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/DNR Outdoor Report as of April 14, 2011
A major spring storm last weekend resulted in 10 confirmed tornado touchdowns, several that caused significant damage in Lincoln, Adams, and Winnebago counties and surrounding areas. The storm caused the closure of Council Grounds State Park near Merrill, and the closure of a portion of the Fox River State Trail in Brown County. Rain from the storm and melting snow have raised water levels on rivers, many of which are at flood stage. High water on the Chippewa River has washed out a section of the Chippewa River State Trail, closing a section near Eau Claire. The lower Wisconsin, Rock, Crawfish, and Mississippi rivers are all at or near flood stage, and slow now wake ordinances are in place in many locations. Boaters are being urged to use extreme caution due to very high levels of floating debris, which is creating significant navigation hazards.
Despite recent rainfall and storm, dry conditions still persist in many areas and, 64 wildfires were reported around the state in the last week, one of which destroyed a structure. People cleaning up debris in storm-damaged areas are being asked to refrain from burning debris and to look for alternative methods of disposal, such as composting, mulching or taking to materials landfills where permitted.
With mild weather last week, ice conditions have deteriorated quickly and this has pretty much brought an end to the ice fishing season in the north. Access areas are pretty much unusable and open-water has developed along the south and east facing shorelines. While lakes may still have a foot or more of ice, it has become soft and honeycombed and should be considered unsafe and dangerous. Streams, rivers and small flowages are now ice free across the entire state.
High water is making river fishing difficult, and most rivers are turbid. While nice weather brought out large numbers of steelhead anglers on Lake Michigan tributaries, action slowed this week due to water conditions, and the beginning of sucker runs on some rivers. Walleye runs are picking up, with heavy fishing pressure this week on the Peshtigo and Wolf Rivers. The Winnebago system walleye spawn peaked this week, and females have already begun working their way back down the Wolf to the lake system. Sturgeon have begun moving upstream in anticipation of spawning, with some porpoiseing being seen near spawning sites, which is a good sign that spawning is imminent. Check the sturgeon spawning page of the DNR website for regular updates and viewing locations.
The first of six, five day spring turkey hunting periods opened Wednesday and runs through Sunday. Late afternoon turkey activity is increasing with large groups of hens, jakes and gobblers still being observed in hay fields where the gobblers have begun displaying.
The warm temperatures last week and southerly winds brought the next round of bird migrations, with a a rapid influx of new forest migrants including sapsuckers, fox sparrows, purple finches, kinglets and winter wrens. Waterfowl migration is now past peak in most of southern Wisconsin, with large numbers of diving ducks moving into recently opened water in the north. Loon numbers are building in central Wisconsin as lakes open for the year.
This weekend will kick-off the first of a large number of Earth Day activities that will be held across the state over the next few weeks. Check the DNR website for details.
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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
The warm temperatures of last week and southerly flow kickstarted the next round of bird migrations. Most of the state saw a rapid influx of new forest migrants including sapsuckers, fox sparrows, purple finch, both kinglet species and winter wrens. Waterfowl migration is now past peak in most of southern Wisconsin and large numbers of diving ducks are moving into recently opened water in the north. Loon numbers are building in central Wisconsin as lakes open for the year. Southern Wisconsin marshes have seen their first influx of birds including American bittern, Virginia rail, swamp sparrow and yellow-headed blackbirds. In addition, the first shorebirds are arriving including both yellowlegs and pectoral sandpipers. Thousands of waterfowl on Chequamegon Bay, which is now ice-free. Migration of Dark-eyed Juncos peaking up north. Raptor migration hitting its peak of diversity, with the first broad-winged Hawks having arrived now from their Central and South American wintering grounds. Lingering winter birds include small numbers of common redpolls and large flocks of Bohemian waxwings, both about to vacate the state any day now. Rare birds reported this week include a surf scoter in Oneida County, red-necked grebes in Columbia county and Ashland, large numbers of both crossbills in the Eagle River area, and displaying spruce grouse near Eagle River. This next week looks like it will be poor for migration, but birders should expect an influx of grassland-shrubland birds on the next calm night. As always please report your sightings to Wisconsin eBird (
www.ebird.org/WI) so that we can better track our migrant bird populations.
Statewide Wildfire Report
In the past week, 64 wildfires burned DNR Protection Areas around the state; 14 structures were threatened and one was lost. Leading causes of fires this week were debris burning, equipment, and railroads. The public is urged to be especially cautious with anything that can start a wildfire this time of the year, such as ash disposal, equipment/vehicles with a hot exhaust, campfires, and especially debris burning. With the spring turkey hunt, people are also urged to be cautious with warming fires. Make sure the area 10 feet around a campfire is completely free of fallen leaves and anything else that can burn. Don?t burn at all when it?s windy. Go to
http://dnr.wi.gov/forestry/fire/fire_danger/Wis_Burn/StateCounties.asp for more information on fire danger. Wildfire Prevention Week starts Sunday, April 17 and goes until Saturday, April 23.
Firewise tip: Keep your roof, rain gutters and yard free of leaf and pine needle debris. Firebrands from a wildfire could easily ignite these fuels which in turn could ignite your home.
Southern Region Wildfire Report
There was quite a bit of fire activity in the past week, particularly on Wednesday, when a string of 10 railroad fires started. Many other fires were caused by debris burning, including a 3-acre fire in Iowa County. A wet weather pattern is predicted through the weekend, which will briefly alleviate fire danger. Once the rain stops, fire danger will quickly climb. Burning Permits are required for burning after 6 p.m. in DNR protection. Make sure to notify your local sheriff?s department of when you are starting to burn and when it?s out.
West Central Region Wildfire Report
Black River Falls and Wis. Rapids Dispatch Groups -In the parts of the West Central Region where the DNR is responsible for wildfire suppression, seven fires burned approximately 12 acres in the last week. Five structures were threatened by these fires. Debris burning was the leading cause of fires this week in the region, including a 2.5-acre fire in Adams County and a 5.3-acre fire in Monroe County where a barn was threatened but saved with suppression efforts. Daytime burning is only allowed under a Special Permit from a DNR Forest Ranger. Burning is not allowed on Sundays and holidays.
Northern Region Wildfire Report
Brule and Cumberland Dispatch Groups - Due to low humilities and higher temperatures both dispatch groups report increasing wildfire activity. Brule Dispatch reports two new fires for the reporting period for 1.6 acres. Washburn Ranger reports the loss of a structure on a 0.6-acre fire caused by debris burning. Pattison Fire Response Unit responded to their first railroad fire for the year that they held to 1.5 acres. Year to date the Brule Dispatch Group reports five fires for the year totaling 41 acres. Cumberland Dispatch reports ten fires for the reporting period for 14 acres. Most of the fires reported this week were caused by debris burning. In five of the ten fires reported structures were threatened and saved by fire fighters. All fires were relatively small due to early detection and quick initial attack. Park Falls and Woodruff Dispatch Groups report four fires burned a total of 5.5 acres with 3 structures saved and no structures receiving damage this week. The fire danger is Moderate to High across the region. Debris burning is the leading cause of wildfires in the Park Falls-Woodruff area. Clean up continues in the Merrill and Argonne areas after tornados caused extensive damage.
Northeast Region Wildfire Report
Waupaca Dispatch Group - Thirteen fires burned 9 acres in the past week. Eight of the fires started along a highway in Shawano County, caused by sparks from a vehicle that was being towed. At the time, there was still some snow along the roadway, however, that is not enough to keep fires from starting in dry vegetation this time of year. A 4.2 acre fire in Waushara County resulted as fire escaped from a burn pile that spread into an old Scotch pine field. April 14 marks the 8th anniversary of the Crystal Lake Fire, which burned 572 acres in northern Marquette County, destroying a cottage, three outbuildings, three camper-trailers, and various boats, canoes, and other equipment. The cause was determined to be debris burning. In this case, a large brush pile had been burned many weeks earlier when the ground was snow-covered, but was never fully extinguished, and continued to smolder deep under the ash. The dry, windy conditions on April 14, 2003 blew the ash away, exposing the smoldering fuels, and caused the brush pile to flare up, resulting in the loss of hundreds of thousands of dollars in personal property and natural resources. Peshtigo Dispatch Group - Nine wildfires burned in the area this past week. The main causes were debris burning and equipment. A 1.5-acre fire in Marinette County was started by a campfire.
DNR Northern Region
Superior DNR Service Center area
Brule River State Forest - Could it be spring this time? Last week's snow quickly melted and the snow that is left in the woods is melting rapidly. The snow melt has raised the levels of rivers and creeks. The Bois Brule River was flowing at 306 cubic feet per second as of April 8. Some birds that are back in the area are killdeer, phoebes, white-throated sparrow, and red-winged blackbird. Red maple buds are enlarging, promising colorful red/pink blossoms. Aspen catkins are looking like large pussywillows now. Ice on the lakes and ponds is starting to recede from the shorelines. Trumpeter swans have been in the area for a while?they are waiting for the area lakes to open up. Trumpeter swans were sited on St. Croix Lake last week, after the snow storm.
Ashland DNR Service Center area
Thousands of waterfowl on Chequamegon Bay, which is now ice-free. Migration of dark-eyed juncos peaking up north. Raptor migration hitting its peak of diversity, with the first broad-winged hawks having arrived now from their Central and South American wintering grounds. Lingering winter birds include small numbers of common redpolls and large flocks of Bohemian waxwings, both about to vacate the state any day now.
Hayward DNR Service Center area
Tuscobia State Trail - The trail is open for ATV/UTV use in Sawyer and Washburn counties and on April 15 will open in Price County. The trail is soft and has many rough stretches; some areas are still snow/slush covered. Maintenance will begin once the trail dries out. Streams are running, birds are singing and the pussywillows are starting to pop. Please note that motorcycles, dirt bikes (off-road or street legal) and scooters are not allowed on the trail.
Park Falls DNR Service Center area
Upper Chippewa Basin fisheries report (Price, Rusk, Sawyer Taylor and inland Ashland and Iron counties) - With the mild weather of the past week, ice conditions have deteriorated quickly and this has pretty much brought an end to the ice fishing season. Access areas are pretty much unusable and open-water areas have developed along the south and east facing shorelines. While most lakes and larger flowages may still have 12 to 15 inches of ice, the upper layer has become soft and honeycombed and the overall ice conditions are generally unsafe and dangerous. Streams, rivers and small flowages are almost completely ice free and DNR fish crews have begun survey netting on a few of these waters.
DNR Northeastern Region
With the nice weather and the walleye run fishing pressure has increased to moderate to heavy. Water temperatures at the landings are around 46 degrees with some what murky water.
Peshtigo DNR Service Center area
Marinette County - Walleye, pike, suckers and trout are being caught from the Dam in Peshtigo to it's mouth. Fishing pressure on the Peshtigo has been extremely heavy. Most shore anglers have had success with deep diving stick baits from the Municipal landing down river. Floating Raps and twister tails have been working in the up river areas. Boaters have been drifting jigs and minnows as well as twister tails to catch fish. Fishing the mouth of the Peshtigo has been a bit slower, but there is still enough action to satisfy. The Menominee River is producing some nice walleye at Hattie Street drifting Raps and twisters. Boaters on the Menominee are doing a lot of vertical jigging in the area of the Turn Basin.
Oconto County - Walleye and suckers are starting to show at the Stiles Dam with anglers using stick baits and jig heads and twister tails from the 141 bridge upstream. Some walleye and brown trout were being caught on the Oconto behind Hardees's using stick baits. Pike anglers on the lower stretch of the Oconto (Municipal landing to Breakwater Park are seeing little action as the pike were still spawning.
Green Bay DNR Service Center area
Manitowoc County - Temperatures around 40 degrees during the week increased to around 60 near the lakeshore on Sunday. Heavy thunderstorms went through the area Saturday and Sunday and we will likely see very high waters throughout the tributaries in the county over the next few days. Winds from the southeast early in the week switched to the northeast by the weekend at 10-15 mph. This week brought another 6 inch increase in water depth in the tributaries, leaving waters murky, fast-flowing and many low-lying areas flooded. Water temperatures increased to 45 degrees; up from 40 degrees last week in the tributaries. Angler success has been inconsistent from day to day with a few anglers having great success on steelhead and the majority of anglers with no luck at all. Steelhead anglers fishing the West Twin River had scattered success this past week for steelhead fishing between the bridge and large dam in Shoto. Anglers can also try the small dam where there has been some success. A few anglers landed a few brown trout in the 10-15 pound range while floating spawn. The same can be said for Mishicot on the East Twin River. A few anglers had success throughout the day and others left with no luck at all. With the high waters, anglers can try anywhere between the dam and downstream in the city of Mishicot. All anglers appear to be floating steelhead spawn. By the weekend, the suckers were in the tributaries at high densities. Many anglers had to sort through all the suckers to get their desired steelhead. Dip-netters for suckers have been out this week, having more success the closer they are to Lake Michigan. Up and down the Manitowoc River, a few scattered steelhead have been caught floating spawn. No specific location has been better than another. Near the Manitowoc River mouth, anglers have been having success landing catfish up to 13 pounds using sucker guts on the bottom. Many boaters went out this week out of Two Rivers, trying anywhere from the Point Beach Nuclear Plant south to Silver Creek in 6-15 feet of water. Many boats came in with 2-3 small brown trout. There has been no consistent color from anglers, but reef runners, rogues, and X-raps have caught most of the fish. An occasional fish landed on spoons with most of the fish coming on high lines. The Manitowoc Marina boat launch remains closed.
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Potawatomi State Park - With strong north winds this week, surface ice has disappeared from Sawyer Harbor and Sturgeon Bay. Waves were breaking over submerged patches of ice earlier Thursday morning. Launching piers are in place at the Sawyer Harbor boat launch area. All roads in the park are now open, and the tower is open for the season.
Oshkosh DNR Service Center area
The overall average peak of walleye spawning on the Wolf River was early this week. Some anglers are reporting catching spawned out females, but the males are still on the marshes and in the woods and likely won't come on strong into the post-spawn river fishery until they move off the marshes later this week. Females don't spend much time in the spawning areas -- perhaps two to three days, whereas males will spend a week or more on the marshes waiting to spawn with as many females as possible. fry could start hatching later next week. Given the excellent water flows this spring, the 1/4 inch fry should have no trouble getting out of the marshes and downriver later this month. The spring angler catch in the rivers is typically dominated by males, whereas the summer catch in the Winnebago Lakes is dominated by females. The incredibly large number of 2008 year class males 14-15 inches should provide outstanding fishing this spring on their return trip to Winnebago. Usually the best post-spawn walleye harvests on the river take place while crews are tagging sturgeon during their spawning run, which may begin sometime next week. While anglers are focused on the rivers, the females from the 2008 year class, who are almost all immature and still in Lake Winnebago, should provide some outstanding fishing opportunities on the shorelines of Lake Winnebago over the next couple of weeks. Crews sampled some shorelines on Lake Winnebago this week an electro-fishing boat and captured 3 year old 15 to 18 inch females. Most of these 2008 females won't be making their first spawning run for 2-3 more years. The sturgeon are not spawning yet, but are definitely on the move to their final pre-spawn staging areas in anticipation of the big show, which could start sometime next week once the weather warms after the cool period coming in over the weekend. The clues to watch for that are pretty good indicators that sturgeon are spawning are: numerous large very high flocks of Canada geese flying north, aspen leaves as big as a beaver's ear, pussy willows in full bloom, and spring peepers in full chorus at night. We are already seeing some sturgeon porpoising near spawning sites which is also a pretty good sign that spawning is imminent, although regardless of the various clues, the fish depend primarily on water temperature and will spawn when the core river temps where they are staging hit between 52 and 56 degrees F. Temperatures were at about 51 degrees in the New London area and 45 degrees in the Shawano area this week. Once the run starts the best viewing areas are along the Sturgeon Trail on County Highway X west of New London, at Bamboo Bend off Hwy. 54 just west of Shiocton, and below the Shawano paper mill dam in Shawano. This year the high water may limit the number of sites the fish can use, although all of the developed adults will spawn somewhere, and will undoubtedly put good shows on for the public at the three large public viewing sites. Fisheries biologists expect around 3,500 females and 20,000 males to participate in this year's spawning run. Females don't spawn for the first time until they are 21-34 years old and then only spawn once every 3-5 years, while males spawn for the first time when they are 14-29 years old and spawn every year or every other year.
DNR Southeast Region
Havenwoods State Forest - Trail are somewhat soft from recent rains. Deer, squirrels, raccoon, turkeys, red-tailed hawks, cooper's hawk, kestrel, owls, mourning doves, nuthatch, juncos, chickadees, downy woodpeckers, hairy woodpecker, red-winged blackbirds, woodcock, and snipe have been seen. On Saturday April 16 from 10 a.m. to noon - Earth Day Celebration. Plant a tree, make a craft from recyclable materials, fly a kite, go on an EcoScavenger Hunt, and help clean up the grounds. On Tuesday April 19, Parent and Preschooler Storytime will include stories and activities to celebrate Earth Day, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Lake Michigan fisheries team report
Sheboygan County - Sheboygan boaters have had success fishing for brown trout. Most browns have been caught by trollers working near shore in 10 to 30 feet of water. Fishing has gotten tough on the south pier, with low numbers of brown trout caught. Most fish were taken mainly on minnows or spoons, and the fishing has been better in the morning than any other time of day. A few steelhead have been caught in the Pigeon River, and both spawn and flies have been productive baits. Water levels on the Sheboygan River have dropped, and the river is up to 50 degrees. A few steelhead have been taken from the Sheboygan River, but more northern pike have been reported caught. A few steelhead have also been caught out of Weedens Creek.
Ozaukee County - In Port Washington, fishing effort from boats has been minimal. From shore, anglers fishing at the power plant have had inconsistent catches of brown trout. Most fish were taken on spawn, spoons, and crank baits. The water near the power plant is clear, though some runoff from Sauk Creek has dirtied it a bit. Sauk Creek has seen a lot of recent fishing pressure. The water level has dropped drastically, and the temperate is 46 degrees. Most anglers have been using flies, spawn or spinners on Sauk, and some steelhead have been taken.
Milwaukee County - In Milwaukee, McKinley Marina is open and the boat launch piers are in the water. The Bender Park launch is currently closed, with dredging slated to take place later this month. Shore fishing in Milwaukee has been slow at the lakefront, but anglers fishing steelhead on the Menomonee River and Oak Creek have had some success. Flies and spawn been the most consistently productive baits. Flows have dropped on the Milwaukee River, but steelhead fishing has remained relatively slow.
Racine County - On the Root River in Racine, fishing conditions have been favorable. Flows are good and water temperatures are around 50 degrees. Anglers have had success fishing for steelhead throughout the river, but the majority of catches have come from Lincoln Park, Quarry Lake Park, and at the Horlick dam. Most steelhead have been hitting wet flies or small spinners, and both white and chartreuse have been good colors. Reports of incidental catches of suckers have started to increase. DNR crews processed fish at the Root River Steelhead Facility on April 5. Both Chambers Creek and Ganaraska strains of steelhead were spawned. A total of 310 fish were handled, and 272 of those were released upstream. Fish will be processed again on Tuesday, April 12. Boat anglers in Racine have been catching decent numbers of coho and a few browns nearshore in 15 to 20 feet of water.
Kenosha County - In Kenosha, shore fishing has been relatively slow both in the harbor and on the Pike River. Fishing effort in Kenosha has been low overall, but a few steelhead have been taken in Petrifying Springs Park by anglers drifting spawn.
DNR South Central Region
Dodgeville DNR Service Center area
Grant County - Mississippi River waters continue to rise. The majority of boat landings are not usable due to the high water. Anglers are reporting catching catfish and yellow perch along the dike of Lock and Dam 11 near Dubuque, as well as large yellow perch while fishing night crawlers on the river bottom of O' Leary Lake. Early Morning and Late afternoon turkey activity is increasing with several large groups of hens, jakes and gobblers observed in hay fields where the gobblers have been seen displaying at 5 p.m..
Fitchburg DNR Service Center area
Columbia County - The Wisconsin River in Portage is at major flood stage. Recreational boaters are warned that the turbid waters can be very dangerous. The Wisconsin River in Columbia County upstream from Lake Wisconsin has a emergency slow-no-wake provision on it.
Sauk County - The Wisconsin River at the Dells and Portage is approaching flood stage. Walleye anglers should use extreme caution.
Janesville DNR Service Center area
Rock County - Anglers were out in full force in all of Rock County over the weekend with the warmer than normal spring temperatures. Anglers are reminded that the game fish season is closed until May 7 on all inland waters that are not specifically listed in the fishing regulations as open. The Rock River and Lake Koshkonong are both open year round for most game fish. The Rock River remains high and slow no wake restrictions are in place on many sections of the river. Boaters should look for slow no wake postings at boat landings or contact the Rock County Sheriff's Department at 757-2244 for up to date information on slow no wake restrictions. The youth turkey hunt took place over the weekend and many youth were out enjoying the mild weather while trying to harvest a bird. Registration stations reported good hunter success. Turkey hunters should check the DNR website for information on locations for turkey registration stations. The regular turkey season opened Wednesday with the first of six, five day turkey hunting periods. Hunters should be aware that mosquitoes and ticks are already out and looking for blood.
DNR West Central Region
Baldwin DNR Service Center area
Willow River State Park - The crest of high water has passed and the Willow River appears to be headed back to normal flow. It was still running a bit high this week. Since snow season ended, most rain forecasts have been a direct miss when it comes to the Willow watershed. Remember, it takes a week of normal flow for the water to clear up for the best trout fishing condition to return. There might be one more chance for good water levels during the early trout season. With the lack of rain, trails have dried out well in most places. There is still a little mud scattered about in low or shaded areas. Trails are soft in the turf areas. With no leaves on, the visibility into the forest is extended. Wood frogs were calling late last week but the cold weather has them shut down again. Birds seen in the park include red winged blackbird, bald eagle, northern harrier, eastern meadowlark, eastern phoebe, golden-crowned kinglet, chipping sparrow, rough winged swallow, yellow-rumped warbler, common grackle, green heron, yellow bellied sapsucker, field sparrow, brown headed cowbird, red-bellied woodpecker, red-bellied nuthatch. Construction work will begin soon on two parking areas inside the park. There will be a new lot at the office area and another new lot across from the group camp. These lots will be for day visitor use and they?ll provide closer parking access to the upper areas of the park. The lots will be gravel to start with and paving may have to wait till after the busy season. Day visitors may continue to park at the Group Camp and at the 200 campground lots until camping starts. Signs limiting access to campers only will be installed when those loops open. The 300 campground will be the first loop to open for vehicles. We are delaying the 100 and 200 opening until mid May so more grass will get started in those loops. The best guess is the 300 loop road will open around April 20. The electricity is on, the vault toilets will be open, no flush toilets, showers, or dump station until April 29. Before vehicle access starts, you will need to carry a tent in to the 300 loop and park at the 300 entrance.
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
Crawford County - Both the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers are on the rise. The Mississippi River started rising four weeks ago after ?bottoming out? at 8.44 feet. As of Monday the Mississippi River was at 18.02 feet and rising. The forecast for the Mississippi River is for it to continue rising to the 23 foot mark. It is unknown when or how high the river will crest. To put the high water conditions in perspective, the record flood of 1965 reached the 25.38 foot level. The second highest water level recorded was in 2001 when the Mississippi River reached the 23.75 foot level. The Wisconsin River is on the rise too. On Monday in Muscoda the river stage was at 6.22 feet and rising. The forecast is for it to reach flood stage of 9 feet. The Kickapoo River is in pretty good shape for this time of year. The river stage in Steuben was at 8.81 feet and rising slightly. There appears to be a influx of water coming down the Kickapoo River so it will be on the rise somewhat. Action stage in Steuben is at 10 feet. No report was available in Gays Mills. Local trout streams in the area are in very good shape. Most of the boat landings on the Mississippi River are inaccessible because of the high water. The Ambro Road on the north side of Prairie du Chien is closed due to high water as is the Gordon?s Bay boat landing. A few city streets in Prairie du Chien are being affected by the high water. Bluegill, crappie and perch fishing is pretty much shut down now. High water in the Prairie du Chien area has caused the Ambro Road to be closed. Anglers have been probing the newly flooded areas in the timber, along road sided and in field trying to locate bluegills. Sturgeon Slough and the McGregor (Horseshoe) Lake area are under water. Action at Cold Spring really slowed down. The boat landing and parking area is now mostly under water. Some anglers have been fishing the shoreline along Highway 35. There have been some catches of perch. Perch fishing in the slack water at the Lynxville dam is becoming difficult with the high water. It won?t be long and anglers will not be able to access the ?long wall? to fish from. The boat landing at Gordon?s Bay is now under water and the access road to it is closed. Generally speaking action has been slow as few have been out. Some anglers have been launching boats off the Lansing dike (Highway 82) primarily at the Winneshiek landing. Anglers have tried bass fishing with limited success. Some northern pike activity has been reported in the backwaters (those areas without heavy current) in the Ferryville/Lansing area. Now is a great time to view wildlife along the Mississippi River. The most notable species on the river are waterfowl and pelicans. Diver ducks like canvasback, redhead, scaup, golden eye, bufflehead, swans, pelicans and mergansers are showing up by the thousands. Numerous eagles can now be seen in/around the Prairie du Chien area and up and down the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers. Eagles are now actively feeding their young. Muskrat, beaver, mink and maybe if your lucky an otter might be seen in the newly flooded areas long the Mississippi River. Antler shed hunters are finding excellent conditions now that all the snow is gone and most of the frost is out of the ground. Please be courteous and ask permission before entering private land.
Black River Falls DNR Service Center area
Black River State Forest- All trails are closed for the season. Trails will re-open Saturday May 14. This year the State Forest along with Jackson and Clark County will participate in the UTV pilot. UTV will be allowed on the trail from May 14 through October 16 but not during the winter season. The pilot program will allow the State Forest and Counties to assess the viability of adding UTV to the trail system on a permanent basis. As part of the assessment a user survey will be available online in the fall. This spring the state forest will be working on rehabilitating the ATV trails running just south of the Seventh Street parking lot. Much of this trail was closed periodically last year due to wet conditions. All wetland crossings in this section of trail will be upgraded. These upgrades will severely reduce the amount of weather related trail closures and protect the long term integrity of the system. All three campgrounds are open for use on a first come first served basis. We do not recommend horse camping at this time as the trails are still very wet. The group camp is open and on the reservation system year round. Castle Mound and East Fork are on the reservations system from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend. Castle Mound Campground will close on Labor Day this year due to the construction of a new park office. Castle Mound will reopen in the spring of 2012.
Eau Claire DNR Service Center area
Chippewa River State Trail - Due to high water, there is a large washout of the Chippewa River Trail and the trail is closed on the south side of Eau Claire, from Short Street to Porterville Road. The trail will remain closed until water levels recede and repairs can be made. Restrooms are now open for the season at the Caryville rest area on the. The Red Cedar Trail is drying out and some spots are still in the freeze and thaw cycle.
Brunet Island State Park ? Most of the Cornell Flowage is open, though backwater bays are still holding some ice. The boat ramp is ice free. Raccoons and woodchucks are becoming active. Birds seen or heard include: red polls, robins, mallard and bufflehead ducks, mourning doves, ravens, black capped chickadees, northern juncos, piliated and red headed woodpeckers, barred and great horned owls. We have tundra swans and snow geese passing through the area. Sandhill cranes are making an appearance. The south campground is open with electricity, hand water pump, and a pit toilet.
Buckhorn State Park - Spring migration is making for great birding and the weather is great for hiking and fishing. Tundra swans and loons have been around the lake this week. Sandhill cranes and turkeys are roaming the barrens in the park. Turkey season is starting this week. Hunters with permits for zone 1 can hunt in the Yellow River Wildlife Area. Turkey hunting in the park is by special permit only (1F). There was no storm damage in the park or flooding with the past storm. Trails are in good condition for hiking. Boat boarding piers and the accessible fishing pier will be put in Monday, April 25.
Roche-A-Cri State Park - The campground and main gate are still closed for the season. Parking is available at the winter lot on Czech Ave and park stickers are required. The main gate will open April 29 for day use only.
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, April 15, 2011
? Kettle Moraine State Forest?Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Nature Storytime: Earth Friends. Come kick off Earth Week and learn how to become better friends with the earth and all its critters. This hour of nature fun awaits 3- to 6-year-olds with accompanying adults. Ice Age Visitor Center. 9:30-10:30 a.m.
? Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976 - Woodcock Watch. An informal, adventurous, naturalist-led program. Stop by to lend a hand for 30 minutes or more. Bring work gloves if you have them. Meet at the Nature Center to carpool to the area in the park where woodcocks do their peenting (mating calls). 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
? Big Foot Beach State Park, Lake Geneva, (262) 248-2528 - Work * Play * Earth Day! Get outside this Spring! Join DNR Staff, local Friends members, and people from your community for a day of getting your hands dirty, having fun, and helping to prepare the parks and forests that you love get ready for a busy summer season. Come dressed to get dirty, wear sturdy shoes, and bring work gloves! Lunch and snacks will be provided. Advanced registration is free but required [exit DNR]. 9 a.m. ? 3 p.m.
? Cadiz Springs State Recreation Area, Monroe, (608) 966-3516 - Volunteer Work Day. The Friends Of Cadiz Springs State Recreation Area are sponsoring a Volunteer Work Day at the park, beginning at 10 a.m. Work will include installing the posts for the new Nature Trail signs, and cleaning for the upcoming summer season.
? Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - Great American Clean-up. Be a part of the largest annual community involvement program! Garbage bags will be provided to groups and individuals who help clean up Havenwoods or an area in their neighborhood. Registered volunteers will receive gift certificates from local sponsors. For more information, visit
www.kgmb.org or call (414) 272-5462, ext. 106. 9 a.m. - noon. No admission sticker required. Earth Day Celebration. Join us in celebrating life on this great planet! Drop in to plant a tree, fly a kite, go on an eco-scavenger hunt, and make crafts from recycled materials. 10 a.m. - noon. No admission sticker required.
? Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (262) 626-2116 - Greenbush Mountain Bike Trail Maintenance. Help with spring cleaning, removal of downed limbs and trees, construction of a connector between loops 3 and 4, and finishing work on loop 4. Two shifts are scheduled. For more information, contact Randy Wegener, (920) 627-0508. Meet at Greenbush Group Camp parking lot. 8-11 a.m. and/or noon - 3 p.m.
? Kettle Moraine State Forest--Southern Unit, Eagle, (262) 594-6200 - Garlic Mustard Work Day. Help prevent the spread of Garlic Mustard within the Forest by lending a hand to pull out this invasive plant. Garbage bags will be provided. Please bring your own work gloves if you wish. All ages and group sizes are welcome. Vehicle admission is waived for participants. Paradise Springs Nature Trail. 9 a.m. ? 1 p.m.
? Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976 - Story/Craft: Animal Babies. Spring brings new life. Through story and art, discover the babies of Peninsula State Park. Nature Center. 11-11:30 a.m. Spring Comes to Weborg Marsh. We?ll watch for red-winged blackbirds, sandhill cranes and yellow-rumped warblers on this half-mile walk. Bring binoculars if you have them. Meet at Weborg Shelter. 1-2 p.m.
? Red Cedar State Trail, Menomonie, (715) 232-1242 - Work * Play * Earth Day! Get outside this Spring! Join DNR Staff, local Friends members, and people from your community for a day of getting your hands dirty, having fun, and helping to prepare the parks and forests that you love get ready for a busy summer season. Come dressed to get dirty, wear sturdy shoes, and bring work gloves! Lunch and snacks will be provided. Advanced registration is free but required [exit DNR]. 9 a.m. ? 3 p.m.
? Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Willow Trellis Workshop. Cut native willow then construct a beautiful garden trellis. Please pre-pay by calling (262) 878-5600, fee is $20. Be prepared to drive. Dress for the weather, program will probably be outside. Waterproof boots are helpful but not necessary. Shelter #1. 9-11 a.m. Yellow Trail Hike. Hike this 4.4 mile trail at this Spring into Fitness event. Everyone is welcome to hike. 9:30 a.m. to Noon. Both events sponsored by Bong Naturalist Association [exit DNR].
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
? Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - Preschool Storytime: Celebrate Earth Day! Come to the party! Enjoy stories, games, and cake. We?ll even give the Earth some presents! This program is for preschoolers, ages 3-5, and their parents, grandparents, or other adult. It is not for day care centers or organizations. 9:30-10:30 a.m. No vehicle admission sticker required.
