WDNR Outdoor Report as of May 15, 2008
Cool temperatures continued to persist across Wisconsin in the last week, but most of the state has remained fairly dry in the last week. All lakes are finally free of ice across the Northwoods. Green up is progressing across the state, and fire danger levels are at moderate. However, if conditions remain dry, fire danger levels could increase.
State park and forest trails, and the linier bicycle trails are drying out but some trails in the more northern part of the state are still soft. The mountain bike trails at Lapham Peak Unit and Northern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest are now open, but mountain bike trails at other some parks are still closed, so call ahead to make sure trails are open. If conditions become wet or soft, bikers should exercise good trail ethics and not use muddy or soft trails as they are more vulnerable to damage. And state park officials are reminding bikers aged 16 and over that they are required to have a state trail pass on many of the rail-to trail and developed mountain bike trails.
Walleyes, northern pike, and perch were being caught on northern Wisconsin lakes. Walleye and smallmouth were being caught in the Peshtigo River and the Menominee River has still been producing good numbers of walleye at the mouth of the river. In the south, largemouth bass are in pre-spawn condition and have provided good action. They should begin spawning soon as the water continues to warm. Panfish action has been very spotty. A few white bass and catfish were being caught on the Crawfish River.
A few walleye were still being caught on the Fox River in Green Bay; but most fish have moved into the lower bay, where they were being caught on crawler harnesses. Anglers fishing for smallmouth bass had success in the back areas of most of the small bays at the southern end of Green Bay. The cold waters that are persisting on the Green Bay side of the peninsula were also producing some nice browns, mostly north of Sturgeon Bay. Fishing on the Lake Michigan side was mixed this past week, with only a few brown trout landed in some areas, but brown trout fishing fair to good for anglers trolling from Sturgeon Bay to Baileys Harbor. Suckers continue to be plentiful in the Lake Michigan tributaries.
Port Washington trollers have been catching browns just outside the harbor. Shore anglers fishing near the Summerfest grounds in Milwaukee have been catching a few browns and rainbows. Trollers fishing off Milwaukee have been reporting a few lake trout and chinooks. Coho should be working their way north into the Milwaukee area over the next couple of weeks. Kenosha shore anglers have been catching a few coho off the south pier.
The yellow perch season opens May 20 on Green Bay, the Fox River and other Green Bay tributaries with a bag limit of 15, but a reminder that the yellow perch season on the waters of Lake Michigan does not open until June 16.
Turkeys are still gobbling in many locations. The spring turkey season is in its fifth period with some with some nice turkeys being registered. Next week marks the sixth and final period for the 2008 spring season.
Black-throated green, yellow rumped and a variety of other warblers are being seen. Some very colorful recent arrivals include Scarlet tanagers, rose-breasted grosbeaks, indigo buntings and Baltimore orioles. Great blue herons are occupying their rookeries, which can contain 60 or more nests.
Fiddlehead ferns are emerging, and spring wildflowers are showing across the state with marsh marigolds, bloodroot, trilliums, spring beauties, Virginia bluebells, Dutchman’s breeches, and bellwort in bloom. Dwarf lake iris have started blooming in Door County.
Spring peepers and wood frogs are still calling in many areas near wetlands, ponds and streams. Mushroom hunters and wild asparagus pickers are finding some to harvest but the cool weather is slowing activity.
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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.
Wildfire Conditions for May 15, 2008
Current wildfire conditions are Moderate around the state. This week, 29 wildfires burned 10 acres, including the loss of two buildings. The main causes were debris burning, improper ash disposal, and equipment. Prescribed burning continues across the state, with most activity occurring farther north where the vegetation has not completely “greened up” yet. Check this site for current statewide fire danger and burning permit restrictions:
http://dnr.wi.gov/forestry/fire/. While you’re there, take a few minutes to watch a new public service announcement called “Smokey’s Rules for Debris Burning.”
Northern Region Wildfire News
In parts of Northern Region where DNR is responsible for wildfire suppression, 21 fires burned a total of 7 acres with five structures saved and one structure receiving damage this week. One additional structure was lost when sparks from a wood boiler spread to an outbuilding. The fire danger is Moderate across the region. Prescribed burning is taking place, with a total of 23 prescribed burns on 1,523 acres completed. Remember, burning permits are required and burning is only allowed from 6 pm – midnight with no burning on Sundays or legal holidays.
South Central Region Wildfire News
It was a quiet week in the region, with no wildfires in DNR suppression areas. Prescribed burning continued in the region with eight controlled burns being completed on 110 acres. Current fire danger is Moderate across the region and burning permits are required.
West Central Region Wildfire News
Four wildfires burned less than half an acre across the region this week. Current wildfire conditions across the region are set at Moderate. Burning permits are required.
Northeast Region Wildfire News
Four wildfires burned two acres this week. Prescribed burning continues in the region with 12 controlled burns being completed on 316 acres. Wildfire conditions are currently Moderate across the region. Oconto County News: An open house for the public to have the opportunity to view and comment on the Town of Riverview’s Community Wildfire Protection Plan has been scheduled for May 17. The open house will be held at the Crooked Lake Fire Department from 10 a.m. until noon. If approved, an adoption of the plan will occur at the Town Board meeting in June. Members of the public are encouraged to attend.
Firewise Tip: Clear a 10 foot space around propane tanks. Keep the grass mowed short or fill in the area with rocks or gravel. Propane tanks should be located at least 30 feet from all buildings.
DNR Northern Region
Superior DNR Service Center area
Brule River State Forest - The Bois Brule River is flowing at 217 cubic feet per second (cfs). The 63 year average is 199 cfs. Canada geese goslings are hatching now. Most Canada geese in this area usually hatch within a few days of May 15. More birds are making their way back. Ovenbird, black and white, and black-throated green warblers, rose-breasted grosbeaks, golden-crowned kinglets, and blue-headed vireo are some of the recent newcomers. Ron Perala sighted 45 Caspian terns (Wisconsin State Endangered) resting at the mouth of the Bois Brule River on May 15 before continuing on their northern migration. Spring wildflowers are beginning to put on a show. Marsh marigolds, purple violets, and bloodroot are in full bloom now. The turkey season is in its fifth period with some with some nice turkeys being registered. Next week marks the sixth and final period for the 2008 spring season. Although many animal sightings can be interesting and exciting, some animals can get to be a nuisance to landowners. Reports of black bear conflicts are coming into the Brule DNR station much more often as bears are looking for an easy meal of bird seed or food scraps from garbage cans. The best way to discourage these bear is to take bird feeders down for a couple of weeks. Keep garbage in a secure location such as a garage or shed until garbage pick up day or dump day. For wolf, bear, and migratory bird complaints call the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Wildlife Services at 1-800-228-1368 or 715-369-5221 for the northern half of Wisconsin. Make sure to leave a message with them, they are very good about calling back. If additional help is needed for animals other than bear, wolves, or migratory birds contact your local DNR to contact a Wildlife Manager. For Douglas County and northwest Bayfield County call Greg Kessler at 715-372-8539 ext. 115. For the rest of Bayfield County and Ashland County contact the Ashland Service Center at 715-685-2900. Advice can be given to discourage the animals from creating problems, a trap may be checked out to the land owner to remove the animal (a deposit is required for the value of the trap), or if the land owner does not wish to handle the animal a phone number for a local wildlife consultant can be given.
Park Falls DNR Service Center area
Flambeau River State Forest - The south fork of the Flambeau River is no longer at a spring high but should still make for good paddling, as always please use caution. The north fork of the Flambeau River is at a normal level. Anglers are still catching red horse. All area lakes are ice free. ATV trails on the forest open May 15 and should be in good shape. Lake of the Pines Campground is open April 15 thru Dec. 15. Connors Campground will open the Thursday before Memorial weekend at noon. Trilliums are up and starting to open along with spring beauties and sessile-leaved bellwort. Aspen leaves are open and other trees are not far behind.
Woodruff DNR Service Center area
Varying weather patterns have brought cooler than normal temperatures to the area this past week. This unstable weather has fish cooperation just about as unstable. Although the lake temperatures increased a bit, cold evenings changed that around quickly. Count on fish activity picking up with some stable weather and warmer temperatures. Area fishing guides report that walleyes were moving into shallow dark bottomed bays to feed but many were holding back in the deep clear lakes where the waters remain very cold. Anglers, boaters, canoe and kayak enthusiasts should exercise caution on any waters in the northern region this time of year. Please remember to wear PFDs (personal flotation devices) when out on the waters. In addition, fishing guides reported that crappies and bass have been caught in shallow waters around submerged logs. Anglers need to remember to bring their fishing licenses with them when they are on the waters. Also please check to make sure that your fishing license is current. Now is a good time to review the fishing regulations. Pamphlets are available at area service centers and license outlets. Area Conservation Wardens report a major problem at the beginning of this fishing season with anglers exceeding their catch limit. Please remember to check the bag limits for the particular lake upon which you are fishing in order to avoid incurring a substantial fine. The early spring wildflowers are making an appearance. Among those flowers that are sprouting or blooming are the trailing arbutus, the marsh marigold, the wood violet, hepatica, wood anemone, barren strawberry, and the trillium. Although we recently encountered some rain, this is the time of year in our area when fire conditions remain high. Please remember to obtain burning permits and to exercise caution when dealing with fire. The woods are very dry, despite recent rains. Please remember that you are responsible if your burning gets out of control. When venturing out for your walks, be aware that tick activity is extremely high right now. Be sure to check yourselves as well as your pets after the walk.
Antigo DNR Service Center area
Council Grounds State Park - Walleyes, northern pike, and perch are being caught on Lake Alexander. Trilliums are starting to bloom. The campground is open. However, the flush toilet buildings and the dump station will not open until May 22. Volunteers are needed for spring clean-up: raking, garbage pick-up, and trail maintenance. If you are interested please contact Sara at (715) 536-8773.
DNR Northeastern Region
Peshtigo DNR Service Center area
Marinette County - Spring weather is ushering in the earliest of blooms such as wood violets, choke cherry blossoms, and the highly regarded springtime mushroom, the morel. Turkey hunters may be able to pick a few of the morels up during their scouting activities. Morels are commonly found near dead elm and popple trees. Not very many flying insects are out besides the black flies in the northern part of the county. Mosquitoes were not an issue on the trout streams as of yet. Fast water but not over the banks for most inland trout streams. Sturgeon pulled out of the Peshtigo Dam area over the weekend after spawning activity. Walleye and smallmouth were being caught in the Peshtigo River proper near the mouth. Boats are launching from Klingsborn Landing and the Peshtigo Harbor Ramp. Zip lures being casted and retrieved have been working well. Cat anglers at the mouth of the Peshtigo are waiting on the bite to begin. The Menominee River has still been producing good numbers of walleye with anglers jigging at the mouth of the river. Crawler harnesses were producing walleye and a few browns for anglers trolling in the Bay. Steelhead have been observed in the Menominee behind the library and a few fly fishers using leech patterns made a gallant attempt to bring these fish to hand, without success
Oconto County - The smallmouth bite remains good in the mouth of the Oconto River and along the breakwater, raps and zip lures are working the best. A few walleye were being caught by the Stiles Dam but the story there recently were the brown trout. Water levels are dropping and the fly fishers using caddis (size 16 - 18) along with bead head nymphs (size 16 - 20) were in hot pursuit of the browns. Boats launching from the Pensaukee Ramp are reporting limits of walleye in the 20 to 25 inch range, trolling in 6 to 8 feet of water with crawler harnesses. These same anglers were catching and releasing good numbers of catfish and northern pike.
Shawano County -
Green Bay DNR Service Center area
Brown County - On the Fox River in Green Bay, walleyes were still available; however, many have moved into the lower bay. Vertical jigging near structures has been the most successful for catching walleyes on the Fox. Anglers were successfully targeting walleyes in the lower bay. Walleyes caught on the bay were mainly being caught on crawler harnesses. Anglers moving slower and fishing in shallower water seem to have better success. Crank baits have been catching walleye on occasion in both the Fox River and lower bay. Water temperature is in the mid- to upper 50s. In the Sawyer Harbor/Little Sturgeon Bay area, water temperature is in the mid-40s. Anglers targeting smallmouth bass were having success with tube jigs, grubs, and jerk baits. Finding the right type of lure for the day and area is key. Some northern pike and the occasional largemouth bass and walleye were being caught on the same lures.
Manitowoc County - In Manitowoc, fishing over the past week was fair for most anglers. Brown trout anglers who tried their luck on the north pier, south pier and the stub pier met with slow fishing action this week. Boat anglers had mixed success during the week, but the weekend brought better success with many anglers landing a few brown trout. Most brown trout harvested ranged from 3 to 7 pounds. On the Manitowoc River, most anglers were fishing around Manitou Park or Lower Cato Falls Park. Anglers fishing at Lower Cato Falls on Sunday afternoon caught a couple rock bass on worms. On the Branch River, anglers had a real nice week with a mixed catch of smallmouth bass and rock bass at the Union Road crossing and on Sunday, a couple of trout anglers fishing farther upstream caught one nice rainbow trout. In Two Rivers, boat anglers were out in low numbers this past week. Fishing on Lake Michigan was slow this past weekend with only a few brown trout landed. Fishing in the harbor has been slow for brown trout although catfish and bullheads have been active all week. Pier anglers had a slow week too, but one successful angler landed a brown trout fishing from the North pier Saturday afternoon. On the East Twin River angler pressure picked this past week. Smallmouth bass anglers had success fishing the Mishicot dam on Saturday afternoon. On Sunday a couple of trout anglers were fishing the dam and caught one nice rainbow trout weighing in at 3.5 pounds and 23.5 inches. On the West Twin River anglers fishing just above the Shoto dams had a little success Saturday afternoon catching a couple smallmouth bass. Anglers reported the most action casting stick baits or a Mr. Twister and spinner combination.
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Door County - For the most part the weather this week was very nice. Most days had partly sunny skies and cool, but pleasant, temperatures. Walleye fishing this week has been good to very good, with most of the action coming at night, although a nice stringer of walleyes was taken between about on Saturday afternoon. The Sherwood Point, Henderson Point and Dunlop Reef areas all were producing fish as were some of the areas around Peninsula State Park. Crank baits, crawler harnesses and Rapalas fished in 8 to 15 feet of water were all producing nice walleyes. Anglers fishing for smallmouth bass continued to enjoyed success in the back areas of most of the bays at the southern end of the county. Plastics, tube jigs, grubs and jerks baits seemed to be providing most of the action. Farther north in the county, anglers enjoying the most success were slowing down there retrieves due to the cold water. For shore anglers, Stone Quarry County Park has been producing a few smallmouth bass. Brown trout fishing continued to be fair to good for anglers trolling Lake Michigan from Sturgeon Bay to Baileys Harbor, in 8 to 12 feet of water. The cold waters that are persisting on the Green Bay side of the peninsula were also producing some nice browns, mostly north of Sturgeon Bay. The flow of water out of the streams remains good and I saw a few smaller fish in Stony Creek at the south end of the county. Northern pike continued to be taken along the channel between the bridges in Sturgeon Bay as well as well as out of Sawyer Harbor, Little Sturgeon, Sand Bay and Riley’s Bay. The best bet for northerns seems to be live bait, spoons, inline spinners and jerk baits fished in 12 to 15 feet of water.
Peninsula State Park - All trails are open; however, considerable standing water is present in low lying areas. A couple sections of mountain bike trail are impassible, due to standing water. The Sunset Bike Trail is dry and in very good condition. Waterfowl sightings are abundant along the shore of Peninsula State Park. Warbler migrations are now taking place, subject to changing weather. Watch for bald eagles, sandhill cranes, migrating hawks and turkey vultures. New birds are arriving daily. Wood frogs and spring peepers are calling. Wildflowers sightings are changing daily. Trillium, Dutchman’s breeches, dwarf lake iris, gaywings, and too many others to list are blooming. Water levels in Green Bay and Lake Michigan are still very low, approximately 18 inches below the long-term average. Some increases in water levels are developing. The Tennison Bay and Weborg campgrounds are open. South Nicolet Bay campground opens on May 16. Door County Lighthouse Weekend is May 16-17. Park visitors may stop at the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, walk the grounds and enjoy an interpretive exhibit and magnificent views of waters of Green Bay. To learn about the lighthouse and the opening dates visit their Website at
www.EagleBluffLighthouse.org.
Kewaunee County - Steelhead fishing pressure continued to be slow all over, but fish were still in the tributaries. The Kewaunee River has seen the most action this past week. Steelhead have been caught around Bruemmer Park. Trolling action was slower, due to less than favorable weather periodically over the week. Brown trout should still be shallower in Lake Michigan this next week, and Rapalas still appear to be the most commonly used lure for trolling. Fishing cloudier water could work to anglers advantage in finding browns. There's always a chance for success off of the Algoma or Kewaunee Piers. Suckers continue to be plentiful in the tributaries.
DNR Southeast Region
Lake Michigan fisheries team report
Sheboygan County - In Sheboygan anglers fishing near the Kohler dam on the Sheboygan River have been catching fair numbers of brown trout, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. At the lakefront, fishing off the piers has been slow, but boaters fishing in 10 to 20 feet of water between the Sheboygan harbor and the mouth of the Pigeon River have been catching fair numbers of brown trout, along with a few lake trout and chinooks. Stick baits have been productive.
Ozaukee County - Port Washington trollers have been catching browns on spoons in 30 to 40 feet of water just outside the harbor. Shore anglers have caught a few rainbows on spawn near the power plant, but fishing there has been slow overall.
Milwaukee County - In Milwaukee, shore anglers fishing near the Summerfest grounds have been catching a few browns and rainbows on spawn fished off the bottom. Trollers fishing off Milwaukee have been reporting a few lake trout and chinooks in 120 feet of water. Coho should be working their way north into the Milwaukee area over the next couple of weeks.
Racine County - In Racine shore fishing at the lakefront has been slow, but trollers have been able to catch a mixed bag in 100 to 170 feet of water. Coho and steelhead have been hitting near the surface, and chinooks have been 50 to 90 feet down. Fishing on the Root River has been slow.
Kenosha County - Kenosha shore anglers have been catching a few coho off the south pier. Green & silver or blue & silver spoons have been effective. Kenosha trollers have been reporting decent numbers of coho around 120 feet of water.
Inland fisheries team report
Largemouth bass have provided good action on most of the area lakes. They are in pre-spawn condition at this time but, should begin spawning soon as the water continues to warm. Panfish action has been very spotty with some anglers reporting good catches on Big Cedar Lake and Pike Lake in Washington County. Trout streams are in great condition for this time of year. Water may be a little too clear to sneak up on fish.
DNR South Central Region
Fitchburg DNR Service Center area
Sauk County
Devil’s Lake State Park - The lake level is high, but there has not been any damaging flooding. The Tumbled Rocks Trail along the west side of the lake is closed. The south end of that trail is well underwater and the north end is barely flooded, and we hope it will become accessible soon with receding water. The lake water is very near the road at the south shore of the lake, but nothing is closed. Swimming beaches are underwater. Most of the 29 miles of hiking trails are now open, but expect more than usual mud, standing water and slippery sections. Tumbled Rocks Trail is temporarily closed due to high water, and the East Bluff Woods Trail is temporarily closed awaiting maintenance work on some washouts. A hiking circumnavigation of the lake is still possible, but you’ll have to ascend both the east and west bluffs. Mountain bike trails are closed to bikes and will remain closed as long as trails are muddy enough to be easily damaged, possibly into June. Expect a combination of mud, puddles and a glut of running surface water for the next few weeks. The north shore boat landing and adjacent parking lot are closed and water-covered. The south shore boat landing is open. Three ospreys have been fishing along the south shore of the lake and wood ducks have been paddling is various ponds of the park.. Yellow rumped warblers and scarlet tanagers have been spotted recently along the south shore of the lake. Spring peepers and a cacophony of other frogs are trilling, chirupping, ribbitting along streams, ponds and ditches every evening. Panoramic vistas show shades of bright greens smeared across the dark forest of tree trunks and branches as different species of trees are budding in a broad variety of greens. Water facilities (shower and restroom buildings, drinking fountains, water taps, RV dump/fill stations) are now all functioning for the season.
Jefferson County - Anglers have still been catching some bluegill on the marsh on Rock Lake. A few white bass were being caught on the Crawfish River in the Hubbleton area. The fish were biting on twistertails. Catfish were also biting on the Crawfish River on worms with a few 3-4 pounders being caught. Night-time bow-fishers were finding more buffalo on the upper Crawfish River than carp this year, which is a good sign. Mushroom hunters and wild asparagus pickers are finding some to harvest but the cool weather is slowing activity. The emergency slow-no-wake has been taken off the rivers and streams in Jefferson County now that the rivers are receding slowly within their banks.
DNR West Central Region
Baldwin DNR Service Center area
St. Croix County
Willow River State Park - In spite of discolored water in the lake, panfish action was found by a few of the (retirees) regular anglers. A mix of keeper bluegills, crappies, and rock bass was reported. The Willow River is still running discolored. Saturday, May 17 is an active bird day at the Nature Center. The annual Warbler Walk will leave from the Nature Center at 8 a.m. with Mike Ellington and Mike Middleton. At 7 p.m. the Full Moon Hike begins with a classroom presentation about swifts and hummingbirds then go for a hike. Both of these events are free with a daily or annual state park sticker on your vehicle. Flush toilets will be open in the beach area by Memorial Day weekend. Camping is full for that weekend. The canoes and kayaks will be available for rent also. Some prairie areas had controlled burns on them in recent days. Burning kills off the exotics and allows new growth of the native plants.
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
The Baltimore oriole is a strikingly beautiful member of the blackbird family. Males have jet black heads and tails, bright orange breasts and rumps, and white wing patches. Females are brownish olive on top with white wing bars, and a pale yellow-orange breast and belly. Baltimore orioles received their name because the male's colors resemble those on the coat-of-arms of Lord Baltimore. Males sing loud fluty whistles. This species generally resides in hardwood forests but has adapted to open woodlands, forest edges, parks, and urban backyards. Orioles' hanging pouch-like nests, created from milkweed down, weed fibers, dog hair, wool, yarns, and other fibrous materials, are usually constructed at the tips of tree limbs 15-30 feet above the ground, secure from predators. Orioles readily adapt to bird feeders that provide orange halves, small trays of grape jelly, mealworms, walnut pieces, apple bits, or nectar made from 4 parts water to 1 part sugar. Clumps of nesting materials, such as string, yarn, dog hair, or horse hair, suspended in trees and bushes may also serve to attract springtime orioles.
Buffalo River State Trail - Warm weather and rain has made the trail soft in spots. Grading will be done as conditions allow. ATVs are allowed year around on the Buffalo River Trail. Check with counties for their trail conditions and opening dates. Some wildflowers are beginning to bloom. Report any problems to Perrot State Park, 608-534-6409.
Great River State Trail - The warm weather and rain has made the trail soft in spots. Grading will be done as conditions allow. Enjoy the unique character of a flooded forest due to high water levels of the Black and Mississippi rivers. The best view is this is between Lytle's Landing and Trempealeau. Some wildflowers are beginning to bloom. The toilet buildings at Trempealeau and Lytle's Landing are open for the season.
Perrot State Park - With all the rain the past week trails are very soft and muddy. All sites are open for camping. The flush toilet/shower buildings in the lower loop are open. The dump station is open and potable water is available. Fishing has been slow and the river level is still high. The dock will be installed after the water returns to normal. The spring wild flowers are beginning to come out. Spotted this past week were bellwort, blood root, rue anemone, wood anemone, hepatica, columbine, wild ginger, shooting star, bird's foot violet, wood violet and trillium.
Wildcat Mountain State Park - Virginia bluebells and trilliums are blooming. Turkeys are still gobbling. Trout fishing has been good.
Eau Claire DNR Service Center area
Chippewa Moraine Ice Age State Recreation Area - Trails are in wonderful hiking condition. Fiddlehead ferns are emerging, and hepatica is in bloom but because of the late and cold spring, most flowers are just starting to emerge. Mushrooms, including morels are appearing but use extreme caution if you pick to eat. Some look similar to edible’s but are very poisonous. Local anglers are having success with some nice panfish being caught on lakes within the Reserve. Water levels have risen with recent rains and heavy snowfall this year, but many of the smaller kettle lakes are still down in level. A variety of songbirds have returned to the Chippewa Moraine including Scarlet Tanagers, Eastern Bluebirds, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, and Indigo Buntings. Most songbirds take advantage of calm, early morning air to ensure that their singing for mates and to define territory is carried as far as possible. Great Blue Herons have returned to the rookery and at last count there were approximately 60 nests, easily seen from the trail. If you’re interested in watching these entertaining birds repair nests and perform courtship rituals, you should plan on viewing the rookery before leaf emergence. Recently seen mammals in or near the park include black bears, white-tailed deer, woodchucks, red fox kits, eastern cottontail rabbits, short tailed weasel, and field mice. There are three backpack campsites that are available on a first-come/first-served basis. If you've never tried early spring camping, you may want to consider it. The North Shattuck and Un-named Lake Campsites are located within a short walk of a parking area. The Townline Lake campsite can be accessed by canoe or boat. All campsites are scenic and generally quiet.
Wisconsin Rapids DNR Service Center area
Buckhorn State Park - Many sites are open for camping. Some far sites are still closed. Orioles and hummingbirds are coming to feeders. Many birds are starting to migrate through the Castle Rock area. Remember, park stickers are required for Launch C and D and there are no additional launch fees. There are still dates available for the accessible cabin in September and October. Applications are available for the November Buckhorn Youth Deer Hunt. Contact the park office at 608-565-2789 for questions or to get an application. The 2008 application is also available on the park website through the DNR internet site. Turkey hunting for area 15 is allowed in the Yellow River Wildlife Area only (formerly wildlife area B). Mosquitoes are at a moderate level, ticks are becoming numerous.
Roche-A-Cri State Park - Trails are in good condition for hiking. Park stickers are required - if the office is not staffed, please self-register in the office parking lot or Czech Ave/winter parking lot. The main entrance is open and the first loop of the campground is open for camping. If you register for an annual sticker it will be mailed to you. Early spring is a great time to get out and take photos for the annual photo contest. The 303-step stairway allows visitors a great view of the area.
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, May 16, 2008
• Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Nature Storytime: Pond Life. A pond may seem like a quiet spot until you explore more closely. Find out what animals and plants call ponds their homes. 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, May 17, 2008
• Havenwoods State Forest, (414) 527-0232 - One Wild Saturday Morning Drop-in: Fabulous Frogs. Spring is time to listen to the frogs sing. Drop in and listen to some frog calls, meet some live frogs, make a frog to take home, and much more. Environmental Awareness Center. 9 a.m. - noon. No admission sticker required.
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Morning Bird Walk. Join Robin Maercklein of the National Park Service to view and listen to messengers of spring. Meet at Pines Group Camp and hike on Silverbrook Trail. 7-9 a.m.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Exploring Nature: Beyond Basic Canoeing. Are you ready to tackle more challenging rivers, but don't feel you have the skills? Michelle Grimm, an experienced whitewater canoeist, will share the paddling techniques needed to take on easy whitewater canoeing. Participants must have basic canoe skills. Call to register by May 15. Class limit is 16 people without equipment. In the event of threatening weather, the program will be canceled. Mauthe Lake Recreation Area Boat Launch. 9:30 a.m. - noon.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Southern Unit, Eagle, (262) 594-6200 - Volunteer Work Day. Help build some technical, challenging and environmentally sustainable mountain bike trails in the Kettle Moraine. Work gloves, long pants, long sleeve shirts and bottled water are recommended. We will supply tools, expertise and guaranteed fun! If the weather looks questionable, check the Trail Information Line (262) 594-6202 on Friday to make sure the work day is not canceled. Meet at the John Muir parking lot at 8:30 a.m. and work from 9 a.m. - noon.
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Phoenix Lander Mars Mission. Meet NASA Ambassador Kevin Koski for a presentation on the Phoenix Lander scheduled to land on Mars on May 25. He will explain its mission and answer questions. Best for age 8 and over. No pets allowed. Sanderling Nature Center. 7 p.m.
• Pattison State Park, Superior, (800) 254-7944 - 2008 Greentouch Program. Community volunteer day at Pattison State Park. Paint picnic tables, do trail work, pick up litter, and clean up the picnic grounds. East Central Energy will provide lunch. Sponsored by East Central Energy. Meet at the Shelter Building. 9 a.m. - noon.
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Camping 101. Learn what equipment you need and how to make camping fun and safe whether you are car camping or backpacking. Meet at the Amphitheater. 10:30 a.m. - noon. Bird Migration Hike. Experience the magic of migration. Bring your binoculars and we will try to spot newly-arrived birds, especially warblers. Trail may be wet. Meet at the Vista Picnic Area. 7-9 a.m.
• Rock Island State Park, Washington Island, (920) 847-2235 - Lighthouse Sesquicentennial Celebration. Rock Island’s Pottawatomie Lighthouse is 150 Years Old! join us for cake and refreshments. Washington Island musician Julian Hagen will perform, commemorative lighthouse items will be for sale, and there'll be a raffle for an original lighthouse painting and a handmade lighthouse quilt. Sponsored by Friends of Rock Island. Lighthouse grounds, or in case of inclement weather, Jackson Harbor Ranger Station on Washington Island. 1 p.m. Lighthouse Sesquicentennial Banquet. Dinner, lighthouse favors, and a chance to win door prizes. Space is limited to the first 120 people who sign up. Send a check for $25 per person payable to Friends of Rock Island to Jeanell Dailey, treasurer, 526 Clemons Ave., Madison WI 53704, by April 15. Sponsored by Friends of Rock Island. Karly's, Washington Island. 5:30 p.m.
• Sandhill Wildlife Area, Babcock, (715) 884-6333 or (715) 884-2437 - Frogging. Learn more about Wisconsin’s marshland frogs and toads and their ecology from a herpetologist ( specialist in amphibians and reptiles). Dan Nedrelo will talk about the status of Wisconsin frogs and toads and then lead a search for the croakers in their marshland homes. Hip boots are required and are available upon request. Bring a meal and refreshments if desired. Register by mailing $20 per person by May 9 to Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center, PO Box 156, Babcock, WI 54413. Outdoor Skills Center, 20 miles west of Wisconsin Rapids on County Highway X, 1 mile north of Highway 80 near Babcock.
• Willow River State Park, Hudson, (715) 386-9340 - Annual Warbler Walk. This annual walk will leave from the Nature Center with Mike Ellington and Mike Middleton. 8 a.m. Full Moon Hike. This event begins with a classroom presentation about swifts and hummingbirds followed by a moonlight hike. Meet at the Nature Center. 7 p.m. Both of these events are free with a daily or annual state park sticker on your vehicle.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
• La Crosse River State Trail, Ontario, (608) 337-4775 - Always on a Sunday: Prairie Walk . Here's your chance to learn about native wildflowers and grasses on this remnant of railroad prairie. A leisurely walk on level terrain. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and a hat to block the sun. Enjoy the afternoon along the trail with local columnist and naturalist, Bob Lee! Downy phlox, hoary pucoon, columbine, bird's-foot violet, and great Solomon's seal are likely to be in bloom. Meet at the trail crossing on Commercial St. (County Highway J) in Rockland. 1:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
• Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 5277-0232 - Preschool Storytime: Could You Be a Fawn? Fawns play, sleep, and eat. But they also have to learn how to survive! Join us and pretend to be fawns searching for food and staying out of danger. Environmental Awareness Center. 9:30-10:30 a.m. No admission sticker required.
• Wyalusing State Park, Bagley, (608) 261-4384 - Celebration of a Conservation Hero. The Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin and Department of Natural Resources will honor the memory of Paul Brandt, a DNR wildlife biologist who died unexpectedly in 2006 after more than 30 years with the department. Brandt was a major proponent of establishing the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway (LWSR). Shortly after his retirement, Brandt created the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway Fund with a $25,000 endowment to support habitat management on public land. Recently, foundation officials learned that he had left additional money from his estate, raising the total gift to more than $600,000. After a reception and presentation at Wyalusing State Park, a stone memorial will be dedicated at the LWSR Millville Unit. Peterson Shelter. 1 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/
