Although southern and central Wisconsin received an addition 1 to 2 inches of rain in the last week, water levels on lakes and rivers are continuing to recede, and a number of communities are beginning to lift or moderate slow-no-wake rules on lakes. Check with local law enforcement authorities for the status of slow-no-wake rules, as these rules are put in place by counties or local municipalities. The lower Wisconsin River is coming back to normal summer levels and there area many spots to camp again, but waters levels on some other larger rivers, such as portions of the Rock River, remain high and slow-no-wake rules remain in place. Northern Wisconsin has remained relatively dry and water levels on most rivers and streams are approaching mid-summer lows. Lake levels have also dropped to their summer lows and thick weeds and heavy algae blooms are beginning to show up.
Variable weather with scattered thunderstorms made for erratic fishing success in the past week. The most consistent action has been for bass, as both largemouth and smallmouth are starting to settle into their normal summer patterns. Some late mayfly hatches continue to slow walleye fishing. Musky action has been improving, with anglers starting to get more hits and fewer follows. Panfish success has been fair. Some nicer bluegill have been showing been showing up on the deep weed edges, and suspended at the thermocline. Anglers have reported catching bluegill with spawn still in them, which is often observed in years with a late spring and slow warm-up. These fish likely just pass on spawning, as mother nature tells them that their progeny would not grow big enough to survive through next winter.
Walleye anglers were finding some success trolling crawler harnesses and crank baits in Green Bay. Bay water temperature is around 70 degrees. Anglers at Little Sturgeon Bay and Sawyer Harbor areas were catching smallmouth bass and some perch. A limited number of musky and northern have also been caught. Fishing for trout and salmon out of Door County ports has definitely started to pick up, and anglers also had a good week fishing on Lake Michigan, with good numbers of chinook reported along with steelhead and lake trout.
Smallmouth bass have been biting on the Wisconsin River between Spring Green and the Arena boat landing and catfish have been biting on the river in the Lone Rock area. Anglers are also reporting that walleyes in the 18-inch-plus size class as well as nice sized sauger were biting. The Mississippi River at Prairie du Chien was at 8.8 feet as of July 8. Mayfly hatches on the river have also been slowing fishing success.
Buck’s antlers are growing rapidly and some will be fully developed by end of July. Shedding of velvet usually occurs in Late August or very early September. Fawns, which are kept in hiding for the first four to six weeks of their life, are starting to accompany the does more frequently, so be sure to watch for fawns following does crossing roads. The white spots will begin to fade soon as the young deer begin to rely more on their speed and agility to evade predators than on the camouflage provided by the spots, which allow them to blend into a sun-dappled forest opening.
Wild parsnip has started to bloom. This invasive plant with yellow clusters of flowering stems contains a juice that causes severe burns to the skin when exposed to sunlight. People should learn to identify this plant. Growing up to 4 feet tall, it often stands out above other nearby plants. DNR service centers have small, descriptive cards available to help in identification of this and other problem plants and insects.
Prairies are putting on vivid display of colors and attracting an assortment of butterflies. Flowers in bloom in include: false indigo, spiderwort, prairie bush clover, milkweed, blue verbain, blue flax, coneflower, and black-eyed Susan.
Hummingbirds are raising their young at this time of year, so the feeders are not as active as they were previously. The parents feed the young spiders and insects as a source of protein. It won’t be long before adults and young are back in full force at the feeders.
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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 - The Bois Brule River is flowing at 125 cfs (cubic feet per second). The 63 year average is 151 cfs. Buck’s antlers are growing rapidly and some will be fully developed by end of July. Shedding of velvet usually occurs in Late August or very early September. The deer family (whitetail deer, mule deer, elk, caribou, and moose) in which males grow new grow new antlers each year, unlike cattle, goats, sheep, bison and musk-ox in which both sexes have horns that grow throughout their lives. Fawns, which are kept in hiding for the first four to six weeks of their life, are starting to accompany the does more frequently. Twins are being reported more often as they are kept separate and are not usually seen together until they start following the doe on a daily basis. The white spots will begin to fade soon as the young deer and elk begin to rely more on their speed and agility to evade predators than on the camouflage provided by the spots, which allow them to blend into a sun-dappled forest opening. Nesting turtles are still coming out in evenings. Numerous road kills have been seen in past week. Please use caution when traveling near wetland areas where turtles could be crossing. New flowers visible along road and trails include cow parsnip, water hemlock, wild mint, yellow agrimony, valerian, mallow, hare bell.
Park Falls DNR Service Center area
Upper Chippewa Basin fisheries report (Price, Rusk, Sawyer Taylor and inland Ashland and Iron counties) -While many areas of the state have had excess rain in the past month, the northern part has remained relatively dry and water levels on most rivers and streams are approaching mid-summer lows. Lake levels have also dropped to their summer lows and thick weeds and heavy algae blooms are beginning to show up. Variable weather conditions with scattered thunderstorms have made for some erratic fishing success in the past week. The most consistent action has been for bass, as both largemouth and smallmouth are starting to settle into their normal summer patterns. Largemouth have been migrating toward thick overhead cover and becoming more apt to be 'homebodies' - holding near one piece of cover for extended periods of time. Soft plastics and jig/craw combinations have been the most successful baits and have to worked slowly in the thicker cover. Smallmouth bass have also become more active and some larger fish have been showing up near the mid-depths woody cover and under docks. Small plastics and tube jigs pitched to these types of cover have been very successful. Walleye fishing has become a bit more erratic of late, as some late Hexagenia mayfly hatches have provided some abundant natural food on a few of the larger lakes and flowages. The best success continues to be on floating jigs tipped with a leech, and fishing deep weed edges and bottom break lines. Musky action has been improving, with anglers starting to get more hits and fewer follows. Top water baits have begun to see some action, with bulldogs and jerk baits getting a fair number of strikes. Panfish success has been fair, as some nicer bluegill have been showing been showing up on the deep weed edges and some nice crappie have been found suspended over deeper cover. Other than a few lingering pumpkinseed, most of the panfish species have completed their spawning rituals. However, many anglers have reported that they were still catching bluegill with spawn in them. This is often observed in years with a late spring and slow warm-up. These fish likely just pass on spawning, as mother nature tells them that their progeny would not grow big enough to survive through next winter. And rather than expend the energy on spawning, the females just re-absorb their eggs and wait for next year's spawn in stronger condition.
Woodruff DNR Service Center area
Fluctuating weather patterns has led to fluctuating fish patterns as well. Some catches of panfish continue to be the savior for many anglers this week. There were numerous reports of active bass; however, most were sub-legal in length. Musky anglers have reported fairly good action over mud flats on area flowages. Weed growth and water temperatures are still behind for this time of year. Be sure to check boats and trailers for any types of weeds that may be attached prior to launching. Playing your part by removing this aquatic vegetation could be the difference between keeping a lake free of invasives and infesting the water. In addition there are some restrictions on transporting fish, bait and water. Please check with a DNR representative for details. Antler development on the bucks is now very visible. There have been numerous reports of turkey and grouse broods seen in the area. As you travel the area be cautious of deer crossing the roads, more often than not the fawns are close behind. A reminder to hikers and others who just like to walk around in the woods – the wild parsnip is blooming. This is a plant that you really do not want to encounter. You should add this one to your list of items to avoid, along with poison ivy, oak and sumac. Wild parsnip contains a juice that causes severe burns to the skin when exposed to the ultraviolet light rays from the sun. The skin reacts by producing blisters that can last for several weeks and produces a brown scarring on the skin that can also last for months, or even years. Once the plant dies and dries, it ceases to emit the juice and cannot cause a reaction when in that state. The plant is tall with yellow clusters of flowering stems that are about four feet in height. Wild parsnip usually towers above the natural vegetation surrounding it. Area service centers have small, descriptive cards available to the public that will help in identification of this and other problem plants and insects. If you do come into contact with this plant, and no one is immune from its effects, cover your skin right away until you can wash the affected area with soap and water. To help minimize the effects of the exposure, you can cover the contaminated area with a cool, wet cloth. Do not rupture any blisters that may appear. The blisters usually do not itch, nor do they spread. If the blisters do eventually rupture, let the skin remain over the area for as long as you can. Keep the affected area clean and use an antiseptic cream to help prevent infection. Contact your doctor if you have any questions and for further treatment explanations and considerations.
DNR Northeastern Region
Peshtigo DNR Service Center area
Marinette County - Leeches and crawlers fished tight lined or trolled during the day have accounted for some very nice fish on the Menominee River this past week. A 21 inch smallmouth bass was caught off the light house pier using leeches and a 31 inch walleye was caught using crawlers above the Interstate bridge. Trolling this river towards evening with crank baits and rapalas has been very effective for walleye. Chinook salmon and a few brown trout are being caught on the bay. There seems to be no set pattern as to depth, one day the fish are in 50 feet, the next in 70 feet. Two factors seem to be consistent, (1) The fish being caught are about 20 feet off bottom, (2) Green is the color to start with. The Trout bar has been producing fish in the 12 to 16 pound range using spoons, fly/dodger, and spin doctors. The Peshtigo River is giving up nice numbers of catfish in the 2 to 4 pound range using crawlers. Crank baits and spinner baits are working well for bass and the occasional walleye. Inland trout waters are warming and trout are moving up the watersheds near feeder creeks. Fall turkey permit applications should be submitted by the August 1st deadline.
Oconto County - At last people are starting to catch limits of perch, indeed some very nice perch in the 13+ inch range are coming in to the landings. Crawlers and crappie rigs are producing the most fish in 10 to 12 feet of water. Locate the weed beds at these depths, anchor and commence to fish. I interviewed one couple who caught there limits in just over an hour. Walleye fishing has slowed considerably in the past week with little success being reported. Stiles dam area is still a hot spot for panfish using slip bobbers and crawler/leaf worms. The Oconto Falls FFA will be hosting an ATV and snowmobile safety course beginning on July 14-18. In order to register for the course contact the instructor at 920-846-838, this class will be held at 8 a.m.
Green Bay DNR Service Center area
Brown County - At the mouth of the Fox River, many anglers have been catching whatever they target if enough effort is put into it. If an angler just wants to catch whatever will bite on his/her hook, worms have been the best bait and rough fish have been the most common catch. The walleye bite seems to have picked up since last week. Walleye anglers in the bay are finding some success trolling crawler harnesses and crank baits. Bright colored harnesses may be working better than other colors. Walleye are being found at depths of 6 to 15 feet. Anglers are finding the most luck when leaving from the Bayshore launch. The perch bite is still relatively slow. Anglers that do find them are fishing around 20 feet. Anglers who find rock structures and rock mounds seem to be catching more perch. Some find the schools by trolling; once a few perch bite in an area, they fish for perch and find some success. Minnows and night crawlers are the baits of choice. North of Red River but south of Chaudoir's Dock is an area giving perch anglers some luck. North of Rite's Cove also is an area giving anglers luck. A few perch seem to be caught on just about any pier or dock on the east shore of the bay. Bay water temperature is around 70 degrees. In the Little Sturgeon Bay/Sawyer Harbor area, very few anglers are finding great luck regardless of target species. Those catching smallmouth bass are finding luck with spinner-baits and then crank baits. Perch anglers are finding limited success. Larson's Reef and the Bell Buoy have produced a few good catches. A limited few musky and northern have been caught while both casting and trolling. Piers and docks are also showing some results for perch, smallmouth, and rock bass; though, size is under average. Some bullheads are also being caught from piers and docks. The bites may be a few weeks behind due to the unusual spring and multiple weather systems that northeastern Wisconsin has seen. And just a note for any staff interested. An angler off Bayshore had a lamprey "bite" on his crawler harness while fishing for walleye...he hooked it in the mouth. It was about a foot long.
Manitowoc County - During the past week anglers had a great week of fishing in and around Manitowoc. Anglers took advantage of the warm holiday weekend and were out in large numbers. Anglers had success trolling in many different water depths that ranged from 40 feet to 120 feet. Catch sizes and catch rates were a little slow for some boaters, but still many nice fish were harvested. Most Chinook salmon ranged in weight from 7 to 12 pounds, rainbows from 5 to 7 pounds, and most lake trout were on the small size and ranged from 3 to 5 pounds in weight. Pier anglers fishing on the south pier had a slow week only landing a few Chinook salmon. In Two Rivers anglers also had a good week of fishing. Boat anglers had a nice weekend with good lake conditions on Saturday and Sunday morning. Anglers were successful trolling in anywhere from 40 to 120 feet of water with fly dodgers and spoons. A few nice lake trout were harvested on Sunday morning that ranged in weight from 8 to 9 pounds The lake trout were caught using high lines that were running spoons. Pier anglers had a good weekend with some nice Chinook salmon and rainbow trout caught. Anglers had the most success using alewives set off the bottom.
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Door County - Fishing for trout and salmon out of Door County ports has definitely started to pick up. Water temperatures out on Lake Michigan are just about perfect for trout and salmon fishing from the surface on down. This past week the surface water temperatures have been in the mid to upper 50s. Anglers that have gone out when conditions have permitted have done reasonably well. Anglers focusing on steelhead in the top 50 feet of water in 150-300 feet of water have been continuing to find a few of the acrobatic fish scattered about. Successful steelhead baits have included , flame throwers, silver hammered evil eyes, double unions, hammered copper, and just about anything silver and orange. Anglers focusing on chinook salmon have been having the best success fishing a little deeper in the 40-110 foot range in water depths of 100-150 feet. The best catches have been in the low light periods just before sunrise and after sunset. A lot of the chinook have been taken using with fly dodger combinations although anglers trolling spoons have also had some good catches. Spoons most often mentioned were blue and green dolphins, silver maulers, different watermelon patterns, and the bloody nose. One angler was recently surprised when he caught a lake whitefish on a pearl yuk spoon fished behind a dipsey while trolling for salmon. Although relatively abundant in Lake Michigan, lake whitefish are not commonly caught while trolling for trout and salmon. There is no size limit on sport caught whitefish and the daily bag limit is 10 per angler. Water temperatures on the bay side of the peninsula are currently in the upper 60s to near 70. Fishing on the bay side of the peninsula for smallmouth has been productive with most anglers practicing catch and release. Smallmouth can still be found on or near the spawning beds, try flipping soft bodied jigs or crank baits. The walleye catch has slowed a little but anglers are still catching respectable numbers. Most walleye anglers are still trolling crawler harnesses but some are now starting to make the shift to trolling crank or stick baits.
Peninsula State Park - Rains have been moderate and all park facilities are open and in good condition. All trails are open and in very good condition. Pelicans, cormorants and eagles are being seen over the waters of Green Bay.
Kewaunee County - Fishing action picked up this past week over the holiday weekend. Most anglers had some success trolling on Lake Michigan and some pier anglers were also able to land some fish. Out of both Kewaunee and Algoma, anglers continued to find most fish in the 100-200 feet range. Salmon, rainbow and lake trout were all caught in this range, and all types of artificial lures seemed to work. More rainbows were found closer to the to the 80-100 feet range in general, and most anglers were fishing the top 15-20 feet in this range. Bait fish have been abundant around the piers of Kewaunee and Algoma and anglers have had success catching mostly rainbows and a few salmon. Spoons or minnows are the typical baits used off the piers. Water temperatures were still quite variable ranging from mid 40s to mid 50s in most areas. As water temperatures continue to warm, fishing success will increase as well.
Oshkosh DNR Service Center area
There is an emergency slow no wake ordinance in effect for the Fox River within the Omro City limits, the Township of Omro and the Township of Rushford. The rule is currently in effect, and unless extended, ends at 11:59 p.m. on July 11. The river in Omro has receded back to the banks. Perch fishing on the Winnebago system was reported to be spotty this past week. Anglers were reporting great success using leeches and night crawlers for catching walleye. Smallmouth bass along the west shore were full of crayfish and still biting.
DNR Southeast Region
Kettle Moraine State Forest-Pike Lake Unit - All trails are open with the exception of the hiking trails located between Powder Hill Road and County Highway CC. These trails have areas with high standing water. Fishing has been good on Pike Lake with several reports of bluegills and crappies being taken in the southeast bay during the day. Evening fishing for walleyes and northerns has been reported good in the weed transition areas and off of Eagle Point. Powder Hill Road is closed from County Highway E north to the campground entrance due to high water over the road. Campers must access the property from Highway 60 at Kettle Moraine Road or Powder Hill Road at Highway 60.
Lake Michigan fisheries team report
Sheboygan County - In Sheboygan shore fishing has been generally slow, and trollers have had to search for fish as well. Trollers have been catching a mix of rainbows, lake trout, coho, and chinooks in 80 to 120 feet of water. Both J-plugs and flasher and fly combinations have produced fish.
Ozaukee County - Shore anglers in Port Washington have reported a few rainbows hitting alewives off the end of the pier. Port Washington trollers have been catching a mixed bag of chinooks, coho, browns, rainbows, and lake trout from 40 feet of water out to 150 feet. Action has been sporadic, with some anglers catching only a few fish and others catching limits. The most consistent action has been near the surface in 60 to 70 feet of water.
Milwaukee County - Perch fishing in Milwaukee has been relatively slow from shore and sporadic for boats fishing at the boils and at the Oak Creek Power Plant. Small minnows have been producing the best. Milwaukee shore anglers have been taking a few chinooks off McKinley pier in the early morning hours, and alewives fished off the bottom have been providing the most action. Trollers off Milwaukee have been catching some chinooks, rainbows, and lake trout in 30 to 40 feet down in 55 to 85 feet of water. Chartreuse spoons have been producing the most fish.
Racine County - In Racine shore fishing has been slow, and trolling has been hit or miss. The most consistent action for trollers has been early mornings or later in the evening. A mixed bag of chinooks, rainbows, coho, and lake trout has been found in 80 to 120 feet of water, and some browns have been caught early in the morning in 40 to 60 feet of water. Spoons in watermelon, orange, and purple have been most effective.
Kenosha County - Shore anglers in Kenosha have been struggling to find fish. Kenosha trollers have been catching primarily chinooks and coho, and the most fish have been found in 70 to 100 feet of water.
DNR South Central Region
Dodgeville DNR Service Center area
Grant County
Wyalusing State Park – The Mississippi River at Prairie du Chien was at 8.8 feet as of July 8, up 0.4 from the previous days. This is close to the normal, summer river level in this area. With the warmer water temperatures, mayflies (also known as fish flies) are hatching, which means for the time being fishing may be slow due to the increased food supply. Prior to the recent mayfly hatch, nice catches of bass, bluegills, and catfish were being reported. The concession stand is renting canoes and anglers and boaters are using the river once again. There are still some hiking trails closed as a result of a heavy rain in mid July 2007. There have not been any recent trail closures due to this June’s rainfall. Park bird feeders have been removed for the season due to raccoon destructiveness. The hummingbirds at the park office continue to delight park visitors. Hummingbirds are most active right before dark. Hummingbirds are raising their young at this time of year, so the feeders are not as active as they were previously. The parents feed the young spiders and insects as a source of protein. It won’t be long before adults and young are back in full force at the feeders. Recent sightings in the park include: red-bellied woodpeckers, downy woodpeckers, hairy woodpeckers, purple finches, cardinals, bluejays, chickadees, nuthatches, tufted titmice, prothonotary warblers, cerulean warblers, gold finches, mourning doves, tree sparrows, crows, flickers, bluebirds, robins, meadowlarks, orioles, rose-breasted grosbeaks, indigo buntings, Henslow Sparrows, eagles, wild turkeys, turkey vultures, and red winged blackbirds. The native prairie garden at the park office is beautifu. The garden is a vivid display of color and an assortment of butterflies. Flowers in bloom in the prairie garden include: false indigo, spiderwort, side oats grandma, prairie bush clover, liatris, butterfly milkweed, blue verbain, Canadian anemone, blue flax, coreopsis, mallow, pale purple coneflower, purple coneflower, black-eyed Susan, Deptford pink. Wildflowers in bloom in the area include: cow parsnip, chicory, jewelweed. The Friends of Wyalusing will meet Saturday, July 12 at 4 p.m. at the Peterson Shelter. This meeting will be preceded by a special program sponsored by the Friends of Wyalusing State Park. Bill Jamerson will present a musical and storytelling program about the Civilian Conservation Corps at 2 p.m. A potluck for all Friends of Wyalusing members will be held after the meeting. The Friends of Wyalusing will provide brats, buns, condiments and tableware. Please bring a dish to pass and your own beverage. The Starsplitters of Wyalusing State Park will present an astronomy program this Saturday evening, July 12.
Iowa County - Smallmouth bass have been biting on the Wisconsin River between Spring Green and the Arena boat landing and catfish have been biting on the river in the Lone Rock area. Anglers are also reporting that walleyes in the 18-inch-plus size class as well as nice sized sauger were biting. The striped bass were also biting in the evenings on the river. The water level is now coming to “normal” summer levels (5,000 CFS) and there area many spots to camp and recreate.
Lafayette County
Yellowstone Lake State Park - The Lake is back to normal water level. Fishing has been very good with bluegill, catfish and bass biting well. Some northern and walleye are also being caught. Yellowstone Lake has special regulations regarding fishing. Be sure to check the fishing regulations before going out. Water sport activities reach a peak on Saturday and Sunday afternoon's. If you plan on fishing during those times, we suggest you go early morning or later evenings when boat traffic is less. All trails are open and in great condition.
Fitchburg DNR Service Center area
Jefferson County - The rivers and streams in Jefferson County still have the emergency slow-no-wake restrictions in effect. The boat landings on the rivers are still under water and therefore unusable. On the Crawfish River anglers are now catching some 3-4 pound catfish on nightcrawlers by Hubbleton. On Rock Lake anglers are catching a few bluegill suspended out in the center of the lake by drifting with redworms, plastic or waxworms. The fish are suspended at the thermocline.
DNR West Central Region
Baldwin DNR Service Center area
St. Croix County
Willow River State Park - Rain moved in early in the week. Given the relatively dry conditions, the rain was welcome. More is predicted which may discolor the Willow River. The weekend of July 18 – 19 has two special events: astronomy and kids fishing. Friday, July 18, will feature Universe in the Park at the Nature Center. View a program inside and then look through the telescopes outside. The program begins at 9 p.m. The event is free but regular vehicle admission rates apply. Saturday, July 19 will feature the Kid’s Fishing Contest for anglers 12 and under. Three age groups will fish off shore or off the dam. Half way through the time slot, the shore anglers change places with the kids on the dam. Entry is $1 per angler. Registration opens at 8:30 a.m. with the 6 years and under group fishing at 9 a.m. The 7 to 9 year olds start at 10 a.m. and the 10-12 age group starts at 11 a.m. Bait is provided and there are some fishing rods for those without. The older age groups do not need to be at registration right away.
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
Bass, northern pike and walleye fishing has been good on pool 8 of the Mississippi River. Backwater slough trolling and drift fishing has been producing good catches of walleye. Backwater bays and vegetated areas have been producing some nice northern pike. Anglers are catching bass most any where. Some very nice crappie were also being caught mostly in and around snags in light current. Catfish fishing has also been good. Both channel and flathead catfish were being taken. Night fishing for the flathead, also known as mud cat, gains popularity this time of year.
Perrot State Park - All the trails are in good condition. Fishing is very slow. The spring wild flowers have faded and summer flowers are appearing. The prairie flowers are really starting to blaze and butterfly weed is the star of the show right now!
Great River State Trail - The trail is open and in good condition. Enjoy the unique character of remnant prairie habitat along the old railway beds as the prairie flowers really show their stuff now!!
Buffalo River State Trail - ATVs are allowed year around on the Buffalo River Trail. Grading has begun on the trail. New surfacing will be laid down between Eleva and Strum - sections may be posted as Closed as needed. Check with counties for their trail conditions and opening dates.
Eau Claire DNR Service Center area
Brunet Island State Park - Park trails are generally dry and in very good condition. The open water game fish and panfish action has been very good with warm temperatures or very quiet during cooler days. Smallmouth bass have been hitting below the dams. Largemouth bass and northern pike action has been productive, and there has been good musky action in the area. Several large catfish have been taken from the upper reaches of the flowage lately. Species of birds seen or heard include: a few pelicans that have decided to visit the flowage, rose-breasted grosbeaks, belted kingfishers, ruby throated hummingbirds, scarlet tanagers, a variety of wrens, red polls, bluebirds, lake gulls, golden finches, mallard ducks, common loons, great blue herons, red winged blackbirds, phoebes, Canada geese, sandhill cranes, robins, mourning doves, nuthatches, ravens, black capped chickadees, pileated woodpeckers, great horned owls, barred owls, and bald eagles. The painted and snapping turtles have been digging nests throughout the park property. The fireflies and a variety of dragonflies and damselflies are out in abundance. Plants in bloom include blue flag, marsh marigolds, dog violet, wild columbine, bellworts, false rue anemones, orange hawkweed, ox eye daisy, wooly yarrow, grove sandwort, harebell, spiderwort, and butterfly weed. The blackberry and raspberry vines, along with the common and wood strawberries are producing fruit. The milkweed plants are up but not flowering yet.
Wisconsin Rapids DNR Service Center area
Buckhorn State Park - Trails and campsites are dry. Lake levels are normal. Mosquitoes are still abundant in the park right now so remember to bring bug spray. Lake breezes kept them away at times at campsites. Visitors have been enjoying the picnic areas and beaches and renting canoes/kayaks. Remember, park stickers are required for Launch C and D and there are no additional launch fees. 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. Deadline is on July 15.
Roche-A-Cri State Park - Campsites and trails are dry. There are many quiet sites available during the week and on the weekend. There are some mosquitoes so remember your bug spray. Trails are in great condition for hiking. Wildflowers are blooming in the prairie. If the office is closed, please self-register in the parking lot.
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.
Thursday, July 10 - Saturday, July 12, 2008
• Whitefish Dunes State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 823-2400 - Big Red Tent on the Beach. Discover the natural world on the beach under the tent. A different theme is featured each day with programs beginning on the hour. Programs feature a craft or game along with beach toys to check out. Themes for each day are; Thursday - Rivers To Lakes, Friday - Plant Invaders, Saturday - Flowers. The tent will be canceled for rain or lightening. Sponsored by the Friends of Whitefish Dunes State Park and the Whitefish Bay Association. Whitefish Dunes Beach. 1 - 3 p.m.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Nature Storytime. Join Naturalists Julie Fox or Barb Walker for a story and activity chosen especially for children pre-K through Kindergarten and their parents. Please dress the children for outdoor play. 10 a.m.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Outdoor Adventure: Climb a Kame. Climb Dundee Mountain to gain a better understanding of how the glaciers created kames, eskers, moraines, kettles and outwash plains. The trail is 1.5 miles long and requires hiking up and down a steep hill. In the event of threatening weather, the program will be canceled. This adventure is for people over the age of 12 years. Meet at the Ice Age Visitor Center and then car pool the 3 miles to the Summit Trail on Dundee Mountain. 6:30-8 p.m.
Friday, July 11, 2008
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Junior Forest Explorers: What's Fluttering By? Feathered or clubbed antennae? Wings held vertically or horizontally? Now which is it - a moth or a butterfly? We will unravel the mysteries of butterflies and moths. This fun-filled program is for all 6- to 12-year-old explorers. Ice Age Visitor Center. 9:30-11 a.m.
• Potawatomi State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 746-2890 - Watercoloring Nature. Join local artist Elaine Cregan for this hands-on lesson in watercolor painting. Art supplies will be provided in exchange for a $10 participant fee. You may wish to bring a photo or other object to work from. Meet at the Picnic Shelter. 1-3 p.m. Wolves Of Wisconsin. Join Michelle Hefty, Manager of Newport State Park, for a program about wolves. You will learn how to determine the differences between wolves, coyotes, and dogs. Learn the current status of Timber Wolves in Door County and Wisconsin. Meet at the Potawatomi Amphitheater. 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
• Blue Mound State Park, Blue Mounds, (608) 437-5711 - Mountain Bike Endurance Race. Bring yourself or your team and ride the off-road bike trails at Blue Mound State Park for 3, 6 or 12 hours. There will be a prize raffle and also cash prizes for the winners. Sponsored by the Wisconsin Off-Road Bicycling Association (WORBA). Pre-registration is required. For more information and to register, see the Wisconsin Endurance Mountain Bike Series Web site .
• Buckhorn State Park, Necedah, (608) 565-2789 - History of Agriculture and Natural Resources of Juneau County. Join Craig Saxe from University of Wisconsin-Extension to view a slide show that tells the story of Juneau County’s agricultural and natural resources through a collection of historical photos. Amphitheater. 8 p.m.
• Flambeau River State Forest, Winter, (715) 332-5271 - Fishing Fun. This nature program takes place at the Connors Lake Picnic Area. 1-2 p.m.
• Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - Discovery Saturday: Make Your Own Pond Viewer. Stop inside the building to make a simple pond viewer using recycled materials. Then, take your viewer to one of the ponds and see what types of aquatic critters are living there. Environmental Awareness Center. 9 a.m. - noon. No admission sticker required.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Exploring Nature: Learn to Kayak. This is the perfect program for people who have never kayaked and would like to learn. Join Jen Sazasma, an American Canoe Association instructor, to learn the tricks and fun of kayaking. We will kayak around Mauthe Lake and up the Milwaukee River. Call to register by July 10. Class limit is eight people without equipment for each session. No experience is necessary. The program is best for people over the age of 10 years. In the event of threatening weather, the program will be canceled. Mauthe Lake Recreation Area Boat Launch. 9:30 a.m. - noon or 1-3:30 p.m. Drop In at the Beach: Hurray for Herps! Many snakes, turtles, frogs, toads and salamanders make Wisconsin their home. Meet a few of these wondrous creatures up close and learn about their unique adaptations. Everyone is invited to drop in for a few minutes or more than an hour for some nature fun. Adults are encouraged to participate with their children. Mauthe Lake Recreation Area Beach. 1-4 p.m. Wisconsin Turtles. Wisconsin is home to a wide variety of turtles. Randy Hetzel, naturalist, will share the unique adaptations of these remarkable reptiles and what habitat requirements they need to survive. You may even have the opportunity to meet some live turtles. This program is best for adults and children over the age of 8 years. Ice Age Visitor Center. 7-8:30 p.m.
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Kite Building Workshop. Join in the fun of making and decorating a pocket sled kite during either of the workshop sessions, then head right out the door to fly the kite on the beach. Best for children 12 and under; 4-year olds will need parental help. $4 charge per kite kit. Call to register for a session. Park shelter in campground. 10 and 11a.m. The Moon: Observing the Craters and Mares. Take a break in the candlelight hike to join NASA Ambassador Kevil Koski for an exciting evening observing our moon. Find out where the Apollo mission landed a see some of the craters and mountains on the moon. Learn fun facts about our nearest neighbor and what life would be like without the moon. Please bring chair or blanket and dress for an evening on the beach. No pets allowed. Best for ages 8 and up. North Beach. 8-10:30 p.m. Summer Candlelight Hike. Enjoy a self-guided hike along the beach and wander the sand dunes along the cordwalk. The trail is lit with tiki torches for this annual summer event. Refreshments served at Sanderling Nature Center. Sorry, no pets or strollers allowed on the hike. Park at Sanderling Nature Center or North Beach lots. 8:30-10:30 p.m.
• MacKenzie Environmental Education Center, Poynette, (608) 635-8105 - Outdoor Skills Day. A free public program focusing on outdoor skills. A variety of hands-on skill areas such as fishing, archery, outdoor cooking, prairie walk, shooting sports, and nature hikes, will be set up for the entire family to enjoy. A concession stand will be available from 11a.m. to 2 p.m. Sponsored by Wisconsin Wildlife Federation , the Department of Natural Resources, and the Friends of MacKenzie Center. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. No admission sticker required.
• Wyalusing State Park, Bagley, (608) 996-2261 - Civilian Conservation Program. Bill Jamerson will present a program on the Civilian Conservation Corps. Sponsored by the Friends of Wyalusing State Park. Meet at the Peterson Shelter. 2 p.m.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
• Harrington Beach State Park, Belgium, (262) 285-3015 - Second Sunday Event. Meet at the Ansay Welcom Center. Sponsored by the Friends of Harrington Beach State Park. Bird House Building. 12 noon. Meet the Ranger. 1 p.m. Introduction to Geocaching. 2 p.m.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Drop In at the Beach: Fascinating Fish . How do fish swim? How do they breathe under water? How do they eat? Find the answers to these questions and much more as we wade through the world of Wisconsin fishes. Everyone is invited to drop in for a few minutes or more than an hour for some nature fun. Adults are encouraged to participate with their children. Long Lake Recreation Area South Beach. Noon - 3 p.m.
• Military Ridge State Trail, Ridgeway, (608) 437-7393 - Ice Cream Social. The Friends of the Military Ridge State Trail are sponsoring an ice cream social at the Ridgeway Depot. Activities at the social will also include face painting and railroad songs. 2 - 4 p.m.
Monday July 14, 2008
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920)451-4080 - Rock Collecting For Fun. Join Ed Mindock for a presentation on rock collecting as a hobby. A hands-on approach to beginning and understanding rock collecting and having fun doing it. All ages welcome. Sanderling Nature Center. 2 p.m.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
• Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 5277-0232 - Junior Rangers: Flutter By Butterflies. Egg! Caterpillar! Cocoon! Butterfly! Search our fields for clues to the exciting lives of butterflies. Concurrent story times concurrently for preschoolers, ages 3-5, and their parents and for primary age children, ages 6-8. These programs are not for day care centers or organizations. Environmental Awareness Center. 9:30-10:30 a.m. No admission sticker required.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920)451-4080 - Young People's Wildlife Poetry Workshop. Young people in grades 1-8 wishing to sharpen their wildlife observation skills, hear wildlife poetry and try their hand at writing wildlife/plant life poetry are invited to take part in Gerald Bertsch's workshop. Half hour program with majority of time devoted to each young person creating his or her own "memory moment" set to the music of poetry. Young people must be accompanied by an adult. No pets allowed. Sanderling Nature Center. 3-3:30 p.m.
Wisconsin DNR Outdoor Report
Edited by Paul Holtan
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
PO Box 7921
Madison WI 53707-7921
(608) 267-7517
Fax: (608) 264-6293
E-mail: paul.holtan@dnr.state.wi.us
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/news/or/
