News

Field Notes: Rings of Time

Field Notes: Rings of Time

Many people are aware that trees can be dated by counting the layers of tree rings in a cross section. But, less folks know that fish, snails, mussels, and the teeth of many local mammal species build seasonal growth rings that are used to age individuals. In most...

Wisconsin DNR asks hunters to report any bear dens they find

Wisconsin DNR asks hunters to report any bear dens they find

The Wisconsin DNR is asking hunters to keep an eye out for bear dens. Den reports from the public are critical for an ongoing study on black bear reproduction that will contribute to new population estimates within each of the state’s bear management zones and inform...

Deer donations can help feed recovering wildlife

Deer donations can help feed recovering wildlife

t takes a lot to feed the roughly 1,300 animals Wild Instincts treats and cares for each year. The Rhinelander non-profit depends entirely on donations for its work. “In a normal year, we probably go through between 3,000 to 4,000 pounds of venison. Between foxes,...

Wisconsin Lakes Annual Meeting 12-9-25

Wisconsin Lakes Annual Meeting 12-9-25

Dear Friend of the Lakes, Our Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday December 9th, 2025 from 4:30 until 6:30. A follow-up email with the link and agenda will be coming soon!   Join or donate today! As a supporter of Wisconsin Lakes, you know that the organization...

FCAL 2025 Essay Contest

FCAL 2025 Essay Contest

  “What (fill in the blank) Taught Me About My Relationship with Nature” was  the topic for this year’s Forest County Association of Lakes (FCAL) essay  contest. Students from 5th and 6th grades in Crandon, Laona and...

Report finds lakes aren’t shielded from microplastics

Report finds lakes aren’t shielded from microplastics

When measuring public health threats, researchers say microplastics have jumped to the top of the list. New samples from a citizen science effort in Minnesota show these tiny particles are present in dozens of waterways. The advocacy group Environment Minnesota, part...

Wild Instincts releases rescued bear cubs back to the wild

Wild Instincts releases rescued bear cubs back to the wild

Five young bears now roam the wilds of northern Wisconsin, thanks to the help of a wildlife rehabilitation center north of Rhinelander. Wild Instincts posted video of the five cubs being released over the weekend. They’ve been raised over the last few months by the...