WDNR Outdoor Report as of July 17, 2008
Scattered but strong storms this week continued to dump substantial amounts of water in some parts of Wisconsin, with more than 3 inches reported in areas of the south this week. The northern part of the state received much less, but a couple of half-inch rainfalls were reported. The rain in the south caused some rivers, like the Kickapoo, to rise considerably. It is expected to fall drastically this week. The Wisconsin River rose somewhat but has been slowly dropping and sand bars returned and are usable again. The rain in the north did little to increase river and streams and most are still experiencing fairly low water levels, with canoeists on many rivers starting to bump more rock and scrape gravel in the shallow rapids and riffle areas.
Dane County reinstated the slow, no wake order for all of the Yahara Lakes, including Kegonsa, Waubesa, Mendota and Monona. The floods this summer have washed a lot of nutrients into lakes, and some significant blue-green algae blooms are being reported. People should avoiding contact with bloom material and follow posted beach and lake advisories. Keep dogs away from blue-green algae blooms, too, as it can be toxic if they drink it. Information about blue-green algae and how to protect yourself against it is available on the DNR Web site.
Despite several days of very windy conditions, fishing success has been generally good. Largemouth and smallmouth bass have provided the most consistent action, with largemouth bass settling into their typical summer patterns. Musky action has been slowly improving, but walleye success continues to be erratic. Panfish action has been generally good, with some nice catches of crappie and bluegill coming from suspended fish near mid-depth cover.
Anglers were hauling in limits of walleyes off the shallow ends of the reefs in Lake Winnebago. Lake Michigan anglers had a mixed week of fishing. Pier anglers had success throughout the week landing some nice chinook salmon and brown trout. Trollers have been catching a mixed bag of chinooks, coho, browns, rainbows, and lake trout.
The Mississippi River was down close to 8 feet earlier in the week but rose after the rain and was at 9 feet at Prairie du Chien mid week. Bluegills and other fish have moved to summer areas often in light current, on wing dams and rocky areas. Many of the bass and walleye have also moved to areas with more flow due to warmer waters. Night fishing for flathead catfish is heating up.
Cedar waxwings, pewees, nighthawks, and whip-poor-wills have been very active lately, feeding heavily on flying insects. Several hundred white pelicans have again spent the summer near La Crosse. They can often be seen herding schools of fish, their usual feeding strategy, or soaring gracefully along the bluffs. Many bird species are onto the second broods but many other long-distance migrants are now done nesting. Shorebird migration has begun to pick up with reports of yellowlegs and even some rarities like piping plover and American avocet seen.
Summer berry picking is just beginning in the north, and blueberries and raspberries are looking plentiful. This should also help alleviate the nuisance bear reports as the bears should have enough to feed on now. Juneberries and hazelnut should be ripe shortly also.
St. Johns-wort, black-eyed Susan, fireweed, Turks-cap lily, figwort, partridge berry, winterberry, spreading dogbane, and honeysuckle are just some of the flowers now blooming.
Mosquito numbers appear to be going down some, but they have continued to be terrible in the river bottoms as well as and some upland areas.
The turtle harvest season opened July 15 in Wisconsin, and state officials are emphasizing that populations of turtles in Wisconsin are continuing to decline, so people need to follow harvest rules strictly. Wisconsin has 11 different species of turtles, two of which – the wood turtle and Blanding’s turtles -- are threatened species and one – the ornate box turtle -- that is endangered. Information on amphibian and reptile regulations including turtles is available on the DNR Web site.
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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.
Statewide Birding Report:
Wisconsin has entered into the "dog days" of summer birding. Many species are still singing or onto the second broods but many other long-distance migrants are now done nesting or feeding young and generally acting secretive. Shorebird migration has begun to pick up with reports of many yellowlegs and even some rarities like piping plover, American avocet and marbled godwit. Wetlands are always a good place to bird this time of year as there are many broods of waterfowl and marsh birds as well as dispersing herons and egrets that are done nesting and are looking for foraging areas. As always, please report sightings to eBird (
www.ebird.org/WI) to help track nesting and migrating bird populations.
DNR Northern Region
Superior DNR Service Center area
Brule River State Forest - The Bois Brule River is flowing at 130 cfs (cubic feet per second). The 63 year average is 135 cfs. Summer berry picking is just beginning around the northland. Blueberries and raspberries are looking plentiful for both people and wildlife. This should also help alleviate the nuisance bear reports as the bears should have enough to feed on now. Juneberries and hazelnut should be ripe shortly also. It seems that the roadsides, fields and woods have a new hue of colors from the flowers that are starting to bloom. St. Johns-wort, black-eyed Susan, fireweed, Turks-cap lily, figwort, partridge berry, winterberry, spreading dogbane, and honeysuckle are just some of the new flowers that can be seen.
Pattison State Park – The park is in prime condition for the summer. There has been enough rain for the waterfalls to be in good shape. The early summer had quite a few mosquitoes and gnats, which are now gone. The trails and beach are in very good condition. Naturalist programs are given nightly at 7 p.m. Call the park at 715-399-3111 for information on these programs.
Park Falls DNR Service Center area
Upper Chippewa Basin fisheries report (Price, Rusk, Sawyer Taylor and inland Ashland and Iron counties) - The northern part of Wisconsin received a couple of half-inch rainfalls in the past week - but it did little to increase river and streams and most are still experiencing fairly low water levels. Many lakes are seeing some dense weed growth in the shallows and blooms of filamentous algae are also showing up on top of these weeds. Low river levels are also starting to limit recreational activities and canoeists are starting to bump more rock and scrape gravel in the shallow rapids and riffle areas. Despite several days of very windy conditions, fishing success has been generally good. Largemouth and smallmouth bass have provided the most consistent action, with largemouth bass settling into their typical summer patterns. They have been holding fairly tight to thick woody cover, with docks, woody cover and bog edges being some of their favorites habitats. In addition, some good action has been experienced in the early morning hours on top water baits fished over the dense weed beds. Smallmouth bass have been moving to the mid-depth woody cover and rock bars, and some nice catches have been made on small finesse plastics and crayfish-type baits. Musky action has been slowly improving, with some low 40-inch fish being reported in the last few days. Bucktails and jerk baits have been some favorite baits for many of the anglers. Walleye success continues to be erratic, but some nice catches have come on leeches fished in and along weeds edges or night crawlers fished on deeper rock/gravel bars. Panfish action has been generally good, with some nice catches of crappie and bluegill coming from suspended fish near mid-depth cover.
Woodruff DNR Service Center area
Northern Highland American Legion State Forest - Summer is in full-swing and conditions for all outdoor activities have been ideal. With recent rains, river and lake levels are improving, though people with large boats are experiencing some difficulty launching their craft from some boat landings. People are encouraged to be cautious when using boat landings on lakes that are lower than their normal levels. Visitors fishing have been enjoying success on area lakes, with reports of smallmouth bass in the 15 to 20 inch range reported. Walleye, musky, and panfish have all been active. Because of a late spring, plants and their berries are behind in their development and as a result, bears have been actively searching for new sources of food. Reports have been received of nuisance bears in campgrounds, private residences, and near restaurant dumpsters. In order to prevent a visit by a bear, campers are encouraged to take their garbage to dumpsters located within the campgrounds. All food should be put away at night or whenever campers are not in their site. Campers and other outdoor enthusiasts are reminded to bring their insect repellant when they visit the forest. Be sure to check for ticks as they are prevalent at this time. The Northern Highland American Legion State Forest is proud to offer a variety of naturalist programs throughout the forest in conjunction with the North Lakeland Discover Center. Dates and times for these programs are listed at the Crystal Lake and Clear Lake Ranger Stations.
DNR Northeastern Region
Peshtigo DNR Service Center area
Fishing pressure was light again this week due to the weather. Winds have been making it difficult for the smaller boats to enjoy the bay in relative safety. Water temperatures at the landings in Marinette and Oconto counties range from 74 to 78 degrees.
Marinette County - Chinook salmon have been cooperating for the anglers out by Green Island this week, with the north side of the island being the most productive. Anglers have been reporting catches of chinooks in 80 feet of water 50 to 60 feet down. Dodger/fly, Spin Doctors, and flashers tipped with fly or spoons have been providing some good action. Colors seem to vary from greens and Blue Berry Muffins to Mountain Dews and white/black. Smallmouth bass were being caught in phenomenal numbers on tube jigs (crayfish color) and crank baits, by anglers fishing structure in the Menominee River. Not to be out done the Peshtigo Harbor area is giving up nice numbers of catfish and sheepshead on crawlers fished tight line.
Oconto County - The perch bite has started, with some nice limits of perch coming out of Oconto Park II (OPII) in 10 feet of water. The perch have shown a preference for crawlers on crappie rigs or something comparable. Look for the weed beds, OPII is a nice area to launch from due to the fact the weed beds are only 2 miles out from the landing. Should the weather change for the worse, getting back to shore is relatively quick. For the shore anglers the ramp area at OPII is providing some good bluegill and crappie on leaf worms and slip bobbers, while casting crank baits is getting the attention of some good sized largemouth bass.
Green Bay DNR Service Center area
Brown County - On the Fox River of Green Bay, game fish angling has been slow. Walleye anglers of the river and bay near the river’s mouth should find it helpful to fish deeper. Shore anglers have been catching rough fish on worms. Anglers targeting walleye in the lower bay are finding luck with crawler harnesses in 10 to 12 feet. All colored harness rigs seem to have the same results. Chartreuse crank baits have also produced some results. Anglers catching the most walleye are trolling near reefs and shore. Open water walleye fishing has not been very productive. Between Red River and Henderson’s on the east shore, perch anglers are finding success. The morning bite has been consistently better. Minnows have been working best; however, night crawlers have also shown success. Most anglers with limiting-out trips have been fishing in 18 to 25 feet of water. Water temperature in the bay is around 70 degrees. In the Little Sturgeon Bay/Sawyer Harbor area, fish activity remains slight. Smallmouth bass can be caught if the right bait is used with the right technique. Some yellow perch can be caught when hungry fish are found.
Manitowoc County - In Manitowoc anglers had a good week of fishing with many successful trips producing nice catches for both pier and boat anglers. Pier anglers had success throughout the week landing some nice Chinook salmon and brown trout by casting spoons. Most Chinook salmon harvested ranged from 10 to 16 pounds and the brown trout weighed from 2 to 6 pounds. Lake Michigan trollers met with mixed success this week with cold water temperatures. Most boat anglers were trolling in anywhere from 15 to 70 feet of water south of the Manitowoc River. On Sunday morning one angler trolling in 20 feet of water with spoons around Silver Creek landed a nice Chinook salmon weighing in at 20 pounds and 37.25 inches. In Two Rivers anglers had a fair week of fishing. Pier anglers had success throughout the week. On Wednesday morning anglers fishing the north pier landed one nice rainbow trout weighing 7 pounds and a brook trout weighing in at 2.5 pounds and 17 inches with spoons. Over the weekend, boat anglers had some slower fishing than during the past few weeks, but were still landed a couple Chinook salmon and rainbow trout. The Chinook salmon harvested on Sunday morning ranged from 14 to 16 pounds and rainbow trout ranged from 3 to 6 pounds. Anglers were having success trolling with a variety of baits such as spoons, dodgers, and j-plugs in anywhere from 15 to 60 feet of water.
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Kewaunee County - Fishing has slowed down a bit on Lake Michigan this past week. Trolling anglers found rainbows and salmon around depths of 80-120 feet and some rainbows were found up to 180 feet depths. Water temperatures are still quite inconsistent, ranging from low 40s to mid 50s at the warmest. Warmer water was found closer to shore. Pier anglers in both Algoma and Kewaunee had success catching salmon and rainbow trout throughout this past week. Most anglers were using silver colored spoons of any type. Water temperatures on Lake Michigan continue to be cold for the time of year. As temperatures rise and hopefully start to stabilize, fishing conditions will improve in the coming weeks.
Oshkosh DNR Service Center area
All boaters should use caution while traveling the Fox River between Berlin and Lake Butte des Morts as there is still a significant amount of debris that is floating above, and just below the surface of the river. Anglers are hauling in their limits of walleyes off the shallow ends of the reefs in Lake Winnebago.
DNR Southeast Region
Havenwoods State Forest - All trails are clear. Hiking and horse trails are in good condition. Please use caution as wild parsnip is blooming. Deer, coyote, bluebirds, geese, ducks, owls, turkey, and hawks are being seen. Volunteers are needed to cutting buckthorn and controlling wild parsnip and teasel.
Virtually all campsites are open for camping although some are moist, some soggy.
Richard Bong State Recreation Area - Wolf Lake water level is high, approximately 7 inches higher than normal July levels. Water quality at the beach is very good. Prairie flowers are blooming and putting on a spectacular show. The Urban Pond is still drained, construction is underway on the accessible fishing stations. The mosquito population is exceptionally healthy. If you are visiting, please come prepared. Mosquito repellent and head nets are for sale on property. There is currently a boil water advisory that affects the Visitor Center, Entrance Station, the water fill station and two drinking fountains. The live butterfly exhibit opened July 1st and will run through Labor Day. Visitor Center hours to view the exhibit are 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon-Fri and noon-3 p.m. Sat and Sun. The park will begin taking reservations for waterfowl hunting blinds on August 1, the drawing will be held August 25. Dove hunting will begin September 1. New this year, dove hunters must use steel shot on property. The accessible cabin still has some weekday openings for reservations.
Lake Michigan fisheries team report
Sheboygan County - In Sheboygan fishing alewives off the piers has provided some chinook action, but fishing has been generally slow. Trollers off Sheboygan have been catching chinooks, rainbows, and browns in 60 to 100 feet of water. A variety of spoons, 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 50 to 70 feet. Action has been sporadic, with some anglers catching only a few fish and others catching more.
Milwaukee County - Perch fishing in Milwaukee has been relatively slow from shore, with the most perch coming off the end of McKinley pier on small jigging spoons. Boat anglers looking for perch have taken some off the Oak Creek Power Plant on small minnows. Milwaukee shore anglers have also 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 up 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, but a few chinooks have been reported off the south pier on alewives. Racine trollers have been catching a mixed bag of chinooks, rainbows, coho, browns, and lake trout. Most fish have been caught relatively near shore in 40 to 70 feet of water. Spoons in watermelon, green, orange, and purple have been most effective.
Kenosha County - Shore fishing in Kenosha has picked up, with fair numbers of browns and rainbows being reported in the harbor. Tube jigs tipped with wax worms have provided the most action. Perch anglers have been, at times, catching good numbers both off the piers and at the bubbler. Small minnows and jigs have taken the most perch. Kenosha trollers have been catching primarily chinooks and coho, and the most fish have been found in 40 to 80 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 8.4 feet July 16, down 0.6 from the previous day. This is close to the normal, summer river level in this area. Nice catches of bass and bluegills are being reported by local anglers. 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, indigo buntings, and red winged blackbirds. The native prairie garden at the park office is beautiful. 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, and Joe pye-weed. Wildflowers in bloom in the area include: cow parsnip, chicory, jewelweed Queen Anne’s lace.
Fitchburg DNR Service Center area
Dane County
Lake Kegonsa State Park - Dane County has reinstated the Slow, No Wake Order for all of the Yahara Lakes. This includes Lake Kegonsa, Lake Waubesa, Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. Slow, No Wake means boats must move as slowly as possible while maintaining steering control and producing no wake. A Water Quality Advisory is in place at the beach due to outbreaks of blue green algae. These conditions can change daily and throughout the day. If the water is cloudy, looks like green paint or pea soup, or has a floating scum layer or floating clumps, do not swim in or swallow the water. Campground reservations for weekends are filling 3-plus weeks in advance. A construction project to add an additional 16 family campsites and 3 group campsites is under way. Visitors camping in the area of the construction Monday - Thursday nights may experience noise disturbance.
DNR West Central Region
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
Warmer water temperatures, dropping water levels and the mayfly hatch on the Mississippi river, pool 8 in the La Crosse area has changed where the fish are and how they are biting. Bluegills and other fish have moved to summer areas often in light current, on wing dams and rocky areas. Anglers were getting nice size bluegill right off Riverside and Pettibone parks in downtown La Crosse. Many of the bass and walleye have also moved to areas with more flow due to warmer waters. The spillways at Onalaska and French Island are producing crappie, bluegill, bass and a variety of fish species. Night fishing for flathead catfish is heating up with anglers often trying areas near deep cut banks and or snags. Blackberry plants are setting their fruits, and it looks like the upcoming blackberry crop will be above average. Look for blackberries to begin ripening in about a month. Blackberries are common along roadsides, field borders, fencerows, and forest openings. Blackberries are of great importance to a wide range of wildlife for food and cover. Two reasons for the importance of blackberries are their widespread occurrence and palatability. In excess of 100 bird species eat blackberries, including such species as the ruffed grouse, robin, catbird, cardinal, and brown thrasher. Raccoons, chipmunks, squirrels, and black bears are fond of blackberry fruits, while deer and rabbits consume the leaves and stems. Thorny blackberry brambles provide ideal cover and security for many types of small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Cedar waxwings, pewees, nighthawks, and whip-poor-wills have been very active lately, feeding heavily on flying insects.
Mississippi River - Several hundred white pelicans have again decided to spend the summer near La Crosse. They can often be seen herding schools of fish, their usual feeding strategy, or soaring gracefully along the bluffs. Pelicans feed mostly on fish that occur in large schools near the surface, like gizzard shad. Cats and dogs should always be kept under control, but it is especially important when young, vulnerable wildlife is around.
Perrot State Park - All the trails are in good condition. Fishing is very slow and the water level is normal. Summer wild flowers are dominating the park now. The prairie flowers are really starting to blaze and butterfly weed is the star of the show right now! Canoe and kayak rentals are available at Headquarters and Trempealeau Bay is a terrific place to beat the heat.
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 off their stuff.
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.
Crawford County - Scattered but strong storms entered the area this past week dumping a substantial amount of water in some areas. The Mississippi River was down close to 8 feet earlier in the week but rose after the rain. The current stage in the Prairie du Chien/Mc Gregor Iowa area is 9.0 feet. The forecast for the Mississippi River is for steady decline down to around 8 feet by next weekend. The Wisconsin River rose somewhat but has been slowly dropping early this week. Many sand bars on the Wisconsin River are usable. The Kickapoo River on the other hand rose considerably. Last week the river was “in it’s banks”. The Kickapoo River rose to 12.55 feet which entered the action stage. Water clarity is very poor on the Kickapoo. The forecast for the Kickapoo is favorable however. It is expected to fall drastically this week. All of the boat landings in the Crawford County area are open and usable. All the trout streams in the area are back to near normal conditions but some, early in the week, were running a little muddy. Boaters are still urged to watch out for floating debris as recent rains washed down debris. Mississippi River boaters will have to be cautious of wing and closing dams once the water drops this week. Bluegill, perch, and crappie action is starting to pick up on the Mississippi River. Fishing Lock and Dam #9 was fair this week with some decent catches of bluegills coming off wing dams and the slack water near the dam. Most anglers are using a chunk of nightcrawlers fished off the bottom. Whitebass action has been spotty. Fishing at Cold Spring was spotty. Some days anglers found some decent bluegill and crappie. Anglers are targeting the shallows because the receding water and warmer temperatures are causing the bluegill and crappie to head into those areas. The boat ramp at Cold Spring is usable and the water has receded out of the parking area. Late in the week however a large mass of weeds floated into the boat landing making launching tricky. The Ambro Slough complex is starting to pick up. Access to boat landings is good. Anglers fishing Big Lake, Fish Lake, the Upper and Lower Doubles, Big and Little Missouri, and Spring Lake have found decent fishing at times. One might have to move around to find decent size and active fish. Horseshoe (McGregor or Sturgeon) Lake is also getting better because the water is warming and receding. Fishing for sauger and walleye picked up a little late in the week. Try trolling crank baits in deeper water sloughs. Black Slough, Roseau Slough, and Big Lake produced some fish. Another tactic is drifting with leeches or nightcrawlers. Once a walleye or sauger is caught target that area. The S curve by Harpers Ferry was pretty good to this week. There has been some fair walleye/sauger action on wing dams. Northern Pike action has slowed a bit. Look for northerns in slack or slow moving water near weeds or downed trees. Casting crank baits, spoons, or spinner baits have worked the best. Look for northerns in medium depth areas without heavy current. Bass (both large and smallmouth) fishing has been fairly good. Anglers are can find active bass in shallow backwater areas, on wing dams, and in the timber. Some pretty good action for bass was found outside Ferryville and on the wing dams upstream from Prairie du Chien. Turtles continue to be on the move so be cautious traveling the local highways. Many baby or young wild animals are out and about this time of year. They should be viewed from a distance and not disturbed or picked up. Many song birds and upland game birds have fledged. A chorus of frogs can be heard in the river bottoms. A large hatch of mosquitoes and gnats still exist. Mosquitoes have been terrible in the river bottoms and some upland areas. Gnats have also been a nuisance on the higher ground. Stinging nettle, poison ivy, and parsnip await outdoor users to be careful and dress accordingly.
Black River Falls DNR Service Center area
Black River Falls State Forest - Two sections of the ATV trail system are temporarily closed due to heavy rainfall received on July 11. More than 7 inches of rain fell washing out several culverts on the Jackson County and State Forest ATV trail system. The entire Oak Ridge trail is closed from the Seventh street parking lot to the Highway 12 parking lot. This is a 15.4 mile stretch of which 4.8 miles is state trail and 10.6 is Jackson County trail. In addition a 7.9 mile section of the Millston loop on the state forest is closed. Repairs will take at least a month to enact. The major impact to this closure is that there is now only one access route to the town of Millston. Riders can still park in the North Settlement parking lot and access Millston or ride north to Black River Falls. A map of the closure can be seen here (provide link). The northern section of the trails received considerably less rain and are in fair condition. Trails were last groomed in the beginning of July. More than 200 miles are still available for riding in the Jackson and Clark County trail system. We recommend riders use their headlights at all times and bring a dust mask during drier conditions. Please help protect the sport of ATVing by staying on the trails at all times, reminding others to do the same, and please report any off trail or inappropriate riding.
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 pan fish action has been good with warm water temperatures. The small mouth bass have been hitting surface baits. Large mouth bass and northern pike action has been moderate, and there has been good musky action in the area. Catfish are being taken from the upper reaches of the flowage. The fireflies and a variety of dragonflies and damselflies are out in abundance. 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. Plants in bloom at the moment are blue flag, marsh marigolds, dog violet, wild columbine, bellwort, 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 - Mosquito numbers are going down but may be numerous during hot humid weather 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. Deadline for the youth deer hunt is July 15. A small black bear was spotted Sunday evening near the T intersection. Saturday, July 19 is a candlelight hike at the park from 8-10 p.m. There is a "Night noises- music for the brave at heart" presentation at the amphitheater at 8 p.m. A campfire, food and refreshments will be provided by the Friends of Buckhorn State Park.
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 a few 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. If you self-register for an annual sticker, it will be mailed to you.
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, July 18, 2008
• Governor Nelson State Park, Waunakee, (608) 831-3005 - Friday Folk Jamboree: Erin O'Brien. Listen to a local folk musician. Beach picnic shelter. 7-9 p.m.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Venture Into the Night Hike: Night Sounds. As the sun sets and the light fades from the sky, the day animals retire and a new group of animals awakens. We will explore the world of the crepuscular (active at dusk and dawn) and nocturnal (active at night) animals. Bring your insect repellent and sense of adventure. Meet at Long Lake Recreation Area Picnic Shelter. 8:30-10 p.m. Nature Storytime: Fluffy, Puffy Clouds. Lie back and watch the clouds float by. Come learn how these fluffy, puffy clouds are formed and what may fall from them. This hour of nature fun awaits 3- to 6-year-olds with accompanying adults. Ice Age Visitor Center. 9:30-10:30 a.m.
• Potawatomi State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 746-2890 - Park Ecology. DNR Ecologist, Joe Henry, will be here to talk about the relationship between all living things in the park, and how these organisms live in balance. What happens when things are not in balance? Come find out. Meet at the base of the Observation Tower. 10 a.m.
• Willow River State Park, Hudson, (715) 386-5931 - Universe in the Park. Meet at the Nature Center. View a program inside and then look through the telescopes outside. The event is free but regular vehicle admission rates apply. 9 p.m.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
• Buckhorn State Park, Necedah, (608) 565-2789 - Summer Candlelight Hike. Hike the 1.4-mile nature trail, lit by the moon and tiki torches. Naturalist program, " Night Noises - Midnight Music for the Brave at Heart!" by Chris Lilek at 8 p.m. at amphitheater. Refreshments and campfire at the amphitheater. Sponsored by Friends of Buckhorn State Park. South shelter parking lot and amphitheater. 8-10:30 p.m.
• Flambeau River State Forest, Winter, (715) 332-5271 - Paddling Adventure. This nature program takes place at the Connors Lake Picnic Area. 1-2 p.m.
• Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 -One Wild Saturday Morning Drop-in: Nature Printing. The flowers are blooming, the leaves are green – what a perfect time of the year to do some nature printing. Drop in to make leaf prints, make a flower press, tie-dye a T-shirt (Bring your own T-shirt.) with natural dyes, and much more. Environmental Awareness Center. 9 a.m. - noon. No admission sticker required.
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Universe in the Park. Learn about the latest discoveries and puzzles about our universe combined with a hands-on stargazing session (weather permitting). The program will be presented rain or shine Ice Age Center. 9 p.m.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit, (920) 533-8322 - Exploring Nature: Fishing Fun. Experienced anglers will share their knowledge on how to bait a hook, cast a line and reel in fish. If you're lucky, you may even learn to clean the fish you catch. Bring your fishing gear, if you have some. A limited number of rods and reels will be available and bait is provided. People over the age of 16 will need to have a valid Wisconsin fishing license to fish. Mauthe Lake Recreation Area Fishing Pier. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Drop In at the Beach: Birds of a Feather. Have you ever wanted to fly? Drop in to learn about the unique adaptations birds possess that help them to fly and survive in a great variety of habitats. 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. 1-4 p.m. Gray Wolves: The True Story. Wisconsin has been a historic home for gray wolves. With Jerry Sanders, delve into the amazing lives of these incredible animals lead. We also learn how they are recovering after being extirpated from the state and what the next steps will be in sustaining a healthy population of gray wolves in the Great Lakes region. This program is most appropriate for adults and youth over the age of 8 years. Ice Age Visitor Center. 7-8:30 p.m.
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Dutch Oven and Other Outdoor Cooking. Join park volunteers for an outdoor cooking demonstration using recipes from the park cookbook Cooking with Friends. This will be a great opportunity to pick up some tips and gather ides for your next camping trip or cookout. Amphitheater. Noon - 1:30 p.m. Wild Edible and Medicinal Plants. Come hike with John Johnston to search for the wild edible and medicinal plants found at Kohler-Andrae. John will share tips on using these unique and interesting plants. Wear comfortable shoes for the 1-hour hike. The program is free but a vehicle admission sticker is required. Meet in the campground at the closed gate east of the camp host site. 2 p.m. Hiking the Appalachian Trail. In January of 2007 Tom Brown started on a through hike of the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine. Join him for an evening of fun as he talks about the experience of long distance hiking. He will show slides and display equipment needed for his journey. Best for those age 8 and up. No pets allowed. Sanderling Nature Center. 7 p.m.
• Military Ridge State Trail, Riley, (608) 437-7393 - Eco-Tour. Sponsored by the Friends of the Military Ridge State Trail . Take a nature hike on the Military Ridge State Trail led by Meg Skinner. The hike begins at the Riley trailhead and will focus on the geological, cultural, and natural history of Aldo Leopold’s Game Cooperative. 10 - 11 a.m.
• Potawatomi State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 746-2890 - Geocaching. Learn the basics of geocaching at Potawatomi State Park. This two-hour program will begin with an introduction to geocaching followed by hands-on experience locating temporary caches. GPS units will be provided. This is a program for all ages and parents are encouraged to join their children. Meet at the Potawatomi Amphitheater. 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
• Rib Mountain State Park, Wausau, (715) 842-2522 - Concert in the Clouds. This concert series is sponsored by the Friends of Rib Mountain State Park . The Wausau Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Ensemble will be performing at the Rib Mountain Amphitheater. Admission to the concert is free, but a vehicle admission sticker is required. 6 - 8 p.m.
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Treasure Pouches. Kids of all ages, make your own unique leather treasure pouch to take home and fill. There is a $3 material fee at the door. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Visitor Center. 9:30-11 a.m. Butterfly Neighbors. Capture, identify and release some winged jewels. Learn which butterflies call the park home. Visitor Center. 6-7 p.m.
• Willow River State Park, Hudson, (715) 386-5931 - Kids' Fishing Contest. Kids, try to catch a big bass or crappie for some awesome prizes. Fee $1 per child. 9 a.m. - noon. Full Moon Hike. Meet at the Nature Center to learn about birds (held in the classroom) then go out on the hike afterward. The event is free with an annual or daily admission sticker on your vehicle. 7 p.m.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Drop In at the Beach: Birds of a Feather. Have you ever wanted to fly? Drop in to learn about the unique adaptations birds possess that help them to fly and survive in a great variety of habitats. 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. Noon - 3 p.m.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
• Big Foot Beach State Park, Lake Geneva, (262) 348-2420 - Sunsets, Yoga, and Paddling. Wendy Yanke of Indigo Yoga to teach you two of our favorite things at our favorite time of the day! We'll have plenty of insect repellent and incense burning to help you achieve a bug-free Zen. And when we're done you'll see why the sunsets at Big Foot Beach State Park have been rated the best in the state! Fee $30 per class or $100 for four-week session. Please call to preregister. Yoga 6-7 p.m., instructional sunset paddle 6-7:30 p.m.
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Kayak Connection. Join the Lakeshore Sea Kayakers to learn about the basics of kayaking, including equipment, gear, safety, and destinations. Time for questions as well. Bathhouse. 7 p.m.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Children's Storytime. Children ages 4-10 are invited to hear nature stories read by a volunteer storyteller. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No pets allowed. Sanderling Nature Center. 1:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 24 - Friday, July 25, 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 - Forest Fire, Friday - Invasive Insects. 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 24, 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: An Ice Age Sunset. We will hike to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail to catch a beautiful Ice Age Sunset. Along the way we will explore the surrounding woods and learn of the area's glacial legacy. Make sure to wear sturdy footwear. In the event of threatening weather, the program will be canceled. This adventure is for people over the age of 12 years. Parnell Tower Parking Lot. 6:30-8 p.m.
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Solar System Walk. Join Solar System Ambassador Kevin Koski on a hike of our solar system. Learn fun and fascinating facts about the planets in our solar system and find out why Pluto is no longer considered a planet. Please wear comfortable shoes for the hike on the beach. Hike is best for those age 8 and up. Sanderling Nature Center. 2 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/
