydeven at (715) 762-1363
# # #
Department of Natural Resources – CE/6
PO Box 7921 Madison WI 53707-7921
Free Fishing Weekend June 2-3
State Park Open House Day June 3
June 2 & 3 is Free Fishing
Weekend in Wisconsin. No
fishing licenses are required
this weekend. All other
regulations such as bag and
size limits apply. Sunday June
4 is also Wisconsin State
Parks Open House Day, with
free admission to state parks
and forests, and many
properties offer fishing
activities, such as free clinics.
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/
