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 June 2, 2011
This weekend offers people many great opportunities to get out and enjoy Wisconsin?s outdoors, as it is Free Fishing Weekend on June 4 and 5, and National Trails Day on Saturday and Wisconsin State Parks Open House Day on Sunday.
Free fishing clinics are set at more than a dozen locations, and rods, reels and other gear are on loan for free from nearly 50 locations. All the waters of the state are open for free fishing, including Wisconsin waters of the Great Lakes and rivers bordering Wisconsin. Residents and nonresidents of all ages can fish without a fishing license or trout stamp; however, all other fishing regulations such as bag and size limits still apply.
On National Trails Day Saturday the trail pass requirement is waived to use all DNR-managed state trails, and a variety of trail hikes and trail maintenance days are scheduled. Then on Sunday, no admission stickers are required on vehicles entering state parks, forests and recreation areas, and trail passes are not required state trails for the annual State Park Open House Day. Many properties have special events scheduled, including fishing activities to coincide with free fishing weekend. Check the events page of the DNR website for details.
With less precipitation in the last week, water levels are returning to more seasonable norms on most stream and river systems across the state, though the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers continue to run high. The Mississippi River was 3.5 feet above normal at Merrick State Park in Buffalo County.
The state has experienced very windy conditions over the last week, some that resulted in wide-spread power outages this week across the Northwoods. The windy and continually changing weather made for rather tough fishing conditions. A day or two of nice weather has been followed by wind and cold fronts. Walleye anglers continue to report just mediocre success, with still no real consistent pattern to the early season bite. Water temperatures have just crept above 60 degrees on many of the smaller lakes and this has spurred on bass activity, with both largemouth and smallmouth observed dishing out nests. Bass spawning activity should peak in the next week. Northern pike and panfish action could only be termed fair as the cooler water temperatures have kept most of the fish in deeper water.
Winds made fishing on Green Bay a challenge this week as well. Anglers continue to catch walleye out of Oconto, and both bass and northern pike along Door County. On Lake Michigan, boaters out of Two Rivers had the first signs of success chinook salmon fishing over the weekend. Port Washington, Milwaukee and Racine trollers have been catching good numbers of coho, along with a few chinook and lake trout. Great Lakes trollers with downriggers should be aware of a new requirement that they have wire cutters on board to allow operators to free their boats should downriggers get snagged on underwater commercial fishing trap nets or other obstructions.
A wide variety of spring wildflowers continue to bloom. Turtles and snakes have been enjoying the warmth of some recent sunny days and baby turtles are emerging from their nests and making their way to waterways. Biting insects came out in good numbers in the north, with the first hatches of mosquitoes and black flies reported.
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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
New safety requirements are in effect for anglers fishing Wisconsin's Great Lakes waters. Boat operators trolling on the Great Lakes with downriggers must have wire cutters on board and have direct and immediate access to the tools. The cutters allow operators to free their boats should downriggers get snagged on underwater commercial fishing trap nets or other obstructions. DNR also advises that anglers fishing at night or in low-light conditions carry a powerful flashlight to help them look for nets, which are now required to be marked with reflective tape. Learn more on the Trap Net Safety on the Great Lakes page
http://dnr.wi.gov/fish/greatlakes/trapnets.htm of the DNR website.
Superior DNR Service Center area
The late spring has really extended spring trolling season on Lake Superior. People are still catching lots of coho with the occasional trout, splake or chinook salmon mixed in. Apparently, fishing just picked up off the Superior entry and by all accounts last weekend was very busy and productive in the western arm. Tributary anglers reported spring steelhead action was positive and there is always the chance of catching drop-back steelhead and large browns in the lower reaches of many tributaries and small native brook trout in the headwaters."
Brule River State Forest - The Bois Brule River is flowing at 193 CFS (cubic feet per second). The 66 year average is 178 CFS. Pine pollen is very noticeable now. It is coating everything in its path yellow and causing allergy sufferers some extra discomfort. Wildlife babies are frequently being sighted now and parent animals can be seen diligently looking for food to feed their young. Deer fawn reports have increased in the past week. The nursery is open in the outdoors, keep your cameras ready and enjoy the show, but please keep the babies where they belong?in the outdoors with their parents. The Brule River State Forest will be holding its 2011 Spring meeting on Saturday, June 4. It will be at the Brule Town Hall at 10 a.m. Items on the agenda will include completed and planned recreational development projects, forest management activities (Completed timber sales, planned timber sales, tree planting, and prescribed burning), Wildlife Management Activities, Fisheries Management Activities, and Real Estate Activities
Ashland DNR Service Center area
Bayfield County - Water temperatures are colder then normal around 50 degrees. Leaches are working well for both walleye and crappie. Walleye fishing has been slow but some were finding fish on the Eau Claire Chain. Panfishing has picked up this past week, fish are not yet on their beds, though people fishing the shallows near the shore line are having the best luck catching bluegill on both worms and waxies. Bag limits of crappie have been taken the past two weeks by people using both leaches and artificial baits on both Owen and Namekagon lakes. Don't forget, the catch and keep bass season does not open until June 18, so until then be sure to release all bass. A reminder to boaters, before going out be sure your boat registration is valid, check life jackets and be certain there is one for each person on board, and for boats 16 feet and longer make certain there is a throw-able life preserver. Make sure the boat battery is secured down and the terminals are covered and be certain your fire extinguisher is in working order?then the boat will be ready to go.
Park Falls DNR Service Center area
Upper Chippewa Basin fisheries report (Price, Rusk, Sawyer Taylor and inland Ashland and Iron counties) - The windy, erratic and almost continually changing weather has made for some rather tough fishing conditions across the Northwoods in the past week. A day or two of nice weather has been followed by wind and cold fronts, and this really seems to have disrupted fish activity. Fair success has been experienced during the stable weather, but the cold fronts have been putting a damper on the fishing action. The biting insects have just started to come out in the far north, with the first hatches of mosquitoes and black flies being noted in the last few days. Mayfly hatches have not yet begun and look for those to start in these first few weeks of June. Walleye continue to be the main target for most anglers so far this season and reports have indicated just mediocre success in the last week. There really hasn't been any consistent pattern yet to the early season bite and walleye anglers have continued to have fair success on both jig/minnow combinations and crank baits. The jig and minnow anglers have had the best success in 8 to 15 feet of water on the deep edges and break lines. The action has been concentrated in the early morning hours and in the hour before dark, and most of the walleye have been in the 11 to 15-inch size. A few nicer fish in the 18 to 23-inch size have been caught on stick baits in the shallow muddy bays, but the strikes have been generally light and short. Water temperatures have just crept above 60 degrees on many of the smaller lakes and this has spurred on a slug of bass activity. Both largemouth and smallmouth bass have been observed dishing out their nests, and look for bass spawning activity to peak out in the next week. Anglers are reminded that the catch-and-release season is still in effect in the Northern Zone and all bass should be returned to the water as soon as possible. Northern pike action has been fair with anglers catching medium-size fish along the newly developing weed beds. Panfish action could only be termed fair as the cooler water temperatures have kept most of the fish in deeper water. Both crappie and bluegill have been creeping back up into shallow water on warmer days and this has provided some decent action when conditions were right. Look for this to greatly improve with any kind of warming trend.
DNR Northeastern Region
New safety requirements are in effect for anglers fishing Wisconsin's Great Lakes waters. Boat operators trolling on the Great Lakes with downriggers must have wire cutters on board and have direct and immediate access to the tools. The cutters allow operators to free their boats should downriggers get snagged on underwater commercial fishing trap nets or other obstructions. DNR also advises that anglers fishing at night or in low-light conditions carry a powerful flashlight to help them look for nets, which are now required to be marked with reflective tape. Learn more on the Trap Net Safety on the Great Lakes page
http://dnr.wi.gov/fish/greatlakes/trapnets.htm of the DNR website.
Marinette County - Shore anglers on the Menominee River are reporting plenty of rock bass as well as smallmouth bass being caught dead drifting live bait and fishing spinners and crank baits. Some nice panfish were being caught in the slough behind the Mystery Ship Marina on slip bobbers and live bait. Anglers have been catching walleye by the Inter State Bridge by anchoring and using Lindy rigs tipped with minnows. Trolling with boards by the lift bridge was also catching fish. Before sunrise and after sunset people on the Government Pier have been catching walleye by walking the pier using stick baits and weight.
Oconto County - Bay anglers were still catching walleye in the 5 to 10 foot range using planer boards and crawler/harness. There were reports of good fishing at Pensaukee when the wind was not blowing.
Governor Thompson State Park - It's spring in the Northwoods. The trilliums are blooming, the ticks are biting and morel hunters have been seen in the new campground.
Green Bay DNR Service Center area
Manitowoc County - Strong northeast winds last week switched out of the southwest at 15-20 mph by the weekend. Mid-week temperatures in the mid-40s increased to the mid-50s by the weekend. Fog occurred on and off during the week with occasional light rain showers along the lake. Harbor temperatures dropped to 56 degrees, with Lake Michigan surface temperatures dropping significantly to 40-42 degrees off of Two Rivers. Boaters out of Two Rivers showed the first signs of success when it comes to salmon fishing over the weekend. Between Two Rivers and the lighthouse north of Two Rivers, boaters landed several chinook salmon ranging 7-15 pounds in 90-120 feet of water. Most boats came in with one or two, with charter boats coming in with six to eight fish consisting of rainbows, lake trout, and chinook salmon. A small number of the fish came on spoons with the majority of the salmon coming on white glow/mirage and green/green dodger/fly combos. Anglers reported luck in the deeper third of the water column with their downriggers. Shore anglers continue to have little to no success in Two Rivers and Manitowoc this week for trout and salmon. Suckers in the Manitowoc marina continue to be caught using night crawlers on the bottom. Pier anglers out of Two Rivers have consistently landed carp up to 30 pounds this week using alewife on the bottom. Overall, the strong northeast winds kept the lakeshore very quiet all week
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Potawatomi State Park - Anglers have been catching smallmouth bass and some northern pike off the shores of Potawatomi, just in time for Free Fishing Weekend June 4-5. If you don't have a fishing pole or tackle, Potawatomi has a limited number of fishing poles and tackle to check out for free at the park office on a first-come, first-served basis. The accessible fishing pier is located in the picnic area. Wisconsin State Parks Open House Day is Sunday, June 5. Take advantage of the free admission and join a Wildflower and Water Walk led by the park naturalist along the shoreline. You'll discover a bit about the history of the park and find out what flowers are in bloom. Meet at the Campground Shelter at 11 am for this 45-minute program.
DNR Southeast Region
Lake Michigan fisheries team report
New safety requirements are in effect for anglers fishing Wisconsin's Great Lakes waters. Boat operators trolling on the Great Lakes with downriggers must have wire cutters on board and have direct and immediate access to the tools. The cutters allow operators to free their boats should downriggers get snagged on underwater commercial fishing trap nets or other obstructions. DNR also advises that anglers fishing at night or in low-light conditions carry a powerful flashlight to help them look for nets, which are now required to be marked with reflective tape. Learn more on the Trap Net Safety on the Great Lakes page
http://dnr.wi.gov/fish/greatlakes/trapnets.htm of the DNR website.
Sheboygan County - In Sheboygan fishing pressure on the lake has been moderate with very hit-or-miss catches. Most anglers have been having success trolling flies and orange dodgers in 30 to 45 feet of water. The water temperature has ranged from 48 to 52 degrees. Coho salmon have been the main catch, along with a few lake trout and chinook. Fishing pressure off the piers in Sheboygan has been moderate, but the catch rate has been low overall. A few coho and chinook have been taken at times, and most anglers have been casting spoons or using alewives.
Ozaukee County - In Port Washington most trollers have been catching good numbers of coho, along with a few chinook and lake trout. The water temperature has been around 48 to 52 degrees near shore, and fishing has been best from 70 to 140 feet of water. Trolling with flies in either green or gold has been very productive. Fishing pressure at the power plant in Port has been light, with few fish being caught. Fishing off the Port Washington pier has been hit-or-miss. Most anglers have been fishing alewives or casting spoons, and when conditions are right, coho have been caught.
Milwaukee County - In Milwaukee trollers have been successful fishing for coho. Peanut flies in blue or green have taken fish near shore in 20 to 30 feet of water. The Bender Park boat launch has been reopened, and trollers fishing that area have been catching coho around the boils. When the winds are consistently out of the west, Milwaukee shore anglers have been able to catch some salmon off McKinley pier as well.
Racine County - In Racine the weather stabilized somewhat by this past weekend and allowed for better fishing conditions. Boats have been doing well with some limits of coho taken, but only an occasional chinook has been harvested. Some of the best success has occurred just outside the Racine Reef in 40 to 60 feet of water, with fish being harvested from 20 feet down all the way to the bottom. Surface water temps have been 48 to 49 degrees. Orange dodger and fly combinations have been the preferred lures with blue and silver, and orange peanut flies reported to be popular choices. Very little effort has been seen in shore fishing activity.
Kenosha County - Kenosha trollers have had their best success with coho, and a few rainbow and lake trout have also been harvested. The best water depths have been 45 to 60 feet, with some boats reporting success in 100 feet of water. Orange dodger and fly combinations have been consistently catching fish, and some anglers also reported success with stick baits. Very little shore fishing activity has been reported in Kenosha.
DNR South Central Region
No reports.
DNR West Central Region
Baldwin DNR Service Center area
Water levels continue to run high on the Mississippi and St Croix rivers. The St Croix has been over the 683-foot mark since last Thursday and is forecast to continue through this weekend. This level activates the Slow-No -Wake Rule on the entire river. Anglers, however, have been going out in the Hudson Area and getting decent catches of walleye and sauger. The Mississippi River and Lake Pepin have also seen good action on walleye and sauger. Trolling and live bait seems to be working equally well. Bass and panfish are active in the shallows and are just starting to nest and spawn. Water Temps on area lakes were still in the low 60s, but will be warming by this weekend. Many new born fawns have been picked up unnecessarily by people who then try to feed them, which may eventually cause them to die. People should leave fawns alone. Area trout streams are in good shape and have been providing good action.
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
Merrick State Park - The Mississippi River is 3.5 feet above normal. The boat dock will be put in when the water level returns to normal. Fishing has been slow and spotty due to the high water. The following flowers have been seen around the park: sage, pussy foot, rock crest, wood violet, columbine, false Solomon?s seal, wild geranium, goats beard, bluets, puccoon, yarrow and yellow violets. All trails are open and in good condition. The north campground is open along with the shower/flush toilet building. Water is available at the dump station and at all fountains. The south and island campgrounds are closed due to high water. They will not be open this weekend. They will be evaluated on a weekly basis to determine when they can be opened.
Perrot State Park - The Trempealeau River rose over the weekend resulting in continued high water in the bay. The boat dock has been installed. Canoeing is enjoyable in the higher water and parts of the bay are accessible now that won't be in a few weeks. The carp are spawning and can be found backed up by the electric fish gate along the dike. Fishing is slow. Hiking trails are open and in good condition throughout the park. All campground facilities and shower buildings are open. All campsites are in good condition. Puccoon, rock cress, jack-in-the-pulpit, violets, columbine, wild geranium, Virginia waterleaf, wild strawberry, raspberry, wood phlox, false Solomon?s seal, false lily of the valley, harebell, lupine, showy orchids, Canada anemone, thimbleweed, sweet cicely, and anise root are blooming in the park. Bird sightings around the park include: osprey, vultures and eagles continue to delight with frequent fly-bys. There will be a National Trail's Day event at the park on June 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and volunteers are invited to help us with a myriad of trail projects!
Great River State Trail - The trail is in good condition and wildflowers are lining the trails. Turtles and snakes are awakening and enjoying the warmth of the trail surface, so keep your eyes open as you ride. Baby turtles are emerging from their nests and making their way to waterways. Virginia waterleaf, cow parsnip, raspberries, wild strawberries, black locust, Canada anemone, and poison ivy are all in bloom.
Wildcat Mountain State Park - Kickapoo River water levels are great at this time for canoeing. Canoe rentals and shuttles are available nearby in the Village of Ontario. Water levels for the Kickapoo River at Ontario may be accessed at
http://waterdata.usgs.gov/wi/nwis/uv?site_no=05407470.
Wisconsin Rapids DNR Service Center area
Buckhorn State Park - Fawns and other wildlife babies are being seen in the park. Please leave these young animals alone, as the mothers are often close by. Mosquitoes have hatched so remember to bring your bug spray. Also - check for ticks as they are out as well. It's free fishing weekend. There are many great spots in the park for fishing and kids programs at the fishing pond on Sat. The park office loans out small tackle boxes and fishing poles. Free park admission on Sunday.
Roche-A-Cri State Park - Fawns and other wildlife babies are being seen in the park. Please leave these young animals alone, as the mothers are often close by. Free park admission on Sunday.
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, June 3, 2011
? Ice Age National Scenic Trail, Coloma, (608) 798-4453 - Mobile Skills Crew - Trail Relocation. Help complete tread, trail plumbing and trail signage to showcase a large glacial kettle in the Greenwood State Wildlife Area. Event runs Thursday, June 2 through Sunday, June 5. For more information or to register, see the Mobile Skills Crew website or call (608) 798-4453.
? Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Molten Lava and Melted Ice. Join Naturalist Barb Walker for a relaxing hike around the Pothole Trail and learn about the Gee Whiz Geology of Interstate Park. 3 p.m. at the Pothole Trail sign.
? Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Wiggling Worms Nature Storytime. Henry S Reuss Ice Age Visitor Center. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Journey into Darkness Night Hike. The theme for this hike is nocturnal mammals, and is best for families/groups with children at least five years old. Long Lake Picnic Shelter (located off Division Road north of County F, near Dundee). 8:30-10 p.m.
? Kettle Moraine State Forest?Southern Unit, Eagle, (262) 594-6200 - Bird Hike. Ottawa Lake site #300. Hike begins at 8 a.m. Phenology Calendar. Make your own calendar that shows flowering, breeding, and migration times in relation to climatic conditions. Meet at Ottawa Lake Picnic Shelter A. 10 a.m. Make a Tree Friend. Take bark and leaf rubbings, draw tree portraits, and write a tree's biography. Ottawa Lake Beach. 3 p.m.
? Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 854-5976 - Turtle Talk: 11 - 11:30 a.m. Nature Center. Nature Center. Meet baby snapping turtles, discover turtle adaptation survival, and design a turtle craft. 600-gallon DNR Fish Tank arrives at Peninsula's Nature Center.
? Straight Lake State Park, Luck, (608) 798-4453 - Mobile Skills Crew - Build New Trail. The mobile skills crew will construct an elevated boardwalk, tread, do rock work, signage, and final touch ups. Event runs Thursday, June 2 through Sunday, June 5. For more information or to register, see the Mobile Skills Crew website or call (608) 798-4453.
Saturday, June 4, 2011 through Sunday, June 5, 2011 - Free Fishing Weekend
Saturday, June 4, 2011 - National Trails Day
? Buckhorn State Park, Necedah, (608) 565-2789 - Fish Frenzy. Stop over and learn a few facts about our finned friends. Have fun trying to catch a fish and then play a fish game with our naturalist. Get some cool fishing handouts, make a fun craft and then try fish printing. Bring a clean t-shirt or other cloth item to decorate using the fish replicas and paint. Don't have a fishing pole? Stop by the park office to loan a pole with tackle for free! Kids Fishing Pond on Turtle Trail. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
? Hartman Creek State Park, Waupaca, (715) 258-2372 - Free Fishing Weekend. Try your hand at fishing, knot tying and casting games. This event is open to all ages and to everyone who would love to learn how to fish. Located on the upper Waupaca Chain O?Lakes, Hartman Creek State Park is a perfect place to take advantage of the Free Fishing Weekend! 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Allen Lake Picnic Area.
? Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - Nature Detective Hike for Families. Who left that footprint? Who lives in that hole in a tree? 10:30-11:30 a.m. National Trails Day. Be one of thousands of people across the country who visits a park today to help maintain its trail system. Help Havenwoods staff keep our trails an inviting place for people to walk and explore. Please call to register. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
? High Cliff State Park, Sherwood, (920) 989-1106 - Free Fishing Days. No fishing pole, no problem! Stop at the park office and sign out a fishing pole at no cost. No fishing license is required this weekend. A state park vehicle admission sticker is required on June 4 but not required on June 5 (Wisconsin State Parks Open House Day).
? Ice Age National Scenic Trail, Coloma, (608) 798-4453 - Mobile Skills Crew - Trail Relocation. Help complete tread, trail plumbing and trail signage to showcase a large glacial kettle in the Greenwood State Wildlife Area. Event runs Thursday, June 2 through Sunday, June 5. For more information or to register, see the Mobile Skills Crew website or call (608) 798-4453.
? Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Hike to the Summit. 3 p.m. at the Summit Rock Trail sign. Evening program. To be announced. For more information call the park office at (715) 483-3747.
? Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Saturday Morning Nature Sleuths. The program involves completing a required number of engaging nature activities in one of three age-appropriate books. Mauthe Lake Picnic Shelter (County GGG south of County SS) and Long Lake Picnic Shelter (Division Rd north of County F, near Dundee). 10-11 a.m. Learn to Fish Rodeo. Let the fishing fun begin! The rodeo includes Backyard Bass Casting, Fill the Tackle Box, Fishing Regulations Quiz, Avoiding Hazards, Knots Tie-up, What?s that Fish? and Baiting your Hook. After completing the rodeo, experienced anglers on the fishing pier will help hone your newly acquired skills. Special surprises and prizes await all who participate. Bring your own gear or fishing gear will be provided for those who need it. Long Lake Recreation Area Fishing Pier. 1-4 p.m. Flying Mammals: Bats. Bats are often shrouded in mystery and misunderstandings. Join Barb and Ken Bowman, Bat Conservation of Wisconsin as they unravel the mysteries and share fascinating facts about these night-time flying mammals. You may even get to meet a live bat up close. This program is most appropriate for people over the age of eight years old. Ice Age Visitor Center. 7-8:30 p.m.
? Kettle Moraine State Forest?Southern Unit, Eagle, (262) 594-6200 - Kid's Fishing Clinic. Pre-register at the Ottawa Lake Contact Station. Learn the basics of lures, casting, and reeling in fish. Poles and equipment are provided. Ottawa lake Boat Launch. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. National Trails Day Workday. Celebrate National Trails Day by removing the invasive plant garlic mustard from the area around Brady's Rocks, (on the Ice Age Trail). Meet at the "Hunter" Parking lot on Highway 67. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Wildflower Hike. Join Naturalist Ron Kurowski on a wildflower hike. You will see what is currently blooming and learn a little about the history of the area. Meet at the Forest Headquarters, but be prepared to drive yourself to another location. Be ready for possibly muddy or wet conditions. Start at Forest Headquarters on Highway 59. 10 a.m. Make a Birds Nest. Learn why different birds make different nests, then create your own birds nest out of natural and man-made materials. Meet at Ottawa Lake Picnic Shelter A. 1 p.m. Nature Scavenger Hunt. Meet at the Ottawa Lake Picnic Shelter A. 3 p.m.
? Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Garlic Mustard Pull. Kohler-Andrae State Park is seeking volunteers interested in pulling garlic mustard in the park. Due to the extensive area involved, large work crews are needed. Groups and individuals are invited to participate. Please bring work gloves and insect repellant. Garbage bags will be provided. Admission fees waived for participating volunteers. Meet at playground. 9 a.m. - Noon. Wetland Gems. On National Trails Day, Brooke Bushman, Wisconsin Wetlands Association Outreach Coordinator, will be at Kohler-Andrae for a presentation that will include our own special "Wetland Gem" located within the State Natural Area. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No pets allowed. Free Program. Vehicle admission sticker is required. Sanderling Nature Center. 7-8 p.m. National Trails Day and Free Fishing Day. Participate in hikes throughout the day and enjoy the new fishing pond. Free programs. Vehicle admission sticker required. Call park office for more details, times and locations.
? Mirror Lake State Park, Lake Delton, (608) 254-2333 - Get Outdoors! Family Play Day Event! Join Park Naturalist Marty and the Friends of Mirror Lake at the Beach Picnic Area from 1-2 p.m. for some fun nature activities. You can play Wildcard Habitat Toss, go on a Eco Scavenger Hunt and more. Beach Picnic Area. 1-2 p.m.
? Potawatomi State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 746-2890 - Honeysuckle Removal Day. 9 am - Noon. The park's shoreline has been overtaken in places by non-native honeysuckle shrubs. Last year, large areas of the shoreline were cleared of the shrubs, allowing native plants to thrive and opening up views of the bay. Come help the Friends of Potawatomi State Park finish this important project. No experience required. Equipment provided. Meet at the Picnic Area Shelter.
? Red Cedar State Trail, Menomonie (715) 232-1242 - Trail Day. Please join the Friends at the Depot Visitor Center in Menomonie from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lemonade and cookies, bicycle safety checks and family actives throughout the day. From 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. meet the eagles from The Raptor Center of the University of Minnesota. This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Red Cedar State Trail.
? Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Animal Detectives. Hike the trails to uncover the secret lives of animals. Meet at the Visitor Center. 9-10 a.m. All events sponsored by Bong Naturalist Association . Butterfly Gardening. Discover which plants will bring butterflies to your yard. Become familiar with local butterflies. Meet at the Visitor Center. 6-7 p.m.
? Stower Seven Lakes State Trail, Amery, (715) 268-2453 - Triathlon/Duathlon. Don?t miss out on this fun event planned during Amery Trails Day. Pre-register at the Amery Pedal Paddle Ski shop or request a registration form (contact info above). Registration fee for ages 18 and older is $25 and $20 for ages 12-17. If you register day of event, arrive at South Twin Lake Beach Shelter between 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Friends of the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail. Event starts at 1:30 p.m. at the beach shelter and will end at the shelter. The emphasis is to have FUN. While participants will be timed, no placement awards will be provided but everyone will receive a t-shirt and refreshments.
? Straight Lake State Park, Luck, (608) 798-4453 - Mobile Skills Crew - Build New Trail. The mobile skills crew will construct an elevated boardwalk, tread, do rock work, signage, and final touch ups. Event runs Thursday, June 2 through Sunday, June 5. For more information or to register, see the Mobile Skills Crew website or call (608) 798-4453.
? Whitefish Dunes State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 823-2400 - Trail Work Event. People looking for ways to celebrate National Trails Day can volunteer to help park staff and Friends of Whitefish Dunes members prepare the park?s trails for summer. Trail work will include trimming, raking, and trash pick-up along various park trails. Volunteers should wear work boots or athletic shoes, long pants and bring their own work gloves. Registration is free and recommended. Contact the park to sign up. Whitefish Dunes Nature Center. 9-11 a.m.
Sunday, June 5, 2011 - State Park Open House Day - Free Admission Today!
? Cadiz Springs State Recreation Area, Monroe, (608) 966-3516 - Fling Into Summer. The Friends of Cadiz Springs are kicking off the summer season. There will be a Beach Ball Toss, Sifting For Treasure, Temporary Tattoos, Duck Pond Dip and Fish Match Game, with prizes for the children. Visitors of all ages are invited to try fly casting or take a guided nature walk. A fishing contest for kids ages 12 and under will take place from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Kids must be accompanied by an adult in order to participate in the contest. Brats and hot dogs, as well as chips, cookies and cold soft drinks will be sold, and the proceeds will be used to help purchase new playground equipment for the property. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
? Governor Thompson State Park, Crivitz, (715) 757-3979 - Open House Day. Join us for an open house at the state park! Informational material will be available on our new construction and campground in the Woods Lake Shelter Building. Explore our 16 miles of hiking trails, fish on our inland lakes or Caldron Falls Flowage and enjoy a cook-out lunch provided by the Friends of Governor Thompson State Park. Free Admission for Open House Day. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
? Harrington Beach State Park, Belgium, (262) 285-3015 - Breakfast in the Park. Pancake Breakfast sponsored by the Friends of Harrington Beach in support for the future accessible cabin. Ansay Welcome Center. 9 a.m. ? 1 p.m.
? Hartman Creek State Park, Waupaca, (715) 258-2372 - Wisconsin State Parks Open House. Come celebrate state parks and kick off the Great Outdoors Month at the Hellestad House. Wisconsin state parks are full of history and have many recreational opportunities to kick back and enjoy nature. 10:30 a.m.
? High Cliff State Park, Sherwood, (920) 989-1106 - Stop at the park office and sign out a fishing pole at no cost. No fishing license is required this weekend. Get Outdoors! Family Play Day. Get Outdoors! Check out the different nature stations such as Nature Art, Animal Tracking, or Eco-scavenger Hunt and go play with your family in the park! Check at the Park Office for station locations. In the event of threatening weather, the outdoor portion will be canceled; indoor activities will still be held. For all ages! Noon ? 3 p.m.
? Ice Age National Scenic Trail, Coloma, (608) 798-4453 - Mobile Skills Crew - Trail Relocation. Help complete tread, trail plumbing and trail signage to showcase a large glacial kettle in the Greenwood State Wildlife Area. Event runs Thursday, June 2 through Sunday, June 5. For more information or to register, see the Mobile Skills Crew website or call (608) 798-4453.
? Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Get Outdoors! Family Play Day event. 1 to 3 p.m. Join us for the first of our new Family Play Days! We have a fun filled afternoon of activities planned for you to choose from including Wildcard Games; Tracks, Tracks and More Tracks; Set It Up, Tie It On and Cast It Out; and a game called Are You Me? All activities are free and will take place in the Beach area by Lake O? the Dalles. This is part of the SOFAS (Summer Outdoor Family Adventure Series) events. Fun for the entire family!
? Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Lake-2-Lake 10K Trail Run/Hike. Join us for this third-annual event, held on the Lake-to-Lake bike trail between Long Lake and Mauthe Lake. Registration is from 8-9:30 a.m. Cost is $20/person until May 1, 2011, $25/person from May 1-14, and $28/person after May 14. The fee includes a t-shirt (if registered before May 14), a goodie bag, and light snacks. Proceeds benefit the Friends of the Kettle Moraine, the Long Lake Preservation Association, and the Eden Lions Club. Mauthe Lake Recreation Area (located off County GGG south of County SS, near New Prospect). For more information or to register, see the Lake-2-Lake Website . Registration is from 8-9:30 a.m. Run/Hike begins at 10 a.m. Fun Walk Around Mauthe Lake. Join us for this third-annual event, held on the Tamarack Trail around Mauthe Lake. Registration is from 8-9:30 a.m. Cost is $12/person or $40/family. The fee includes an event t-shirt (if registered before May 14), a goodie bag, and light snacks. Proceeds benefit the Friends of the Kettle Moraine, the Long Lake Preservation Association, and the Eden Lions Club. Mauthe Lake Recreation Area (located off County GGG south of County SS near New Prospect). For more information or to register, see the Mauthe Lake Fun Walk Website . Registration is from 8-9:30 a.m. Walk begins at 10 a.m. Spring Nature Fest. Journey out on Wisconsin?s State Park System Open House Day to the Spring Nature Fest. There will be something for all ages at four different activity stations. Learn about our fascinating fish, take flight with the birds of a feather, discover insects with wings of colorful scales, and create your own tree art. Bring a T-shirt or bandanna to print or purchase one that day. Mauthe Lake Recreation Area (located off Hwy GGG south of Hwy SS near New Prospect). 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Kettle Moraine State Forest?Southern Unit, Eagle, (262) 594-6200 - Make a tree Friend. Make a new friend, a tree! You will get to take bark and leaf rubbings, draw tree portraits, and write a tree's biography. Ottawa Lake Beach. 11:30 a.m.Two Eras of the Southern Unit. Learn about two distinct periods in the history of the Southern Unit. Walk through Paradise Springs and learn about its history as an estate, hotel, and bottling plant. Then, visit the Gotten Cabin and experience life as an early settler. Paradise Springs Nature Trail. 3 p.m.
? Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Spring Open House. Visit Kohler-Andrae for the annual spring open house. No vehicle admission charge. Sanderling Nature Center. 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
? Lake Wissota State Park, Chippewa Falls(715) 382-4574 - Open House Day. Events will include some fun family activities, like trying out kayaks and canoes, bluebird house building, pond study and scavenger hunts. Exhibits on display will include clean boats clean waters, learn landscaping and restoring shorelands, citizen science, nature mapping, bat monitoring and learning how to identify aquatic invasive species.
? Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Retriever Dog Training. Seminar begins at 9 a.m. Bring your retriever with a collar and leash to learn how to train your dog. Meet at Lot E. All events sponsored by Bong Naturalist Association . Second Annual Trail Dog Kick-off. The Trail Dog group will hike then enjoy a potluck and prizes. For current members and for the newly interested. Details at
www.racinedogtrainer.com. Meet at the Trailhead. 10 a.m. Fishing Clinic. Drop in on Walleye's Unlimited to fish. Bring your own equipment or use their poles and bait. No licenses needed! Meet at Shelter #2. 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Family Nature Faire. Join us for family fun! Food, raffles, live animals, plant sale, art and nature booths plus much more! A fundraiser sponsored by the Bong Naturalist Association. Meet at Shelter #3, Beach. 10 a.m. ? 2 p.m.
? Roche-A-Cri State Park, Adams-Friendship, (608) 565-2789 - Fish Frenzy. Stop over and get some cool fishing handouts and then try fish printing. Bring a clean t-shirt or cloth item to decorate with the fish replicas and paint. Don't have a fishing pole? Stop by the park office and loan a pole and tackle for free! Park Office. 10 a.m. ? 3 p.m.
? Stower Seven Lakes State Trail, Amery, (715) 268-2453 - Trail Bike Ride. A fun event sponsored by the Friends of Stower Seven Lakes State Trail. No registration required. A group will leave the Soo Line Park in Amery at 2 p.m, but feel free to start at any location on the trail and we will all cross paths at some location. All ages are welcome to join the fun. Stop in at a local business along the trail and show your support.
? Straight Lake State Park, Luck, (608) 798-4453 - Mobile Skills Crew - Build New Trail. The mobile skills crew will construct an elevated boardwalk, tread, do rock work, signage, and final touch ups. Event runs Thursday, June 2 through Sunday, June 5. For more information or to register, see the Mobile Skills Crew website or call (608) 798-4453.
? Whitefish Dunes State Park, Sturgeon Bay, (920) 823-2400 - Get Outdoors Tent! Stop by BeRT to explore the different ways you can get outdoors this summer at your state parks. Learn about the new Wisconsin Explorer program for children. Pick up tips on how to prevent the spread of invasives. Get tips on ways to keep your pet safe and happy in the state parks. And much more! The tent is located at the first beach access point by the nature center. Whitefish Dunes Nature Center. 11 a.m. ? 2 p.m.
? Wyalusing State Park, Prairie du Chien, (608) 996-2261 - Open House Day. The Friends of Wyalusing will provide refreshments, cookies and lemonade, for Open House Day. The Friends will also offer a fish and animal tracks printing program. Participants should provide their own tee shirt or items to be printed. Peterson Shelter. Time to be announced.
