Wisconsin Natural Resources Magazine | Winter 2024

Snow much fun!

OPENING SHOT

Acting

Publications Supervisor Molly Meister

Managing Editor Andrea Zani

Art Direction Douglas Griffin and Sunny Frantz

Printing Schumann Printers

Governor Tony Evers

Natural Resources Board

Bill Smith, Shell Lake, Chair

Rachel Bouressa, New London

Douglas Cox, Keshena

Deb Dassow, Cedarburg Patty Schachtner, Somerset

Robin Schmidt, La Crosse

Marcy West, La Farge

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

Steven Little, Deputy Secretary

Aquino,

STICKER DESIGN WINNERS

Evan Strand, a junior at Rice Lake High School, won first place in the annual state park vehicle admission sticker design contest, open to Wisconsin students in grades 9-12. Strand’s winning design will appear on all current vehicle admission stickers.

Second place was Jehiel Josh De los Santos, also of Rice Lake High School, and third place was Joe Bellante of Catholic Central High School in Burlington. Honorable mentions (with high school): Ashley Commons, Cedarburg; Ella Devries, Ripon; Myah Leak, Cedar Grove-Belgium; Ava Marasch, Watertown; Joseph Mincheski, Green Bay Southwest; Annelise Triscari, Slinger; and Molly Weeden, Cedarburg.

LEARN MORE

For details on Wisconsin state parks, including vehicle admission passes, check dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks.

STATE PARK VEHICLE ADMISSION PASSES — AND HAPPY 125TH

ANDREA ZANI

Alook back and a look ahead — Wisconsin state parks share the heads-up on a fun anniversary and news of an important change for 2025.

First, the news. Starting with all current sales, state park vehicle admission passes will now be effective for 12 months from the date of purchase rather than expiring at the end of the calendar year.

Admission passes are required for vehicles entering most Wisconsin state parks, forests and recreation areas. Going forward, these stickers will be marked to indicate the month they will expire, remaining valid until the final day of the 12th month following the month of issue.

For example, a sticker purchased March 1, 2025, will be valid through March 31, 2026. Stickers are not prorated, regardless of what day of the month they are purchased — July 31 purchases will be punched for July, not August, for instance.

Prices for annual stickers have not changed. The cost is $28 for vehicles with Wisconsin plates ($13 for residents age 65 and older), or $38 for out-of-state vehicles. Discounts are available for additional vehicles registered to the same address; those stickers expire the same month as the household’s full-price sticker. Reduced-rate stickers must be purchased at the same time as the full-price sticker or at a later date with proof of purchase of the original sticker.

Like before, annual stickers will be available at most parks via drive-up window or e-payment stations (kiosks), by calling a property during business hours, or online. Stickers purchased online will

arrive by mail with the expiration date marked, and customers will receive an email receipt to use immediately for admission. Daily admission remains available at parks and also can be purchased online.

Conservation patron license holders will receive a state park vehicle admission pass as before. Patron stickers will be punched for March expiration, regardless of when the license was purchased. Annual trail passes are not changing and will remain valid for the calendar year.

ANNIVERSARY PARTY

Now for the exciting anniversary: Wisconsin state parks are celebrating 125 years in 2025! The quasquicentennial recognizes the establishment of Interstate Park on the St. Croix River as Wisconsin’s first state park — way back in 1900. Plans are underway for plenty of celebrations in the coming year. Join the DNR to mark this milestone by visiting state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas, starting with a First Day Hike on Jan. 1. Family-friendly events, fascinating Wisconsin history programming and adventures for all abilities will take place throughout the state in 2025. Follow the DNR on social media like Facebook (facebook.com/WIDNR) and Instagram (instagram.com/wi_dnr) and keep an eye on the events calendar (dnr.wi.gov/events) for updated anniversary information.

There will be lots of great coverage right here in this magazine, too, with park stories, historic photos and much more. We can’t wait to celebrate!

Andrea Zani is managing editor of Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine.

KIRBY MCDONALD

Interstate Park ski trail.

Trumpeter swans have benefited from donations to Wisconsin’s Endangered Resources Fund.

Use Travel Wisconsin’s Snow Report to help plan a winter ski outing.

SNOW REPORT

Winter weather means snow — and snow means outdoor recreation! Get the latest on conditions for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, downhill skiing and snowboarding around the state with the Wisconsin Department of Tourism’s Snow Report. Learn more at travelwisconsin.com/snowreport.

NEWS YOU CAN USE

ENDANGERED RESOURCES TAX CHECKOFF

Supporting conservation in Wisconsin is as easy as checking a box when you donate to the DNR’s Endangered Resources Fund through your state income tax form. Contributions have been instrumental in funding success stories in the state, such as bringing back bald eagles and trumpeter swans, and keeping hundreds of other animal and plant species from disappearing.

At tax time, simply look for the Endangered Resources Fund option in the “donations” area of the Wisconsin income tax form, including the e-file form. All gifts are tax-deductible and are matched dollar-for-dollar, doubling the impact of every donation. Funds are used to support the work of the DNR’s Natural Heritage Conservation program on behalf of vulnerable wildlife and plants as well as state natural areas.

Learn more at dnr.wi.gov/tiny/971.

TAKE OUR MAGAZINE SURVEY

Attention, magazine readers: We want to hear from you!

Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine has been going strong since 1977 with coverage of the state’s vital natural resources, outdoor activities and updates from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. But there’s always room for improvement.

By gathering input from magazine readers and the public, we hope to bring you more of what’s important to you in our coverage of the DNR, partners, programs, key issues and the state’s great outdoors.

We encourage everyone to complete our short survey — it will only take a minute or two — and let us know your thoughts about the magazine. You also can note what interests you as far as DNR-related topics and favorite outdoor pursuits. We’ll use the information to help us get better and bring you more of the coverage you want.

Scan the QR code to take the survey or go to dnr.wi.gov/tiny/3226. And THANK YOU for your support of Wisconsin Natural Resources!

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

MAKE THAT BLACK SPRUCE

The News You Can Use item on tree seed collection in the fall issue included a photo of blue spruce cones. Blue spruce is not native to Wisconsin, and the DNR’s three state nurseries do not collect its seeds. It is black spruce seeds that are collected. We apologize for the incorrect information.

WOULD IT BE A WOODPECKER?

Was this done by a pileated woodpecker (top left)? I know they are noted for making square holes.

Jim Morse Town of Dewey

DNR conservation biologist Ryan Brady replies: “Yes, these uniquely long and deep excavations were made by one or more pileated woodpeckers as they searched for ants, beetle larvae, termites and other insects in the rotten wood. Here’s a photo (bottom left) of the culprit in action.

Populations of this large, striking woodpecker declined greatly with the clearing of eastern forests over a century ago but rebounded in the mid-1900s as these forests returned. Numbers continue to increase as those forests mature and provide the larger trees this species prefers.

You can help pileated woodpeckers by supporting older forests, leaving dead snags and fallen logs for foraging and nesting, and offering suet in your backyard feeders (see Page 53).”

‘FABULOUS’ FALL

I just wanted to say the latest magazine for fall 2024 is fabulous! I am not sure what is different, but it is very engaging, and I am learning a lot from the information. I appreciate the Kids Corner, even though I am no longer a kid by any stretch of the imagination!

Jamee Stanley Soldiers Grove

BUTTERFLY BACKER

I enjoyed the article on Wisconsin butterflies (summer 2024). We have many clouded sulphurs in our yard and gardens. Keep up the good work!

Beverly Spinti (age 92) Menomonie

COVER PHOTO BY DAVID NEVALA

JIM MORSE

RYAN BRADY

Clouded sulphur

NATURAL ROADSIDES’ RICH HERITAGE

I read “WisDOT turns to native plants” (summer 2024) and was nostalgic. It reminded me of my dad’s dedication to this noble philosophy of preserving the native Wisconsin landscape while beautifying the experience of the Wisconsin traveler.

My dad, Jim Ritzer, was a landscape architect who worked for WisDOT for almost 30 years (1966-94) and dedicated most of his career to this philosophy. His article, “The What and Why of Natural Roadsides,” was published in Public Works magazine in March 1990, and he summed up the idea:

“Natural roadsides, then, are stately trees. They are shrubs that provide habitat for birds and foil the drifting snow. Natural roadsides will not look like a golf course or the home lawn because they are not expected to. They have color and texture, shades and hues. They have hidden rare gems. They have variety and a rich heritage of tall grasses that sway in the breeze and are warmly referred to as the ‘inland sea.’”

Thank you, WisDOT, for your efforts to recognize and preserve this philosophy so unique to Wisconsin. (Jim Ritzer was elected to the American Society of Landscape Architects in 2002; he died in March 2021 at age 89.)

Becky Lowery Hudson

DRINKING WATER

Q: Which filter system best supports and complements efforts for safe, clean drinking water?

A: You should only use a filter to remove known contaminants, and the type of filter you want would depend on the contaminant you need to remove. If you have specific concerns, the DNR’s “What’s Wrong With My Water?” webpage may be helpful. Visit dnr.wi.gov/tiny/3161.

Q: Can I drink water from a natural spring? Are natural springs ever tested?

A: There’s definitely something romantic and mystical about springs and artesian wells, where water bubbles freely out of the ground. But as tempting and refreshing as it might look, we don’t recommend drinking water from unprotected natural springs because they often are not tested regularly, as they are not approved as public drinking water sources.

Q: How can I get my well water tested? How often should I test it, and how much does it cost?

A: To have your well tested, reach out to a certified lab. Find a list at dnr.wi.gov/tiny/3171. Private wells should be tested annually for bacteria and nitrates. If the well has never been tested for arsenic, it also should be tested for that naturally occurring contaminant.

The cost depends on what you want to test for and the lab you use. In general, a test for bacteria can range between $20 to $40, and the same cost for nitrates. Many labs have pricing listed on their websites, making it easy to find one that fits your budget.

PAPOOSE LAKE POETRY

Love your magazine. Read “The Loons!” in the summer issue. It reminded me of a special experience last June 2023, the best boating ever and Wisconsin natural resources on display.

Otters splash bullfrogs bellow in their midst

ripples mellow a gentle calm a subtle wake newborn loons on Papoose Lake

Jim Paprocki

Ashwaubenon

ILLUSTRATIONS BY JADA

Oh, what fun!

THUR

Embrace Wisconsin winters no matter the weather

IT’S A STORY we’ve all heard from our parents and grandparents: “When I was your age, I had to walk to school uphill both ways in the snow.”

While there might be some truth to that, the future of Wisconsin winters is projected to look pretty different.

Climate experts predict that due to climate change, winters in the Badger State will feature less fluffy snowfall and more rain and sleet events in coming years.

Steve Vavrus, state climatologist at UW-Madison, said climate change also means we can expect the mercury to keep rising.

The statewide winter average temperature during the past 15 years has been 19.1 degrees, which is warmer than the 20th century average of 15.7 degrees. And winter 2023 was the warmest on record, averaging 28.2 degrees.

What does this mean for winter recreation opportunities? It’s time to adapt!

Read on to learn how ski hills are leaning into the forces of nature to create machine-made snow, find out where you can hop on your fat-tire bike, how to enjoy your favorite recreational vehicles safely on inconsistent terrain, and much more.

Molly Meister is a publications supervisor in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

MOLLY MEISTER

Make it snow!

Lapham Peak maintains winter traditions in the face of climate change

WISCONSIN HAS LONG been a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. But in recent years, the southern portion of the state has faced significant challenges preserving the typical winter wonderland.

With short, milder winters and less predictable snowfall, the winter sports industry has pivoted to using more machine-made snowfall to maintain winter traditions.

A study by the Natural Resources Defense Council found that nearly 88% of ski areas in the National Ski Areas Association utilized snowmaking machines. The same study highlighted the economic impact in Wisconsin between high and low snowfall years. A low snowfall year can lead to a 36% drop in skier visits.

Unpredictable snowfall creates challenges for skiers and the places that serve them. In some years, machine-made snow at Lapham Peak is the only thing keeping trails open.

LEARN MORE

Find details on the Kettle Moraine State Forest-Lapham Peak Unit at dnr.wi.gov/topic/ parks/laphampeak.

JONNA MAYBERRY

SNOWFALL FEAT

Snowmaking machines, often called snow guns or snow cannons, were first invented in the early 1950s. They are designed to produce snow under controlled conditions, blowing tiny water droplets into the air and letting them freeze and fall to the ground. These machines are indispensable for ski resorts and trails nationwide.

The Kettle Moraine State Forest-Lapham Peak Unit uses machine-made snow for cross-country ski trails, pumping water from a pond to snow guns that shoot out the snow. About 1.5 miles of trails have snowmaking capability and are included in Lapham Peak’s 2.5 miles of lighted trails for night skiing.

“Snowmaking for the cross-country ski trails at Lapham Peak was started in 2006,” said John McCarthy, a member of the Friends of Lapham Peak Unit’s snowmaking committee since its inception in 2005.

In the beginning, making snow at Lapham Peak was no small feat, according to information from the Friends of Lapham Peak Unit. Workers used “snow guns, a pump and a plastic swimming pool to make snow for the first time in 2006, just to show that it could be done,” documents note.

Snowmaking at Kettle Moraine State Forest-Lapham Peak Unit has been ongoing each winter since 2006.

SEASONAL COVERAGE

Snowmaking at Lapham Peak was developed out of necessity at the property.

“Low snowfalls, winter rain and warm temperatures have been around since before snowmaking was developed for the trails at Lapham Peak and are the reason why it was developed,” McCarthy said.

“We have followed the same basic plan since the beginning of the project: making snow in early December to have it last all season (into March).”

The idea is to have at least 85 days of groomed trails for cross-country skiing at the property each winter — a goal that has taken much construction. That’s 7,230 feet of water supply piping, 33 hydrants, 7,830 feet of electrical lines and 32 electric pedestals, to be exact.

The Friends are also building a new lodge at the Lapham Peak skiing trailhead to serve skiers and other park users year-round.

“There have been many years when the snowmaking trails at Lapham Peak were the only skiable trails in the region for most of the season,” McCarthy said.

“The 2023-24 season was exceptionally bad, requiring that we make additional snow throughout the season.”

Making snow is a big task, but at Lapham Peak, they’re working hard to preserve the winter magic, even if it must be conjured up by humans.

Jonna Mayberry is a public information officer in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

Making snow helps Lapham Peak offer groomed crosscountry trails for at least 85 days during the ski season.

Snowshoeing is a great way to get out on the trails in winter, and many state properties have equipment loaner programs so you can give it a try.

DON’T LET SNOW DRIFTS keep you away from your favorite hiking trails this winter. In fact, don’t try to wade through the drifts at all. High-step across the white powder with snowshoes and experience the majesty of Wisconsin in mid-winter unimpeded by the conditions.

TRY IT OUT

If you’ve never snowshoed before, it’s easy to get started.

Many of Wisconsin’s state parks loan snowshoes for individuals to use, and state wildlife areas like Horicon Marsh, Crex Meadows and George W. Mead offer popup “learn to snowshoe” programs and night hikes by moonlight or candlelight during the winter. These are all family-friendly ways to try out a new sport!

One benefit of snowshoeing at state wildlife areas is the freedom to roam off-trail as you please. Most wildlife areas are open to snowshoeing and have dikes, mowed paths and other well-defined routes, but you’re also welcome to blaze a new path and experience winter on your own terms.

LEARN MORE

Take the path less traveled and give snowshoeing a try at one of Wisconsin’s state parks, forests or wildlife areas this winter. Organized outings are a great way to start, and you can find them by searching for “snowshoe” on the DNR events calendar, dnr.wi.gov/events. For parks with snowshoes available, use the “rentals” filter on the DNR’s Find a Park tool, dnr.wi.gov/tiny/801.

Step into snowshoeing

Always be aware of open hunting seasons and be mindful of trappers or other recreators using the land.

GEAR UP

Once you try it (and get hooked), you might want to get your own snowshoes. The first step is to make sure the snowshoes keep you stepping above the snow, not sinking through it. Since snowshoes work by dispersing your weight across the snow’s surface, manufacturers provide sizing guides based on weight and snow type.

When selecting snowshoes, remember to add a few extra pounds to account for winter clothes and hiking gear and consider the type of snow (i.e., packed or soft) you’ll usually encounter.

Snowshoes allow you to chart your own course over the snow-covered meadows and underneath the snow-bearing boughs of the state’s seasonal landscape. As you hang up your hiking boots, slip on some snowshoes and prepare to make the most of Wisconsin’s winter.

Garrett Dietz is a public information officer in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

GARRETT DIETZ

KETTLE MORAINE STATE FOREST-SOUTHERN UNIT

Venture to the Nordic Trail trailhead for a simple sledding hill, where you’ll also find a warming shelter and convenient parking.

LEARN MORE

Looking for more sledding fun? Visit the DNR’s Find a Park webpage and choose the “Sledding” filter. Scan the QR code or check dnr.wi.gov/tiny/801.

KINNICKINNIC STATE PARK

The sledding hill at this northern Wisconsin state park is located near the Brown Trail parking lot.

LAKE KEGONSA

STATE PARK

You’ll find a nice little sledding hill at the beach area with a parking lot close by if you need to escape the elements to warm up in your vehicle. After sledding, head to the Snowshoe Trail for 1.2 miles of hiking or snowshoeing.

Gone sleddin’

ANDI SEDLACEK

STATE PARKS: They’re not just for camping and hiking! Grab your saucer, toboggan or inner tube and head to the hills for some sledding fun at these state properties.

PENINSULA STATE PARK

It’s not an official sledding hill, but the number 17 fairway on the park’s golf course features a steep hill for adventurous sledders. But be prepared — toboggans are not allowed, and children must be supervised by adults.

WILLOW RIVER STATE PARK

This park’s sledding hill is along the Green Trail, near the beach picnic area and nature center. Your best chance to catch some air on your sled is after significant snowfall when it’s routinely packed.

Andi Sedlacek is acting communications director for the DNR.

ANDREA ZANI

Fat biking hot spots

BIKING IN WINTER? In the snow, in the cold — in Wisconsin? Let’s go!

With the proper clothing layers, preparation and the right kind of fat-tire bike, cycling on snow-covered trails can be an exhilarating experience. So where to go for the fun?

It depends on the conditions, of course. Much like cross-country skiing, the best locations at any given time will be wherever there’s an open trail.

Riding is generally prohibited on groomed ski trails and snowmobile trails, so stick to designated biking trails. Here’s the skinny on several spots for fat-tire fun this winter.

CAMBA TRAILS

The Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association, or CAMBA, grooms and maintains more than 70 miles of trails for winter biking in Cable, Hayward, Seeley and Bayfield. That’s the largest network of mountain bike trails in the Midwest.

Options include singletrack trails, wider wooded roads, challenging runs for experienced riders and an easy beginner’s loop. For details, including a link to updated trail conditions, see cambatrails.org

WIKI TRAILS

Willow River and Kinnickinnic state parks are booming for fat-tire biking, with about 31 miles of trails now open in the two parks and opportunities for all riding levels. The Willow Kinni Mountain Bike Club maintains the trail network for year-round use.

No state trail pass is needed to ride the trails, but vehicles entering the parks will need a state park vehicle admission sticker. For more on the WIKI trails, including a trail status link, see wikimountainbike.com.

CENTRAL WISCONSIN

The Central Wisconsin Offroad Cycling Coalition maintains miles of mountain bike trails in conjunction with the Marathon County Landfill, Merrill City Parks System, Lincoln County and the Wausau and Marathon County Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department.

Many of the trails are groomed for winter riding when conditions permit, including Nine Mile, Big Eau Pleine, Underdown, Ringle Trails and Prairie Dells. For information and trail conditions, check cwocc.org

NEWT TRAILS

Northeast Wisconsin boasts numerous winter fattire opportunities thanks to North East Wisconsin Trails. NEWT maintains trail systems in seven counties, including nearly 10 miles of singletrack trail at Hartman Creek State Park.

Originally developed by the Cronies Trail Crew, the Hartman Creek trail is popular for beginner and intermediate riders. Winter access is at the end of Windfeldt Lane near the group camp, and a state trail pass is required for riders age 16 and older. For more about NEWT and the trails it maintains in winter, see newtrailswi.org

AND THERE’S MORE

Many other locations offer winter fat-tire biking opportunities, many on extensive groomed trails. When the ground freezes and snow flies, it’s time to hit the trail!

y Standing Rocks County Park, Stevens Point: dnr.wi.gov/tiny/3141.

y Levis Mound Recreational Area, near Neillsville: dnr.wi.gov/tiny/3146

y WinMan Trails, Winchester: winmantrails.com/fat-tire-bike.

y Mt. Ashwabay Recreation Area, near Bayfield: mtashwabay.org.

y Wildcat Mountain Bike Trail, Spooner: dnr.wi.gov/tiny/3136

y Kickapoo Valley Reserve, La Farge (not groomed): dnr.wi.gov/tiny/3151.

Andrea Zani is managing editor of Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine.

For winter fat-tire biking fun, head to places like Kinnickinnic State Park in northwest Wisconsin, where snowy trails can add to the excitement.

Cozy winter camping

CAMPING

DOESN’T HAVE TO STOP when temperatures fall and snow is on the ground. If you’re up for a seasonal adventure, try winter camping. Imagine waking up to fresh snow, staying cozy around the campfire with hot meals and beverages and enjoying winter’s peace. And did we mention campgrounds can be great launching pads for other outdoor recreation?

However, it’s important to come prepared with the right gear. Wear multiple top and bottom layers, a hat, mittens and wool or synthetic socks to stay toasty and dry. It’s also a good idea to bring a larger tent with extra space to store your gear.

Since cold temperatures drain batteries, keep your phone, GPS, headlamps and any extra batteries in your sleeping bag or in your pocket so they stay warm.

Ready to plan your winter camping trip? More than 20 Wisconsin state parks and forests offer year-round camping. Reserve at wisconsin.goingtocamp.com or by calling 1-888-947-2757.

Note that not all state campsites or campground roads are plowed in the winter. Look for a message while booking your campsite or contact the property for more information on property conditions.

Emma Macek is a public information officer in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

EMMA MACEK

Ride safe in any weather

ZACH WOOD

FROM THE THOUSANDS of lakes and rivers to the seemingly endless miles of ATV/UTV and snowmobile trails, recreational vehicle fun is available year-round in Wisconsin. No matter the season, the conditions or your ride of choice, safety should always be your top priority.

The abundance of trails we enjoy here in Wisconsin is attributed to the enormous support of area ATV/ UTV and snowmobile organizations whose members volunteer hundreds of hours to maintain these routes. Some trails include private property with specifically marked trails; please honor these as created.

DNR conservation wardens work in concert with area patrols, county sheriff offices and local groups to ensure the safety of all enjoying the trails. Remember you are not alone on the trails — you might see other off-highway vehicles, along with hikers, wildlife observers and maybe a skier or two.

Follow these simple safety tips to help ensure your next adventure is a safe one.

ATVS AND UTVS

One of the best things ATV and UTV operators can do to operate safely is to take an online safety course. A list of approved classes is available on the DNR’s safety education webpage, dnr.wi.gov/tiny/1506. Additional things to keep in mind:

y Wear a Department of Transportation-approved helmet! It could save your life.

y Check the ATV/UTV before and after riding. Check the tire pressure, fuel level, engine oil level and drive belt. Also check for leaks, grass and debris in the engine compartment, muffler area and front grille.

y ATVs are designed for off-road use. Operate an ATV on designated trails, which may include public roads.

y Take extra caution when operating on paved surfaces like road routes. The handling characteristics of UTVs and ATVs change significantly on pavement. Be extra careful, especially when slowing down and approaching turns.

y Do not exceed the manufacturer’s passenger or weight limits for your vehicle. Overloading an ATV/ UTV can impact the vehicle’s stability and maneuverability, increasing the chances of an accident.

y Remember that Wisconsin law requires every operator involved in an ATV/UTV crash to report the incident without delay to law enforcement officials. This Includes submitting a written report of the incident to the DNR within 10 days of the incident.

SNOWMOBILES

As with ATV/UTV use, taking a safety training course is an excellent first step. Classes on basic snowmobile operation, laws, regulations and safety can help save lives and reduce injuries. Learn more at the safety education webpage, dnr.wi.gov/tiny/1506, and also check the DNR’s snowmobiling page at dnr.wi.gov/topic/snowmobile.

Other safety tips:

y Stay on the trail or stay home. Keep to marked snowmobile trails unless otherwise designated.

y Never ride alone. Always ride with another snowmobile. If one machine is disabled, you have another to get help.

y Dress for safety and survival. Always wear a DOT-approved helmet and facemask. Wear layers of clothing to keep warm and dry.

y Slow down. Excessive speed is a factor in many accidents, especially at night. To help avoid accidents, keep your nighttime speed under 40 mph.

y Stay to the right. Almost every trail is a two-way trail, so stay to the far right, especially on hills and corners. Obey all trail signs and cross roadways with extreme caution.

y Be extra careful when riding on ice-covered lakes and rivers. Avoid riding on lakes and rivers when possible and wear a life jacket over your outer clothing if you must ride on ice. Stay off ice with moving water near or under it — no ice is 100% safe, but ice in these areas may be thin and weak.

ON ICE

Think safety when enjoying ice fishing and other activities on the ice. Check the DNR’s ice safety webpage at dnr.wi.gov/tiny/901 Ice safety reminders:

y Remember that ice is never completely safe under any conditions.

y Before you head out, contact local sport shops to ask about conditions locally on the lake or river you want to cross. The Wisconsin DNR does not monitor ice conditions around the state.

y Wear proper clothing and pack your safety gear. Some basics include:

y A life jacket or float coat should you fall through the ice and to help retain body heat.

y Creepers to give you extra traction when walking across the slick ice.

y A spud bar to check the ice while walking to new areas.

y A few spikes and a length of light rope to help pull yourself or others out of the water if needed.

y Study the lake or river before you walk onto it. Know if the lake has inlets, outlets or narrows with currents, as these features can create thin ice, sometimes even just a few feet away from safe ice.

y Watch for pressure ridges or ice buckling; these can be dangerous due to thin ice and open water.

y If you fall in, remain as calm as possible. While attempting to get out of the water, call for help. Anyone who attempts to rescue you should use a rope or something similar to avoid falling through the ice themselves.

Zach Wood is a public information officer in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

FOR ALL ACTIVITIES

There are a few basic, common-sense practices that should be followed for safety, no matter where or how you’re adventuring in Wisconsin’s outdoors.

y Avoid alcohol and other drugs when recreating. Alcohol blurs a person’s judgment, reaction time and abilities, making whatever you’re doing more dangerous.

y Keep tabs on the weather. Conditions can change on a dime, turning a lovely outing into a dangerous situation. Nobody can truly predict the weather, but checking the forecast for the duration of your outdoor adventure can still give you a good idea of what to expect.

y Before you leave, let someone who isn’t coming along know where you’re headed and when you’ll be back.

y Don’t travel in unfamiliar areas, especially after dark.

y Finally, know the rules and regulations for your chosen activity and follow them. Those rules are put in place for a reason — to keep people safe.

LONG WINTER’S NAP

How cold-blooded critters adapt to freezing conditions

WMOLLY MEISTER

INTER IS HERE,

and the buzz of bees and chirps of crickets have quieted. While bears snooze away in their dens and we humans layer up with extra clothes and blankets, where do all the cold-blooded, furless critters scurry off to in these colder climes?

Over millennia, native insects and herptiles (reptiles and amphibians) have evolved extraordinary adaptations to our state’s sub-freezing temperatures.

Many insects, including certain species of butterflies, curl up under tree bark or leaf litter and enter a state called diapause, in which their metabolism slows down and they become dormant. Their blood doesn’t freeze because it contains a special chemical that acts as antifreeze, explained DNR insect ecologist Jay Watson.

Other species migrate south for the winter, notably the monarch butterfly. Ants, meanwhile, hunker down deep in their anthills. Their activity levels slow greatly, and they are able to tap into stored food reserves. New bumble bee queens, called gynes, hibernate in the soil and leaf litter. Most solitary bees overwinter as larvae or pupae in capped nesting holes.

HIDING FROM THE COLD

The coping mechanisms of herptiles are equally as remarkable, said DNR herpetologist Rori Paloski. Similar to insects, during cold spells all herptiles enter a state called torpor, in which they’re lethargic and physically inactive — so much so that they don’t need to eat.

Northern leopard frogs overwinter in lakes, ponds or streams that do not freeze to the bottom, relying on dissolved oxygen in the water for survival.

Snakes may bury themselves in sand or slither into an insulated space underground, like a rodent or crayfish burrow. Salamanders hide under logs as deeply as they can to avoid frost.

Aquatic turtles go underwater and breathe via the exchange of oxygen across blood vessels in the lining of their mouth or their cloaca, the common opening for their digestive tract, urinary tract and reproduction.

“If there’s open water, they’ll probably come up for air once in a while,” Paloski said. “But typically, their breath is going to be a lot slower in the winter, and usually, they can meet their oxygen requirements without breathing through their lungs.”

FROGS ON ICE

Perhaps most fascinating of all are frogs and toads. While some bury themselves in sand like snakes, others rest underwater below the ice and breathe through their skin.

A handful of frog species, including the wood frog, literally freeze solid in winter like an ice cube. Their hearts stop and they cease breathing, Paloski said.

This is all possible due to special glucose-based chemicals that help protect the animals’ cells from bursting.

When spring comes, the ice crystals melt off, their hearts restart, they begin twitching, their eyes open … and they hop away.

Molly Meister is a publications supervisor in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

LEND A HAND IN WINTER

Help insects and herptiles survive the winter successfully! Create an overwintering habitat using these tips from the Xerces Society:

y Leave stems on flowers.

y Let leaf piles sit.

y Place a log in a corner of your yard.

y Build a brush or rock pile.

Find a stowaway frog in your potted plants? Don’t put it back outside. Call your local wildlife rehabilitator instead: dnr.wi.gov/tiny/3176.

JANET M. STOREY

Small holes can provide seasonal shelter for snakes and other species.

Wood frogs have a unique way of coping with winter in Wisconsin — they freeze solid.

EbonyIcecreatesawelcomingenvironmentforeveryonetotrysnowsportsandbuildtheirskills.

Creating onCommunity theslopes

EBONYICE WORKS TO BRING SKI OPPORTUNITIESTOALL

PHOTOS

COURTESY OF RANJIT

SINGH/EBONY ICE

EMMA MACEK

WHEN RANJIT SINGH WAS YOUNGER, she never imagined herself as a skier. She didn’t see many people who looked like her out on the slopes and didn’t know where to learn.

As an adult, Singh found the perfect group to help her finally have the opportunity to ski — Ebony Ice.

A Milwaukee-based Black snow sports club, Ebony Ice focuses on increasing access for people of color and supporting them throughout their snow sports journey.

“It’s all about representation and being invited and feeling safe when you get there and feeling like you have an environment where you can flourish and where you can build your skill set,” said Singh, now the group’s president.

As temperatures drop and snow begins to fall, skiing can be a great way for all to enjoy Wisconsin’s winters. Ebony Ice offers a supportive community with learnto-ski programs that start at age 6.

“You’re not going to have to carry the weight of learning something new by yourself because we’re going to be right by your side,” Singh said of the group.

“We’ll show you how to put the boots on. We’ll show you how to walk. We’ll show you how to carry your skis, and if you’re not ready, we’ll carry them for you until you are.”

The group also is full of cheerleaders who help encourage others along the way, Singh added.

“You’re going to have a cheer squad. You’re going to have people who want to see you win.”

COVERING COSTS

In addition to education and encouragement, Ebony Ice aims to alleviate some of the costs associated with getting started, as it can be expensive to learn how to ski and purchase equipment.

LEARN MORE

For details about Ebony Ice and how to get involved, visit ebonyice.org.

“If you don’t know if you’re going to like it, are you really going to invest hundreds of dollars to do it on the front end?” Singh said.

Members receive discounts on lift tickets and classes, access to borrowed items from a community closet and deals from partner stores like REI, Burton and Les Moise. Supporting talented athletes of color to reach the next level in snow sports competition also is part of the Ebony Ice mission, including financial support.

Ranjit Singh, Ebony Ice president, on the slopes in Colorado. “You’re going to have people who want to see you win,” Singh said of the Milwaukee-based snow sports club.

YEAR-ROUND ACTIVITIES

Skiing and snowboarding activities with Ebony Ice don’t stop in Wisconsin. As an affiliate of the National Brotherhood of Skiers, the group plans trips to large mountain resorts to be among an even larger community.

Ebony Ice tries to make these trips as affordable as possible for interested members by sharing lodging and transportation costs. And the events don’t end in winter, either.

“We find that if you love to ski, generally speaking, you’re an outdoorsy kind of a person,” Singh said. “So we wanted to make sure we were building community year-round, not just in the wintertime.”

This past summer, Ebony Ice members watched a concert and a baseball game together and many joined for hikes and bike rides.

Whatever the recreational activity, Singh encourages people to push themselves out of their comfort zone.

“I’m such an advocate for having unlimited opportunities and never putting a stop to our potential and seeing what we might be interested in,” Singh said. “How will you know if you never try?”

Emma Macek is a public information officer in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

drilling DOWN

Ice Fishing Facts vs. Fiction

The piers are out, the boats are put away and lakes and rivers across Wisconsin are freezing up.

ZACH WOOD

WHILE THE OPEN-WATER FISHING SEASON is behind us, that doesn’t mean the angling action must slow down — the ice-fishing bite can be as hot as any you’d find in the summer.

And yet, ice fishing isn’t nearly as popular as warmer-weather angling. That’s likely due to several incorrect or outdated perceptions many have about this classic winter pastime.

Let’s tackle a few common misconceptions that may be keeping you from a new favorite winter hobby, and maybe confirm a few things while we’re at it.

CLAIM: The only way to have ice fishing success is to use live bait.

VERDICT: Busted.

Just like with open-water fishing, live bait is always a great choice for ice fishing, but there are plenty of artificial options that work, too. Jigs, vertical minnow baits, soft plastics and spoons all can be effective fish-catchers. You can even get creative and build your own lures! (See page 24 for details.)

CLAIM: It will be cold and miserable out on the ice.

VERDICT: Partially busted.

Certainly, cold weather is an inherent part of ice fishing. After all, it needs to be cold enough to create enough ice to participate. If you head out in sub-zero temperatures and aren’t adequately dressed for the elements, you’re going to get cold — there’s no way around that.

That said, with today’s winter clothing, modern ice shanties and pop-up shelters, and a growing market of portable heaters, the actual experience on the ice can be quite comfortable. In fact, many ice anglers find themselves peeling off layers throughout the day to cool down.

CLAIM: If the ice is 4 inches thick, it’s safe to venture onto it, and if it’s 9 inches thick, it’s safe to take an ATV or UTV out with you.

VERDICT: Busted.

No ice is ever truly 100% safe, and there are no thickness thresholds that indicate what the ice can support. You cannot judge the strength of ice by one factor such as its appearance, age, thickness, temperature or whether the ice is covered with snow.

Ice strength is based on a combination of several factors that can vary from water body to water body. Ice strength can also vary in different areas of the same body of water.

It’s important to keep in mind that the DNR does not monitor ice conditions, so check with local fishing clubs and conservation groups for local ice conditions.

CLAIM: You need an expensive, high-powered auger to punch through the ice.

VERDICT: Busted.

Electric or gas augers can speed things up, especially for those who like to hop between spots, but a standard manual auger — often available used for under $20 — will do the trick if it’s well-maintained.

Here’s a tip: if you’re having trouble with your manual auger, consider sharpening the blade. Dull auger blades are one of the most common mistakes ice anglers make every winter.

CLAIM: Fish caught through the ice taste better than their open-water counterparts.

VERDICT: Possible.

Ultimately, taste is in the eye — or tongue — of the beholder, so opinions on this one may differ. Still, there are some very real factors that may explain why many people prefer winter fish.

Some fish are known to taste great no matter the season (like walleye and perch), but water temperature can change the texture of the meat. In colder water, the meat will often be a little firmer, whereas the texture can be a little softer in warmer water for some species.

Taste also can change depending on the fish’s diet, so some species may have a seasonal change in taste if their primary forage varies throughout the year.

CLAIM: Ice fishing is a great way to get outside during the winter, spend time with friends and family and maybe even put some dinner on the table.

VERDICT: Confirmed!

Between the thrill of the catch, the satisfaction that comes from enjoying a meal of freshly caught fish and the quality time spent with others in the ice shanty, there’s a lot to love about ice fishing. That’s why thousands of anglers across Wisconsin brave the elements and hit the hard water each winter.

Zach Wood is a public information officer in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

LEARN MORE

Now that you know a little more about ice fishing, scan the QR code or check dnr.wi.gov/tiny/3181 for tips on techniques, bait to use, fishing with kids and hooking particular species. Get your license at gowild.wi.gov, grab your gear and we’ll see you on the ice!

Depending on the type of lure you want to make, you’ll need materials like pliers, wire, metal beads and spinner blades.

Think SPRING FISHING with DIY lure making

GARRETT DIETZ

WINTER CAN BE A FRUSTRATING SEASON for anglers who don’t ice fish. The lakes freeze over and the snow piles up, making opportunities to cast a line few and far between.

Don’t let the lack of open water get you down. Instead, view this time as a chance to prepare for the coming season. One great way is lure making.

Fish often enough, and you’re guaranteed to lose some lures. Cold winter nights are the perfect time to hunker down and restock your tackle box before spring. Building lures also helps you think more deeply about fish behavior and stay excited in the off-season.

People have been making lures for thousands of years. Evidence suggests ancient cultures used materials like bone, bronze and feathers to catch fish.

If you’re new to lure making, getting started can be intimidating — but it shouldn’t be. Homemade lures don’t need to be overly complicated; they just need to get the job done.

JIGS

Great for fish of all shapes and sizes throughout the Great Lakes region, jigs can be as easy or complex as you want. For someone dipping a toe into the waters of lure making, consider simply buying plain-colored jig heads and painting them.

Once that’s done, add feathers or soft plastic bodies to make fish-attracting machines. If you want to get more involved, you can jump into the world of small-scale smelting and pour your own jigs. This gives you more control over the size, shape, weight and action of what you’re casting.

SPINNERS

These require a bit of hardware to make but are great for a variety of gamefish species that bite aggressively. You’ll need round-nose pliers, wire, metal bodies and spinner blades. A quick twisting tool or lure jig will help increase your efficiency.

CRANKBAITS AND STICKBAITS

Some of the most versatile lures in the world, these hard-bodied beauties catch it all. Most people who make these at home use light, highly buoyant wood, like balsa, and carve them by hand. If you’re focused more on color pattern than shape or action, you can buy premade blanks or revive old lures by simply painting them.

FLIES

Traditionally associated with trout fishing, flies most closely flirt the line between angling and art. They can be tied in thousands of patterns to target nearly every fish species. Fly-tying might seem overwhelming due to the vast number of patterns and materials available, but online resources are plentiful. If just starting out, the wooly bugger looks downright “fishy” and works for a variety of species. It’s also easy to tie. All you need is a vice, a bobbin holder, a few materials and an internet connection to search for instructions online and you can start creating alluring works of art with feather and string.

WORTH THE EFFORT

Don’t let this winter pass you by. Make the most of Wisconsin’s cold season and prepare for spring fishing by exploring the exciting world of lure making.

Fishing with a homemade lure can add an extra layer of satisfaction to each catch. Not only did your skills allow you to hook and land a fish, but your planning, foresight and understanding of fish behavior allowed you to create a pattern that enticed a bite in the first place.

There’s a learning curve to lure making to be sure, but the results will enhance your fishing experiences for seasons to come.

Garrett Dietz is a public information officer in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

MAKE YOUR OWN INLINE SPINNER

This little lure is great for tons of species, and the design can be scaled up with larger components to target bigger fish or deeper water.

Materials

A Spinner blade

B Stirrup clevis (optional)

C Solid metal bead

D Nontoxic lure body

Spend time this winter crafting your own fishing lures. 1 2 3 4

E Twisted wire

F Treble hook

Tools

G Round-nose pliers

H Needle-nose pliers

I Side cutter

Directions

Homemade spinners and other fishing lures can be worth the extra effort.

1. If you are using a French blade, put the stirrup clevis through the spinner hole. If you are using an inline spinner blade, simply slide the spinner blade, solid metal bead and lure body onto the twisted wire.

2. Use the round-nose pliers to bend a circle roughly a half-inch from the bottom of the spinner body.

3. Slide the treble hook into the circle and use round-nose or needle-nose pliers to wrap the wire loop closed.

4. After closing the loop, trim any excess wire with the side cutter.

Whoooo’s there?

A

beginner’s

guide to winter owling in Wisconsin

Abandoned buildings provide roosting spots for owls like this great horned owl. Look for clues such as owl pellets — regurgitated bones, feathers and fur from previous meals.

WINTER

IN WISCONSIN can offer a unique opportunity to experience owls — but you’ll need planning, patience and just a bit of luck.

These fascinating birds are well-camouflaged, often only active at night, vocalize unpredictably and are spread out across the landscape. You’re more likely to hear an owl than see one.

But they might be easier to spot during the colder months, when the terrain is blanketed in snow and the trees are bare. Many owl species also call more frequently in winter as they seek to claim territory or attract mates, making them easier to detect.

Here’s a guide to help you learn more about Wisconsin owls and how to enjoy winter owling, while respecting nature and having fun along the way.

WISCONSIN OWLS

The four most common year-round owl species in Wisconsin are the great horned, Northern sawwhet, barred and Eastern screech owls. Barn owls

are common in the southern part of the state, while the long-eared owl prefers the dense forests of the Northwoods.

Other species might drop in now and then, including winter visitors such as snowy, short-eared and great gray owls. On rare occasions, a Northern hawk owl or boreal owl might even stop by the state.

WHEN AND WHERE

Wisconsin owls come in many sizes and have distinct behaviors. Owls can be diurnal, or active during the day; crepuscular, active at dawn and dusk; or nocturnal, active at night.

Owls also can be found in a variety of habitats, depending on species, from forests to farmlands. Learning the preferences for each type of owl means you can focus your search on the right areas. Prepare to be an owl detective!

JADA THUR

CALLING ALL OWLS

If there’s a secret to owling, it’s to listen to owl calls ahead of time so you know who’s out there. Even if you can’t see an owl, you might get to hear one. Try nights with less wind and locations away from traffic to make hearing them easier.

Great horned owls and barred owls are quite vocal from late summer to early winter. Others such as Northern saw-whet, Eastern screech and long-eared owls are more likely to be heard from late winter through spring.

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Merlin Bird ID app can help you learn to identify owl calls; merlin.allaboutbirds.org

The eBird Explore webpage is another great resource, allowing you to search by species for audio and video, bird photos, range maps and more; ebird.org/explore.

OWL EVIDENCE

Owls like to roost in specific spots. These can include tree cavities, dense conifers, barns or abandoned buildings. Look for signs to find roosting locations where you can observe owls.

y Whitewash: Essentially the owl’s excrement, it’s usually found at the base of trees that have been used for roosting.

y Pellets: These are regurgitated bones, fur and feathers from previous meals; owl pellets usually are larger and contain more bones than the pellets from other birds of prey.

y Ecological counterparts: Owls may be found in areas also frequented by ecological counterparts such as the red-tailed hawk. If you see hawks in the daytime, chances are owls will be there at night.

y Feathers: Owl feathers are usually very large and are extremely soft, more so than the feathers of most other birds.

Winter owling requires planning and patience but offers the potential to spot barred owls and other species.

RYAN BRADY

TOOLS AND TIPS

Take a few necessities with you when owling and remember some important tips for a better chance to hear and maybe even see these beguiling birds. What to bring

y Binoculars; bonus points if they’re equipped with night vision. Using a lower magnification (such as an 8x) will allow you to see a greater field of vision and give you a better chance of finding what you seek.

y Flashlight or headlamp with a red filter; or use the light of the moon on a bright night.

y Notebook and pen to record your observations.

y Camera — but do not use flash photography!

Safety first

y Bring a buddy but speak softly and avoid making any loud noises; owls have sensitive hearing.

y Wear appropriate clothing. Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes. Dress in reflective clothing to help others see you in the dark.

y Stay on marked trails and know the area to avoid getting lost.

y Check the weather, always making sure it’s safe for an outdoor trip.

Ethical owling

y First and foremost, respect the owls and their environment and keep your distance. Just because the owl may tolerate a close approach doesn’t mean you should. Always remember: The goal is to observe, not to interfere.

y If the owl is visibly reacting to your presence — fidgeting, repeatedly staring at you, narrowing its body shape, bobbing its head or changing position — back off slowly but immediately.

y Don’t feed owls.

y Don’t use electronic owl calls or recordings to attract owls.

y For more tips, check the American Birding Association’s Code of Birding Ethics; aba.org/aba-code-of-birding-ethics

ANIMAL INDICATORS

Other animals can be your allies in finding owls. Sensing a threat, chipmunks and squirrels will make identifiable calls when they know an owl is close.

Smaller birds also become very vocal and agitated when an owl is nearby. If you hear a lot of commotion from other animals or smaller birds, pay attention — there might be an owl in the vicinity.

CONNECT WITH OTHERS

Joining a local bird-watching group or nature club can make your owling experience more enjoyable. These groups often share tips, organize group outings and can help you learn more about owls.

It’s a great way to meet fellow nature enthusiasts and discover new owl-watching locations. Plus, it’s always fun to share your sightings and experiences with others.

Even the internet can help make you feel like part of a community. Sites like eBird and iNaturalist allow you to share information with fellow owlers and discuss findings.

Whether you’re joining with others or flying solo, winter owling in Wisconsin is a good way to connect with nature and learn about these remarkable birds.

Jada Thur is a communications specialist in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

Fun fact about owls, including the short-eared owl: They have special feathers for silent flight, allowing them to sneak up on intended prey.

FUN FACTS ABOUT OWLS

• Silent flight: Owls have special feathers that allow them to fly silently, helping them to sneak up on prey.

• Eyes and head: Owl eyes are very large compared to their head size. They can’t move their eyes, but they can turn their heads almost all the way around — 270 degrees! — to see in different directions.

• Great night hunters: Owls have excellent hearing, which helps them locate prey even in the dark. Their ears are positioned asymmetrically on the sides of their head, allowing them to pinpoint sounds more accurately.

• Owl diet: Depending on species, owls are known to eat everything from small mammals, rodents and snakes to insects and other birds. Having owls nearby can help keep mice under control — a single barn owl family can eat over 1,000 mice in a year! Owls’ diverse diet helps them find food in different places and all seasons.

• Lone lifestyle: Most owls are solitary, living alone or near a nest during breeding season. But did you know there’s a fun word for a group of owls? It’s called a parliament.

Eastern screech owl

GREGORY HOTTMAN

Winter wonderbirds

Winter wonderbirds

Snowy owl sightings have a way of stirring excitement

JADA THUR

Active in the daytime but often stationary, snowy owls can be difficult to spot on the landscape.

WHEN WINTER DRAPES

Wisconsin in its frosty, white cloak, a spectacular visitor sometimes drops by. Meet the snowy owl, the superstar of the winter birding season.

With their dazzling white feathers and striking yellow eyes, these Arctic wanderers turn the cold months into an enthralling treasure hunt for those hoping to catch a glimpse.

After spending warmer months far north in the Arctic tundra, snowy owls move south during winter when food becomes scarce, showing up most years but in irregular numbers. Lucky Wisconsinites might spot these all-but-hidden gems in a snow-white wonderland.

Snowy owls (Bubo scandiacus) are large birds, slightly bigger than a crow, and are the largest North American owl by weight. They have smoothly rounded heads and all-white faces that rarely show ear tufts.

Adult males are white, sometimes with brown spots, and females and young owls are white with more dark barring on their bodies.

Regardless of gender or maturity, these owls have white underwings with a wingspan that can stretch up to 5 feet. Picture them flying close to the ground or perched majestically on the ground or a fence post, their feathers blending seamlessly with the winter backdrop.

SNOW COOL

Snowy owls aren’t only beautiful, they’re also fascinating hunters. With a varied diet that can include mice, voles, rabbits, pigeons, ducks and more, these owls are always on the lookout for their next meal.

They are active during daylight hours but tend to be stationary, surveying their surroundings. Dusk and dawn offer the best opportunity to spot an active hunt.

Sightings in Wisconsin vary depending on the success of the previous nesting season. Every few years, large numbers of snowy owls move into the state, an event known as an “irruption.”

To spot these winter marvels, keep an eye out for small, white, snowman-shaped objects. Increase your chances by checking out habitats such as coastal beaches, harbors and break walls (Ashland, Oconto, Manitowoc, Sheboygan and Milwaukee), open fields and grasslands (Buena Vista Wildlife Area), large wetland areas (Horicon Marsh), and even airports like Milwaukee’s Mitchell International.

If you’re lucky, you might spot one gracefully gliding across the snow, their silent flight making them seem like a ghostly apparition.

LEARN MORE

Looking for more insights on the snowy owl action? Join a local bird-watching group or follow online owl trackers. Not only will you get tips on where to find snowy owls, you’ll meet fellow enthusiasts who share your passion for these amazing birds.

The DNR’s snowy owl webpage has lots of great information, including tips for spotting one and links to helpful resources. Scan the QR code or check dnr.wi.gov/tiny/1276.

TIPS FOR VIEWING

If you’re ready for a snowy owl adventure, grab your gear, bundle up and head outdoors. With patience, a keen eye and a bit of luck, you might find yourself contemplating one of Wisconsin’s most captivating winter visitors.

y Dress warmly in layers: The more comfortable you are, the longer you can enjoy the search.

y Zoom in: Binoculars will help you see these majestic birds up close without disturbing them. A camera with a zoom lens also is handy for capturing their beauty.

y Be respectful: Keep a respectful distance. Snowy owls are sensitive to disturbances, and it’s important to observe them without causing stress. Also remember to respect private property and fellow observers.

Like all owls, snowy owls can rotate their heads extensively, 270 degrees, and have excellent vision and hearing for hunting prey.

Jada Thur is a communications specialist in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

The wingspan of a snowy owl can stretch 5 feet.

ARLENE KOZIOL

ARLENE

KOZIOL

About a quarter of Wisconsin’s elk population has been fitted with collars that allow biologists to study herd demographics, habitat selection and other behaviors.

Elk tracking goes high-tech

MATT FLUNKER AND MOLLY MEISTER

IT’S THE STUFF OF SCIENCE FICTION NOVELS:

tracking collars that transmit GPS signals indicating exact coordinates, implant transmitters with monitoring sensors, opening and closing corral gates via text message from miles away.

But these are exactly the types of things Christina Kizewski, Josh Spiegel and other DNR staff get to do on a regular basis.

Kizewski and Spiegel are DNR wildlife biologists specializing in elk. They’re tasked with monitoring the species and helping with recovery of populations reintroduced to the state in the 1990s.

Once widespread in Wisconsin and across North America, elk were eliminated from the state in the 1880s due to unregulated hunting and habitat loss.

More than 130 years later, they once again roam Wisconsin’s central and northern forest regions.

From an experimental population of 25 elk reintroduced by UW-Stevens Point in 1995 (with management transitioned to the DNR in 1999) and boosted by a second reintroduction effort started in 2015, the state’s total elk population has now surpassed 450 animals.

USEFUL ORNAMENTS

Successful elk management is a year-round undertaking, with much of the focus of biologists aimed at maintaining elk collars and information collected from collar location data. The thick, highvisibility band wraps around the lower portion of an elk’s neck.

These collars adorn about 25% to 30% of Wisconsin’s elk and disclose an animal’s exact location at different times of day. Biologists use the information to analyze population demographics, habitat selection or use, and behavior within a herd or subgroup.

Today’s elk GPS collars are a major upgrade from those even 10-12 years ago. With prior collars, biologists had to go out in the field routinely and triangulate a signal using radio frequencies, either by truck, plane or foot. It was a slow, expensive, laborintensive process, and the data collected (only during work hours) wasn’t nearly as accurate or as detailed as the round-the-clock data biologists collect now.

“Modern collars give us individual point locations on elk throughout the day,” said Spiegel, who manages elk in the Clam Lake elk zone of Ashland, Bayfield, Price, Rusk and Sawyer counties.

“That information represents home range size, mortality causes, lifespan data and habitat use at a very finite scale, rather than just guessing where they spend their time.”

Processing corralled elk involves immobilizing the animal and monitoring vital signs while tending to things such as collars and ear tags.

The elastic collar on an elk calf expands as the animal grows.

Today’s elk corrals used for research feature camera monitors and pen gates that close from afar with the touch of a button.

BEDTIME BUTTON-PUSHING

The DNR and an elk advisory committee set collaring objectives each year. Efforts typically target elk subgroups without collared elk, collars with expiring batteries and cows expected to drop calves in the spring.

Wildlife staff find a suitable location to stage collaring work and attempt to lure elk to the spot. They observe these areas with remote cameras, and when elk start to frequent a specific spot, it’s time to assemble the trap.

Think oversized horse corrals with 10-foot-tall panels that connect, allowing customization based on the location’s needs. The most common assembly is a figure-eight pattern roughly 75 feet wide.

Cameras monitor the corral and show how many animals travel inside or outside. When elk enter the pen, biologists get a cell phone alert.

If a pregnancy is confirmed in a cow elk, the animal might be fitted with a vaginal implant transmitter to monitor when birthing takes place.

As the animals become comfortable with the enclosure, biologists can trigger the door to close when a target number of elk are inside. With the touch of a button, biologists can close the gate at any time from the comfort of their home or office.

Before cameras came into play, staff would have to sit in a blind or hunting stand near the pen, in all manner of weather, just hoping elk would come their way. Then they’d have to manually trigger the door from a short distance using a remote or a series of extension cords.

“Improvements in technology have allowed me to trigger the trap at 3 a.m. from the comfort of my bed, as opposed to requiring me to sit, on-site, for many hours in inclement winter weather,” said Kizewski, who oversees the Black River range of elk in eastern Jackson County.

READY TO RELAY

Once elk are corralled, the collaring team enters the pen and begins processing individual elk after the animals are chemically immobilized. This process allows staff to change or deploy collars, while other elk are held at the opposite compartment of the corral.

Trained biologists complete the marking process and monitor each elk’s vital signs. Some staff apply collars and ear tags, while others take the animals’ temperatures and ensure their heart and respiratory rates remain within a stable range.

Elk traps feature 10-foot-tall connecting panels that can be customized to any shape, often a figure-eight pattern.

Portable ultrasound machine, used to confirm any suspected cow elk pregnancies.

WISCONSIN

In order to monitor reproductive success and calf recruitment, some adult cows may undergo an ultrasound to verify pregnancy and be fitted with a vaginal implant transmitter, a small device inserted after confirmation of pregnancy. The VIT senses internal body temperature and movement, and is monitored by the cow’s collar.

When processing is complete, staff wake and monitor each elk until staff are confident in their recovery before releasing the group as a whole. The process usually takes less than an hour and results in elk that are ready to transmit critical collar data every 13 hours for about four years.

BIRTHS AND DEATHS

When an elk collar senses inactivity for four hours or more, it sends a mortality alert, prompting an investigation. Wildlife staff first assess the GPS data; if warranted, they head to the signaled location and search for the collar for site analysis.

In the case of a mortality, they catalog the cause of death, sex, age, location and any other relevant information.

A collar alert doesn’t always indicate doom and gloom. In late spring, many collars show a change in activity during calving season, an exciting time that triggers a coordinated effort between biologists, partners and sometimes volunteers to search for newborn calves.

Using the collar locations and vaginal implant transmitters together helps biologists track elk birth events in real time.

When a cow goes into labor, it will often disassociate from the group, and the transmitter is expelled during the birthing process. The VIT senses a decrease in temperature as it is exposed to environmental conditions, and also picks up inactivity as it is no longer moving with the cow. Simultaneously, the mother elk’s movement slows for a time, which the collar may show.

Those events trigger a birthing alert sent directly to the biologists’ phone and email, and they’re able to move quickly to the birth site.

“Finding a newborn calf used to take a crew of 15 to 20 people sweeping through the woods for hours or multiple days,” Kizewski said. “Now, we get an immediate alert with an exact location, and we can respond a lot quicker. It also allows us to pare down our crew to just 3-5 people, which greatly reduces site disturbance.”

Once chemically immobilized, elk are ready for collaring and processing.

Notification of an elk calf birth, provided by a cow’s vaginal implant transmitter, allows biologists to more easily locate the calf for assessment and collaring.

Once located, the calf is measured, tagged and fitted with a collar of its own. It can look snug on the neck of a newborn, but the collars are comprised of elastic and engineered to expand as the animal grows. While collaring has been part of Wisconsin’s elk management since those first 25 elk were introduced back in 1995, ongoing innovations are making it easier than ever to keep tabs on these majestic megafauna.

Matt Flunker is a communications specialist for the DNR’s Wildlife Management program. Molly Meister is a publications supervisor in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

RECENT ELK HUNT HISTORY

In 2018, Wisconsin held its first modern-day elk hunt, with a 10-bull quota. More than 38,400 residents of Wisconsin applied for the handful of sought-after harvest authorizations awarded via drawing by the DNR. Additionally, almost 5,000 more entered a drawing from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, which was allowed to raffle one Wisconsin elk tag each of the first five elk hunting seasons.

The 2018 hunt occurred only within the Clam Lake elk zone. Nine bull elk were harvested, including five by members of the Ojibwe Tribal Nations. Consistent with the Ojibwe Tribes’ treaty-reserved rights, Tribes may declare up to half of each year’s harvest quota in the Ceded Territory.

Elk harvests have continued every year since that first successful hunt, and enthusiasm remains high. More than 25,500 people applied for 2024’s eight state harvest authorizations, which included an eight-bull quota for the Clam Lake zone (including Tribal quota) and a four-bull quota in the Black River zone, in its inaugural season of elk hunting.

The continued interest in elk hunting supports the expanding herds — $7 of each $10 application fee for the harvest authorization drawing is used directly for elk research, monitoring and management.

Reintroduction efforts have brought elk back to Wisconsin, with more than 450 now estimated overall in the Clam Lake and Black River management areas.

LEARN MORE

For details on elk in Wisconsin, including links to information about reintroduction efforts and hunting opportunities, scan the QR code or check dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2991.

JEFF MODEN

WHITE-HOT WINTER

Seasonal prescribed burns help Wisconsin’s marshes and wetlands

MICHELE WITECHA

A prescribed burn removes excess vegetation above the snow at Horicon Marsh.

WHEN MOST PEOPLE think about winter in Wisconsin, words like cold or dark often come to mind. That’s not always the case for DNR fire staff. For them, winter can mean fire. Prescribed fire, to be exact.

Prescribed fire, also known as controlled burning, is an essential tool for restoring animal habitat, controlling the growth of invasive plants and promoting native species and oak and pine regeneration.

Prescribed burns conducted in late winter provide an ideal opportunity for DNR burn crews to focus on areas where hazardous fuels exist on state lands, particularly on marshes and wetlands. These vegetation communities can build up excess dead vegetation over time, posing a wildfire risk during snow-free periods.

Wildfires in cattails burn more aggressively and at a significantly hotter temperature. They also can be more difficult to control and suppress than fires involving other fuel types.

To reduce the risk to burn crews and the public, burns in these areas occur in winter when snow surrounds the units.

The first prescribed burn of the year can happen anywhere from mid-January to mid-February, as burn crews must wait for the ice cover to be thick enough to safely reach the marsh vegetation on foot before lighting the fires.

Most people are aware of burn activity in the spring, but the thick, black smoke from winter burns can create a surprising sight. The burns might look intense, especially when they occur near populated areas.

DNR fire management crews rely on ice cover to reach and ignite interior cattails. Ignitions can proceed faster and are safer for crew members, compared to igniting from an amphibious vehicle in open water.

WHY BURN IN WINTER?

The primary driver of winter burns is to reduce the risk of wildfire to the public and the local fire suppression community weeks later, during times of higher fire danger.

In addition to reducing hazardous surface fuels, winter burns also play a crucial ecological role. When conducted in marshes, wetlands and wet prairies, these burns can help reduce the dominance of cattails, which grow aggressively and can crowd out native plants and grasses, and therefore stimulate the growth of native grasses, sedges and wildflowers — the base of most food webs in those communities.

The stimulation of root growth in native vegetation increases carbon uptake and storage overall, offsetting the carbon released during the winter burn within 1-2 years.

Removal of the dead vegetation also creates vital open water foraging habitat for waterfowl migrating back north in the spring.

Conducting prescribed burns in the winter does have several caveats. Prescribed burning is a weatherdependent event, and the guarantee of the necessary weather, fuel and ice conditions varies from year to year.

Burn windows also are impacted as climate change continues to influence winter temperatures and snowfall in Wisconsin.

Although winter presents a safe opportunity to conduct surface fuel reduction burns, it’s limited in impacting undesirable brush below the surface. To reduce woody plants, late summer or fall burns might be more effective, according to fire effects research across the Great Lakes.

Once vegetation in the burn unit is ignited, the fire will burn intensely until it runs out of fuel, then quickly extinguishes when it encounters snow and ice.

PRESCRIPTION PLANNING

There’s a lot more to prescribed burns than just lighting a fire. Each burn is driven by the specific desired objectives laid out by the property’s wildlife biologist, ecologist or forester.

DNR staff carefully plan how, where and when to conduct a burn to achieve the desired fire behavior and meet objectives, all while ensuring the safety of burn crews, the public and the wildlife in the burn area.

A burn “prescription” is developed that outlines the specific fuel and weather conditions needed for a safe burn. This includes wind speed and direction, temperature, humidity, ice thickness and the presence of snow.

Beyond winter, additional windows of opportunity for prescribed burning occur through spring and open again in late summer and fall (mid-July through November), based on weather.

DNR fire management staff closely monitor conditions throughout the year to find the ideal windows and only burn when weather and vegetation conditions meet the prescription for a safe and effective burn.

Michele Witecha is the prescribed fire specialist for the Wisconsin DNR.

LEARN MORE

Find details about when and where the DNR conducts prescribed burns throughout the year via the Prescribed Burn Dashboard; scan the QR code or check dnr.wi.gov/tiny/3211. For information on conducting or contracting a burn on your property, visit the Wisconsin Prescribed Fire Council website, prescribedfire.org.

Winter prescribed burns bring many benefits come spring. Migrating waterfowl and other birds will flock to the recently burned unit to take advantage of the pockets of open water, reinvigorated marsh grasses and wildflowers, and the increased food sources these areas provide.

MUDPUPPIES AND SALAMANDER MUSSELS:

CLEAN WATER DREAM TEAM

ILLUSTRATIONS BY JADA THUR

KATHARINE CAYWOOD

AGUIDING PRINCIPLE IN CONSERVATION is

that we can’t protect what we don’t understand. When it comes to mudpuppies and salamander mussels, two notoriously overlooked native species that are important indicators of a healthy waterway, we’re taking steps to learn more.

With support from the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin, the DNR conducted the first statewide survey for mudpuppies, a species of salamander, and used that data to find salamander mussels. The latter depend on mudpuppies to complete their life cycle and are a threatened species in Wisconsin.

Mudpuppies, also known as “waterdogs,” can grow up to a foot long, making them Wisconsin’s largest amphibian. Their stubby digits and long paddle-like tail give them the appearance of a creature caught between life on land or in water.

Most salamanders only begin their lives underwater, hatching from eggs laid in shallow pools. External gills shrink inward, they metamorphose into their adult form and move from swimming and breathing underwater to living largely on land in forested, damp habitat.

INFORMATION IS KEY

Mudpuppies don’t go through full metamorphosis, and they retain their signature fluffy, red external gills that bloom from either side of their head, allowing them to spend their entire lives underwater.

The mudpuppy (Necturus maculosus) is considered a “species of greatest information need,” which means there are indications its population is at risk of decline, but more data is needed. However, their habitat and behavior make it difficult to know for sure.

Unlike many other amphibians, mudpuppies avoid warm, shallow water and are more likely to be seen in the fall and winter than in spring or summer.

In 2022, the DNR and dedicated contractors — with support from the Natural Resources Foundation’s Wisconsin Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Fund — were finally able to gain a better understanding of the mudpuppy’s status statewide.

“In the past, our fisheries managers would report on bycatch, grad students have done research and surveys, but there has never been a statewide effort to study mudpuppies,” said Rich Staffen, DNR terrestrial zoologist. “We couldn’t have done this without funding from NRF.”

NEW METHODS, NEW DATA

DNR staff and contractors conducted over 75 surveys in 19 counties between September 2022 and July 2023. The high volume of surveys provided a unique opportunity to refine methods for finding these elusive creatures, noted Rori Paloski, DNR herpetologist.

“Typically, mudpuppy surveys are done with waders or snorkeling and flipping over rocks until a mudpuppy is found,” Paloski said. “Some researchers have also found that baiting them, especially with cheese, can be very effective.

“However, our contractors found that shining at night in shallow water was most effective in finding mudpuppies and allowed us to catch them to gather accurate size and gender data.”

Additionally, they worked with fisheries biologists on reporting and asked the public to submit sightings. By July 2023, populations of mudpuppies were confirmed in nearly every county in Wisconsin, including four counties where they hadn’t previously been recorded.

MUDPUPPY AS HOST

The new data on mudpuppies has had a ripple effect on the outlook of salamander mussels in the state. In 2023, the salamander mussel (Simpsonaias ambigua) was proposed for federal listing as an endangered species.

Learning more about mudpuppies can help researchers better support this at-risk species.

MAKE NOTE OF MUDPUPPIES

If you’re on the ice this winter, report mudpuppy sightings. Colder temperatures allow them to look for food nearer to the surface, so they’re sometimes seen or caught by people who are ice fishing.

If you catch one, snap a photo, gently remove the hook and return the mudpuppy to the water. Report your observation to the DNR at wiatri.net/nhi.

Wisconsin has 50 species of native mussels, and 50% are threatened, endangered or of special concern. Salamander mussels prefer the same habitat as mudpuppies: crevices under and between rocks that provide respite from currents and some protection from predators.

Their shared habitat is no coincidence. Salamander mussels, as their name suggests, have a crucial connection to salamanders — in this case, mudpuppies.

All mussels are “obligate parasites,” which means they rely on another species to reproduce. Most native mussels use fish, but the only mussel in the

MARK OF CLEAN WATER

world known to have a nonfish host is the salamander mussel. Their host? The mudpuppy.

Freshwater mussels use a variety of adaptations to attract fish so their glochidia (larvae) can harmlessly attach to the gills, where they’ll mature and transform into tiny mussels, then drop off to begin life in their adult form. Though salamander mussels don't occur everywhere mudpuppies are found, with improved mudpuppy distribution data, we can more easily locate salamander mussels and identify opportunities to regenerate the salamander mussel population.

What makes this so important? Mudpuppies, like all amphibians, and mussels are vital indicators of environmental health.

Amphibians’ thin, permeable skin means they absorb whatever is in the water or moisture around them through their skin. That’s a problem when it contains pollution and pesticides or during drought conditions.

If you see a toad in your garden, encounter a salamander in the dirt or have waterfront property where frogs, turtles and maybe even mudpuppies make their home, those animals are a sign of healthy land and clean water. Avoiding pesticide use can help keep it that way.

Mussels filter water, clearing it of contaminants that harm human health, like algae and even bacteria. A single mussel can filter up to 15 gallons of water per day, significantly improving water quality in rivers and lakes.

FUNDING IS KEY

When there are abundant populations of a wide range of native species, including amphibians and mussels, our ecosystems are more balanced for nature and us.

targeted surveys and genetic sampling, to learn more.

The Wisconsin Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Fund, started by the Natural Resources Foundation in 2017, provides dedicated funding for specific species. With 55 reptile and amphibian species in Wisconsin and nearly 50% categorized as special concern, threatened or endangered, prioritizing projects among those in need is an ongoing challenge. For more on the fund or to make a gift, scan the QR code or check dnr.wi.gov/tiny/3186.

Katharine Caywood is a communications and marketing specialist for the DNR’s Natural Heritage Conservation program.

Salamander mussels rely on mudpuppies to reproduce, making mudpuppy data important to both species. The DNR also works directly with salamander mussels, including

“Blooming” red external gills allow mudpuppies to spend life fully underwater.

Releases glochidia (larvae)

Larvae attach and go through

SALAMANDER

Adult female salamander mussel: fertilization and brooding

to gills of mudpuppy through metamorphosis

SALAMANDER MUSSEL

SALAMANDER MUSSEL CYCLE

CYCLE

Young mussels drop off gills to sediment and grow into...

Adult male salamander mussel releases spermatozeugmata

WARM UP TO SAVINGS WITH WINTER ENERGY USE TIPS

Turn down the water heater for safety and energy savings.

ANDREA ZANI

AS TEMPERATURES DROP, energy bills often go in the opposite direction — heating and utility use can be costly. Creating a more energy-efficient home will boost your bottom line, conserve resources and help reduce emissions that can adversely affect air quality, even in winter.

Here are a few tips from the DNR to help you cut down on energy use, keeping those winter bills in check and benefiting the environment, too.

y Keep the shades on all south-facing windows open during the day so sunlight will help naturally heat your home. Close blinds at night to block the chill from cold windows.

y If you have a fireplace, close the damper when not in use to keep heat from escaping and cold air out. You could also try a chimney pillow, balloon or plug — an inflatable device that blocks the flue space — available at hardware stores and online vendors.

y Minimize the use of gas fireplaces and space heaters, which are less efficient and more expensive than furnaces to heat your home overall.

y Turn off the lights when you leave a room and shut down computers and TVs when not in use. Unplug phone chargers, coffee pots and other electronics when you don’t need them — they draw electricity even when turned off.

y Have your furnace inspected and serviced every year, and replace the filter regularly. A dirty filter slows airflow and makes the system work harder, which uses more energy and can lead to expensive repairs.

y Save more — money and energy — by lowering the thermostat. For every one degree the thermostat is lowered, your heating bill will drop by 1% to 3%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

y Check the thermostat on your water heater, too. If it’s set above 120 degrees, the water could cause third-degree burns in less than 10 minutes. Turn it down for safety and savings.

y Check your basement for ways to increase energy efficiency. Seal holes and cracks with expandable foam or silicone caulking and insulate hot water pipes and heating ducts.

y Use LED lights for your holiday decorations. LEDs use up to 93% less energy and last 10 times longer than standard incandescent holiday lights.

FOCUS ON ENERGY

For more energy use tips, scan the QR code or check dnr.wi.gov/tiny/3156. Wisconsin utilities partner on a statewide program, Focus on Energy, to promote energy efficiency and offer resources and financial incentives to individuals and businesses. For example, rebates and instant discounts can help save up to $700 off new and more efficient residential heating equipment such as furnaces, water heaters and smart thermostats.

Eliminating energy waste can save money and help the environment by reducing power plant needs and conserving natural resources. Focus on Energy also supports renewable energy projects that otherwise might not be completed. For details, check focusonenergy.com.

Lowering the thermostat on your furnace even one degree can save on heating bills.

Andrea Zani is managing editor of Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine.

A STUDY IN SNOWFLAKES

ANDI SEDLACEK

J UST LIKE PEOPLE, EVERY SINGLE SNOWFLAKE IS UNIQUE.

Though their patterns are different each time one falls to the ground, all snowflakes do have one thing in common: Every snowflake has six points.

Let’s learn how a snowflake is made.

When extremely cold droplets of water freeze onto a pollen or dust particle in the sky, an ice crystal begins to form, which is the first step in the creation of a snowflake.

As the ice crystal continues to fall, water vapor freezes on it, building new crystals that will eventually become its six points.

As snowflakes fall from the sky to the ground, each one encounters different atmospheric conditions that shape their final formation. Those different conditions create one-of-a-kind snowflake patterns, but because each point experiences the same atmospheric conditions, all six points are identical.

Andi Sedlacek is acting communications director for the DNR.

DO YOU WANT TO MAKE A SNOWFLAKE?

You don’t need ice crystals or the right atmospheric conditions to make snowflakes at home — all you need is white paper, scissors (and maybe adult supervision) and a pattern.

1.

Take an 8.5 x 11-inch piece of paper and fold one corner across diagonally to create a triangle.

2.

Cut across the bottom to remove the rectangular-shaped strip of paper.

3.

Fold the triangle-shaped paper in half diagonally. 4.

Fold the paper into thirds. Start by folding the left corner, overlapping the bottom corner past the bottom of the triangle.

5.

Fold the right corner, also overlapping the bottom corner past the bottom of the triangle.

6.

Cut the pointed, overlapping ends off in a straight line.

7.

Follow the patterns on this page to cut out a beautiful design for your snowflake.

8.

Once you’ve cut out all the pieces of your pattern, unfold your snowflake and admire your work.

SUET FEEDERS 101

“Those plus the suet are like mega energy,” Brady said. To make the mixture, melt the suet and combine it with the dry ingredients. Once cool, add the mixture to a mold, like an ice cube tray, and refrigerate or freeze it to hold the shape.

When you’re ready to set up your feeder, remove the suet from the mold and add it to a suet cage or container. Some people also use mesh or netting to hold the suet, but the holes need to be small so birds’ legs or beaks don’t get stuck.

DINNER GUESTS

Downy woodpecker

ARE YOU LOOKING for a way to help our feathered friends this winter? Consider putting out a suet feeder. You can make the suet yourself and pack it with the nutrients birds need.

“In winter, everything a bird does is to get enough calories to survive to the next day,” said Ryan Brady, DNR conservation biologist. “Suet is one of the foods that gives them the calories and energy to do that.”

Suet feeders consist of a suet, or fat, mixture in a hanging cage or container. Brady suggested asking your local butcher for discarded fat but avoiding bacon. You also can use natural peanut butter or vegetable shortening, as both are high in fat.

Along with the suet, you’ll need a binding structure, such as oats, bird seed or cornmeal. Black oil sunflower seeds also are great to add to the mixture, as they’re high in fat — and most birds love them.

MAKE YOUR OWN BIRD SUET

Materials

• 3½ cups wild bird seed

• 1 cup quick oats

• ½ cup cornmeal

• 1½ cups shortening (look for palm oil free options)

• ¾ cups nut butter (any kind)

• Ice cube tray

Directions

1. Mix the dry ingredients of bird seed, oats and cornmeal together and set aside.

2. Combine the shortening and nut butter in a separate bowl and melt. Stir until completely combined.

The most common species frequenting suet feeders are woodpeckers, but you’ll likely see other birds like nuthatches and chickadees. Suet also might bring some species you otherwise wouldn’t see at your feeder, including rare ones.

Western and summer tanagers, Baltimore orioles and robins love suet. And migrating birds such as yellow-rumped or pine warblers might stop by in the spring, especially during cold snaps.

“They’re going to need high-energy foods,” Brady said. “They’re not as used to the colder weather as some of our resident birds.”

When summer arrives, suet is less important for birds but will still be sampled by various species. Minimize mess by keeping it cool and out of direct sunlight.

It’s important to remember that mammals like squirrels, raccoons and bears also love suet. If you’re offering suet into the spring, outside of hibernation season, you should bring the feeders inside overnight to avoid unwanted visitors.

Emma Macek is a public information officer in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

3. Pour the melted mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until combined.

4. Spoon mixture into the ice cube tray.

5. Freeze for 1-2 hours and place in your suet feeder!

Note: Not recommended for outdoor temperatures above 50 degrees.

Source: Audubon, inspired by “The Misfit Baker” blog.

LEARN MORE

For other tips on winter bird feeding, scan the QR code or check dnr.wi.gov/tiny/1286.

EMMA MACEK

TACKLE FOOD WASTE WITH A FEW EASY TWEAKS

GARRETT DIETZ

LEARN MORE

The DNR's Waste and Materials Management program offers more tips on reducing and recycling all types of waste commonly generated during the holiday season. Scan the QR code or go to dnr.wi.gov/tiny/3236 to learn about waste-friendly shopping choices, what should go in the recycling bin, how to reuse old items and more.

THE HOLIDAYS ARE FAST APPROACHING,

which usually means families and friends will be gathering around the dinner table to break bread and spend quality time together.

As we gear up to enjoy some potentially largerthan-average helpings, now seems like a good time to discuss how to prevent food waste. And no, simply eating more isn’t the solution (at least, not a sustainable one).

In a recent study, the DNR determined food waste is the top waste being sent to Wisconsin landfills. Nearly 750,000 pounds of food waste and scraps were thrown away in 2020!

Not only is this waste preventable, but it is also a serious environmental concern when thrown in the trash. As food waste breaks down in a landfill, it generates as much greenhouse gas as 592,000 passenger vehicles would in one year. Composting is an environmentally friendly alternative, but prevention saves the most resources.

Help fight food waste with these simple tips when preparing your meals any time of year, but especially around the holidays.

y Make a plan and stick to it. Whether cooking a big dinner for extended family or simply prepping meals for the week, making a plan helps ensure you get what you need. Taking inventory of what you already have in the house and creating a shopping list can help reduce impulse buys and repeat trips to the store.

y Store food properly. Proper storage prevents food from spoiling and maximizes space. Check out savethefood.com for tips on how to store fresh food or use up the food you've been storing for a while.

y Love your leftovers. If you have leftovers, your holiday guests will probably be more than happy to fill up a plate to take home. There are also endless stir fry, soup and casserole recipes online to help use up leftovers. Freezing for a rainy day is also a great option.

y Compost what you can’t use. Instead of throwing out scraps or unused foods, consider composting as an environmentally friendly alternative — your garden and our state’s landfills will thank you!

Garrett Dietz is a public information officer in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

Make the most out of food scraps by making a broth or composting them.

CHEERS to 5 !

Celebrating a half-century of the Safe Drinking Water Act

JONNA MAYBERRY

THE HUMAN BODY is comprised of up to 60% water. Whether you start the day by hydrating with water, coffee or tea, clean, safe water is fundamental to our lives.

This year marks a huge milestone in clean drinking water: the 50th anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act.

The SDWA was passed by Congress in 1974 to protect public health by regulating the nation’s public drinking water supply. It came soon after the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency, which was established on Dec. 2, 1970.

Testing requirements for public water systems have been an important part of the Safe Drinking Water Act through the years, designed to help ensure access to safe drinking water for all.

LEARN MORE

The DNR’s drinking water webpage offers a variety of information, including details on regulations, water supply standards and testing. Scan the QR code or check dnr.wi.gov/tiny/1186.

Amended with new regulations in 1986 and 1996, the Safe Drinking Water Act requires various actions to protect drinking water and its sources — rivers, lakes, reservoirs, springs and groundwater.

The SDWA allows the EPA to set national drinking water standards to protect against naturally occurring and human-made contaminants. The EPA, individual states and local water systems then work together to meet those standards.

The act regulates various contaminants, including lead, bacteria, arsenic, nitrate, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (known as PFAS), synthetic organic chemicals such as pesticides and herbicides, radioactive parameters, and volatile organic compounds (or VOCs) like gasoline and formaldehyde.

CRISIS SPOTLIGHTS SAFETY

DNR water supply engineer Norm Hahn has worked in the agency’s Drinking Water and Groundwater program for more than 40 years and has seen the evolution of drinking water regulations.

Hahn also knows first-hand how important monitoring can be in keeping water supplies safe — and what can happen when drinking water is unsafe.

In 1993, Milwaukee experienced a waterborne disease outbreak caused by the microscopic parasite cryptosporidium. The outbreak caused more than 400,000 illnesses and dozens of deaths.

“The press started calling and saying people were getting sick and some were dying from drinking water that had crypto in it,” Hahn said.

The situation emphasized the importance of safe water and put the issue in the national spotlight.

The effects of this outbreak were extreme and are still talked about in the Milwaukee area and beyond. Changes to the SDWA were made after the crisis, which is just one example of why safe drinking water is so important and how national policy on the topic has evolved over the years.

KNOW YOUR WATER

The DNR requires annual contaminant testing for all public water systems across Wisconsin. In 2023, over 99% of these systems provided water that met all health-based contaminant standards set by the SDWA.

This achievement marked a significant improvement from 50 years ago, when more than 40% of the nation’s drinking water systems did not meet the most basic health standards.

The SDWA makes water data public, which means you can stay informed about the quality of the water you drink.

Watch your mail: Local municipalities often send water-quality information to residents. You also can reach out to your municipality to get current data, or visit dnr.wi.gov/tiny/3166

Keep in mind that private wells are not regulated under the SDWA and are not part of a public water system. It’s the owner’s responsibility to make sure their drinking water is safe.

SDWA SEEN AS CRUCIAL

Ensuring clean, safe drinking water is all about public health, Hahn said, so the time and costs involved in testing and publicizing results are considered crucial.

“You're not going to get a lot of backlash because the same people taking those samples also drink that water, right?” Hahn said. “You want to know the quality of your drinking water, which is part of what the Safe Drinking Water Act requires.”

For 50 years, the SDWA has offered the framework needed to make safe drinking water a reality. Implementing the legislation’s guidelines involves a variety of partners, said Steve Elmore, bureau director for the DNR’s Drinking Water and Groundwater program.

“It takes multiple water professionals working together to bring you clean, safe drinking water,” Elmore said, “and we look forward to the next 50 years.”

Jonna Mayberry is a public information officer in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

The DNR does not monitor ice conditions.

Contact your local fishing clubs, bait shops or outfitters for ice conditions before heading out.

NEW YORK TIMES SUNDAY CROSSWORD

97 . . . a handbook on raising kids?

103 Email button

104 It’s going around

105 ‘‘Here a ____, there a ___, everywhere a ___-___ . .’’

106 Lock

109 Be extremely angry

110 Model’s need

113 Simpson’s judge

115 Come (to)

118 Light ditties

120 . . . a D.I.Y. manual on other D.I.Y. manuals?

124 Panache

125 Repetitive sound

126 Apartment building V.I.P.

127 Newspaper section

128 Delectable

129 ‘‘____ the Limit’’ (Notorious B.I.G. song)

How many elements on the periodic table have the letter ‘‘J’’ in their

130 Edict issuer in ‘‘Fiddler on the Roof’’

131 Shangri-las

DOWN

1 Texter’s shrug

2 Pet for Pebbles, in cartoons

3 It will all come out in the wash

4 Flood-prone area

5 Competed in a biathlon

6 What has some holiday spirit?

7 Tired routine

8 Workplace regulator, for short

9 Ford’s only Supreme Court appointee

10 Easy ____ (longtime Kraft product)

11 Loads

12 Golfer McIlroy

13 Signs with lines

14 Bunch of bills

15 Any of the light blue properties in Monopoly

16 Apply more varnish to

17 ‘‘Right this second!’’

18 Recipient of 21 Academy Award acting nominations

24 ‘‘Uh-uh’’

25 ____ paneer (Indian dish)

30 Some chamber groups

47 Spanish for ‘‘foolish’’

52 Serious suffering

54 ‘‘Seriously . .’’

55 Sooner State city

56 Béret bearer

58 ‘‘Come Dancing’’ band, with ‘‘the’’

59 King maker?

60 Potato, yam or cassava

61 Water brand whose name is an adjective in reverse

63 Harder to come by

66 Turns state’s evidence

68 Beverage one shouldn’t shake well before serving

69 Kristen formerly of 50-Across

70 Ship’s kitchen

73 Pokes fun at

74 Worth having

77 Kind of question

78 Lead-in to brewery

81 Like the leftmost candle until the final night of Hanukkah

101 Churn up

102 Stock-exchange worker

107 Earthbound bird

108 River to the English Channel

111 Bulletin-board piece

112 Hurting

114 ____ probandi (burden of proof)

116 ____ Owl, one of the superheroes in ‘‘Watchmen’’

117 Fork-tailed bird

119 Dump

121 Decks, in brief

122 Fig. of interest to an admissions department

123 Castaway’s call

. . . a step-by-step guide for throwing breaking balls?

87 Keep in the cellar, perhaps

88 Symbols of toughness, in a simile

90 Barrel-shaped containers

91 ____ Le Gallienne, star of 1920s Broadway

92 Sheets and pillowcases

94 Joule division

95 Salts

33 Island off Greece’s northwest coast

35 Balderdash

37 Substitute for ‘‘E’’ on a license plate, maybe

38 [Did he really just say that!?]

39 High-end hotel chain

40 Garage job

42 Creative spark, informally

43 Parish priest

44 Cloisonné material

46 Docking spots

82 Looking discomfited

84 Incessantly bother

85 Level

86 Navajo painting medium

89 Thankless types

93 Bottom of some columns

94 Self-centered sort

96 Taken for granted

97 The Holy Grail, e.g.

98 Beethoven’s third symphony

99 Govt.-backed investments

100 Attack, medieval-style