The Spongy Moths are here! I’ve had several reports from residents around the County. From the reports and inspections I’ve done, I’ve concluded that they like apple trees. Spongy moths, formerly known as Gypsy moths, are an invasive species that pose a significant...
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
Deer Fawns
Last Friday and early this week, we had a couple new additions to our deer herd at the Forest County Deep Park. It made me think that it's that time of year ... when you can almost stumble over a well-hidden fawn. White-tailed deer fawns are usually born about six...
The Decline of Insect Populations: The Impact of Neonicotinoids
I recently read an article in the Trout Unlimited magazine that talked about the alarming decline in insect populations. Among the various factors contributing to this decline, the use of neonicotinoid pesticides has emerged as a major concern. Neonicotinoids, often...
No Mow May
NATIVE PLANT PICK-UP WILL BE FRIDAY 8-4 IN THE COURTHOUSE SQUARE (by the tank). I had to jump the gun last weekend and mow my lawn for all the family that was coming for Memorial Day. Many people have committed to not mowing their yards in May, allowing flowering...
The 17-Year Cycle of Cicadas in Northern Wisconsin
Cicadas are a fascinating group of insects known for their distinctive life cycles, particularly the periodical cicadas that emerge in synchronized, large-scale events every 13 or 17 years. In Northern Wisconsin, the 17-year cicada, known as Magicicada septendecim,...
Students Test Environmental Knowledge at Wisconsin Envirothon
Top High School Team to Represent Wisconsin at International NCF-Envirothon competition MADISON, WI – The Wisconsin Envirothon, sponsored by WI Land+Water, set the stage for Earth Week at the Wisconsin Lions Camp in Rosholt, WI on Friday, April 19, 2024. The Wisconsin...
African Jumping Worms’ Onslaught in Northern Wisconsin
The serene landscapes of Northern Wisconsin are facing a silent invasion, one that threatens the very fabric of its ecosystems. Enter the African jumping worms, an invasive species whose rapid spread and voracious appetite are causing alarm among ecologists and...
Great Wisconsin Birdathon 2024
The Great Wisconsin Birdathon is Wisconsin’s largest fundraiser for bird conservation. It's like a walk-a-thon style fundraiser, but instead of logging miles, our participants are logging bird sightings! Each year, bird enthusiasts from across the state raise support...
Importance of Birds
This week, my ‘swamp pond’ opened up and the mallards are back. Along with them, the redwing blackbirds have returned to our feeders. In Northern Wisconsin, birds play an indispensable role, not only in shaping the ecological balance but also in weaving the cultural...
Announcing Wisconsin Land & Water Summer Camps for Middle and High School Students
Wisconsin Land & Water is thrilled to announce its annual series of Summer Conservation Camps, specially designed for middle and high school students eager to explore the wonders of nature and engage in hands-on conservation efforts. With a focus on environmental...
Harnessing Biochar: A Sustainable Solution for Northern Wisconsin’s Environmental Challenges
Northern Wisconsin is home to pristine lakes, vast forests, and diverse wildlife, but, like many regions, it faces environmental challenges such as soil degradation, nutrient runoff, and forest management issues. I recently had a gentleman in my office discussing...
Announcing the 2024 Forest County Land & Water Plant Sale
Once again, we are going to have our 4th Annual Plant Sale. A list of plants and an order form can be found on our website: www.forestcountylandandwater.org. You can download and print the plant sale flyer and the order form. You can also find the plant list and...