Wisconsin DNR News, December 18, 2007
Forty years of integrated natural resource management
Snowmobile season begins as many counties open trails
Candlelight skis and hikes start Jan. 5 at Wisconsin State Parks
Information meetings set on invasive species classification proposal
Wolf ecology, winter mammal tracking clinics offered
[EDITOR’S ADVISORY -- NO DNR NEWS DEC. 31 OR JAN. 1: Due to state holidays on Dec. 24, 25 & 31 and Jan. 1, there will be no DNR News packets issued for the next two weeks. The next DNR News will be issued Jan. 8, 2008.]
Wisconsin DNR turns 40 in 2008; first integrated resource management agency in Nation
By Wisconsin DNR Secretary Matt Frank
Forty years ago, bipartisan legislation created the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources from a storied state fish and game department and what had been, until a few years previously, a collection of regulatory agencies perceived by some as toothless and duplicative.
Their goal was to increase efficiency, integrate environmental programs to better protect natural resources, and be more responsive. Four months into my job as DNR Secretary, I’ve seen firsthand that the department is delivering on those early expectations. We remain committed to continually evaluating what we do and how we do it to better protect our beautiful state and better serve today’s and future citizens.
Wisconsin has much to celebrate as we approach the New Year. On July 1, 2008, your Department of Natural Resources turns 40. As the nation’s first conservation “superagency,” bringing together traditional fish, game, forestry, and parks with environmental protection functions, the DNR has lived up to that distinction. It has been a leader at home and in the nation, building on the foundation of landmark federal laws such as the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Acts, Wisconsin’s public trust doctrine and citizens’ strong conservation ethic.
The DNR’s dedicated employees, working together with lawmakers, conservation and environmental groups and individual citizens, have made tremendous progress in cleaning up Wisconsin’s skies, its lakes and rivers. For example, the Milwaukee River, once an open sewer for the state's largest city, now boasts 37 species of fish in a stretch formerly impounded by the North Avenue Dam, thanks to extensive pollution clean ups, dam removals, habitat restoration and fish stocking programs.
The strong combination of pairing conservation programs with environmental ones assures healthy habitat to sustain people and wildlife. Bald eagles have rebounded beyond our expectations, the wild turkeys DNR reintroduced in the 1970s now cover our landscape, and our unique, internationally noted population of the prehistoric lake sturgeon remains robust. Citizens enjoy access to waters and outdoor recreational opportunities that are second to none, including for hunting, fishing, and bicycling on the nation’s first rails to trails system.
Wisconsin boasts more forests than at any time since we began systematic forest inventory in the 1930s; we’ve been a national leader in assuring our state, county and private forests are managed sustainably. We’ve built a nation-leading program to clean up contaminated properties and return them to productive use.
Here are just a few more milestones the DNR’s integrated approach has helped Wisconsin achieve:
• Wisconsin in 1970 became the first state to ban DDT to protect eagles and other birds, helping spur the recovery of our nation’s symbol.
• Wisconsin established the nation’s first Ice Age National Scientific Reserve, preserving for future generations important features left by glaciers more than 11,000 years ago.
• Wisconsin in 1983 became the first state to meet the nation’s Clean Water Act interim goal with all municipal wastewater treatment plants meeting at least secondary treatment with many more doing even better. Many of our most polluted rivers in the 1960s now support thriving fish populations.
• Wisconsin became the first state to receive authority from the federal government to carry out its own drinking water program and has since assured its citizens some of the cleanest drinking water in the world; year-in and year-out, fully 97 percent of all public water systems have met all health-based standards.
• Wisconsin in 1984 established the most comprehensive program in the U.S. for managing and protecting groundwater. In that same year, Wisconsin became the first state to pass a law to control acid rain to protect sensitive lakes in northern Wisconsin.
• Wisconsin was the first state to restore protection of its wetlands when federal law stopped in 2001.
We’ve made more progress in the last year: securing the future of the Stewardship Program to purchase lands for the next 10 years, completing significant work on cleaning up the Lower Fox River, and continuing to blaze a new relationship with business to allow them to thrive while going beyond environmental standards in protecting our air, land and waters. We’ll be marking these and other achievements in the coming year in the Wisconsin DNR News, the Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine, our Web site, and other venues.
We can all be proud of the Wisconsin we’ve created together in the last 40 years. We remain dedicated to being the best DNR in the nation, and to assuring clean air and drinking water, diverse natural resources and recreation opportunities, and a healthy environment for the future.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Matt Frank - (608) 261-7580
Additional natural resources highlights from 2007
Fox River PCB cleanup progresses - The cleanup of PCB contaminated sediment continued on the Lower Fox River. In Little Lake Butte des Morts, contractors removed about 130,000 cubic yards of sediment in 2007, bringing the four year total to approximately 335,000 cubic yards. Plans are in place to continue work in 2008 and proposed changes to the cleanup plan could allow the Little Lake Butte des Morts cleanup to be completed as early as 2009. Further downstream, contractors removed slightly over 176,000 cubic yards of contaminated sediment from a "hot spot" adjacent to the DePere dam. A federal order was issued in mid-November requiring the responsible companies to continue the cleanup activities in the river from Appleton to Green Bay, with preparatory work in 2008 and in-river dredging and capping to begin in 2009. For more information see: [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/water/wm/foxriver/index.html].
Request to redesignate the Milwaukee-Racine Ozone Nonattainment Area - In June, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency a request to redesignate the six-county Milwaukee-Racine area from being a moderate ozone nonattainment area, to attainment of the federal eight-hour ozone standard. Ozone monitoring stations in the Milwaukee-Racine Nonattainment Area recorded three years (2004-2006) of complete, quality-assured ambient air quality monitoring data demonstrating attainment with the eight-hour ozone standard. For more information see: [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/aw/air/ozone/milwaukeeredes.htm]
Lakeshore State Park Dedicated - On June 20, Gov. Jim Doyle dedicated Lakeshore State Park. Located on a man-made 17-acre island east of the Henry W. Maier Festival Park Grounds in Milwaukee, Lakeshore State Park is the first urban park in the Wisconsin State Park System and features a signature pedestrian bridge, perimeter trail, quiet water basin with a pebble beach for small watercraft, public boat slips, and accessible fishing areas. For more information see a news release on Governor Doyle’s Web site: [http://www.wisgov.state.wi.us/journal_media_detail.asp?prid=2740&locid=19].
Spring turkey hunters register record turkey harvest – Hunters set a new harvest record, registering 51,306 turkeys during Wisconsin’s 2007 spring wild turkey season. This was a 9 percent increase from the 2006 spring harvest of 46,662 birds. For more information see: [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/news/DNRNews_Lookup.asp?id=69#art1]
Audit finds state protecting wetlands – An audit of DNR's wetland permit program by the Legislative Audit Bureau issued in May confirmed what that the agency was issuing permits faster and approving more projects and at the same time significantly reducing wetland loss. For more information see: [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/water/fhp/wetlands/audit.html]
10,000 acres protected through Stewardship Program - Gov. Jim Doyle Governor Doyle declared June 27 “Stewardship Day” in Wisconsin and announced the purchase of eight parcels of land totaling 10,700 acres across the state worth nearly $15 million. Seven purchases were made possible by acquisition or grants from the Stewardship Fund totaling $9.97 million. All 10,700 acres are open to a variety of recreational opportunities – from hiking and canoeing to hunting and fishing. The purchases will also help to protect vital habitat for fish and wildlife throughout the state such as herons and the state-protected prairie chicken. For more information see: [http://www.wisgov.state.wi.us/journal_media_detail.asp?prid=2756&locid=19]
Stewardship Reauthorization – In October, Gov. Jim Doyle signed a 2007-2009 Wisconsin State Budget that increased the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program from $60 million per year to $86 million per year beginning in 2011 through 2020. The Stewardship program was established in 1989 to preserve Wisconsin's most significant land and water resources for future generations and to provide the land base and recreational facilities needed for quality outdoor experiences. To date, Stewardship has funded the purchase of hundreds of properties accounting for tens of thousands of acres in 71 of Wisconsin's 72 counties, including: the recent 50,000-acre Wild Rivers Forest Legacy project; the 10 mile Dells of the Wisconsin River project; the Turtle-Flambeau and Willow flowages in northern Wisconsin; the Peshtigo River State Forest and the Gov. Tommy G. Thompson Centennial State Park in northeastern Wisconsin; and urban Hank Aaron State Trail and Lakeshore State Park in Milwaukee. All together, the Stewardship Program has protected 485,000 acres of land for natural resource benefits, wildlife habitate and public otdoor recreation. For more information see: [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/cfa/lr/stewardship/stewardship.html].
500th State Natural Area dedicated – In August, Lake Laura Hardwoods, an 852-acre old-growth forest in Vilas County was permanently protected through designation as the 500th State Natural Area in Wisconsin. Wisconsin’s State Natural Areas Program was created in 1945 by Aldo Leopold as the first state-sponsored natural areas protection program in the nation. It has since grown to become a national model, with more than 300,000 acres enrolled in 70 of the state’s 72 counties. For more information see: [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/news/DNRNews_Lookup.asp?id=81#art4]
DNR Unveils New and Improved Call Center – In November, the DNR expanded its Customer Call Center operations to ensure that the agency is more accessible than ever before. Enhanced features included: expanded hours with call center staff available from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week through a toll free number 1-888-WDNR INFo (1-888-936-7463); bilingual services with staff fluent in Spanish and Hmong ; and an Online Chat service that allows people to reach call center staff through the DNR Web site. For more information see: [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/news/rbnews/BreakingNews_Lookup.asp?id=689]
Dairy association becomes 20th member of Green Tier – In November, the Dairy Business Association became the 20th entity and the first dairy industry member of the Department of Natural Resources Green Tier program. Green Tier is Wisconsin’s innovative program for organizations that voluntarily pledge to go beyond environmental compliance. The charter is a partnership effort between DNR and the Dairy Business Association’s Green Tier Advancement Project. The goal of the Green Tier Charter is to provide opportunities for Wisconsin dairy producers and processors to achieve superior environmental performance by providing resources and support in the development, implementation and auditing of Environmental Management Systems (EMS), an eligibility requirement for participation in Green Tier. For more information see:
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/cea/environmental/participants/widairy/documents/pressrelease20071129.pdf Snowmobile season begins as many counties open trails
New 55-mile-per-hour nighttime speed limit in place statewide
MADISON -- With Wisconsin receiving some of the best early snowfalls that it has in years, especially in the southern portion of the state, many snowmobilers are tuning up their sleds and preparing to hit the trails.
An exhilarating fast ride and the camaraderie of friends make snowmobiling one of the most popular winter activities when conditions are right. But snowmobiling can also be a risky activity, especially if drivers overextend their abilities, travel on unsafe surfaces, or mix speed and alcohol on their rides, cautions Gary Eddy, snowmobile safety administrator for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Wisconsin has already experienced four snowmobile-related fatalities this winter, Eddy says. Three of those involved snowmobiles breaking through thin ice resulting in drownings, and one as a result of a collision with trees in which alcohol is suspected to be a factor.
“Every one of the fatalities could have been prevented,” said Eddy says. “We constantly stress that there is no such thing as safe ice, especially early in the season, and that snowmobilers need to be very sure of ice conditions before heading out on frozen lakes. Rivers are especially treacherous as the moving water under the ice can result in very thin ice just feet away from where the ice may be much thicker.”
With many counties across Wisconsin now officially opening their trails, Eddy is also reminding snowmobilers of a new statewide 55 mile-per-hour nighttime speed limit. The DNR has been airing public service announcement on special cable television markets to remind people of the new law.
There were a total of 26 snowmobile-related fatalities last winter. In general, Eddy says, the highest percentage of snowmobile accidents and fatalities each year involve speed and alcohol.
“Safe snowmobiling means driving at prudent speeds and waiting until after your done riding to drink alcohol.” he says.
There are also a number of safety suggestions that Eddy says snowmobilers should take to heart to make their sport more fun and safe:
• Read the snowmobile regulations pamphlet. Many of the answers to the questions snowmobile operators ask are contained within the pamphlet. Following the regulations makes you a safer and responsible rider. Visit the DNR website to make sure you have the most recent copy.
• Stay on the marked trails. Snowmobile clubs work hard to secure permission for trails on private property. Cutting corners or going off trail, upsets landowners and closes trails. Don’t ruin the experience for others.
• Stay to the right hand side of the trail, especially on hills and corners. Taking the middle of the trail on hills or corners is highly unsafe, irresponsible and illegal.
• Make sure your snowmobile is maintained mechanically. Important parts such as carbides, wear bars, tracks, belt and plugs can all leave you stranded on the trail if not maintained or cause you to ride unsafely. Also, make sure your highlight is properly adjusted.
• When crossing roadways, take your time and always yield to traffic. Stand-up on your snowmobile for the highest level of visibility. When traveling in a group, each snowmobiler needs to come to a complete stop and look both ways for traffic. NEVER rely on another person to direct you across a road. Take your own safety into your own hands. One mistake or mixed up hand signal by another person, may cost you your life.
• Have a great time and enjoy all the beautiful miles of trails in Wisconsin. Slow your speeds down and don’t drink and ride. Ride responsibly so that you can come home safe and ride another day.
Snowmobile registration, non-resident trail passes and age requirements
All snowmobiles operated in Wisconsin must be registered. Residents have two choices for registration: public registration for operating on public trails, and private registration for operating on private property owned or leased by the operator. Nonresidents may register their snowmobile in Wisconsin or they may operate their snowmobile in Wisconsin under their state’s registration but they must purchase and display a nonresident trail pass. Details on fees and other registration requirements and restrictions can be found on the snowmobiling pages of the DNR Web site.
Any person who is at least 12 years old AND who is born on or after Jan. 1, 1985 is required to possess a valid Snowmobile Safety Certificate in order to operate a snowmobile on public trails, lands or frozen waters in Wisconsin. The operator must carry the certificate while riding and must display it to a law enforcement officer when requested.
Anyone under age 12 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or person 18 years old or older on the same snowmobile when operating on public areas. No certificate or adult accompaniment is required for persons operating on lands owned or leased by the operator’s parent or guardian.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Gary Eddy – - (608) 267-7455
Candlelight skis and hikes start Jan. 5 at Wisconsin State Parks
MADISON – Following several low snow years where state park and forest “candlelight skis” became candlelight hikes or were cancelled, early winter conditions hold promise that hundreds if not thousands of people should be able to enjoy skiing by candlelight at parks and forests this winter.
As of mid-December, the entire state was blanketed by snow and most state parks and forests have groomed cross-country ski trails. The first of more than 20 candlelight events at state parks and forests will be held Saturday, Jan. 5. The largest number of events will be held Saturday, Feb. 9, when seven state parks and forests hold events.
Wisconsin state parks began offering candlelight skiing events in the 1980s, and they have grown to become some of the most popular winter events at parks and trails, attracting as many as 1,000 skiers in a single night, says Kimberly Currie, of the Wisconsin State Parks program.
“The lack of snow the past couple of years was disappointing to snow sport enthusiasts, so we’re expecting good turnouts this winter if snow conditions hold up,” she says.
Many parks also offer a separate candlelit trail for hikers and snowshoers even if there is enough snow to ski, so people who don’t ski can still come out to enjoy these events.
In general, the events are held on beginning-level ski trails with gently rolling hills; however, some parks do set candles out on more difficult trails for advanced skiers. The trails are lit with between 200 to 400 candles per mile. Most events begin after dusk, about 5 to 6 p.m., and run until about 9 p.m. At many events, park or forest staff or organized "friends groups" build bonfires or have fires in warming houses. Some events offer grills for visitors to cook food, and others offer hot chocolate or other snacks for sale.
Events could still be cancelled or changed if conditions change or if there are hazardous conditions, such as freezing rain or icy trails, so park officials say it is always best to call ahead.
A complete list of events is included below and is available on the DNR Web site at [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/news/candlelight.htm].
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Wisconsin State Parks - (608) 266-2181
Winter 2008 Candlelight Skis and Hikes in Wisconsin State Parks, Forests and Trails
Saturday, January 5, 2008
• Harrington Beach State Park, Belgium, (262) 285-3015 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski/Hike. A candlelight ski/hike through the woods. Refreshments served by the Friends of Harrington Beach State park Trailhead at Adolph & Marie Ansay Welcome Center. 6-9 p.m.
• Wildcat Mountain State Park, Ontario, (608) 337-4775 - Candlelight Ski/Hike. Ski or hike an easy 1.5- mile trail loop lighted by torches. Warming fires at the start and finish. Charcoal grills for grilling. Warming building with hot chocolate and popcorn. Astronomy program beginning at 7 p.m. Office and ski trail head. Dusk to 9 p.m.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Winter Candlelight Hike and Ski. Enjoy the winter wonderland at night with family and friends while skiing or hiking the 2-mile cross-country trail. Almost 200 tiki torches will light the way for this annual event. Warm up afterwards by the fireplace. Refreshments will be available in the heated shelter building. Please, no pets or sleds allowed on the trail. Cross-country Ski Trail—stop at park office for map. 6-9 p.m.
• Lake Kegonsa State Park, Stoughton, (608) 873-9695 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski. Enjoy a beautiful winter evening cross-country skiing along 2 miles of groomed ski trails lit with hundreds of glowing luminaries. When you are done, warm up by the bonfire and enjoy refreshements sold by the LKSP Friends Group. Grills will be available for cooking. Sorry, no pets or hikers are allowed on cross-country ski trails. This event is weather and snow conditions permitting. 6-9 p.m.
• Point Beach State Forest, Two Rivers, (920) 794-7480 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski and Hike. Ski or hike our wooded candlelight trails. Warm up by a blazing fire enjoying live music, food and refreshments. Sponsored by Friends of Point Beach. Lodge. 5-9 p.m.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
• Governor Dodge State Park, Dodgeville, (608) 935-2315 - Candlelight Hike/Ski. Walk or ski a trail lit with glowing candlelight. Warm up by the bonfire after enjoying the trail. Limited hot drinks and snacks will be available for sale. Weather and snow conditions will determine trail location. Sponsored by Friends of Governor Dodge State Park [exit DNR]. Sorry, no pets on the ski trail. Meet at the Cox Hollow Beach area. 6-9 p.m.
Friday, January 25, 2008
• Red Cedar State Trail, Menomonie, (800) 283-1862, (715) 235-9087, or (715) 232-1242 - Candlelight Ski. Ski by candlelight along the beautiful Red Cedar River. Free hot chocolate to skiers/hikers near the warming fire at the trailhead. Drawing for prizes including a 2008 Wisconsin State Trail annual pass, friends group membership, and Swiss Miss gift packs. Interpretive and outdoor education exhibits will be open throughout the evening at the Depot Visitor Center. Trail pass fees are waived for this event. Sponsored by Friends of the Red Cedar State Trail and Swiss Miss Corporation. Depot Visitor Center, Menomonie. 6-9 p.m.
• Willow River State Park, Hudson, (715) 386-5931 - Candlelight Ski and Hike. Ski 2 miles of easy trails and hike half a mile along candlelit trails. Enjoy refreshments at the National Guard bonfire at the boat launch or in the nature center. Visit with the hot air balloon pilots and crews that will have tethered balloons doing "moonglows." The balloon pilots will be here early in the event even if they can’t inflate the balloons due to wind. If there is no skiing snow, it may be canceled; call to confirm. Please leave the dog at home. Meet at the nature center. 6-9:30 p.m.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
• Governor Nelson State Park, Waunakee, (608) 831-3005 - Candlelight Ski. Experience gliding through the night along torch lit, groomed ski trails. Warm by a bon fire and enjoy some tasty snacks. Conditions permitting. Sorry, pets are not permitted. 6-9 p.m.
• Nelson Dewey State Park, Cassville, (608) 725-5374 - Candlelight Hike. One of the many events during Cassville's annual Bald Eagle Days celebration. Evening.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
• Harrington Beach State Park, Belgium, (262) 285-3015 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski/Hike. A candlelight ski/hike through the woods. Refreshments served by the Friends of Harrington Beach State park Trailhead at Adolph & Marie Ansay Welcome Center. 6-9
• Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski/Hike. Cross-country ski or hike in the Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit by candlelight. At the bonfire join fellow hikers and skiers for hot drinks and snacks provided by the Friends of the Kettle Moraine. The trail is perfect for novice skiers with no steep hills or sharp turns. Zillmer Trails. 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Saturday, February 9, 2008
• Flambeau River State Forest, Winter, (715) 332-5271 - Candlelight Ski. A 1.8-kilometer loop of trail through the heart of the forest will be groomed, tracked and lit with more than 600 candles. The trail is wide enough for diagonal striders and skate skiers. If there is no snow, take a candlelight walk. Picnic tables and a large barbecue grill will be available near the trail head for persons who wish to cook their food. Chili and warm drinks will be provided. Large warming fires will also be built and maintained throughout the night. Starting at 5 p.m. that Saturday all day-use fees at the trailhead will be waived. Flambeau Hills trailhead, on County Highway W 20 miles west of Phillips and 15 miles east of Winter. 6-9 p.m.
• Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan, (920) 451-4080 - Valentine Candlelight Ski and Hike. Celebrate Valentine's Day a bit early while enjoying the winter wonderland at night with family and friends. Ski or hike the 2-mile cross-country trail lit by almost 200 tiki torches. Warm up afterwards by the fireplace. Refreshments will be available in the heated shelter building. Please, no pets or sleds allowed. Cross country ski trail--stop at park office for map. 6-9 p.m.
• Lake Kegonsa State Park, Stoughton, (608) 873-9695 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski. Enjoy a beautiful winter evening cross country skiing along 2 miles of groomed ski trails lit with hundreds of glowing luminaries. When you are done, warm up by the bonfire and enjoy refreshements sold by the LKSP Friends Group. Grills will be available for cooking. Sorry, no pets or hikers are allowed on cross country ski trails. This event is weather and snow conditions permitting. 6-9 p.m. Candlelight Ski. Enjoy a beautiful winter evening cross-country skiing along 2 miles of groomed ski trails lit with hundreds of glowing luminaries. When you are done, warm up by the bonfire and enjoy refreshements sold by the LKSP Friends Group. Grills will be available for cooking. Sorry, no pets or hikers are allowed on cross-country ski trails. This event is weather and snow conditions permitting. 6-9 p.m.
• Lake Wissota State Park, Chippewa Falls, (715) 382-4574 - Candlelight Night Ski & Snowshoe. Ski a 1 or 2 mile trail through a winter wonderland illuminated by glowing candles. If you don't ski, a .75-mile lighted trail is available for hiking and snowshoeing. Refreshments sponsored by the Friends of Lake Wissota State Park. Weather permitting. Guided snowshoe hike lead by Naturalist Rod Gont begins at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Friends of Lake Wissota State Park. Ski trailhead (boat landing parking lot). 5-8 p.m.
• Newport State Park, Ellison Bay, (920) 854-2500 or e-mail - 18th Annual Candlelight Ski/Hike/Snowshoe Event. Ski, hike, or snowshoe a 1-mile trail lit by homemade candles. Bonfire, refreshments and grills will greet skiers at the end of the trail. Trail suitable for skiers of all abilities. Experience Newport State Park in a different light. Picnic Area parking lot #3 and Fern/Europe Bay Trail. 6-9 p.m.
• Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest, Boulder Jct., (715) 542-3923 - Candlelight Ski/Snowshoe/Hike. Enchanting wooded trails, great people, and warm, cozy fires. There are 1.5- and a 3-mile loops for skiing and a 1-mile loop for hiking and snowshoeing. Admission is free. Refreshments are served. There are two warming fires: one at the start/finish and one at the halfway point warming hut on the 3-mile loop. Raven Trail, near the Clear Lake Contact Station off of Woodruff Rd. 6-9 p.m.
• Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 868-3258 - Candlelight Ski. Ski a candlelit 1-mile, double-tracked trail through forest and meadow. Bonfire with refreshments at the warming shelter; $2/person suggested donation. Enter at Highland Road, 1 mile north of Fish Creek at State Highway 42 and County Highway A. If no snow, the event will change to a hike starting at Park Headquarters. Event will be cancelled if weather is severe. 5:30-8 p.m.
• Peshtigo River State Forest, Crivitz, (715) 757-3965 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski Along the Peshtigo River. Enjoy a beautiful winter evening skiing along the Peshtigo River on an easy 2-mile candlelit trail groomed for both diagonal striding and skating. Non- skiers can try an easy 1-mile candlelit hike along the Peshtigo River. Hikers and pets are not allowed on the ski trail, but are welcome on the hiking trail. Warming fires and hot chocolate will be available for everyone. Spring Rapids Trailhead off of Kirby Lake Lane, 5 miles west of Crivitz off County Highway W. 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
• Governor Thompson State Park, Crivitz, (715) 757-3979 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski/Hike. Paper luminaries will light the night trails. One-mile trail groomed for both skiers and hikers. Hot chocolate and warming fire provided. Woods Lake Picnic Area, Paust Lane. 6-9 p.m.
Invasive species classification proposed to help prevent spread of troublesome invaders
Public hearing on proposed rule to be held around state in January
MADISON – A proposal to slow the spread of invasive species into Wisconsin by restricting the sale, planting or release of the most troublesome invaders is the topic of public informational meetings statewide in January.
The proposal classifies invasive species of plants, animals and nonagricultural plant pests into four different categories, two of which would be regulated and two which would not. The two regulated categories – prohibited and restricted – would make it illegal to import and export these species, buy, plant or release them, according to Ron Martin, who leads the Department of Natural Resources invasive species team that is developing the proposal.
“There are a number of species that are close to our doorstep, including kudzu and Asian carp species, and a number of others that are just starting to get established in the state,” Martin says. “We hope a comprehensive classification system will prevent new introductions of invasive species from occurring and slow the spread of those already here.”
The informational meetings will offer a chance for the public to learn more about the classification system proposal, developed to reflect the recommendations of the Wisconsin Council on Invasive Species. These public input sessions are also aimed at providing the DNR with feedback to further shape the proposal before it seeks permission from its policymaking board to conduct formal public hearings, says Kelly Kearns, a DNR invasive plant specialist involved in developing the proposal.
“We want to hear from the public whether this classification system works and if we have the right species in the right categories,” Kearns says. “This is the first time Wisconsin has developed a comprehensive invasive species law in the state. It should address many of the shortfalls we see in the current piecemeal approach to our regulations.”
Kearns also hopes to hear from the public on those situations in which people may get permits that would allow them to “use a restricted species in a way that would not cause problems.”
Invasive species are plants, animals and pests from other regions or countries that proliferate and have few natural predators or pathogens in Wisconsin to keep their populations in check here. Invasive species generally crowd out native species, which in turn harms wildlife that depends on native species for food and habitat. Invasives also can interfere with recreation, as Eurasian watermilfoil does when thick mats of the plant tangle in boat propellers, and they can affect industry and cost taxpayers and consumers money. For example, buckthorn and honeysuckle, by preventing forest regeneration, can cause short- and long-term damage to Wisconsin’s $22.6 billion forestry and forest products industry.
More than 180 aquatic invasive species such as zebra mussels, round gobies and spiny water flea have entered the Great Lakes in the last century, and more than 130 non-native invasive plants have been documented in Wisconsin.
People play a significant role in spreading invasive species, and the proposed classification system seeks to address the ways by which people contribute to the purposeful or accidental spread.
The public informational meetings will all begin at 5:30 p.m. on the following dates at the locations listed:
January 10, Spooner - at the Spooner Agricultural Research Station, W6646 Hwy 70.
January 11, Rhinelander - (Listening Session Also From 2-4 p.m.), Learning Resources Center Theater, Nicolet College, 5364 College Dr.
January 14, Madison - UW Arboretum, McKay Center Auditorium, 1207 Seminole Highway.
January 15, Milwaukee - Governor's Room, Tommy Thompson Youth Center (Gate 5) Wisconsin State Fair Park, 640 South 84th St.
January 16, Green Bay - Brown Co. Central Library, 515 Pine St.
January 17, La Crosse - La Crosse Central High School, Commons (Room 126), 1801 Losey S. Blvd.
More information on the meetings and the proposal can be found on the DNR Web site. People also may submit comments on-line or in writing through this Web site at [http://dnr.wi.gov/invasives/classification/] or they may send them to: DNR Invasive Species Team, ER-6, DNR, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707-7921.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Tom Boos (608) 266-9276 or Kelly Kearns (608) 267-5066
Timber wolf tracking & ecology and winter mammal tracking clinics offered
BABCOCK, Wis. – People interested in learning how to track wolves as well as learn about wolf ecology or how to read the tracks and other signs mammals leave in winter can sign up for two upcoming workshops at the Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center near Babcock.
Timber wolf tracking & ecology
The first of two Timber Wolf Ecology Clinics will be held Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 19-20. The clinics are cosponsored by the Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center and the Timber Wolf Information Network. Area biologists and volunteers from Timber wolf Information Network have teamed up to provide instruction on aspects of wolf ecology, including status, population biology and field study techniques. Saturday afternoon will be spent outdoors exploring wolf habitat.
The clinic runs from 9 a.m. Saturday to noon on Sunday. The Sandhill dormitory will be available for participants on Friday night preceding the workshop for a $15 fee. Because of its popularity, this same workshop is also available Feb. 16 and 17. Be sure to indicate which dates when registering. Registration is limited to 25 people ages 12 and up on a first-come, first-served basis. Register by mailing in $75 per person by Jan. 9. This fee includes instructional fees, transportation on Saturday afternoon, Saturday supper and Sunday lunch, and for dorm use.
Winter Mammal Tracking
A Winter Mammal Tracking clinic will be held Saturday, Jan. 26 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participants will learn to identify sign left by animals common to Wisconsin during winter. The clinic will include a two-hour walk a field following lunch to build skills in identifying animal sign.
Participants should bring their own lunch and refreshments, and dress appropriately for the weather. The clinic costs $15 and is limited to 20 people on a first-come, first-served basis. The registration deadline is Jan. 18 and will be confirmed by mail about a week prior to the event. Participants may stay overnight in the dorm either prior to or following the event for $15 per person per night.
Checks for either workshop should be made out to DNR-Skills Center. Include the name of the workshop, each participant, and the address and daytime phone number of one person in each party. Send registration fees to: Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center, PO Box 156, Babcock, WI 54413. Inquiries on the status of registrations may be sent via e-mail to: Richard.Thiel@wisconsin.gov.
The Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center is located 20 miles west of Wisconsin Rapids on County Highway X, 1 mile north of Highway 80 near Babcock, Wisconsin on the 9,000 acre Department of Natural Resources Sandhill Wildlife Area. More information on the Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center can be found on the DNR Web site [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/reclands/sandhill].
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Sandhill Skills Center at: (715) 884-6333 or (715) 884-6335
OUTDOORS CALENDAR
*Indicates date remains the same each year, except some permit deadlines may be extended one day if they fall on a Sunday or Federal Holiday.
September 15 through December 31
• Illegal during this time to shine for wild animals between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.
September 15 through First Saturday in May
• From Sept. 15 through the first Saturday in May, hook and line fishing is prohibited from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise in all Lake Michigan tributaries except the Oconto River and its tributaries and the downstream portion of the Peshtigo River (see regulations for details).*
December 27
• Canada goose season closes in the Mississippi River Subzone
December 31
• Pheasant season closes.*
• Hungarian partridge season closes.*
• Bobcat hunting and trapping season closes.*
• Fisher trapping season closes.*
• Frog season closes.*
2008
January 6
• Late archery deer season closes.
January 19
• Winter crow season opens, through March 20.
January 31
• Squirrel season closes.*
• Raccoon season closes*
• Ruffed grouse seasons closes in zone A (northern zone).*
DNR Public Hearings and Meetings
Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, reasonable accommodations, including the provision of informational material in an alternative format, will be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. Please call the contact person listed for the meeting or hearing with specific information on your request at least 10 days before the date of the scheduled hearing.
Hearings
December 18 & 19 - Pursuant to §§ 227.11(2)(a) and 285.11(1) and (16), Stats., interpreting §§ 227.11(2)(a), 227.14(1m)(b), 285.11(1) and (16), Stats., the Department of Natural Resources will hold public hearings on revisions to chs. NR 405, 407, 408 and 484, Wisconsin Administrative code, relating to major source definition and affecting small business. The State Implementation Plan developed under § 285.11(6), Stats., is revised. The proposed rules will amend the definition of “major stationary source” in § NR 405.02(22)(a), such that ethanol production facilities that produce ethanol by natural fermentation are not included in the Chemical Processing Plant category of the North American Industry Classification System. The other changes are to §§ NR 405.07(4)(a)20., 407.02(4)(b) and 408.02(21)(e), which will state that fugitive emissions from these ethanol production facilities will no longer be included in determining whether a facility is considered a major source. This rule package is initiated because of similar federal rule changes published May 1, 2007. In addition, a federal rule clarifying two elements of the major source permitting program was promulgated on Jan. 6, 2004. The first is the additional of a definition of replacement unit and the second clarifies a component of the emission calculation used when determining emissions under a plantwide applicability limitation (PAL). U.S. EPA has required permitting agencies to add these elements during the next reopening of the permit program regulations. DNR staff have made a preliminary determination that this action does not involve significant adverse environmental effects and does not need an environmental analysis under ch. NR 150, Wis. Adm. Code. The proposed rule and supporting documents, including the fiscal estimate may be viewed and downloaded and comments electronically submitted through the Wisconsin Administrative Rules Web site [http://adminrules.wisconsin.gov/] (exit DNR - search this Web site using the Natural Resources Board Order No. AM-34-07). Written comments on the proposed rule may be submitted until December 21, 2007via U.S. mail to Mr. Paul Yeung, Bureau of Air Management, P.O. Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707 or by e-mail to Paul.Yeung@wisconsin.gov. More information or a copy of the proposed rule and supporting documents, including the fiscal estimate may be obtained from Robert Eckdale, Bureau of Air Management, P.O. Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707 or by calling (608) 266-2856. The hearings will be held on:
December 18, Wisconsin Rapids - at 1 p.m. in Conference Room 124A and B, State Office Building, 1681 Second Avenue South.
December 19, Madison - at 1 p.m. in Room 413 of the State Natural Resources Building (GEF 2), 101 S. Webster St., Madison
December 20 - A public informational hearing where individuals can learn more about the proposed Cambrian Development located in NE¼, Section 14, T13N, R6E, City of Wisconsin Dells, Columbia County will be held in the City of Wisconsin Dells council chamber in the Wisconsin Dells City Hall, 300 La Crosse St., Wisconsin Dells. The hearing will start at 5 p.m. and run no later than 8 p.m. The public will have an opportunity to submit written or oral comments about the waterway and project in light of the standards below. Mac McDonald and Cambrian Development, LLC, W11068 Deer Run Dr, Lodi, WI 53555 has applied to the Department of Natural Resources for Federal Wetland Water Quality Certification and a permit to grade more than 10,000 square feet on the banks of the Wisconsin River. The department is currently evaluating the applicant’s proposal and must consider factual information about the following legal standards in deciding whether to grant, modify, or deny a permit for the project: 1) Whether navigation is materially obstructed, including commercial, recreational, active and passive forms of navigation; 2) whether there is detriment to the public interest, including fish and wildlife or their habitat, natural scenic beauty or water quality; 3) whether the flood flow capacity of a stream is materially reduced The department has made a tentative determination that it will issue a permit with modifications to the proposed activity. The Department considers all the following information to make a decision to approve, modify or deny the application: 1) Applicable standards in statutes, rules, and common law; 2) plans and information provided by an applicant; 3) information gathered during site investigations; 4) written or oral provided during a public comment period or public hearing; 5) statements or information provided by local, state, and national government agencies; 6) data or information found in natural resource inventories and plans, or maps collected by the department or others using commonly accepted methods; 7) published scientific research;
section. 1.11, Stats., Wisconsin environmental policy act, and ch. NR 150; 9) any other pertinent information. For more information about this project and the statutes and rules that apply, or to see the application, plans, contact Dan Hunt, N 7725 Highway 28, Horicon, WI 53032, or call (920) 387-7878. Any member of the public may submit written comments to the address above by U.S. mail. Comments shall include the docket number or applicant name, and shall relate to whether the project meets the legal standards listed above. Comments shall be postmarked no later than 10 days after the date that the public informational hearing is completed. Pursuant to § 30.208(3)(e), Stats, within 30 days after the public hearing is held, the department shall render a decision that approves, modifies or denies the permit that is the subject of the application by mailing the decision to the applicant. The final decision may be appealed as indicated in the permit decision document.
2008
January 3, 7 & 14 - Pursuant to §§ 227.11(2)(a) and 281.15, Stats., interpreting § 281.15, Stats., the Department of Natural Resources will hold public hearings on revisions to ch. NR 105, Wis. Adm. Code, relating to surface water quality criteria. The Department is proposing to update surface water quality criteria for 15 substances and to develop new surface water quality criteria for 2 other substances. These updates and additions are the result of two federal initiatives. First, in 2000 U.S. EPA formally objected to aquatic life criteria for several substances in ch. NR 105 because the state criteria were not as protective as the federal criteria. Second, U.S. EPA has developed and updated human health criteria for some additional substances subsequent to the 2000 objections. The Department’s proposed updates and additions will ensure federal approval of the criteria for those substances. No changes are proposed in the procedures used for developing criteria in ch. NR 105, only the numerical criteria for some of the substances regulated are being addressed at this time. Of the 18 substances proposed for criteria revisions, it is estimated that no discharge permits will be affected for 14 of those substances. This is because the criteria are high enough and/or the discharge levels are low enough that no effluent limitations will be needed in any permit. The only substances for which changes in permit limitations are foreseen are arsenic, copper, nickel and selenium. The proposed rule and fiscal estimate may be reviewed and comments electronically submitted through the Wisconsin Administrative Rules Web site:
http://adminrules.wisconsin.gov or to JamesW.Schmidt@Wisconsin.gov. A copy of the proposed rule and fiscal estimate may be obtained from Jim Schmidt, Bureau of Watershed Management, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707. Comments may be submitted until Feb. 16, 2008. Written comments whether submitted electronically or by U.S. mail to Schmidt at the above address and will have the same weight and effect as oral statements presented at the public hearings. The hearings will be held:
January 3, Madison - 1 p.m. in Room G09, GEF #2 State Office Building, 101 South Webster St.
January 7, Eau Claire - 6 p.m. in Room 185, DNR West Central Region Headquarters, 1300 W. Clairemont St.
January 14, Oshkosh - 6 p.m. in Conference Room A, Jim Coughlin Building, 625 County Road Y.
Meetings
December 18 - The Wisconsin Council on Forestry will meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Forest Products Lab, One Gifford Pinchot Dr., in Madison to discuss the Wisconsin Forest Sustainability Network, the potential for Wisconsin forest carbon markets, and other topics listed on the attached agenda. Contact Mary Brown at (608) 261-7599 for more information.
December 18 - The Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming – The full Task Force will meet from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in rooms 325 & 326 at the Pyle Center, 702 Langdon Street, Madison. The agenda includes: an update on the modeling process, and presentations by Work Groups. For more information, or if you need special accommodations to attend this meeting, contact Nick Sayen, DNR, at (608) 267-2466 or nick.sayen@wisconsin.gov.
December 19 - The Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming – Forestry and Agriculture Work Group will have a conference call meeting from 11 a.m. to noon in Room 428 of the State Natural Resources Building (GEF 2), 101 S. Webster St., Madison. The agenda includes a discussion of the public comments submitted to the Work Group. For more information, or if you need special accommodations to attend this meeting, contact Matt Krumenauer, DNR, at (608) 264-6039 or matt.krumenauer@wisconsin.gov
December 19 - The Department will meet with interested individuals on issues discussed at this summer’s public hearings related to NR 115, the state’s Shoreland Management Program. The meetings will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Memorial Union - 800 Langdon St.- Madison (check the ‘Today in the Union’ sign when entering the building for exact room location). For more information contact Toni Herkert at – (608) 266-0161.
December 19 - The Department of Natural Resources Air Permit Information Technology (IT) Stakeholder Group will meet at 10 a.m. in the Gathering Waters Conference Room at the DNR South Central Region Headquarters, 3911 Fish Hatchery Road, Fitchburg. This meeting is an update on the status of the new on-line air permit processing system and will provide participants with an opportunity for questions and discussion. The DNR Bureau of Air Management has been designing and creating this new system to be make submitting permit applications, processing permits, and subsequest notifications, all more efficient and workable over the Internet, for both applicants and DNR permit staff. The Air Permit IT Stakeholder Group was formed to provide input into the design of the new online permit application system which is due to go online in July of 2008. For more information or to participate contact Barbara N. Pavliscak, DNR Air Permit Engineer at (608) 267-7540 or by e-mail at [Barbara.Pavliscak@wisconsin.gov].
December 19 - The External Advisory Team for the DNR's proposed Glacial Heritage Area will meet from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in Johnson Creek Municipal Building, 125 Depot St, Johnson Creek. The Team will be reviewing input received from the Open House on Oct. 30 and discussing the development of potential options for different segments of the proposed network. For more information contact John Pohlman at (608) 264-6263.
December 20 - The DNR Public Land Management Specialist Committee will meet at 9:15 a.m. at the DNR Wausau Service Center, 5301 Rib Mountain Rd., Wausau, regarding: policy on public land management, and handbook updates. For more information, contact Jeff Barkley – DNR Division of Forestry at (608) 264-9217.
2008
January 2 - The Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming – Technical Advisory Group will be having a conference call meeting from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in room 724 of the State Natural Resources Building (GEF 2), 101 S. Webster St., Madison. For more information, or if you need special accommodations to attend this meeting, contact Caroline Garber, DNR, at (608) 264-9218 or caroline.garber@wisconsin.gov.
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/
