Wisconsin Natural Resources Magazine | Summer 2024

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LINDA

Shout-out to the 2024 Keep Wildlife Wild poster contest winners!

The DNR’s Keep Wildlife Wild program, including the annual student poster contest, encourages everyone to keep wildlife healthy by always observing animals from a respectful distance. This includes baby animals, which might incorrectly be viewed as orphaned if adult animals are not nearby.

For this year’s poster contest, student artists illustrated the theme “Safe in Their Home” to help remind people that a young wild animal's best chance for survival is with its mother. View all winning entries and learn more at dnr.wi.gov/topic/WildlifeHabitat/orphan.

Fourth-grade winners

• First place: Delaney Darton, Eagle River

• Second place: Adelaide Dorsey, Neenah

• Third place: Lillian Jaeckel, Milwaukee

Fifth-grade winners

• First place: Belle Manula, Sheboygan

• Second place: Ishanvi Bansal, Sun Prairie

• Third place: Drew Schroeder, Glendale

Sixth-grade winners

• First place: Paige Rife, Mosinee

• Second place: Ellen Irving, Brooklyn

• Third place: Abigail Gray, Madison

Delaney Darton, first place, fourth grade

Belle Manula, first place, fifth grade

Paige Rife, first place, sixth grade

NEWS YOU CAN USE

EXPLORE WISCONSIN’S WONDERFUL STATE PARKS

With summer just around the corner, there are many ways to experience Wisconsin’s beautiful state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas this season. Here are helpful resources to get you into the outdoors.

Find it: The DNR’s Find A Park tool has details on properties near you — or something more distant you haven’t explored before. Search by activities, amenities, camping types, accessible features and more at dnr.wi.gov/tiny/801.

Events: There’s so much happening at state parks around Wisconsin, and the DNR events calendar keeps you updated. Search by location, event type, date range and keywords at dnr.wi.gov/events.

Camping: State properties offer some of the best camping you’ll find, with more than 6,000 campsites statewide. Plan and reserve your campsite now at dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/camping.

OFFICE OF AGRICULTURE AND WATER QUALITY

Volunteer: Wisconsin’s state parks need you! Helping with cleanup, campgrounds, naturalist activities and more can make a big difference, and it’s easy to sign up. Find details at dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/volunteer.

Admission: Vehicles entering most state parks, forests and recreation areas require an admission sticker. You can buy annual passes online or get annual and daily passes upon entry at most properties; dnr.wi.gov/tiny/1256. You’ll need a state trail pass on most trails for biking, horseback riding and in-line skating (not walking and hiking), and they also are available online or on-site; dnr.wi.gov/tiny/1556.

DNR water quality efforts are being bolstered by the Office of Agriculture and Water Quality, established in 2021 to address the growing need for innovation, research and outreach for Wisconsin’s agricultural industry. The office coordinates resources and communications across the DNR to promote sustainable agriculture, including:

• identifying funds and staffing that can be leveraged to strengthen research, outreach, policy and programs;

• serving as the main point of contact for science and policy approaches to addressing agricultural impacts on water quality;

• serving on the steering committee of Discovery Farms, UW-Madison Extension’s farmer-led research and outreach program;

• spearheading Wisconsin’s Nutrient Reduction Strategy; and

• serving as the DNR lead for collaboration with other key agencies, organizations and industry groups.

Working to promote sustainable agriculture is a priority for the DNR’s Office of Agriculture and Water Quality.

MEET US AT THE FAIR

Mark your calendar to spend time with the DNR at another Wisconsin State Fair! This year’s fun is Aug. 1-11 at State Fair Park in West Allis, where DNR staff will be on hand to bring you more about the state’s great outdoors. For fair information, including hours and admission details, see wistatefair.com.

The DNR has the resources you need to enjoy Wisconsin's beautiful state properties.

Grab something deep-fried and come see us at State Fair this summer.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

CARRYING ON THE COMMITMENT

I just finished reading “Inside the DNR” (spring 2024). Organizationally, it has changed substantially since I worked there in the early 1980s, but I suspect the commitment of staff has not changed at all.

Environmental management is more complicated today than it was in my time. The problems are more complex, the laws more convoluted and the public more questioning. As if that weren't enough, the stakes are also higher, with a lot riding on how well these experts can do their jobs.

Fortunately for the people of Wisconsin, their DNR has long been known for its commitment to excellence, and I suspect that is as true today as it was when I worked there (I was a planning analyst). I currently reside in Illinois, but it’s pretty clear where my roots remain.

Jon Grand Lake Bluff, Illinois

Write in by sending letters to DNRmagazine@wisconsin.gov or WNR magazine, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707.

WHOOPING CRANE SIGHTING

We spotted whooping crane 38_17 on Feb. 24 in a farm field with two sandhill cranes. We submitted the picture to savingcranes.org to find out who she was. I just thought you would be interested.

Kathleen Janik Oconomowoc

Thanks for sharing, Kathleen! It's good to hear about 38_17, a female whooping crane from a 2017 parent-reared cohort, according to the International Crane Foundation, savingcranes.org, where observers can report whooping cranes. Your sighting around Dodge County is consistent with past updates for this bird, part of the Eastern Migratory Population of federally endangered whooping cranes.

WONDERING ABOUT WISH-CYCLING

In the spring magazine, you indicate, “Thicker plastic bags, such as those for dog food and water softener salt, should be thrown in the trash.” I have thought “film”-type plastics, meaning under about 5 mil thickness, are recyclable if they’re pristine clean.

My “wish” is a good video of a bag recycling plant operation that shows exactly how incoming materials are handled and separated, along with a concrete list of acceptable material types and thicknesses. If we as recycling consumers don't have the data and details to understand the why of recycling guidelines, we will continue to be wish-recyclers — we need data and education.

Doug Carlson Eau Claire

Jennifer Semrau, DNR waste reduction and diversion coordinator, clarifies that some thicker plastic bags may be acceptable at plastic film/bag drop-off locations if labeled as #2 or #4 polyethylene or if the “How to Recycle” label identifies the bags as suitable for “store drop-off.” Not all bags/film are labeled with a resin identification code.

As for concrete recycling instructions, Semrau points to the website dnr.wi.gov/topic/recycling/bags.html for direction but adds, "There's a very long list of nonacceptable bags, too many to list. So, we try to hone in on the acceptable bags. That’s largely because when deciding what to recycle, it is better to miss a potentially recyclable bag than to include a nonacceptable one. If a worker at a plastic bag recycling program sees nonacceptable material, they may throw away the entire 'bag of bags.' This is worse than one acceptable bag not getting recycled.”

EARLY RISER

On March 12, I was on my floating dock in Presque Isle. I noticed a large snapping turtle head sticking out of the open water along shore, coming up through a hole in the submerged ice. It had its eyelids closed and didn’t move in the hour or so I was in the area.

By the next afternoon, there was more open water and the turtle was back. It put its head under water and turned to look at me. The nose came up blowing bubbles. The eyes were open.

It was amazing to see it wake up from winter in the mud. It was also kind of disheartening to see this ritual of spring happening on March 12 in northern Wisconsin.

Keith Bassage Presque Isle

GOOD VIBES FROM LUCK

I want to compliment you on the winter edition. It’s chock full of stories that are interesting and cover many subjects. I’ve always liked the magazine, but this issue is special. Bravo to all involved!

Mark Peacock Luck

Q: Do any state parks have playgrounds?

A: Yes! Head to our Find a Park webpage — dnr.wi.gov/tiny/801 — and use the Amenities by Playground filter to find 36 state parks, forests and recreation areas with playgrounds.

Q: How old do kids have to be to participate in the Wisconsin Explorer Program?

A: The Wisconsin Explorer Program — a series of booklets full of activities, scavenger hunts, games, hikes and crafts to help you explore Wisconsin's great outdoors — has three age levels: 3-5 years, 6-8 years and 9 years and up. Kids who complete the requirements will earn collectible state symbol patches. Check dnr.wi.gov/tiny/1581 to learn more. Then head to your nearest state park property, ask for a free Wisconsin Explorer booklet and start exploring together.

Q: Do you have any recommendations on where to take my 8-year-old to go fishing for the first time?

A: Before venturing out, be sure you, as the adult, have a current fishing license. Kids 15 and under do not need a license. Then, check out our list of places to take kids fishing, organized by county — dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2736. Each spot has a short description, including what fish you could catch there and tips to find nearby playgrounds.

Q: I’m excited to be outside with my family this summer but not so excited about ticks. How can I protect everyone from them and still have fun?

A: It’s great that you’re keeping tick safety top of mind, and there are things you can do while outside to avoid tick bites and limit your chance of contracting Lyme disease and other illnesses spread by ticks.

• When planning what to wear, choose clothing that covers as much of your body as possible — ideally, long sleeves and pants.

• Tuck shirts into pants and pants into socks.

• Wear light-colored clothing to make it easier to spot ticks and remove them quickly.

• Consider using an EPA-registered insect repellent and treating your clothes in advance with permethrin.

• Out on the trail, walk in the center where grass and vegetation are mowed.

• When you get home, throw your clothes in the dryer for 10 minutes on high heat.

• Then do a tick check on yourself, children and pets, especially behind the knees, under the armpits, around the hairline and ears, and at the waist.

DAVID NEVALA

It’s fun to think about the traits we’ve received from our parents and how we might look similar to our siblings or relatives. Unfortunately, with fish, we can’t simply see matching scale patterns or cute little dimples that might signal blood relationships.

When we want to know if two fish are related, we need to rely on genetics.

You might wonder why we care about fish relationships. The answer is simple: Understanding the patterns hidden in fish DNA can allow us to better manage popular species like walleye and northern pike.

One way fish managers use genetics is to track stocked fish. With DNA analysis, the success of fish stocking can be validated using a less invasive method than physical tags. This cost-effective practice is called parentage-based tagging. By comparing DNA samples from wild-caught fish to known samples, biologists can identify the parents of a particular individual. This tells them whether a fish was stocked or came from the wild.

STORY BY GARRETT DIETZ

PHOTOS BY DAVID NEVALA

TESTING FOR FISH DNA

Parentage-based tagging is based on the genetic similarities between parents and their offspring. Knowing the parents' genetic makeup creates a “genetic fingerprint” to identify their children.

Think of it like an at-home DNA testing kit that allows you to learn about your ancestry. To use it, you collect a saliva sample and send it to a lab for analysis. The lab then compares your DNA to data from people around the globe to determine your ancestry.

Similarly, when DNR biologists work in the field, they collect fin samples from fish and send them to a lab that compares the DNA to a database of information on stocked fish. The data comes directly from Wisconsin hatcheries, which partner with Jared Homola, Ph.D., assistant unit leader of the Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit in the College of Natural Resources at UW-Stevens Point, to analyze the DNA.

“It has become a routine,” Homola said. “The folks from the DNR hatcheries send us all the fin clips from their walleye broodstock.”

Broodstock are mature fish collected specifically for breeding purposes. By taking fin samples from these fish, managers provide the necessary information to build a database that incorporates all the parents of Wisconsin’s stocked fish. As stocking continues, this database grows.

It's like building a family tree for fish.

“The database has tons of data,” said David Rowe, DNR fisheries team supervisor. “It can be used to know exactly when a fish was spawned, who the parents were and their physical characteristics, like weight, length or age.”

This powerful tool helps track stocked fish and analyze trends that rely on physical characteristics to contribute to their success. Researchers also use it to understand how differences in water conditions impact stocked fish success by examining populations across water bodies.

Biologists may better determine the success of fish stocking for walleye and other species through parentage tagging techniques.

AN EYE ON EFFECTIVENESS

As part of parentage-based tagging, fin clips from wild-caught walleye are sent to the Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit for genetic analysis.

The DNR mainly uses parentage-based tagging to understand the success of stocked fish, but it can be expanded to understand native populations as well. The goal is to determine how and where stocking is effective to support state fisheries.

There are only so many tools for controlling fish populations. The most common are fishing regulations, habitat improvement, fishery access and stocking. Because stocking takes significant time and resources, the DNR wants to ensure it is making a difference.

Often, the DNR uses stocking to supplement natural reproduction or create fishing opportunities where reproduction is absent. Knowing how stocked fish survive provides insight into which stocking methods and locations are most effective.

For example, an analysis of walleye in Lake Mendota showed that more than 87% of the 5-year-old fish sampled in 2019 were raised in a hatchery, proving the efficacy of stocking to create a robust fishery. However, another study of northern pike showed stocked fish made up anywhere from 0% to 41% of the population in stocked lakes across the southern region of the state.

This level of feedback allows managers to make informed decisions about where to stock fish. It includes considering factors like water clarity, lake habitats, the spawning success of wild fish and the presence of competing species. There are many variables, but getting a detailed look at the makeup of fish populations helps the DNR get it right.

DNA ADVANTAGES

Tracking stocked fish has been happening for decades, but using parentage-based tagging has benefits over other survey methods.

In the 1980s, hatcheries put dye into fish food to color the bones of fish that consumed it so they could be identified if caught. That practice has long

Taking fin clips for genetic testing is a minimally invasive technique with maximum benefits.

Parentage-based tagging is more cost-effective and efficient than many other fish tracking methods.

since stopped in Wisconsin, but other common survey methods still in use include clipping fins and tagging fish with physical markers, like numbered plastic tags and wire tags.

The downfall of these methods is how timeconsuming and invasive they are. Physically handling thousands or tens of thousands of fish to clip a fin or insert a tag takes significant resources and labor. Advances in stocking technology have made this more manageable, but physical tags and fish stocking trucks all come with a cost.

That’s where parentage-based tagging has advantages.

“Instead of physically marking every fish, hatcheries can take a fin sample from 100 broodstock and effectively tag thousands of their offspring because we know their parents’ specific DNA sequence,” Homola said. “You also don’t have to worry about a physical tag falling out or a fin clip growing back.”

Another benefit is that fish aren’t sacrificed to collect samples as they are with dye injections or food colorings. Parentage-based tagging is a minimally invasive technique — biologists cut a small tissue or fin sample and send it to the lab for analysis.

Results not only tell if the fish was from a specific year or batch, as a tag would, but also which hatchery the fish came from and who its parents were.

Parentage-based tagging has yet to replace the need for other methods, and researchers still conduct studies using physical tags across the state. Those efforts are focused on understanding growth, survival and movement — data that require identifying fish years later.

REAL GAME CHANGER

The state is slowly scaling up DNA tagging across different fish species and locations and refining its processes. Parentage-based tagging data enables DNR biologists to monitor fish populations with more detail than ever.

This helps the DNR understand how stocking impacts a fishery, like where fish should be stocked to best contribute to angler success and overall populations. It also provides valuable information on fish movement within different systems.

“If we sample a fish from the Bay of Green Bay, we can generally tell if it was born in the northern or southern portion of the bay,” Homola said. “Most species spawn reliably enough in their home streams that the populations have genetically diverged to a certain detectable extent.”

DNA analysis also can help determine the characteristics of fish that successfully spawn naturally, which can help inform regulations and bag limits. The breadth of data generated by researching fish genetics allows the DNR and other fish managers to track fish in ways like never before.

It’s changing the game for tracking the lineage of stocked fish, supporting healthy populations and ensuring opportunities for Wisconsin fish fries well into the future.

Garrett Dietz is a public information officer in the DNR’s Office of Communications. David Nevala is a freelance photographer in Madison.

Parentage work helps build data with a wealth of information to guide Wisconsin’s fisheries management.

Lab samples are analyzed to create a “genetic fingerprint” for a fish.

Working alongside research scientists, biologists and technicians, students check fyke nets to catch spawning fish like walleye, northern pike and yellow perch.

STORY AND PHOTOS

BY RACHEL BENEDICT

On a dreary, gray day in May 2023, six students at the DNR’s Northern Highland Fishery Research Area piled into the cozy creel station at Escanaba Lake. They joined the station’s research scientists, biologists and technicians, and were greeted by Greg Sass, fisheries research team leader with the DNR’s Office of Applied Science.

The students were at the Vilas County creel station for Fisheries Bootcamp, an all-expenses-paid weekend trip supported by the Wisconsin Chapter of the American Fisheries Society. Student members from affiliated universities in the state apply each year by submitting a one-page essay on why they want to become fisheries professionals.

“Fisheries Bootcamp aims to provide college students with hands-on experience conducting spring fish surveys,” said Sass, a UW-Madison Ph.D. who oversees the NHFRA and DNR’s statewide fisheries research team.

“The experience allows students to be a fisheries biologist for a weekend and gives them the opportunity to ensure their major is right for them.”

HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE

As bootcamp got underway, Sass gave the students a rundown of survey activities: collecting fish from fyke nets, resetting nets, collecting data and learning the basics of operating boats and equipment.

Annual surveys are essential for understanding fish populations. Data can show how populations fluctuate and provide the basis for generating population trends for species such as walleye, northern pike and yellow perch.

Geared in waders and coats, students split into groups, each assigned with DNR staff to work on different activities. Depending on the species and data needed, students measured, tagged and weighed fish and collected biological samples.

Students work together to collect biological samples and tag walleye using Floy tags, above, to help research scientists study the species and angler dynamics.

Students also learned how to attach Floy tags — usually inserted near the dorsal fin, with a unique number for tracking — and give temporary fin clips, removing a small piece of a dorsal or tail fin. Recapturing tagged or clipped fish aids species population estimates.

Electrofishing is a common survey method. Students learned how to prepare a boat

for the practice by hooking up booms to the boat, attaching the droppers and launching the boat. Although the electrical current was never turned on for safety purposes, the students went through the motions, learning where to stand safely on the boat and practicing scooping up fish with nets in the water.

LAUNCHING A CAREER

Skills learned during Fisheries Bootcamp and the connections students make are vital to a successful fisheries career. Just ask Joseph Mrnak, a graduate of the first Fisheries Bootcamp in 2016.

After bootcamp, Mrnak went on to get his bachelor’s degree in fisheries and wildlife ecology from Northland College in Ashland, worked for a time at the Escanaba Lake Research Station, then completed his master’s degree at South Dakota State. Earlier this year, he received his Ph.D. from UW-Madison’s Center for Limnology, with Sass as one of his advisors.

Research scientist Joseph Mrnak, second from left, provides a safety overview before electrofishing begins.

“Fisheries Bootcamp allowed me to gain real-world experiences and foster great, long-lasting relationships with fisheries professionals in the area I always dreamed of working, northern Wisconsin,” said Mrnak, now a senior research scientist at NHFRA.

“After eight years and two shiny graduate degrees, I am excited to return to the place where it all started for me.”

Rachel Benedict is a communications specialist and publications editor in the DNR’s Office of Applied Science.

LEARN MORE

The Northern Highland Fishery Research Area is located near Boulder Junction and consists of five lakes set aside in 1946 as experimental lakes for long-term monitoring and research. For more about NHFRA and how you can help fisheries research, scan the QR code or visit dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2051. For details on the Wisconsin Chapter of the American Fisheries Society, including how to become a member (student memberships are free!), check wi-afs.org.

DNR fisheries research scientist Stephanie Shaw holds a walleye while a student inserts a Floy tag.

DNR fisheries technician Steven Broda, center, shows students how to attach the booms used in electrofishing.

As the weather warms and the days get longer, hundreds of thousands of anglers will head to Wisconsin’s lakes, rivers and streams.

Many will take to the water in large aluminum or fiberglass boats — undoubtedly fantastic rigs from which to fish — but anglers need not have the latest technologies or the biggest boats to find world-class fishing in Wisconsin. Anglers fishing from canoes or kayaks consistently catch fish across the state.

According to DNR fisheries biologist Max Wolter, some of the best fishing holes around are only accessible by paddle power.

“Some of the best fishing in Wisconsin happens on the rivers where bigger boats simply can’t go,” he said. “Especially once we get into the peak summer months, the bigger lakes fill up with fishing boats, water skiers, pontoons, etc. There’s a lot of action on those waters, and space can be limited.

“When that happens, the fishing can be tough. On the other hand, you can take your canoe or kayak to a river and be one of the only people out there.”

SMALL BOATS, BIG FISH

Fishing might even be better via paddlecraft, especially in the summer.

For a perfect summer outing, take a friend fishing — and go by paddlecraft.

“By mid-summer, many of the fish in lakes, especially the bigger, deeper ones, will have moved into deeper, open water areas, making them much harder to catch,” Wolter said. “That doesn’t happen in the rivers, as they aren’t generally as deep, and the flowing water keeps them a little cooler throughout the summer, so the fish tend to stay in accessible areas yearround.

“You don’t need the electronics to find the action, just your canoe or kayak and gear.”

Despite their relatively small size, paddlecrafts are perfectly capable vessels for anglers looking to tangle with a trophy.

"Some of the biggest smallmouths we see each year come from anglers fishing the rivers from kayaks," Wolter said. "Nice walleyes and sauger are common catches as well, and paddlecraft anglers have some incredible battles with big musky every season.

ZACH WOOD

Sure, you can get out there on a bigger boat, but there’s just something about the simplicity of fishing by paddlecraft.

“There’s something unique about battling a fish that can drag you around a bit.”

TIPS AND TRICKS

Thinking about casting a line from a kayak or canoe this season? Here are tips to consider before hitting the launch.

• Wear your U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times. Anything can happen out on the water, and your life jacket is useless in an emergency if you're not wearing it.

• If paddling down a river, remember you will need to get yourself and your gear back to where you started. Plan ahead by having a friend, a second car or a bicycle ready where you want to get out.

• Plan your route, including where you'll put in and take out, and review it on a map with satellite view (like Google Maps) so you can identify landmarks. Shorelines can start to look the same after a long day of paddling, and you want to avoid paddling past your ride back to your car.

• When fishing, remember that fish will be looking upstream for a meal to drift by. Make your casts accordingly.

• Pack appropriate clothing. Like on any outdoor adventure, the weather can change quickly.

• Pack carefully to avoid overloading your canoe or kayak with gear. It can be tempting to bring several rods and dozens of lures, but you lose room to maneuver with every item you add when fighting the fish of a lifetime.

• Make sure you have the equipment to land and release your catch safely. Remember a landing net, needle-nose pliers and a hook cutter.

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

LEARN MORE

For all you need to know about fishing in Wisconsin, scan the QR code or check dnr.wi.gov/topic/fishing.

DNR fisheries biologist Max Wolter — with a smallmouth bass caught on the Couderay River — knows first-hand that some of the nicest trophy fish are perfectly accessible via canoe or kayak.

Guided charter fishing on Wisconsin's Great Lakes rates high as a unique angling experience.

KARL SCHEIDEGGER

It’s a job description many think sounds too good to be true: “Looking for someone willing to work outside in any weather from a boat on a large lake (or two); needs to possess extra special fishing knowledge and make great fishing memories.”

Not surprisingly in Wisconsin, given our abundance of water and the Great Lakes, some people get up and do just that.

Who are these lucky few? They are the almost 400 licensed charter captains and more than 450 licensed Lake Michigan and Lake Superior guides ready and willing to share their expertise and create fishing memories for their customers.

For the men and women who do this day in and day out, their passion is clear.

• “I enjoy helping families make memories in a pristine, gorgeous environment while educating them about safety and conservation,” said Sean Campbell of Northern Lights Adventures on Lake Superior.

• “You never really know what you are going to catch — it’s a giant body of water with some truly giant fish in it,” said Connor Bowen at Reel Dream Guide Service on Lake Michigan.

• “I enjoy offering many different fishing opportunities to my customers,” said Josh Teigen, who runs his own fishing guide service in northwest Wisconsin. “One day we will be fishing smallmouth bass in 5 feet of water on Chequamegon Bay, and the next day we will be jigging for lake trout in 200 feet of water around the Apostle Islands.”

These charter captains and guides have seen an increase in family and younger age groups getting out to enjoy the big waters. The variety of work, doing something they love and helping customers experience that joy keep them going.

WATER IS OPEN FOR ALL

Using guide services puts the big waters of Wisconsin at your fingertips, eliminating the logistical struggles and making it more accessible for everyone to try.

Fishing experience is not necessary. The fishing gear is high quality and easy to use, and the guides will tell you exactly what you need to do once you’re on the boat.

People who have never touched a rod and reel before can have just as much success as the experienced angler.

Before you head out, buy your fishing license and Great Lakes salmon and trout stamp online at gowild. wi.gov. You also can check with your guide or charter captain, as many will sell them to you right at the boat. Remember sunglasses, sunscreen, a cooler for your water and snacks, weather-appropriate clothes, shoes that don’t slip and, of course, a camera to capture all the memories you’ll make.

Karl Scheidegger is a fisheries biologist for the DNR.

LEARN MORE

For details about Wisconsin’s Great Lakes fishing opportunities, including how to find a charter or guide service to help you explore, scan the QR code or visit dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2716.

Sean Campbell of Northern Lights Adventures passes his Lake Superior fishing knowledge on to all anglers regardless of age and highlights summer lake trout fishing as his most popular trip.

ON LAKE MICHIGAN

The DNR’s Lake Michigan trout and salmon stocking program has been going strong for over 50 years. The program was developed to provide a first-in-class fishery for salmon and trout for all anglers.

In recent years, the DNR and partners have successfully managed the number of fish in the lake compared to the available forage. There is now a naturally produced Chinook salmon population that has reduced stocking in the lake and adds to the experience.

Through these efforts, the future of salmon and trout fishing on Lake Michigan is in great shape.

ON LAKE SUPERIOR

Lake trout are often the main target for guides and charter operations on Lake Superior. The success of lake trout restoration has changed the management focus from restoration to conservation and continues to provide high-quality fishing opportunities.

The lake trout population is considered fully restored, with healthy populations made up of broad ages and sizes with sustained recruitment. The need for stocking has been reduced, and management is focused on protective regulations that maintain the self-sustaining populations of lake trout.

With all these opportunities, get out there and find your big water adventure!

In Wisconsin, there’s no shortage of ways to find your adventure outdoors. And in many cases, you don’t even need to leave your furry friends behind. No matter the size and species, there are plenty of ways to get outside with these important family members.

LEASH UP AND EXPLORE

It's always best to keep pets on an 8-foot or shorter leash, no matter how well-trained. In fact, at Wisconsin's state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas, it’s a requirement. Why? Well, it’s for everyone’s safety and to ensure everyone has an enjoyable afternoon exploring. You never know when a squirrel may cause your pal to ruin someone’s picnic.

PICK UP, PLEASE

Pack out what you bring in … yes, everything. Just like you would if you were going for a stroll in your neighborhood, please be sure to carry waste bags and clean up after your pet.

WHERE CAN YOU GO?

Most campgrounds, trails and roads in Wisconsin’s state parks are open to pets. You can even bring your best friend camping! But a few places they aren’t allowed include:

• Buildings and picnic shelters

• Amphitheaters

• Beaches and picnic areas (but look for designated pet swim and pet picnic areas)

• Playgrounds

• Marked nature trails and other “pet-free areas” as designated

• Observation towers

• Anywhere in: Copper Culture State Park, Heritage Hill State Park or Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area

KATIE L. GRANT

Pets have a view, too, at Wyalusing State Park.

Hiking at Big Bay State Park.

You don’t need to leave your pet behind when heading outdoors — take them along for the fun.

Opportunities extend beyond a walk in the park. Hit a hiking trail together, hook up the trailer, and explore bike trails. Watch for deer, birds and other animals at state wildlife areas, and try canoeing or paddleboarding.

PLAN AHEAD

No matter where you plan to explore, check the rules for that location before you head out. Some may have specific pet-friendly areas, designated pet swim areas or restrictions. And remember, a happy pet makes for a happy adventure, so don’t forget the treats and water bowl!

Katie L. Grant is communications director for the DNR.

Scan the QR code or go to dnr.wi.gov/tiny/801 for the DNR’s Find a Park Tool and use the amenities filter to find parks with pet picnic or pet swim areas. Here are several places with pet swim areas so your pet can cool off on summer’s hottest days.

Whitefish Dunes State Park

Point Beach State Forest

Kohler-Andrae State Park

Harrington Beach State Park

Kettle Moraine State Forest –Pike Lake Unit

Kettle Moraine State Forest –Southern Unit

High Cliff State Park

Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest

Governor Thompson State Park

Copper Falls State Park

Northern Highlands –American Legion State Forest

Brunet Island State Park

Lake Wissota State Park

Buckhorn State Park

Devil’s Lake State Park

Governor Dodge State Park

Governor Nelson State Park Lake Kegonsa State Park

Dogs must be kept on an 8-foot or shorter leash at state properties such as Military Ridge State Trail.

SARAH JOHNSON

Diverse interests team up for this important natural resource

From the Northwoods to the Driftless Area, Wisconsin's abundant natural resources are downright postcard-worthy. We treasure our plentiful lakes, rivers and streams, lush forests, unique geology and so much more.

But one of our most essential resources often goes unnoticed and underappreciated — Wisconsin's grasslands. Also known as prairies, grasslands once were everywhere across the Midwest. But their footprint keeps getting smaller and smaller, giving way to urban and suburban development and row-crop agriculture.

Today, agriculture covers about 14 million of the state's 35 million acres. In contrast, there are about 500,000 acres of undeveloped and uncultivated prairie, down from an estimated 1 million acres 30 years ago and 2.1 million acres before Europeans arrived.

Both farmlands and grasslands are giving way to development, said Mary C. Anderson, DNR grassland and conservation agriculture specialist.

"We're in a fierce competition for places for people to live, and it's easier and more cost-effective to clear farmland and put up a

MOLLY MEISTER

subdivision than it is to knock down a whole forest," Anderson said. "This demand for urban expansion, coupled with the mass extinction of small- and medium-sized dairy farms, is causing a major prairie shortage."

Teaming up with farmers on managed grazing is part of the job for the DNR’s Mary C. Anderson, center, who notes such efforts promote fresh vegetation and attract wildlife back to the prairie.

Patriarch Jerry Huth, far right, sees conservation grazing as a big positive for his family business.

BENEFITS OF GRASSLANDS

Why do grasslands matter? Grasslands are dominated by nonwoody plants. When landscapes have a few scattered trees, they're called savannas. Grasslands are found in areas with enough water to support vegetation (not deserts) but where periodic drought limits plants from investing in stems (not forests).

Periodic defoliation by fires or grazing animals further shapes grasslands, which tolerate these conditions by allocating much of their growth below ground for regrowth and persistence when environmental conditions are more favorable.

"Grasslands cover about 40% of Earth's land mass and are the main place we humans do agriculture," said Randy Jackson, professor of grassland ecology at UW-Madison.

The benefits of grasslands are many, added Scott Stipetich, senior precision agriculture and conservation specialist for Pheasants Forever, including:

• Habitat. Grasslands are essential for declining species such as Karner blue butterflies, bobolinks, meadowlarks, greater prairie chickens and many plants that require light levels not found in dense forests, along with the pollinators and other species these plants support.

• Clean water. If managed well, grasslands have perennial cover and deep, fibrous root systems that promote water interception and infiltration, reducing surface runoff and aiding water storage and nutrient retention.

• Carbon storage. Healthy grassland root systems also can boost the drawdown of atmospheric carbon dioxide, potentially helping to stabilize the climate.

• Recreation. Well-managed grasslands make a scenic backdrop for hiking, camping, birdwatching, hunting, fishing, photography and other recreational pursuits.

• Rural economies. Grasslands planted near crop fields may increase crop production, boost livestock grazing production and reduce the loading of phosphorus on wastewater treatment facilities and stormwater systems, which decreases tax burdens.

• Biodiversity. Grasslands can be managed to support a wide variety of species that build more resilient ecosystems.

Building up soil organic matter is an important function of grasslands and improves fertility and plant growth.

SOIL HEALTH 101

Grasslands can build up soil organic matter, supporting a diverse community of bacteria and fungi that improve soil fertility and plant growth. This can help offset chemical treatments and maintain healthier soil.

"There are about 7.5 billion organisms in a tablespoon of soil," said Randy Zogbaum, soil health specialist for the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. "By putting chemicals on the soil, you change the makeup of soil organisms, affecting the functions of the soil, making it more like concrete, which doesn't let water or roots pass through it.

"That can lead to problems of erosion, drought intolerance and poor water quality."

Incorporating the five principles of soil health promotes the capacity of soil to function as a vital living ecosystem that sustains plants, animals and humans, Zogbaum added. Those principles are maximizing soil cover, maximizing living roots, maximizing crop diversity, minimizing disturbance (think of plowing) and integrating livestock.

CONSERVATION GRAZING

One way farmers and conservationists are teaming up for grasslands is conservation grazing, also known as managed grazing.

The concept is simple: Bring in farm animals such as cattle, sheep, horses or goats to graze on an area of grassland to provide feed for the animals while allowing their foot traffic and browsing to trample and consume undesirable plant species. This keeps grasslands healthy and prevents them from transitioning into woody habitat.

Since 2014, the DNR has partnered with farmers across

Well-managed grasslands include perennial plant cover and deep root systems that promote healthy ecosystems.

Chiwaukee Prairie State Natural Area in southeast Wisconsin features large tracts of unbroken prairie supporting hundreds of plant and wildlife species.

Wisconsin to offer certain state-owned grasslands for livestock grazing. Grazing now occurs on 52 DNR sites comprising about 6,000 acres.

"When we use biology to change biology, my phrase is, 'The ox is slow, but the earth is patient,'" said the DNR's Anderson, quoting a classic proverb.

"It does take time, but we are not spraying chemicals to kill invasive species. And we're not spending DNR staff time or money to go out and do strategic clipping or mowing. We're actually having producers and livestock do that for us."

Although grazing may not be the best option on every site, it's a way to maintain grasslands to promote healthy ecosystem function, reminiscent of the days when bison roamed the prairie. Herd movement after grazing allowed plants time to regrow, while the bison's periodic soil disturbance and nutrient-rich excrement encouraged a diversity of plants to thrive.

Well-managed grazing of livestock mimics much of these dynamics.

"Fresh vegetation that is constantly regrowing attracts wildlife back to the prairie because it's like having fresh bread all the time versus the end piece of the bag that's been left on the shelf for a week," Anderson said.

POSITIVE PARTNERSHIP

Jerry Huth and Josh Scharf are beef cattle farmers in Oakfield. Huth has been farming since the 1960s and helms Huth Polled Herefords while also working with Scharf to run S&H Livestock Enterprises.

They have a combined 170 cows, each eating 50 to 60 pounds of wet grass daily. That's a lot of mouths to feed, so they connected with the DNR in 2016 to expand their pasture into an adjacent property under the DNR's Glacial Habitat Restoration Area program.

"Partnering with the DNR allows us to add a few more cows to our herd, which ultimately increases our profitability, keeps us going and puts food on our tables," Scharf said. "We also want to provide a nutritious product that's sustainable and environmentally sound.

"So it's a win-win for us and the DNR."

DNR staff learn more about conservation grazing practices and their value to the environment.

Oakfield beef cattle farmer Josh Scharf calls grasslands grazing “a winwin” that’s good for his cows, his bottom line, food production and the environment. “My entire family sees the benefits.”

When done right, conservation grazing with cattle helps maintain grasslands as they were when bison roamed the prairie.

With plenty of beef cattle to feed, Huth Polled Herefords has partnered with the DNR for managed grazing through the Glacial Habitat Restoration Area program.

GRASSLAND 2.0

A dedicated group of food producers, researchers and public and private sector folks are taking a grassroots approach to restoring much of the function of the original prairie.

Jackson, of UW-Madison, heads up Grassland 2.0, a project funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that works to transform livestock agriculture in the upper Midwest from grain-fed to grassland-fed production.

"It's really about trying to get folks to come together and collectivize their voices, so political and corporate organizations can't ignore the demand for a different kind of agriculture," Jackson said.

Grassland agriculture can be as profitable as grain-fed agriculture, or more so, though perhaps not as productive. But as societal demand for stable soil and climate, clean water and thriving biodiversity grows, grassland agriculture can be incentivized and rewarded with markets and policies to support these outcomes.

FULFILLING WORK

All of these experts agree on how essential it is to move toward a food system that finds ways to provide for our-

selves today while building the capacity for future generations to do the same — and look out for the ecosystem in the process.

Well-managed perennial grasslands provide a way to realize those goals.

"My entire family sees the benefits for wildlife on our grazing pastures," Scharf said. "If you come through here in June, you would be bowled over with the number of monarch butterflies and bees flying around, as well as bobolinks, turkeys and geese.

"It’s incredibly fulfilling to be able to make a living while at the same time having these amazing views outside our window.”

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

LEARN MORE

The federal government offers financial incentives to farmers and landowners to plant grasses through its Conservation Reserve Program; find out more at dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2676. For details on the Grassland 2.0 project, visit grasslandag.org.

Explore Wisconsin’s scenic water trails

A trail doesn’t have to be terra firma — not in Wisconsin, anyway. There are plenty of beautiful water trails to explore statewide.

Such trails are found along rivers, lakes and other waterways and are designed for small boats such as canoes and kayaks, rowboats or single sailboats. They are easily accessible via established launch points and often feature nearby amenities and points of interest.

Here are several Wisconsin water trails to enjoy.

LAKE MICHIGAN STATE WATER TRAIL

Wisconsin’s first designated state water trail, this 523-mile stretch is part of the overall 1,638-mile Lake Michigan Water Trail tracing the coastline of four states. You can find developed access sites in 11 Wisconsin lakeside counties, with carry-in points and camping opportunities also along the route.

dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2601

LAKE SUPERIOR WATER TRAIL

The Wisconsin segment of this northern Great Lakes trail extends more than 400 miles from Superior to the Michigan border. Ongoing efforts will extend the trail 3,000 miles from Minnesota to Ontario, Canada, promoting low-impact recreation and stewardship. Wisconsin highlights include wild estuaries, sandstone formations and the stunning cliffs and sea caves of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

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ANDREA ZANI

Apostle Islands sea caves

Lake Michigan near Cana Island Lighthouse

MILWAUKEE URBAN WATER TRAIL

Stretches of the Milwaukee, Menomonee and Kinnickinnic rivers are mapped for canoes, kayaks and small nonmotorized boats to create this city water trail. It passes the Milwaukee River Walk, historic Pabst Theater, Harley-Davidson Museum, Urban Ecology and Riveredge nature centers, American Family Field and more in Milwaukee and surrounding communities.

dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2616

WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS

The National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, designed to protect the ruggedness of special waterways, includes Wisconsin’s Wolf and St. Croix rivers plus the Namekagon, a St. Croix tributary. These 276 miles of river represent some of the most untouched and beautiful natural areas encountered in the state.

dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2631

LOWER WISCONSIN STATE RIVERWAY

Created in 1989, the riverway extends 92 miles from Prairie du Sac to the Mississippi River near Prairie du Chien, one of the longest areas of free-flowing river remaining in the Midwest. It’s perfect for smaller boats, paddlers and anglers, with larger watercraft limited because of the shallow and often-changing nature of the river.

dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2611

FABULOUS FOX WATER TRAIL

This water trail became part of the National Water Trails System last June, recognized for its high caliber and ability to bring recreational opportunities to urban areas. Stretching 158 miles from Waukesha County to Ottawa, Illinois, the Fabulous Fox has more than 70 access points, making it easy to explore.

dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2641

ROCK RIVER NATIONAL WATER TRAIL

Wisconsin and Illinois host the 320 miles of this trail, from Horicon Marsh to the Mississippi River at IllinoisIowa’s Quad Cities. The trail is important for its diverse landscape, recreation, history and ease of accessibility. Of the 155 access sites along the way, 50 are accessible for those with disabilities.

dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2626

Andrea Zani is managing editor of Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine.

LEARN MORE

Wisconsin has thousands of miles of water trails courtesy of numerous public-private partnerships and the DNR. Opportunities range from easy recreation to challenging outings for skilled paddlers with the right equipment. For information and links to dozens of water trails statewide, scan the QR code or check dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2596.

Wolf River

Milwaukee River

Lower Wisconsin River

NICK

Many Wisconsinites aren't sure what to do with their old gadgets, so these devices sit in closets and junk drawers until the end of time. In a 2021 DNR survey, 63% of households had at least one TV, computer, tablet or cellphone they no longer used.

The most common reasons for not recycling those electronics included not knowing where or how to do so, recycling cost, lack of convenient recycling locations and concerns about data security. But a solution might be simpler than you think.

Since 2010, the DNR has offered E-Cycle Wisconsin, a program created to make it easier to recycle TVs, computers, cellphones and related equipment for households and schools.

Each year, manufacturers of products covered by Wis-

consin's electronics recycling law must pay for electronics to be recycled. Doing so keeps these devices — and the hazardous materials like lead, mercury, cadmium and flame retardants they may contain — out of landfills and the environment.

Recyclers refurbish some devices to give them a second life, helping conserve valuable resources for reuse. Other devices, like those that are too old or broken, are dismantled and shredded to recover metal, plastic and glass. In most cases, recyclers can reuse or recycle more than 90% of the materials in electronics.

Most electronics collected for recycling are processed right here in Wisconsin, supporting jobs at high-tech recycling facilities. Nearly all the rest are handled in neighboring states in the Midwest.

The work continues to make it easier to recycle electronics in Wisconsin. A new DNR grant program and

Devices collected for disposal in Wisconsin help support jobs at high-tech recycling facilities in the state.

SARAH MURRAY

Since 2010, about 400 million pounds of electronics have been recycled in Wisconsin.

Properly recycling old electronics is essential to keep hazardous materials out of landfills.

increased funding from manufacturers have provided dozens of free recycling opportunities for eligible electronics, including TVs, in nearly half of Wisconsin's 72 counties. Last year, every county had at least one collection site or event registered with E-Cycle Wisconsin.

Sarah Murray is the DNR’s E-Cycle Wisconsin program coordinator.

LEARN MORE

The DNR has all you need to know about recycling electronics, including tips for individuals and businesses and details on collection sites, events and mail-back programs registered with E-Cycle Wisconsin. Scan the QR code or visit dnr.wi.gov/topic/ecycle to get started tackling your collection of dusty devices and tangled cords.

DAVID NEVALA

DAVID NEVALA

E-cycling events are a great way to unload unwanted electronic devices.

• 400 million pounds of electronics have been recycled in Wisconsin since January 2010, or nearly 70 pounds per state resident.

• Approximately 56 million pounds of steel, 9 million pounds of aluminum and 23 million pounds of copper have been recycled.

• Of the estimated 25.2 million devices in Wisconsin homes, 7.6 million devices are not in use.

• Wisconsin has more than 400 permanent e-cycling collection sites and hundreds of short-term collection sites and events.

Here’s what you need to know when recycling electronics in Wisconsin.

WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS?

• Find a map of local electronics collection sites and manufacturer mail-back programs at dnr.wi.gov/tiny/1411. Check the map regularly for newly posted one-day events in spring, summer and fall.

• Don’t leave electronics on the curb or put them in a bin with regular recycling.

HAVE A PLAN FOR YOUR DATA.

• Back up files you want to keep before wiping data from your device.

• Check with device manufacturers, operating system providers and electronics retailers for specific instructions or software, such as factory resets, to help with data wiping and protection.

• Disconnect from web- or cloud-based services,

websites, etc., especially those tied to a credit card or bank account or that automatically sync or upload files.

• Get help if needed — many electronics retailers or repair shops offer data wiping services.

• Look for recyclers certified by the National Association for Information Destruction or with clear data protection procedures.

DOES YOUR DEVICE STILL HAVE VALUE?

• Trade-in options for items like phones and computers may offer small rebates or credits for newer items in good condition. Check retailer or manufacturer websites for options.

• Don’t donate items unless people would want them — no one really wants old tube-style TVs, even if they work.

YOU MAY NEED TO PAY A FEE.

• Although electronics manufacturers help fund recycling, properly managing hazardous and toxic materials is costly.

• Fees help cover costs like packaging, collection site staff time, data security procedures and transportation for programs that don’t have another way of covering these expenses.

DAVID NEVALA

L. GRANT; ILLUSTRATIONS BY JADA THUR

There are an estimated 6 million acres of wetlands in Wisconsin. These critical ecosystems are in every county and spread across every landscape wherever water sits long enough to support water-loving plants. You’ll often find them between high areas and lakes or streams as a place where the land transitions from being really wet to dry.

Throughout the year, these areas often change — looking dry for most of the year but being filled with water for long enough during the spring that upland plants cannot thrive.

So why are wetlands so important? They’re a key piece of Mother Nature’s checks and balances, filtering water to improve its quality, storing excess water when we get a massive rainfall, offering habitat for a wide variety of animals and supplying water to our state’s lakes, rivers and streams.

These areas have been a source of food, medicine and materials for Wisconsin’s tribal communities in this region for thousands of years. And because of all of this, they serve as a great place for you to get outdoors and enjoy what Wisconsin has to offer through birdwatching, hunting, fishing and generally soaking in that fresh air.

As water flows through a wetland after a big snow melt or a day of heavy rain, the wetlands can slow down the water, letting it really soak down to the water table. And it keeps that big rush of water from going straight into our lakes and streams, absorbing some of the sediment and nutrients that floodwaters can carry.

There are many different types of wetlands that all serve slightly different purposes. But at the end of the day, things like the introduction of invasive species and hydrologic changes from extreme weather have the potential to affect the natural benefits provided by these special spaces.

Turn the page to see how wetlands work and why they’re important to protect and enhance across Wisconsin.

KATIE

CAN YOU FIND ALL 3 ENDANGERED/THREATENED SPECIES IN THIS WETLAND HABITAT?

Blanding’s Turtle

Great Egret

Blanchard’s Cricket Frog

ZACH WOOD

From the thrilling feeling of zipping across the water to the challenge of learning new moves, Grace Petzold had always been enthralled with waterskiing.

“I grew up skiing on Boom Lake in Rhinelander in the summers and started skiing a competitive team in middle school. For as long as I can remember, waterskiing has always been a huge part of my life,” she said.

Her love of the sport grew even deeper after a trip to Florida in 2014. There, Petzold was able to ski with her mother, Wendy, who has been paralyzed since high school, for the first time thanks to an adaptive water ski. The extra-wide ski had special equipment allowing someone to ski in a seated position.

“That was something I never thought I'd get to do,” Petzold said. “It meant so much to me to share that moment with her. After that, I just knew I wanted to find a way to make that feeling available to more people.”

Less than a year later, Grace and her parents founded Graceful Wakes, a nonprofit dedicated to providing adaptive waterskiing opportunities to people with disabilities.

Based in Mequon, the organization hosted its first event in the summer of 2016. As interest has grown, the group has offered more clinics around the state each summer since, often in partnership with local ski clubs.

JOY ON THE WATER

Graceful Wakes events typically are capped at 30-40 participants to ensure everyone gets multiple runs on the water.

“We want to ensure all our attendees have a great and memorable time,” Petzold said. “The best part is seeing the smiles and the laughter while on the water.”

GRACEFUL WAKES PHOTOS

Grace Petzold, right, skis with her parents, who collaborated with her to create Graceful Wakes, waterskiing for people with disabilities.

Petzold also makes a point of inviting participants’ families to the clinics.

“We really try to make this a memorable day for the whole family,” she said.

These events are certainly memorable for Stacey Franzmeier, whose daughter, Ashlyn, has attended multiple events in Rhinelander.

“These events have become the highlights of our summers. It really is a full family day,” she said. “We all get to see Ashlyn ride on the adaptive ski, which is wonderful on its own, and they have pontoon rides and inner tubing for the families.

“Everyone goes home happy — and tired.”

FREEDOM TO SKI

Hosting each event is no small feat. It typically involves as many as 30 volunteers tackling tasks ranging from side-skiing (skiing on either side of the adaptive ski to provide support) to driving the boats and more.

“There are a lot of moving parts involved in putting one of our clinics together,” Petzold said. “But it's always so worth it to see the smiles on the faces of participants and hear the feedback from parents and relatives.”

Petzold recalled the reaction of one woman whose 10-year-old son participated in a clinic despite being so afraid of the water that he hated bath time and would walk out of his way to avoid puddles.

That was until he saw a local ski show and immediately told his mother he wanted to do that someday. Although encouraged by the boy's enthusiasm, her heart ached as she thought he'd never be able to waterski due to his disability.

“That’s one of those stories that will stay with me forever,” Petzold said. “His mother ran up to me after the day's events and told me, through tears, that he was smiling throughout the day (of the clinic) and that Graceful Wakes made a dream come true for him, and her.”

Believing that waterskiing can offer a sense of freedom for people, Petzold relishes her small role in bringing the activity to those who otherwise might not experience it.

“It is so rewarding to provide that freedom for people,” she said, “even if just for the day.”

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

Graceful Wakes brings waterskiing to all abilities — and joy to those on the water.

LEARN MORE

For information about Graceful Wakes, including details on future clinics, follow the group’s Facebook page — facebook. com/gracefulwakes — or email Grace Petzold at Grace@gracefulwakes.com.

ANDI SEDLACEK

Nearly half of Wisconsin is covered with trees, providing wildlife habitat, protecting against soil erosion, cleaning the air, and providing shade and windbreaks. Get to know four of the state’s most common tree species.

You can find Wisconsin's state tree throughout the state. The leaves create the brilliant yellow, orange and red colors we love in fall. This iconic American tree can grow 80-100 feet tall. The bark on young trees is light gray to brown and somewhat smooth. Older trees have gray to almost black bark with long, irregular plates or scales that often loosen on the sides.

Sap from sugar maples is used to make maple syrup, making Wisconsin the fourth-largest producer of maple syrup in the U.S.

Also called white or canoe birch, this is one of Wisconsin’s most identifiable trees. The chalky white, often peeling bark of mature trees is quite striking, especially when a tree reaches 65-70 feet tall, as paper birches can. Bark of young trees is reddish-brown. Leaves can be oval to triangular with a pointed end. In spring and summer, they are dark green on top and yellowish-green on the bottom; in the fall, they turn golden yellow. The fruit of a paper birch is called a catkin and is about 1 inch long with tiny, winged seeds that drop throughout fall and into winter.

This evergreen tree is primarily found in the northern half of Wisconsin, but during the winter holidays, you’ll see it throughout the state as a common type of holiday tree. It's also used for pulpwood to make paper.

In the forest, balsam firs can grow 40-60 feet tall. They have a narrow shape with orderly branches. Dark green needles are about an inch long with a rounded point. The bark is thin, smooth and marked by blisters filled with resin or balsam pitch. In fall, balsam firs produce purple cones about 2-4 inches long.

Despite its name, the northern red oak grows abundantly around Wisconsin. After sugar maple and red maple, it's the state’s most common tree by volume.

Red oaks can reach 70-90 feet, growing tall and straight with gray to brown bark characterized by flat ridges. Leaves can be quite big, 5-9 inches long and 4-6 inches wide, recognizable with sharp lobes down the edges. In spring and summer, the leaves are a rich green and turn bright red and brown in fall.

Red oak acorns are rather small, usually about an inch long. They take two seasons to mature and drop, versus white oak acorns, which take one.

Andi Sedlacek is a publications supervisor in the DNR's Office of Communications.

Launched in 2017, the Wisconsin Community Tree Map, an inventory of urban trees across the state, recently hit the 1 million tree mark — and counting. The database offers a compilation of urban tree inventories from more than 200 organizations, including municipalities statewide.

With information like species compositions and size distribution, it can be a powerful management, scientific, marketing and educational tool. Visit the map to see what trees are in your neighborhood at pg-cloud.com/Wisconsin.

WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Whether you’re a Wisconsinite hitting the road for a summer trip or a visitor traveling in the Badger State, you’ll probably notice how Wisconsin’s roadsides blossom throughout the growing season.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation manages more than 150,000 acres of highway roadsides statewide using a natural roadside philosophy to protect, restore and maintain native plant communities. These efforts preserve the native Wisconsin landscape, efficiently manage vegetation and increase travelers’ enjoyment.

“Millions of people travel on Wisconsin highways every year and witness the natural beauty of our state,” WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson said. “Our natural roadside philosophy reinforces our commitment to keep Wisconsin beautiful for current and future generations.”

Roadsides are defined as the vegetated areas in highway medians and along a highway, typically between the edge of pavement and the adjacent property line. WisDOT dedicates resources to maintaining these spaces for traveler safety, partnering with county highway departments and other specialized contractors on routine maintenance such as mowing, litter cleanup, vegetation management and roadway repairs.

WISDOT PHOTOS

Native plants along roadways, like these near I-90/94 in southwest Wisconsin, provide protection from flooding and erosion while adding natural habitat for pollinators.

NATURAL ROADSIDE EFFORTS

Roadside projects have significantly grown and evolved over the years. These days, WisDOT emphasizes using native plants when planting trees and shrubs for construction or maintenance projects, part of the natural roadside philosophy that began in the 1950s. Some of this work includes collaboration with the DNR.

Current projects include:

• Karner blue butterfly habitat conservation. Since the 1990s, WisDOT has adjusted roadside maintenance activities in identified Karner blue conservation areas to help ensure survival of this federally endangered species, partnering with the DNR to fine-tune ongoing work. In 2016, Karner blue numbers reportedly doubled in Wisconsin.

• Living snow fence program. Native shrubs are installed along sections of Wisconsin highway rightsof-way to create a buffer that traps blowing and drifting snow before it reaches a road, waterway, farmstead or community. The vegetation also provides resources for pollinators. Watch for black weed barrier fabric along the roadside, a key indicator of a living snow fence.

• Pollinator gardens. More than 30 species of grasses and flowering plants have been planted to enhance state rest areas and provide pollinator resources, including milkweed, blackeyed Susan and purple coneflowers. Recent pollinator garden additions can be found at rest areas along I-39/90/94 near Poynette in Columbia County.

Living snow fences incorporate native shrubs to create a vegetation buffer that controls blowing snow along highways in winter and provides important pollinator resources during warmer months.

• Remnant prairie sites. WisDOT works to maintain presettlement prairie landscapes with an integrated vegetation management approach that benefits pollinators. In January 2022, WisDOT became a partner in the Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances, an initiative of the Rights-of-Way as Habitat Working Group to help monarch butterflies. This voluntary agreement approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service encourages land management measures benefiting monarchs, such as prairie burns and invasive species control, along highway rights-of-way.

On your next drive through the state, enjoy the native Wisconsin landscape and look for these projects.

LEARN MORE

Using native plants for roadsides has important benefits. Among other things, these plants:

• Provide habitat for pollinators.

• Absorb storm water runoff and aid erosion control.

• Preserve Wisconsin’s natural heritage.

• Reduce costs, with less maintenance required once established.

For more on WisDOT’s natural roadside efforts, scan the QR code or go to dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2666.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation employs roadside maintenance practices that benefit monarch butterflies, including efforts involving milkweed, the only food source for monarch caterpillars.

If you’re looking for somewhere near La Crosse to explore the outdoors, all while enjoying beautiful vistas and no crowds, we know the perfect spot: Rush Creek State Natural Area.

With 3,200 acres to explore, the site is often called one of the “crown jewels” of state natural areas because of its unique habitats, including towering 400-foot bluffs that scale the Mississippi River and incredible biodiversity.

“We have fewer and fewer wild places, and at Rush Creek, you can walk a long time without seeing a car or a person,” said Justin Nooker, DNR ecologist and land manager. “You feel like you're in the middle of nowhere.”

As soon as you start exploring, you’ll see why Rush Creek was chosen for an innovative conservation project, a partnership between the DNR and the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin. Started in January 2022, the project aims to restore and reconnect nearly 1,000 acres at Rush Creek and reimagine habitat management to align with climate change projections.

Rush Creek project takes on climate change

“That site is really important already, and we know it’ll be even more important as the climate changes and species see it as a refuge,” said Caitlin Williamson, director of conservation for the Natural Resources Foundation.

“The goal is to make Rush Creek as resilient to potential climate change impacts as possible.”

The pioneering team at Rush Creek also shares findings with other land managers so they can take care of their lands as climate conditions change.

With potential to attract vulnerable species such as the ottoe skipper and rusty patched bumblebee, Rush Creek has become a priority site for pollinator support efforts of the DNR and the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin.

EMMA MACEK

DIVERSE PLANTS AND ANIMALS

Climate change is already affecting Wisconsin. The 2021 Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts Assessment Report shows that the past two decades have been the state’s warmest since accurate statewide records began in the 1890s.

The report also shares that Wisconsin is having more frequent extreme rainfall events, and severe storms could be twice as frequent in the state by the end of the century. Such “gully washers” mean stormwater flows rapidly across the landscape rather than slowly percolating into the soil. This, coupled with increasing dry periods between rain events and less winter snowpack, could lead to droughts.

Rush Creek State Natural Area in Crawford County utilizes prescribed burns, left, and other tools to manage its diverse landscapes, which include important habitat for pollinators and steep bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River.

Researchers think Rush Creek can tolerate some changes because of its unique features. The climate adaptation project aims to make the site even more prepared, using a mix of traditional ecological restoration and newer climate adaptation practices.

For example, fire-adapted oak and prairie native ecosystems may better cope with climate pressures and be more resilient to warmer, drier conditions.

“We are seeing more drought and extreme heat, and the prairie and oak savanna plants at Rush Creek will probably be quite resilient to those changes,” said Amy Staffen, DNR conservation biologist.

“These plant communities do just fine in areas with thin soils and on the steep, rocky, west-facing bluffs where hot and dry conditions prevail.”

Rush Creek’s vegetation also can help with stormwater runoff, which can wash away soils and cause flooding, Staffen added.

“Prairies, woodlands and wetlands help mitigate climate change by intercepting gully-washing storms and slowing down the flow of stormwater,” she noted, pointing to the site’s diverse landforms and species as another plus. “Diversification is important, and Rush Creek has diversification at every level.”

The property’s diverse habitats span about 2 miles, including upland and lowland forests, spring-fed trout streams and globally rare natural communities like dry prairie and oak savanna.

Rush Creek hosts thousands of resident species, including many amphibians, reptiles, invertebrates, insects, birds and plants. It is also on the Mississippi Flyway, an important route for migrating birds.

The terrain can be rugged and conditions harsh at Rush Creek State Natural Area, one of Wisconsin’s true wild places. Visitors should prepare with proper gear and plenty of water.

BEN ALBERT

BUILDING SUPPORT

The Natural Resources Foundation has helped fund Rush Creek management since the organization began and thought the site would be a perfect fit for a project with help from the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Climate Adaptation Fund. Supported by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, the fund backs projects implementing innovative solutions to climate change for people and wildlife.

In 2020, Staffen worked with the Northern Institute of Applied Climate Science and DNR property managers to create an Adaptation Workbook for Rush Creek. Such a workbook helps land managers navigate climate change and review current management practices.

Once Rush Creek’s Adaptation Workbook was finalized, a three-year climate adaptation proposal was submitted to the Climate Adaptation Fund in 2021. Part of the proposal included developing a “climate-ready” planting list for a former agricultural field slated to be converted to prairie.

Rush Creek was awarded $300,000, which was matched with funds from the Caerus Foundation, Brico Fund, Ed and Patty Neumueller, the DNR and the Natural Resources Foundation to total $600,000 for Rush Creek.

“It’s full circle to see our involvement in the early ’90s and fast forward to today and see how much has already happened on the site,” Williamson said.

ADAPTATION IN ACTION

At the start of the climate adaptation project, Rush Creek had prairie “islands” overgrown and separated by woody vegetation and invasive species. Those are being reconnected to create a consistent prairie habitat and provide corridors for species to move between islands.

These steps will help increase gene flow and species interaction and reduce inbreeding recession for plants and animals.

Creating a gradual transition from open prairie to savanna to forest will reduce the threat of wind at the forest’s edge during severe storms.

“The climate-ready plantings will have much higher numbers of species than typical plantings, with species that tolerate a variety of climate conditions, hedging bets toward successful establishment,” Staffen said.

In addition, the team is restoring oak savanna and woodlands through prescribed fire and tree thinning.

“If we continue to protect forests and allow them to mature, older or slow-growing trees — oaks in particular — are very good at capturing and storing carbon,” which will help mitigate climate change, Staffen said.

The team at Rush Creek shares findings with other land managers, both public and private, using tools such as the Adaptation Workbook

Conservation practitioners tour Rush Creek last September to learn about the state natural area’s climate adaptation project.

Prairie mowing at Rush Creek aids the success of the planting while helping to control invasive species.

Following brush control and tree canopy thinning, new blooms of bergamot sprout in an area of Rush Creek that hadn’t seen the native wildflower for more than five years.

and field days. The goal is to provide actionable, climate-smart steps for others to try at their properties.

“Through the workbook, we found that a lot of work we’re doing is climate adaptive, but it made us think outside the box with novel practices that aren't done a lot or are newer,” Nooker said.

To monitor the project’s success, the team will compare vegetation plots before and after treatment, complete bird surveys and survey rare species. Team members also will compare Rush Creek results to the nearby Hogback Prairie State Natural Area, which Nooker manages using traditional methods.

JUST THE BEGINNING

Rush Creek’s climate adaptation project is expected to wrap up in a few years, but the team hopes the project will branch into other opportunities.

“Nearby, there’s Sugar Creek Bluff, Battle Bluff Prairie (both state natural areas) and many private landowners who are hearing about the project and getting energized by it,” Williamson said. “There are lots of opportunities to take this work further.”

With the unpredictability of climate

wide range of flora and fauna.

Ongoing work at Rush Creek State Natural Area includes using prescribed burns, tree thinning and other practices to restore habitats and support the property’s climate resilience.

change, some strategies might not work, but protecting natural areas and thinking about management in new ways are essential first steps.

“Climate change is daunting, and this is one way we can make a difference,” Williamson said. “We need to make sure our natural areas and places like Rush Creek are healthy to the best extent possible so wildlife have a place to go and their needs are met as changes happen.”

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

The DNR’s Amy Staffen, who led the development of Rush Creek’s Adaptation Workbook, discusses details with other conservation practitioners during a group visit to the property last September.

LEARN MORE

For general information about Rush Creek State Natural Area, check dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2661. For details on the climate adaptation project at the site, see dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2671.

Wild prairies and Mississippi River views await at Rush Creek, where diverse habitats provide vital resources for a

If you’ve spent any time on the shores of Wisconsin’s lakes, chances are you recognize the ghostly call of the common loon. But aside from their sunset songs, how much do you really know about this aquatic migratory bird?

The common loon (Gavia immer) spends most of its life on the water, nesting on nearby shorelines. Loons prefer sheltered banks to make their nests and raise young, often returning year after year to the same site.

Wisconsin boasts an estimated summer loon population of nearly 4,000 adults, most of which reside in the northern half of the state. The loon has largely patterned black and white plumage during the summer months. In winter, they go gray and migrate from our freshwater lakes primarily to southern coastlines.

A unique adaptation gives loons access to vast marine wintering grounds — a special gland above the eyes allows the bird to filter and flush salty water through the nasal passages. In summer, loons take up residence on lakes with crystal clear water to aid in spotting food, primarily perch and sunfish.

Loons are excellent anglers uniquely suited for the water. Their legs are situated far back on long bodies, allowing them to glide easily under the surface. This leg positioning also lets the bird thrust its body with great speed and agility when fishing.

Recognized for their mystical call, loons are summer visitors to many Wisconsin lakes.

KERI SCHLECHT

Loons are expert divers with spearshaped bills for jabbing prey. Their red eyes have been thought to allow for better depth perception underwater, though loons only retain this characteristic crimson color throughout the summer.

LOOKING OUT FOR LOONS

Overall, populations of common loons are stable, but many areas are seeing numbers decrease for myriad reasons.

• Lakefront development results in the loss of habitat along the shoreline.

• Water quality issues can impact loons’ ability to secure food and feed their young.

• Lake disturbances from recreational activities can wash away nests and eggs, further impacting populations.

So, what can Wisconsinites do to help? Get involved in local volunteer efforts!

One important program is LoonWatch from Northland College in Ashland — northland.edu/centers/soei/loonwatch.

Activities include educating “Loon Rangers” on how to monitor and maintain healthy loon habitats throughout Wisconsin. LoonWatch’s Annual Lakes Monitoring Program organizes volunteers to collect data that can detect population fluctuations and inform statewide strategies to mitigate loss.

Sheltered shoreline banks provide perfect cover for loons to nest, and they often return to the same territory year after year.

Loons are expert swimmers with spear-shaped bills for nabbing underwater prey, mostly small fish.

Many Wisconsin lakes have their own informal loon watch committees dedicated to education and monitoring. For example, the Fence Lake Association in Vilas County has a Loon Committee to coordinate volunteer efforts — friendsoffencelake.org/the-loon-committee.

Recently, Fence Lake initiated efforts at its boat landing to collect discarded fishing line and lead weights. Birds can get tangled in the line, while lead weights can be ingested by fish that are then eaten by loons and eagles, causing lead poisoning for these birds.

Another effort, the nonprofit Loon Project, works to gather data on loon populations and breeding ecology in Wisconsin and Minnesota to aid conservation efforts — loonproject.org.

Keri Schlecht is a freelance writer and editor in Madison.

LINDSAY HAAS AND CRAIG CZARNECKI

Last spring and summer, it felt like every week, air quality in Wisconsin was impacted by one thing or another. Here’s why.

In 2023, Canada had a record-breaking year for wildfires, fueled by record-high temperatures and widespread drought conditions. More than 40 million acres burned — an area larger than Wisconsin. Typically, wildfire consumes an average of 6 million acres of land annually in Canada.

The DNR’s Air Management Program issued 20 ozone advisories during the spring and summer months and 14 air quality advisories over the 2023 fire season, including a multi-day air quality advisory in late June. During that early summer stretch, the DNR’s air monitoring network measured some of the highest concentrations of particulate matter, known as PM2.5, or particle pollution ever recorded in the state.

Festge County Park in Cross Plains, under a haze of wildfire smoke last summer.

WHAT IS PARTICLE POLLUTION?

Particle pollution is a general term for a mixture of solids and liquid droplets suspended in the air. There are many sources of particle pollution, but the most common are combustion-related activities, such as fuel burning and wildfires.

PM2.5 has a diameter of 2.5 microns or less. For perspective, there are 1,000 microns in 1 millimeter, so the particles in this air pollution are tiny.

Because they are so small, they can penetrate deep into the respiratory tract and even enter the bloodstream. This can cause health problems, particularly for those in sensitive groups, like people with heart and lung ailments, asthma, children and older adults.

According to the EPA, fires — including wildfires and prescribed fires — account for 44% of the nation's primary PM2.5 emissions.

HOW FAR-AWAY SMOKE IMPACTS US

Large wildfires produce significant amounts of smoke and supply the atmosphere with energy, sometimes even causing atmospheric phenomena such as lightning and extreme winds. These conditions allow the smoke to permeate the portion of the atmosphere where we live and breathe.

Even the sunlight seems affected by lingering smoke from wildfires.

*making sure the air flow arrow goes toward the box fan

Once separated from the direct impacts of the fires, smoke plumes can be transported long distances by high- and low-pressure systems. Although smoke plumes often remain elevated well above where we live and breathe, a low-pressure system’s frontal boundaries, or the general descending air from a high-pressure system, can sometimes lead to significant smoke impacts at the surface hundreds or even thousands of miles away from where the smoke originated.

FUTURE OF WILDFIRE SMOKE

Historically, wildfires and their smoke impact Wisconsin in late summer. However, wildfire season has been starting earlier in recent years.

Many factors must align for major smoke events to occur. Wisconsin experienced that last summer, combining persistent drought conditions, high temperatures and just the right weather conditions.

As wildfire season expands and lengthens, wildfires will continue to happen and impact air quality.

The best way to prevent breathing particles during significant wildfire smoke events is to stay inside. Make sure all windows and doors to your home are closed.

Last year, Madison and other cities saw multiple days with air quality advisories issued by the DNR.

If needed, upgrade your air conditioning and heating filters. The EPA recommends filters with a MERV rating of 13 or higher. MERV stands for “minimum efficiency reporting value” and measures how well a filter removes particles from the air. Finally, use an indoor air purifier or create your own using a box fan and furnace filters.

If you must go outside during a wildfire smoke event, watch for symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath, as these are signs to take a break or go inside. Consider wearing an N95 mask, especially if you’re outside for a lengthy time, and avoid or limit exercising outdoors.

Lindsay Haas and Craig Czarnecki are communications staff in the DNR’s Air Management Program.

STAY AIR AWARE

This summer, keep updated on air quality by following these tips:

• Before leaving the house and throughout the day, check air quality conditions for your location at fire.airnow.gov or airquality.wi.gov/home/map.

• Sign up to receive air quality advisory notices from the DNR. Scan the QR code or check dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2721.

ANDREA ZANI

Look around your yard — what’s that weed? It could be a harmless flower you’d want to keep, or it might be an invasive species.

Here’s a quick primer on four common invasives, how to recognize them on the landscape and how to handle them when you do. For details on these and the 100-plus other terrestrial plants listed as invasive under Wisc. Admin. Code NR 40, check dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2711.

WILD PARSNIP (PASTINACA SATIVA)

Harm done: Can cause blisters and rashes if sap contacts skin in sunlight. (Giant hogweed, Heracleum mantegazzianum, is another carrot family plant that causes blistering.)

Look for: Plants growing in sunny areas up to 5 feet tall, with grooved stems, toothed leaves and small yellow flowers.

Control: Pull completely or cut from the taproot. Mowing can work if done before seeds enlarge to avoid spreading. Foliar herbicides are effective.

Harm done: Quickly takes over landscapes, even covering shrubs and small trees.

Look for: Dense carpet-forming plants with purple-pink and white flowers.

Control: Hand-pull, including roots, for minor infestations. Repeatedly mow larger patches or cover with black landscape plastic or fabric for one growing season. Foliar sprays offer chemical control.

CROWN VETCH (SECURIGERA VARIA)

Wild parsnip

Beware fields of wild parsnip, which can cause skin blistering when contacted in sunlight.

Crown vetch

TATARIAN HONEYSUCKLE (LONICERA TATARICA)

Harm done: Alters habitats by reducing light and depleting soil. May release chemicals inhibiting other plants.

Look for: Dense, deciduous shrubs with multiple stems growing 6-12 feet (several species of honeysuckle exist in Wisconsin).

Control: Dig or pull smaller plants. Prescribed burns are used on large areas, and chemical treatments are available.

GARLIC MUSTARD (ALLIARIA PETIOLATA)

Harm done: Can take over landscapes, usually in shady areas, suppressing native plants.

Look for: Dark green basal leaves on firstyear plants, and triangular stem leaves with large teeth on second-year plants. Small white flowers bloom in spring.

Control: Pull plants, including taproots, and place in a plastic bag for trash disposal. Chemical control works for dense infestations.

Invasive plants can grow anywhere and quickly overwhelm native species, negatively affecting the environment, economy and human health. But there are many ways to help rid the landscape of these harmful invaders.

Learn about invasives: June is Invasive Species Action Month, and getting educated on invasives is an excellent first step. The DNR has you covered; dnr.wi.gov/topic/invasives. Also check out the First Detector Network from UW-Madison Extension, fyi.extension.wisc.edu/wifdn, and the Renz Weed Science Lab, an especially good resource for land managers, renzweedscience.cals.wisc.edu.

Join IPAW: The nonprofit Invasive Plants Association of Wisconsin promotes natural resources stewardship by helping people understand invasives and how to stop their spread; ipaw.org.

Support a CISMA: Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas work regionally in Wisconsin, coordinating resources, expertise and local action against invasives; dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2706.

Volunteer at an SNA: Wisconsin’s beautiful state natural areas need your help to keep them healthy with tasks such as controlling invasive species and collecting seeds of native plants to spread their growth; dnr.wi.gov/tiny/2556.

Andrea Zani is managing editor of Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine.

Shady areas are prime candidates for garlic mustard infestations.

Tatarian honeysuckle

Garlic mustard

Along the banks of the Sugar River, just 12 miles from downtown Madison, lies Paoli, a small village experiencing a big moment in the spotlight. Upon visiting, there’s no mistaking why.

Whether it’s enjoying the outdoors, shopping or sitting on a patio with local beer and music, Paoli offers a little something for everyone.

One of the newest businesses on the block is Seven Acre Dairy Co. Residing in a lovingly restored 19th century dairy factory, Seven Acre is Wisconsin to its core. Along one edge flows a meandering spring-fed Driftless Region waterway, and throughout the property stand oaks growing since before Wisconsin’s statehood.

When Nic Mink and his wife, Danika, decided they wanted to leave the corporate world and take on a new challenge, Paoli came calling.

“We were inspired to start this project to preserve a large red oak we first saw on the property,” Mink said. “From there, we started learning the stories of the dairy farmers and factory work-

ers who delivered to and worked in the building … it was a no brainer.”

Thanks to Mink, the Seven Acre building is on the National Register of Historic Places as well as Wisconsin’s state register.

“It’s one of my proudest professional accomplishments,” he said. “This building is such an incredible reflection of Wisconsin dairy history, and it could have been razed or scrapped.”

KATIE L. GRANT NIKKI

A restored dairy factory in a beautiful historic building, Seven Acre Dairy Co. in Paoli is a welcome addition to the Dane County town’s vibrant scene. Dining at Seven Acre Dairy features a commitment to local sustainability, sourcing from the surrounding Sugar River Valley as much as possible.

NIKKI HANSEN

DAIRY AND SPIRITS

Although the building is a critical component of Seven Acre’s success, thinking local and emphasizing sustainability are cornerstones of the business.

“Of course, we have our seven acres that we're stewards of, but we also think about the importance of local agriculture in building our factory, and we really want to continue that tradition,” Mink said. “Seven Acre is, and will be, a place where local food and local agriculture are at its center.”

Seven Acre has become one of the smallest licensed dairy producers in the state, returning production to the facility with the help of Landmark Creamery. That means dairy has now been produced in the facility across three centuries.

SEVEN ACRE BUTTER CORN RISOTTO

Milk and whey from right down the street at Fischerdale Holsteins go into the butter and soft serve that delight guests in the operation’s Dairy Café. Sourcing local ingredients is just one of the ways Seven Acre works to minimize its environmental impact.

Whey was of particular interest to Mink, who really wanted to find ways to put it to use. The cloudy liquid left over when curds are strained from the liquid milk, whey is an abundant byproduct in the process of making many dairy items.

In collaboration with Copper Crow Distillery in Bayfield (the first indigenous distiller in the U.S.), Seven Acre has found a unique approach to using this often-discarded liquid gold — in spirits. “Cheese Cave Dave’s Whey Spirit” is a neutral vodka-like liquor found only at the facility in Paoli.

No, Cheese Cave Dave isn’t real, though he is based on Mink’s uncle. “We certainly could have imagined someone like him living in the cheese caves,” Mink said.

DINING LOCALLY

Another facet of Seven Acre, within the same restored building, is The Kitchen — described by Mink as “part supper club, part grandma’s kitchen, but elevated just enough that people are excited to come eat there.”

Intended to be an inclusive space, the restaurant centers its menu on local produce and meats, sourced as much from the Sugar River Valley as possible. It’s just one more way Seven Acre supports local agriculture.

Whether you’re stopping by for an upscale dinner on date night, to grab coffee on a beautiful Saturday morning or to enjoy a refreshing grasshopper cocktail by the Sugar River on a hot summer day, it’s easy to see the thoughtful ways Seven Acre has incorporated the commitment to local sustainability into the restoration of the historic dairy factory.

Katie L. Grant is communications director for the DNR.

LEARN MORE

For details about Seven Acre Dairy Co. in Paoli, check sevenacredairyco.com.

Celebrate June Dairy Month and Wisconsin’s dairy culture at home by making this comforting butter corn risotto from Seven Acre Dairy Co. chef Troy Cox. Add a sustainable flair to your own version by shopping local at your farmer’s market or choosing local dairy and produce at your grocery store. Make meal time easier by completing steps 1 and 2 a day or two before, bringing the rest of the dish together just before serving.

INGREDIENTS

1 stick local butter

2 ounces diced shallots

8 ounces Arborio rice

12 ounces Pinot Grigio or any dry white wine; more vegetable stock will work if you’d prefer 1½ quarts vegetable stock

1 cup sweet corn, removed from the cob

2 ounces chopped chives

½ cup heavy whipping cream

6 ounces grated gruyere like Roth Grand Cru Salt, to taste

3 tablespoons honey

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat a large flat-bottomed pan to low heat. Add ¼ cup of butter (half a stick). Once melted, add shallots and cook until translucent. Add rice and increase heat to medium-low, cooking until rice is just starting to toast. Add wine, cooking for about two minutes until the alcohol has cooked off, then add vegetable stock. Lower heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is tender.

2. If making ahead, remove rice from pan and spread across a sheet tray to cool.

3. Heat a sauté pan over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter and melt, then add corn and chives. Cook for about 30 seconds, then add heavy cream.

4. Immediately after adding the cream, add rice to the pan. Reduce the cream, heating the mixture through.

5. Fold in the grated cheese while the mixture continues to reduce. Season with salt, to taste. Fold in honey and remove from heat.

6. Serve hot off the stove, garnishing with a knob of butter and grated cheese.

ANDI SEDLACEK

Summer is aflutter with butterflies. While enjoy ing the sun this season, watch for these native butterflies in your backyard or at the park. Better yet, be a community scientist and help us track these important creatures by sharing your sightings at inaturalist.org or wisconsinbutterflies.org/butterfly.

SWALLOWTAILS

We have a few different kinds of swallowtails here in Wisconsin.

Black swallowtails are found throughout the state in sunny backyards and other open areas such as fields and parks. They enjoy nectar from flowers like purple coneflower, milkweed and native thistles.

Eastern tiger swallowtails are common through out the southern part of Wisconsin. You can usually find them near wooded areas. As you go north in Wisconsin, you'll instead see its close relative, the Canadian tiger swallowtail. Eastern tiger swallow tails like many kinds of flowers, such as butterfly weed, Joe-Pye weed, milkweed and ironweed.

Giant swallowtails are not as common, but they are very recognizable. They can have a wingspan of up to 5 inches! You'll be more likely to spot one in southern Wisconsin. They're usually found near the woods. Their nectar of choice comes from wild ber gamot, blazing star, goldenrod and swamp milkweed.

MEADOW FRITILLARY

These butterflies are dressed for Halloween with orange and black patterned wings spanning 1½ to 2 inches. Look for them in wet, marshy areas and meadows throughout Wisconsin. They enjoy the nectar of native plants like black-eyed Susans.

PAINTED LADY

Painted lady butterflies migrate to Wisconsin and are found statewide, but the numbers we see here change every year. Some years, they are common. In other years, you'd be lucky to see one!

Their black/brown and orange wings are spotted with white. Their wings are 2 to 3 inches across, making them medium-sized for a butterfly. They love gardens and open spaces. They also love nectar from flowers like native thistles, aster and blazing star.

ISTOCK/SCGERDING

ISTOCK/WILLIAMHC

Black swallowtail male

Black swallowtail female

Eastern swallowtail

Painted lady

Giant swallowtail

These cute little butterflies have a wingspan of just 1 inch and are easy to find. Look for vibrant orange and black on the top of their wings and a soft gray color with an orange and black

You can find American coppers statewide, though only a little in the far northern part of the state. You're likely to see them in open areas like lawns and fields. They like to sip on the nectar of common buttercup, white clover, butter-

Not many things in nature are blue, but some butterflies are! The eastern tailed-blue is one of them, and it's common around the state.

Males have blue wings, and females have black wings. Both are pretty small, with a wingspan of 7/8 to 1/8 inches. Both males and females have a short tail on each wing complemented by orange dots. Watch for eastern tailed-blue beauties in open, sunny places such as parks and prairies. They like to dine on the nectar of flowers close to the ground, like clover.

Clouded sulphur butterflies are very common in Wisconsin. They are unique because they don't hibernate over the winter. Their wings are a delicate light yellow with a thin black border and a few spots. Their wingspan ranges from 1½ to 2¾ inches. They're most abundant in hay fields with lots of alfalfa and clover.

Andi Sedlacek is a publications supervisor in the DNR's Office of Communications.

Wisconsin has many rare and declining pollinators, including several state-protected and federally protected species and other species of concern. What does that mean? Well, you’re lucky if you find one!

• Swamp metalmark

• Monarch

• Ottoe skipper

• Northern blue

• Karner blue

• Poweshiek skipperling

• Regal fritillary

EXPERIENCE WISCONSIN‘S NATURAL WONDERS WITH TOP-NOTCH LEADERS

Hundreds of spaces are still available on Field Trips across the state! Become a member and sign up for your Wisconsin adventure. WISCONSERVATION.ORG/FIELD-TRIPS

After an extended drought and busy fire season, coupled with memories of widespread smoke from Canadian wildfires in 2023, fire management may be on the minds of many in Wisconsin as spring turns to summer. Let's face it — wildfires are here to stay.

The DNR has a wide variety of tools to fight these fires, with new technology, better mapping and modern equipment all contributing to the evolution of firefighting. Despite the many advances, fire suppression itself is approached much the same way it was years ago.

The primary goal of the DNR’s fire suppression program is and has been to position resources ahead of time and attack fires quickly from the ground. This helps minimize fire growth and contain the fire, protecting lives, property and natural resources.

HISTORIC TOOLS

At the turn of the 20th century, Wisconsinites viewed fire as less of a helpful instrument (such as prescribed burns) and more of an adversary. Large-scale, widespread fires burned millions of acres and ravaged towns. Organized forest fire protection and managed forestry had yet to take hold in the state.

Wildfires began innocently enough. Trains chugging down northern rail lines threw sparks and smokestack embers, igniting brush. Farmers and loggers burned slash piles, and things would get out of control. Smaller intentional fires were set to combat these fires by removing potential fuel, but often grew to larger fire events.

Fighting fires involved horse-drawn steam pumpers and simple hand tools. Telegraph wires were the primary method of communication when fires occurred. The problem? Often, the lines were charred long before anyone could call for help or learn of oncoming flames.

CATHERINE KOELE

On-the-ground firefighting equipment, 1958.

Firefighting packs are stored for use back in the day.

Fire spotters pinpointed smoke using a network of lookout towers, preventing many fires from growing into deadly infernos. Emergency fire wardens were on the front lines, issuing burning permits or serving on firefighting crews.

As fire suppression innovation progressed, backpack pumps and larger heavy-duty portable pumps mounted to trucks were used to get water into remote locations.

FAST FORWARD ON FIRES

Firefighting communications have come a long way, from portable radios in 1952 to an array of electronic devices today.

These days, wildfire communications involve a computer-aided dispatching console that immediately alerts local fire personnel. Fire information is entered into an electronic reporting system that captures every action on the fire.

A DNR forester-ranger is likely first on the scene, driving a modified 4x4 engine outfitted to carry 150 gallons of water. It can pump, draft and apply water or firefighting foam.

If there’s potential for the fire to grow, more resources are ordered. Tractor-plows, or bulldozers, are generally next. They use a back-mounted plow to create firebreaks down to mineral soil to contain the fire and a front blade to bury burning debris and construct roads for firefighting vehicles.

Dozers don't travel fast, so they need a way to get to the fire quickly and safely. A heavy unit, or Type 4 engine, hauls the tractor-plow and carries 850 gallons of water. It can draw water from lakes, rivers or swimming pools.

Low-ground units are another tool, coming in many sizes and capable of operating on soft ground in marshes and swamps. These are outfitted with a 260-gallon water tank, pump, hose reel, winch and foam system.

Air resources also play an essential role in modern firefighting. Air detection planes fly patrol routes and assist in scouting smoke, identifying hazards and more, while single-engine air tankers, called SEATS, drop water to slow fire progression and reduce intensity. The DNR contracts out for SEATs, which are positioned according to fire severity potential.

The DNR also has access to helicopters with bucket capability to dip water and drop 150 gallons onto a fire. Larger air tankers from Minnesota and Ontario, Canada, can scoop water from lakes and drop up to 2,000 gallons.

Having such a wide variety of available resources is vital to fighting wildfires. Today’s tools also show just how far firefighting has come.

Catherine Koele is a wildfire prevention specialist for the DNR.

For details on fire management in Wisconsin, scan the QR code or check dnr.wi.gov/topic/forestfire.

LEARN MORE

WISCONSIN

Fire wardens in the 1950s issued burning permits and often served on fire crews when needed.

A bulldozer awaits transport to a fire scene as needed, 1965.

NEW YORK TIMES SUNDAY CROSSWORD

84 Terrarium animals

87 Setting

‘‘Do or do not. There is no ____’’ (6-Down quote)

with ‘‘in’’

London’s ____ Gardens

Wavering vocal effects

Friends, to Hercule Poirot

Quaker in the woods

Spoils 30 Murse, by another name

Best of the best

Like some clouds and kittens 36 Francisco with frescoes 37 ‘‘Sounds to me like

Steam-engine sound

Juno : Roman :: ____ : Greek 51 Company aptly hidden in ‘‘Japanese games’’

52 Coconut extraction

53 Cop’s catch

54 Zoom button

56 Beach ____

57 Playtex product

58 Vegas casino with a musical name

59 Lea low?

62 ‘‘Aye, aye, captain!’’

63 Where a spill might end up

64 Freudian constructs

65 ____ golf

66 Mo. when the Titanic sank

67 Dominates, slangily

68 ‘‘One card left!’’

69 Kids . . . or, informally, a snack for kids

71 ‘‘Born’’ in France

72 Gymnast Suni

73 Keep reminding, say

74 Temple official

75 Empty nester’s lack?

77 Domain’s partner in math

79 ‘‘Seize the day’’ of today

81 Risk a ticket

83 Kind of number system in which 7 is the highest digit

88 ‘‘We will, we will ROCK YOU!’’ e.g.

89 Make malleable using heat

91 Pirate-ship features

92 Shoe secured with a click

94 Things checked at baggage checks

95 Crash before dinner?

96 Rummikub piece

98 Close

100 Greenlit

101 ‘‘____ modus in rebus’’ (‘‘Moderation in all things’’)

103 Creatures mummified in ancient Egypt

105 Close to closed

106 Go steady with

107 Green trattoria topping

109 Ventriloquist Shirley Dinsdale was the first person to win one (1949)

110 Indian flatbread

111 One getting fired after a strike?

114 Really, really big

116 Cause to blush

118 Cause to jump

120 ‘‘M-m-m-my ____’’ (1970s song lyric)

121 He placed a call to Armstrong and Aldrin minutes after their landing

122 Basis for some civil cases

123 Replacement of a computer part without powering down

124 Novelist Deighton

125 Olympic tracks?

DOWN

1 Religion in which zakat is practiced

2 Leaf pore

3 Woo-hoo! The engines are firing, all systems are go, and we are feeling good!

4 Channel with ‘‘Silent Sunday Nights’’ programming

5 Orange sushi topper

6 See 4-Across

7 Where a batter goes for a Bundt?

8 Tommy Lee Jones’s role in ‘‘Men in Black’’

9 Farfalle shapes

10 Dust Bowl-era migrant

11 Quick left, say

12 The Euphrates bisects it: Abbr.

13 And just like that, sky and clouds are behind us!

14 Mathematician’s creation

15 Snappish

17 ‘‘I’ll have it on your desk tomorrow’’

18 Oops, zoned out for a sec. Houston, can you retransmit our coordinates?

20 Thrilled to report that we’ve made it to lunar orbit!

21 General acknowledgments?

27 D.C. V.I.P.

28 Former labor secretary Robert

31 Writer Rand

32 Our lunar rover is collecting samples at long last. It’s been sitting in storage for months!

34 Moving in zero-G is just blissful!

35 Chaney of horror

39 Cheap and trivial

40 Oddball

44 Exotic pet

45 Feminine-hygiene product

48 ‘‘Bearded’’ blooms

50 Where to walk the walk?

53 Feminine-hygiene product

55 The Monstars in ‘‘Space Jam,’’ e.g., for short

59 Last book of the Old Testament

60 It’s run up, then rung up

61 Green trattoria topping

70 Ouch! Drifted too far and bonked my head on that darn window . . . but wow, would you look at the view!

74 Re-entry time — let’s make sure we do this simply and practically!

76 Be nerdy, with ‘‘out’’

77 Who’s on a mission in today’s puzzle?

78 Musician who sang about a 77-Down

80 Let borrow

81 Storage facility

82 Window, e.g.

85 Hot pot

86 Like some advice

87 Stat that doesn’t apply to E.V.s

90 Microdosing drug

92 Insult

93 Part of an udder

97 Large white sheet

99 Label for Whitney Houston

102 So far

104 Strong-willed daughter on ‘‘Downton Abbey’’

105 Burning bridges, e.g.

106 Really hurt

107 Swanky

108 Bouncer in an alleyway?

112 Go silent, with ‘‘up’’

113 Chops

115 ____ mood

117 Chopper

119 Unit often used exaggeratively