Conservation Corner

Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land & Water Conservation Department.
For more information contact Kayla Littleton, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at

The American Woodcock

The American Woodcock

The American Woodcock is one of Northern Wisconsin’s most intriguing and elusive birds. Often overlooked due to its cryptic plumage and secretive habits, this small, rotund shorebird has adapted to life far from the coasts, thriving in the brushy woodlands and...

Rifle Deer Season

Rifle Deer Season

Every November, Northern Wisconsin transforms. For many residents and visitors, rifle deer season is more than just a hunting period; it’s a cultural event, a conservation tool, and a deep-rooted tradition that ties generations together. Cabins fill with relatives,...

The Ring-Necked Pheasant

The Ring-Necked Pheasant

The ring-necked pheasant is native to Asia, where it has long been celebrated for its beauty and adaptability. It was first introduced to the United States in the late 19th century, with early populations established in Oregon. By the early 20th century, the bird had...

Leaf Litter in Lakes

Leaf Litter in Lakes

As the vibrant hues of autumn blanket Northern Wisconsin, the beauty of falling leaves is undeniable. However, beneath this attractive scene lies an environmental challenge that often goes unnoticed: the impact of leaf litter on the health of our lakes. While leaves...

Forest Products Week in Wisconsin

Forest Products Week in Wisconsin

Every year, the third week of October marks a special occasion for Wisconsin: Forest Products Week. This celebration, observed nationwide, highlights the vital role forests and forest products play in our daily lives, economy, and environment. In 2025, Wisconsin once...

Environmental Day

Environmental Day

On October 2nd, the Forest County Association of Lakes (FCAL) hosted Environmental Day. Roughly 55 high school science students from Crandon, Laona, and Wabeno were...

Trapping season

Trapping season

Northern Wisconsin offers a landscape abundant in forests, rivers, and wetlands—ideal habitats for a variety of fur-bearing species, including beavers, minks,muskrat, foxes, and fishers. The state’s trapping history is tied closely to both subsistence and commerce....

Golden Oyster Mushrooms

Golden Oyster Mushrooms

Golden oyster mushrooms are a striking variety of the oyster mushroom family, known for their bright yellow caps and fan-like shape. Native to subtropical regions of East Asia, they thrive in warm, humid environments and are often cultivated for their culinary appeal....

Ruffed Grouse

Ruffed Grouse

Northern Wisconsin is home to a diverse array of wildlife, but few species embody the spirit of the region as distinctly as the ruffed grouse. Known for its unique drumming sound and ability to thrive in challenging environments, this upland bird is a favorite among...

Chronic Wasting Disease

Chronic Wasting Disease

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) has become a significant challenge for Wisconsin’s wildlife, particularly its deer population. This fatal neurological disease affects deer, elk, and moose, causing progressive brain damage that leads to abnormal behavior, weight loss,...

Bow Season

Bow Season

It’s that time of year again, bow season has officially started in Wisconsin. Each year, thousands of hunters take to the woods with bows in hand, seeking not only game but also the tranquility and challenge that bow hunting offers. Whether you’re a seasoned archer or...