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# Forest County Association of Lakes

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://fcal-wis.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Lake News](https://fcal-wis.org/lake-news/)
- [Black Locust](https://fcal-wis.org/black-locust/) - The black locust, also known as false acacia, is a fast-growing tree native to the Appalachian and Ozark regions of the United States. In Wisconsin, however, it Is considered an invasive species that threatens native ecosystems. While valued historically for its durable wood and fragrant flowers, its aggressive spread has made it a concern for
- [The Boundary Waters is America's most visited Wilderness.](https://fcal-wis.org/the-boundary-waters-is-americas-most-visited-wilderness/) - The Boundary Waters is canoe country. It is the largest Wilderness east of the Rockies and north of the Everglades. Along with the Superior National Forest, it contains 20% of all the freshwater in the entire National Forest System. Proposed sulfide-ore copper mining threatens these waters and forests. A copper mine in the Boundary Waters
- [Boaters: Help Protect Emerging Wild Rice In Wisconsin Waters](https://fcal-wis.org/boaters-help-protect-emerging-wild-rice-in-wisconsin-waters/) - The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages boaters to be aware of early-growth wild rice while out on Wisconsin’s lakes, rivers and flowages ahead of the Fourth of July weekend and throughout the rest of the summer growing season. In early July, wild rice plants are at a higher risk of being uprooted during the early
- [Wild Lupine](https://fcal-wis.org/wild-lupine/) - Long before roads and farms reshaped northern Wisconsin, wild lupine was spread vastly around the county in shades of blue and purple. Today, conservationists see it as a symbol of the region’s natural heritage, and a plant worth protecting. Wild lupine is a perennial plant in the pea family (Fabaceae). It typically grows 1-2 feet
- [Deer Fawns](https://fcal-wis.org/deer-fawns/) - Each spring and early summer, the forests and meadows of northern Wisconsin welcome a new generation of white-tailed deer. Born in late May through June, these delicate fawns are a familiar yet rarely seen part of the region’s natural cycle. Their arrival marks a critical period in the life of the herd and in the
- [Invasive Species Month](https://fcal-wis.org/invasive-species-month/) - What if the greatest threat to Wisconsin’s forests, lakes, and prairies wasn’t a wildfire or a storm, but something small, silent, and spreading right in front of us? Invasive species are exactly that, stealthy disruptors of our natural heritage. This June, Invasive species action month challenges every resident to become part of the solution. Invasive
- [Man -made loon nests](https://fcal-wis.org/man-made-loon-nests/) - Across North America’s northern lakes, the call of the common loon is a cherished sound of summer. These birds when fully mature can get up to 27-29 inches long with a wingspan of roughly 4 feet. They have a stocky build, a pointed bill, and feet that are set back far on their bodies making
- [Ticks](https://fcal-wis.org/ticks/) - Wisconsin’s forests, wetlands, and recreational trails are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and also for ticks. These small arachnids are more than just a nuisance, they can transmit serious illness such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis. Understanding when ticks are active, which species are common, and how to protect yourself is essential for anyone
- [Turkey Season](https://fcal-wis.org/turkey-season/) - Wisconsin’s diverse landscapes, from rolling farmland to dense northern forests, make it one of the Midwest’s premier destinations for wild turkey hunting. Each year, thousands of hunters take to the field during the spring and fall seasons, drawn by challenge, tradition, and connection to nature that turkey hunting offers. Wisconsin is divided into seven turkey
- [FC Invasive Species Trade Up Days](https://fcal-wis.org/fc-invasive-species-trade-up-days/) - The Wild Rivers Invasive Species Coalition (WRISC) is partnering with the Forest County Land Conservation/Land Information Department to host the 4th Annual Invasive Species Trade-Up Days in May. For Forest County, drop off will be at the Forest County Courthouse May 8th from 8am to 4pm. Once you drop off your plants on the trailer
- [WI Land + Water Announces 2026 Youth Summer Conservation Camps](https://fcal-wis.org/wi-land-water-announces-2026-youth-summer-conservation-camps/) - Each summer the Wisconsin Land and Water Conservation Association hosts two conservation camps for Wisconsin students. There is a middle school camp and a high school camp. The middle school camp is being held at Camp Lakotah in Wautoma and this year it takes place Sunday, June 28th- Wednesday July 1st, 2026. It is for
- [Lawsuit claims Wisconsin village passed an unconstitutional ban on wake surfing](https://fcal-wis.org/lawsuit-claims-wisconsin-village-passed-an-unconstitutional-ban-on-wake-surfing/) - A new lawsuit filed by a watersports group argues an ordinance passed by a Wisconsin village is an illegal and unconstitutional ban on wake surfing and wake boats. Elkhart Watersports Alliance, Inc. filed the lawsuit against the village of Elkhart Lake in Sheboygan County and its trustees on April 20. The group represents 14 members who use
- [Trout Fishing](https://fcal-wis.org/trout-fishing/) - Northern Wisconsin is a paradise for anglers seeking thrill of trout fishing. With its cold, clear streams, forested riverbanks, and abundance of wild and stocked trout, the region offers both seasoned fly fishers and casual anglers a chance to connect with nature in its purest form. From the tumbling headwaters of the upper Wisconsin River
- [Turtles](https://fcal-wis.org/turtles/) - Wisconsin’s lakes, rivers, and wetlands are home to a surprising diversity of turtles. From the common painted turtle basking on a log to the elusive, state endangered ornate box turtle, these reptiles play an important role in the state’s ecosystems. Understanding their habitats, behaviors, and conservation challenges is key to ensuring their survival. According to
- [As wildfire seasons worsen, the Northwoods is likely to see more frequent smoky summers](https://fcal-wis.org/as-wildfire-seasons-worsen-the-northwoods-is-likely-to-see-more-frequent-smoky-summers/) - Education Manager Jenny Sadak shows the outdoor learning space being built at Trees for Tomorrow in Eagle River. As an environmental education group, they want to get their students outside to learn as much as possible. “Since I’ve started here, we’ve always talked about having a space on campus where we can hold classes outdoors,”
- [Lights Out Wisconsin encourages people turn off outdoor lights during peak bird migration](https://fcal-wis.org/lights-out-wisconsin-encourages-people-turn-off-outdoor-lights-during-peak-bird-migration/) - Extremely high migration is expected over Wisconsin Thursday, May 14. People are encouraged to turn off non-essential outdoor lights from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. tonight, and ideally, throughout the bird migration season ending in mid-June. Eighty percent of migrating birds fly at night. Roughly 37 million birds flew over Wisconsin Monday night, according to Birdcast.
- [Roots & Rivers Conservation Celebration](https://fcal-wis.org/roots-rivers-conservation-celebration/) - Hello everyone! We invite you to join us for a celebration of local conservation! Please save the date for June 5th 2026 for the first annual Conservation Celebration with the Roots & Rivers Collaborative! As you know, we have been working behind the scenes to transition the Wild Rivers Invasive Species Coalition (WRISC) into an independent non-profit organization to better
- [Lakes & Rivers Convention in Stevens Point](https://fcal-wis.org/5127-2/) - Lake Stewardship & CLMN Honorees, photo by Doug Moore Photography Thank you to the many members who joined us at last week’s Lakes & Rivers Convention in Stevens Point. We were able to touch base with many of you! If your schedules didn’t allow you to attend this year, we hope you’ll be able to
- [Ladybugs](https://fcal-wis.org/ladybugs-2/) - Ladybugs, also known as ladybird beetles, are among the most recognizable insects in the world. Their bright colors and spotted patterns make them a favorite sight in gardens, but their charm is matched by their ecological importance. Found on every continent except Antarctica, these small beetles are natural pest controllers, helping farmers and gardeners maintain
- [Maple Syrup](https://fcal-wis.org/maple-syrup-2/) - As spring approaches many of us will get out to start our Maple Syrup operations. Wisconsin is ranked third in the nation for Maple Syrup production, trailing Vermont and New York. Our state produced 556,000 gallons in 2025, up 98,000 gallons from 2024, according to UW-Extension. The USDA also reports that in the last 5
- [Native plant sale reminder](https://fcal-wis.org/native-plant-sale-reminder/) - The Forest County native plant sale is in full swing. With there being just under 3 weeks left to order, there is still time for you to get your native plants! Native plants are a great way to attract birds butterflies, and bees to your property. They can also help to stop erosion and sediment
- [Vilas and Oneida Counties awarded over $1 mil in DNR surface water grants](https://fcal-wis.org/vilas-and-oneida-counties-awarded-over-1-mil-in-dnr-surface-water-grants/) - This story is courtesy of the Vilas County News Review. Vilas and Oneida counties have received more than $1.1 million in grant funding to help combat, prevent and study aquatic invasive species (AIS) in local waterbodies. The funding comes as part of Wisconsin DNR’s approximately $6 million that was recently awarded to lake organizations, nonprofit organizations
- [American Robin](https://fcal-wis.org/american-robin/) - When the last patches of snow begin to melt and the air carries a hint of warmth, many people in North America look for one familiar sign, and that is the return of the American robin. With its warm reddish-orange breast, bright eyes, and cheerful song, this bird has become one of the most recognized
- [Earth Day](https://fcal-wis.org/earth-day-2/) - Every year on April 22, millions of people around the globe unite to celebrate Earth Day. This is a moment dedicated to raising awareness about environmental challenges and inspiring action to protect our planet. First observed in 1970, Earth Day has grown from a U.S. based environmental teach in to a worldwide movement involving over
- [Rhinelander bans burning as fire danger level rises across northern Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/rhinelander-bans-burning-as-fire-danger-level-rises-across-northern-wisconsin/) - Burning is temporarily banned in the City of Rhinelander. The fire danger level jump to “Very High” for much of the Northwoods Wednesday as temperatures reached the upper 70s and winds started picking up. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is urging people to be cautious burning and avoid it if possible across state. Burnett
- [CITIZEN DEER ADVISORY COUNCILS](https://fcal-wis.org/citizen-deer-advisory-councils/) - The DNR and Citizen Deer Advisory Councils (CDACs) are seeking public feedback on Wisconsin's deer management ahead of the 2026 deer season, including harvest quotas, season structure and more. Help shape local deer herd management preferences by providing input during the online input period from April 4-12. This feedback will be discussed by the CDACs
- [ALL THINGS WATER DAY](https://fcal-wis.org/all-things-water-day/)
- [New DNR Fishing Rules for 2026 Season](https://fcal-wis.org/new-dnr-fishing-rules-for-2026-season/) - The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced several key changes for the 2026–2027 fishing season, which officially opens for general inland fishing on Saturday, May 2, 2026. Major Rule Changes The most significant updates for this season include shifts in traditional season structures and specific harvest limits: Unified Musky Opener: There is no
- [GROUNDED LOONS ALERT!](https://fcal-wis.org/grounded-loons-alert/) - Our loons are starting to migrate and are heading north. The winter storm we are experiencing at this time in Wisconsin and Minnesota are dangerous for these loons who are migrating through. Loons are heavy bone birds who are flying at their maximum weight. Any added weight, such as ice coating their body and wings,
- [Stewardship program likely to expire after Wisconsin Senate fails to take up bills](https://fcal-wis.org/stewardship-program-likely-to-expire-after-wisconsin-senate-fails-to-take-up-bills/) - Conservation groups say Wisconsin will lose out on opportunities to set aside public lands as the state’s land purchase program is likely to expire in June. The Wisconsin Senate failed to take up bills last week on the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, the state’s popular program for preserving public lands. The Senate does not have further floor sessions
- [“The health of our waters is the principal measure of how we live on the land.”](https://fcal-wis.org/the-health-of-our-waters-is-the-principal-measure-of-how-we-live-on-the-land/) - Many of us understand this connection and have used the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program to protect lands within our watersheds. This year, our legislature failed to act to preserve this vital legacy. Even now, though, there still might be hope. Our friends at Gathering Waters, a non-profit, statewide alliance for land trusts, has been doing the
- [A Big Coalition to Fight Damage from Big Wakes](https://fcal-wis.org/a-big-coalition-to-fight-damage-from-big-wakes/) - https://wisconsinlakes.org/a-big-coalition-to-fight-damage-from-big-wakes/
- [Wakesports Reform Coalition Updates](https://fcal-wis.org/wakesports-reform-coalition-updates/) - Hello Everyone, The Wakesports Reform Coalition wanted to end out a quick update. A few days ago, Senate President Mary Felzkowski and Representative Rob Swearingen held listening sessions, which were extremely well attended. The topic that dominated those events was wake enhanced boating. The coalition cannot thank you enough for your participation and attendance and because of your
- [Smith: Concerns over wake-enhanced boating dominate Northern Wisconsin listening sessions](https://fcal-wis.org/smith-concerns-over-wake-enhanced-boating-dominate-northern-wisconsin-listening-sessions/) - MANITOWISH WATERS – Turnout was high for listening sessions organized by GOP legislators and held May 5 and 6 in four northern Wisconsin communities. "Good heavens, all these people," said John Hanson, chair of the Manitowish Waters Town Board, as he welcomed about 65 people to the May 5 meeting in his jurisdiction. Hanson said
- [Share your view on wake-enhanced boats](https://fcal-wis.org/share-your-view-on-wake-enhanced-boats/) - As WI takes to water over Memorial Day, share your view on wake-enhanced boats James N. Fitzhenryof the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. We want your opinion on Wakesurfing in Wisconsin and have introduced an interactive poll to get your thoughts. Please take a few moments to take the poll. Take the poll HERE Visit the LWA Website
- [Hello Wakesports Reform Coalition (WRC) Members](https://fcal-wis.org/hello-wakesports-reform-coalition-wrc-members/) - Stakeholder Meeting: We have several updates we wanted to share with you. The first being after Senator Mary Felzkowski's Town Hall meetings earlier this month, a meeting was called this week composed of legislators, the wakesports industry as well as our coalition. We will keep everyone in the loop as conversations develop. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
- [Anglers Play A Key Role In Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention](https://fcal-wis.org/anglers-play-a-key-role-in-aquatic-invasive-species-prevention/) - MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) urges anglers to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by draining water from their boats and equipment this fishing season. The first full weekend of June is all about fishing in Wisconsin, a perfect pairing for the DNR’s Free Fun Weekend (June 7-8) and the Clean
- [PROTECTING WISCONSIN LAKES FROM THE ECONOMIC, ENVIRONMENTAL, AND SAFETY THREATS OF WAKE SPORTS](https://fcal-wis.org/protecting-wisconsin-lakes-from-the-economic-environmental-and-safety-threats-of-wake-sports/) - The enjoyment of the water is fundamental to the Wisconsin lifestyle and the state’s growing tourism economy. Wake sports pose urgent, existential threats to Wisconsin lakes and rivers. Lakes at Stake Wisconsin is committed to standing up against the powerful water sports industry through legislation, public education, and advocacy efforts at the state and local
- [Town of Manitowish Waters approved wake boat regulation](https://fcal-wis.org/town-of-manitowish-waters-approved-wake-boat-regulation/) - The Town of Manitowish Waters will forbid wake boating on nine lakes. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports the town passed the ordinance on wake-enhanced boating June 10th. It forbids the activity on nine lakes over 50 acres in size within the town’s boundaries. That includes seven lakes on the Manitowish chain. The Last Wilderness Alliance
- [Clean Boats, Clean Waters Landing Blitz focuses on keeping aquatic invasive species out of lakes](https://fcal-wis.org/clean-boats-clean-waters-landing-blitz-focuses-on-keeping-aquatic-invasive-species-out-of-lakes/) - Wisconsin law requires boaters to take certain steps to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. This includes removing mud and any plants or animals attached to their boats or trailers, drain all water from boats, and to never move plants or live fish away from a waterbody. There will be people at public boat
- [Wake boat concerns to get further attention as DNR staff looks over study results](https://fcal-wis.org/wake-boat-concerns-to-get-further-attention-as-dnr-staff-looks-over-study-results/) - Wisconsin DNR staff will be looking over results of a Minnesota study on the impacts of wake boats. The study found significant disturbance to lake bottoms. Opponents of wake boats also express concerns about disturbance to shorelines, and the potential for wake boats to spread invasive species through their ballast tanks. Wake boats were a
- [Proposed State-Level Regulations for Enhanced Wake Sports](https://fcal-wis.org/proposed-state-level-regulations-for-enhanced-wake-sports/) - Dear Members and Supporters, You may soon see Wisconsin Lakes in the news, and here's the reason. Wisconsin Lakes and the Last Wilderness Alliance are renewing their call for bipartisan state-wide regulation of enhanced wake recreation to protect Wisconsin’s lake resources without being overly restrictive of the right to recreate on our lakes.
- [Trapping season](https://fcal-wis.org/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. Fur from early hunts provided essential resources and formed the backbone of trade networks, shaping the economic development of
- [Environmental Day](https://fcal-wis.org/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 able to get hands-on training opportunities both on and off the water. Lee Lamers (member of FCAL) and Kayla Littleton (Forest County Land Conservation/Land Information Director) were able to round
- [Joint Press Release: Urgent Action Needed to Stop AIS Spread via Wake Boat Ballast](https://fcal-wis.org/joint-press-release-urgent-action-needed-to-stop-ais-spread-via-wake-boat-ballast/) - Wisconsin Lakes and the Last Wilderness Alliance are calling for urgent state action to halt the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) via the ballast systems found in wake boats. AIS management already costs MILLIONS of dollars annually in Wisconsin. Evidence shows that wake boats contribute to this problem by transferring invasive species between lakes.
- [Wisconsin Lakes and the LWA  Call for Urgent Action to Stop AIS Spread via Wake Boat Ballast](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-lakes-and-the-lwa-call-for-urgent-action-to-stop-ais-spread-via-wake-boat-ballast/) - November 1, 2025 – WISCONSIN Wisconsin Lakes and the Last Wilderness Alliance are calling for urgent state action to halt the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) via the ballast systems found in wake boats. AIS management already costs MILLIONS of dollars annually in Wisconsin. Evidence shows that wake boats contribute to this problem
- [2025 Wisconsin Lakes Annual Membership Meeting](https://fcal-wis.org/2025-wisconsin-lakes-annual-membership-meeting/) - Join us for our Annual Membership Meeting! Tuesday, December 9, 2025 ~ 4:30pm Virtual meeting only - join from the comfort of your home! Register Here! Join with your new Executive Director, board, and fellow members across the state for your 2025 Annual Membership Meeting on December 9 from 4:30-6:00pm! Learn about what we’ve accomplished in the
- [Wisconsin First Ice](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-first-ice/) - When the first bitter cold of December sweeps across Wisconsin, a familiar ritual begins. Lakes glaze over with a thin, glassy sheet, and anglers itching for the season to begin start eyeing their gear. Early ice is a cherished tradition here, but it’s about the enthusiasm it brings and the safety that comes along with
- [Snowmobile trails opening](https://fcal-wis.org/snowmobile-trails-opening/) - UPDATE: 12/30/25 Forest County Snowmobile Trails SNOWMOBILE TRAILS: Open The trails are in good conditions but as always watch your speed and stay to the right. Clubs have all been out grooming and removing branches that may have fallen with the recent storm. There may be ruts, sticks and rocks sticking up still
- [Why is a 30 foot depth needed for enhanced wakes?](https://fcal-wis.org/why-is-a-30-foot-depth-needed-for-enhanced-wakes/) - This is a continuation of a series of emails and blogs explaining why Wisconsin Lakes supports the Coalition’s position on reasonable regulation of enhanced wake recreation: 700 feet from shore (HERE), 30 feet of depth, maintaining local control (HERE), and preventing transfer of aquatic invasive species through ballast tanks (HERE). We will also outline why
- [Wisconsin DNR chastised for not taking action on wake boats](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-dnr-chastised-for-not-taking-action-on-wake-boats/) - Natural Resources Board member Robin Schmidt said that it was time to get an update from the DNR about challenges law enforcement has with wake boats, and other board members agreed. Madison — Three citizens told the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) that the agency simply isn’t doing enough to clamp down on the
- [ACTION ALERT Pro-Industry Bill AB1033](https://fcal-wis.org/action-alert-pro-industry-bill-ab1033/) - A big thank you to everyone who contacted their legislators and to those who attended the public hearing in opposition to the pro-wake sport, pro-industry bill AB 1033. Your voice matters!The bad news from Wednesday is the committee voted to approve the bill along party lines on a 7-3 vote. All seven GOP members voted
- [ACTION ALERT: Public Hearing for Competing Wake Sport Bills](https://fcal-wis.org/action-alert-public-hearing-for-competing-wake-sport-bills/) - ACTION ALERT Public Hearing Set For Competing Wake Sport Bills Wisconsin Lakes OPPOSES Senate Bill 1025. Wisconsin Lakes SUPPORTS Senate Bill 1024. If you can attend the public hearing - PLEASE DO! Keep your message respectful and concise, but stand firm on what you believe! Public hearing: Thursday February 19th, 2026 at 11:30am. Location: Room 411 South, Madison Capital (click HERE) Parking: click HERE Committee
- [NO LEGISLATION ON WAKE SPORTS EXPECTED THIS SESSION](https://fcal-wis.org/no-legislation-on-wake-sports-expected-this-session/) - What Happened: On Thursday, February 19, Assembly Bill 1033 — the pro-wake sport, pro-industry bill — was amended to include provisions establishing Sandhill crane hunting permits (see HERE). The amended bill was then brought to a vote and passed in the Assembly. While the Assembly was amending and voting on AB1033, the Senate Committee on Transportation
- [DNR And Wisconsin Conservation Congress To Host Spring Hearing](https://fcal-wis.org/dnr-and-wisconsin-conservation-congress-to-host-spring-hearing/) - MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Wisconsin Conservation Congress (WCC) invite the public to attend the annual Fish and Wildlife Spring Hearings held in their county on Monday, April 13, at 6 p.m. to learn about and provide input on resource management in the state. An online opportunity for public input will
- [Snow Fleas](https://fcal-wis.org/snow-fleas-2/) - Winter landscapes often seem still and lifeless, with most insects hidden away until spring. Yet, on certain sunny days, you might notice the snow peppered with tiny black specks that suddenly leap into the air. These are
- [WI DNR Reforestation Program](https://fcal-wis.org/wi-dnr-reforestation-program/) - For more than a century, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has been at the forefront of reforestation efforts, supplying landowners with the seedlings needed to restore and sustain the state’s forests. Since the program’s inception in 1911, the DNR has distributed over 1.6 billion tree seedlings to private landowners, public lands, and conservation
- [NORTH LAKELAND WOODS & WATER CONFERENCE](https://fcal-wis.org/north-lakeland-woods-water-conference/)
- [Announcing the 2026 Forest County Land Conservation Native Plant Sale](https://fcal-wis.org/announcing-the-2026-forest-county-land-conservation-native-plant-sale/) - Once again, we are going to have our Annual Native Plant Sale! Native plants are a great way to attract birds, butterflies, and bees to your property. They can also help to stop erosion and sediment loss on shorelines. Consider planting native plants this summer instead of ornamental plants! A list of plants and an
- [Late ice fishing season](https://fcal-wis.org/late-ice-fishing-season/) - Late ice fishing season can be both exciting and frustrating. On one hand, the days are longer, the sun in warmer, and the ice often feels safer to travel on than in the unpredictable early season. On the other hand, many anglers notice a trend that the fish don’t seem as eager to bite. This
- [Local Conservation Poster Contest Winners](https://fcal-wis.org/local-conservation-poster-contest-winners/) - The theme for the 2026 Conservation Poster Contest this year was “Soil, where it all begins”. The poster contest was open to kindergarten through 12th grade students, and posters were evaluated on the following criteria: conservation message, visual effectiveness, originality, universal appeal, and individual artwork. The students that took 1st Place at the local level
- [ACTION ALERT  Competing Wake Sport Bills!](https://fcal-wis.org/action-alert-competing-wake-sport-bills/) - On Thursday, February 12, Senate Bill 1024 was introduced. This bill requires wake sports to maintain a distance of 500 feet from shore, operate in water at least 20 feet deep, and it preserves local control. Wisconsin Lakes continues to advocate for the four main pillars for wake sport legislation, but views SB1024 as a reasonable compromise compared
- [URGENT ACTION ALERT: Pro-Wake Sport Industry Bill Introduced](https://fcal-wis.org/urgent-action-alert-pro-wake-sport-industry-bill-introduced/) - URGENT ACTION ALERT A pro-wakesport bill introduced! AB1033 was introduced into the legislature today!This pro-wakesport supported bill fails to protect Wisconsin's lakes, their shorelines, and the safety of other lake users. Here's what you need to know and what you can do now. Summary of the Water Sports supported bill AB1033 200' distance from shore tournaments, competitions,
- [Lakes in the Northwoods are getting saltier](https://fcal-wis.org/lakes-in-the-northwoods-are-getting-saltier/) - After two mild winters, drivers are being reminded ice and snow can make for some messy roads. Salt and brine have shown to be effective tools to help keep roads clear and safer to drive in the winter, but it comes with a cost. One study out of Minnesota found that salt damage to infrastructure, cars, and
- [Wisconsin, tribes would have less power to review projects under proposed water rule](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-tribes-would-have-less-power-to-review-projects-under-proposed-water-rule/) - This story comes from the Wisconsin News Collaborative, a partnership of Wisconsin public media newsrooms, including WUWM, Wisconsin Public Radio, and WXPR. Wisconsin and tribes would have less power to protect waterways under the Clean Water Act if the Environmental Protection Agency adopts proposed changes to how it treats energy and infrastructure projects. EPA Administrator
- [Why Do Bucks Shed Their Antlers](https://fcal-wis.org/why-do-bucks-shed-their-antlers/) - Every winter, something remarkable happens in the deer world: male bucks drop their antlers. To the casual observer, this might seem strange that an animal would give up such an impressive and seemingly useful weapon. Yet, antler shedding is not a sign of weakness; it’s a carefully timed biological process that reflects the rhythms of
- [Chronic Wasting Disease threatens U.S. Deer. But when one state took strong measures, the pushback was fierce.](https://fcal-wis.org/chronic-wasting-disease-threatens-u-s-deer-but-when-one-state-took-strong-measures-the-pushback-was-fierce/) - olumbia, Mo. — The pick-up trucks pulled into the parking lot every 10 minutes or so. One after another, drivers rolled down their windows and staff greeted them like restaurant workers taking drive-thru orders. But these weren’t customers at any of the fast-food chains in central Missouri. They were deer hunters. Successful ones, with freshly
- [Oneida County creates lakes classification system with emphasis on protecting high quality watersheds](https://fcal-wis.org/oneida-county-creates-lakes-classification-system-with-emphasis-on-protecting-high-quality-watersheds/) - akes in the region face a lot of threats. Public access, shoreline development, enhanced wakes, and aquatic invasive species are all key risk factors identified by the Oneida County Land and Water Conservation Department. Special Projects Coordinator JoAnne Lund says, so far, lakes in the county have held up well against these risks. “Our lakes
- [Frost Cracks](https://fcal-wis.org/frost-cracks/) - Winter can be a season of beauty, but for trees, it can also be a time of hidden stress. One of the most dramatic, and sometimes startling winter occurrences is frost cracks. This is a sudden split in a tree’s trunk that can make loud noises. While the term “exploding trees” occasionally makes headlines, the
- [Mole Lake Sokaogon Chippewa Community Awards Grant to FCAL](https://fcal-wis.org/mole-lake-sokaogon-chippewa-community-awards-grant-to-fcal/) - On January 20, 2026, the Mole Lake Sokaogon Chippewa awarded a $1000 grant to the Forest County Association of Lakes (FCAL) to use toward supporting its mission of promoting education of and protection of Forest County waters and environs. FCAL supports its mission through events, such as, the Forest County High School Environment Field Trip
- [What happens to soil in winter](https://fcal-wis.org/what-happens-to-soil-in-winter-2/) - When winter arrives, the world above ground slows down. Trees stand bare, fields lie dormant, and snow blankets the landscape. But beneath that frozen surface, the soil is far from lifeless. In fact, winter sets in motion a series of physical, chemical, and biological changes that shape the health of the land for the coming
- [Lake Ripples: Timely updates about Wisconsin's lakes](https://fcal-wis.org/lake-ripples-timely-updates-about-wisconsins-lakes/) - In this issue... Winter Salt Week | Bald Eagles | Phenology Fun Fact | Program Updates | Upcoming Events Winter Salt Week Addresses A Forever Pollutant Photo by Amy Kowalski After Road Salt Melts Snow, It Degrades Freshwater Winter Salt Week - January 26-30, 2026 Every winter, tons of salt are spread on roads, parking lots, and sidewalks to keep us safe. But
- [WI Salt Awareness Week](https://fcal-wis.org/wi-salt-awareness-week/) - Every winter, Wisconsin’s roads transform into icy ribbons that challenge drivers and road crews alike. The go-to solution for decades has been road salt because its simple, effective, and cheap. But beneath its convenience lies a growing environmental cost. WI Salt Awareness Week, observed annually in late January, is a statewide initiative to educate residents,
- [8 things to add to your Northwoods winter bucket list](https://fcal-wis.org/8-things-to-add-to-your-northwoods-winter-bucket-list/) - After back-to-back low snow years, things are looking up this year. Snow is on the ground, snowmobilers were hitting the trails before Christmas, and ice is building on the lakes. Need some help finding things to do during the snowy months? We’ve got some ideas. Take your picture with Snowmy Kromer or the Eagle River
- [Lake Tides Newsletter](https://fcal-wis.org/lake-tides-newsletter/) - For half a century, Lake Tides has been more than just a newsletter—it has been a bridge between science, policy, and the people who love Wisconsin’s lakes. Published by the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point’s Extension Lakes program, this quarterly publication has become a trusted source for lake enthusiasts, waterfront property owners, conservationists, and anyone curious about the
- [Be Well Informed](https://fcal-wis.org/be-well-informed/) - Clean drinking water is something most of us take for granted, until a test result raises questions we don’t know how to answer. For the nearly one million Wisconsin residents who rely on private wells, understanding water quality reports can be confusing, technical, and overwhelming. To bridge the gap, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
- [Avoid overloading your outlets and your power bill this Holiday season!](https://fcal-wis.org/avoid-overloading-your-outlets-and-your-power-bill-this-holiday-season/) - Wisconsin Public Service has some tips to keep your holiday lighting display from overloading your outlets, and your power bill. For strings of lights, make the move to LED strands, which use a lot less power compared to old, incandescent lights.Inspect your existing strands and throw out any that are damaged.You also want to take
- [Why a shoreline buffer of 700 feet for enhanced wakes](https://fcal-wis.org/why-a-shoreline-buffer-of-700-feet-for-enhanced-wakes/) - What’s the appropriate distance from shore to regulate enhanced wakes? In upcoming emails and blogs, Wisconsin Lakes will continue to outline why we support the Coalition’s position on reasonable regulation of enhanced wake recreation: 700 feet from shore, 30 feet of depth, maintaining local control (click HERE), and preventing transfer of aquatic invasive species through ballast
- [9-day Gun Season Stats](https://fcal-wis.org/9-day-gun-season-stats/) - The 2025 Wisconsin nine-day gun season, held from November 22 to November 30, has wrapped up, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has released preliminary statistics. While the season remains a cultural cornerstone for hunters across the state, the numbers reveal both familiar patterns and subtle shifts in participation and harvest trends. Hunting
- [The American Woodcock](https://fcal-wis.org/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 regenerating forests of the region. Its presence is a sign of healthy, diverse habitats,
- [The Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network](https://fcal-wis.org/the-community-collaborative-rain-hail-and-snow-network/) - The Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network – known as CoCoRaHS is a volunteer-based program that collects detailed precipitation data across the United States and beyond. Founded in 1998 after a flash flood in Fort Collins, Colorado, its goal is simple: measure and map rain, hail, and snow as accurately as possible, one location
- [Field Notes: Rings of Time](https://fcal-wis.org/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 Northwoods trees, the center rings are the
- [Deer donations can help feed recovering wildlife](https://fcal-wis.org/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, coyotes, bobcats, eagles, different things like that, we go through
- [Wisconsin DNR asks hunters to report any bear dens they find](https://fcal-wis.org/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 key management decisions. The Black Bear Litter and Diet Survey research team will accept a den report anywhere in the
- [Rifle Deer Season](https://fcal-wis.org/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, vacation days are planned months in advance, and local diners buzz with hunters swapping stories over
- [Wisconsin Lakes Annual Meeting 12-9-25](https://fcal-wis.org/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 is uniquely placed to amplify the voices
- [The Ring-Necked Pheasant](https://fcal-wis.org/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 been released in various parts of the country, including Wisconsin,
- [2025 FCAL Annual Meeting with Christian Cold](https://fcal-wis.org/2025-fcal-annual-meeting-with-christian-cold/) - The Annual meeting was held ar the Wolf River Rendezvous located on Hwy 8 North of Crandon on October 18 4PM – 8PM Catered by Jameson’s 1930 Inn.
- [Report finds lakes aren't shielded from microplastics](https://fcal-wis.org/report-finds-lakes-arent-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 of the Public Interest Network, teamed up with volunteers to collect samples from 41 lakes, rivers,
- [FCAL 2025 Essay Contest](https://fcal-wis.org/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 Wabeno were invited to participate. FCAL members made presentations in some classrooms, leading brainstorming about connections the students had
- [Kentuck Days 2025](https://fcal-wis.org/kentuck-days-2025/)
- [FCAL Fall Forum](https://fcal-wis.org/fcal-fall-forum/) - Friday, August 15, 2025 FCAL Fall Forum 4301 County W, Lake Lucerne Advancement Association Pavilion. 8:30 to 9:30 Arrive/Set Up Board Meeting 9:30 to 11:30 Forum 11:30 to 12:00 Clean Up Presenter will be the following: Heather Stricker-Orlovsky M.S. Conservation Biology UWSP Doctoral candidate —Environmental Education & Sustainability Wildlife, Pollinators, and Monarchs— An Ecologist’s Advice for
- [Trout Lake Station has one of the most comprehensive lake data sets in the world. Federal changes are putting the future of it at risk](https://fcal-wis.org/rout-lake-station-has-one-of-the-most-comprehensive-lake-data-sets-in-the-world-federal-changes-are-putting-the-future-of-it-at-risk/) - Thousands of lakes and miles of rivers and stream span across northern Wisconsin. They’re a major part of life in the Northwoods from the recreation opportunities to the food they provide to the serene atmosphere that draws people to live and vacation in the region. For 100 years now, researchers based at Trout Lake Station in Boulder
- [Leaf Litter in Lakes](https://fcal-wis.org/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 are a natural part of the ecosystem, their accumulation in urban and rural
- [Forest Products Week in Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/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 again takes center stage as a leader in forestry, with a week full of events,
- [Tribe, state, and county celebrate Highway 8 safety improvements in Forest County](https://fcal-wis.org/ribe-state-and-county-celebrate-highway-8-safety-improvements-in-forest-county/) - In a four-year span, there were 109 car crashes on Highway 8 between Crandon and Laona, according to a highway study. While none of those crashes between 2005 and 2009 were fatal, about a third of them did result in injuries. “We've had a lot of close calls,” said Forest County Potawatomi Chairman Brooks Boyd Sr.
- [Gov. Evers signs Executive Order creating Wild Rice Stewardship Council](https://fcal-wis.org/gov-evers-signs-executive-order-creating-wild-rice-stewardship-council/) - Governor Tony Evers signed an executive order Monday to preserve cultural resources and languages of Wisconsin’s Tribal Nations. Evers said the order is meant reaffirm the state’s commitment to respecting Tribal Sovereignty and fostering strong government-to-government relationships. It plans to do this by bolstering the education and awareness of Tribal Treaty Rights and sovereignty and
- [Wild Instincts releases rescued bear cubs back to the wild](https://fcal-wis.org/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 center, with the goal of releasing them back to the
- [Wisconsin’s first Rustic Road turns 50](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsins-first-rustic-road-turns-50/) - 50 years ago, the first Rustic Road in Wisconsin received its formal designation. Now, the program is up to 126 roads spanning hundreds of miles across the state. Sam Osborn has travelled every mile of designated Rustic Road in Wisconsin behind the wheels of his motorcycle. “You learn to slow down, kind of take your
- [Get your firewood close to where you burn it to prevent the spread of invasive species](https://fcal-wis.org/get-your-firewood-close-to-where-you-burn-it-to-prevent-the-spread-of-invasive-species/) - Warming up by a campfire can be a great way to spend a fall evening, but the DNR hopes you’ll get your firewood close to where you burn it. Moving firewood can give a ride to invasive species, spreading them to new areas. When untreated firewood is transported away from the tree where it was harvested, those pests
- [More people leaving leaves, a boon for sustainability, survey finds](https://fcal-wis.org/more-people-leaving-leaves-a-boon-for-sustainability-survey-finds/) - More people are leaving leaves on the ground during the autumn season, providing a boon to local ecosystems and cutting down on methane gas in the atmosphere. A new survey by the National Wildlife Federation found nearly 20% of people don’t collect or remove fallen leaves during autumn, up from 15% last year. But nearly a third
- [Wisconsin DNR seeks public comments on North Central Forest master plan draft](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-dnr-seeks-public-comments-on-north-central-forest-master-plan-draft/) - The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is looking for public input on its draft regional master plan for the North Central Forest. The North Central Forest encompasses 9,500 square miles in northern Wisconsin. It includes all or portions of the 20 counties including Forest, Iron, Langlade, Lincoln, Oneida, Price and Vilas counties. The master plan draft outlines proposed future
- [Partnerships help Iron County take on trout habitat restoration](https://fcal-wis.org/partnerships-help-iron-county-take-on-trout-habitat-restoration/) - As dwindling brook trout populations are a concern across Wisconsin, conservation efforts in Iron County are increasing viable habitats for the native species. Fish population spikes are being observed at Kaari Creek and the Tyler Forks River after major culvert replacement and restoration projects. Zach Lawson, Iron and Ashland counties fisheries biologist for the Wisconsin Department of
- [Field Notes: Horseshoe crabs and health care](https://fcal-wis.org/field-notes-horseshoe-crabs-and-health-care/) - By the time this airs, I will be the proud owner of a new hip. And although this might seem rather random, it brings me to this month’s Field Notes about horseshoe crabs and red knots. I grew up on the east coast with frequent trips to Cape Cod where horseshoe crabs were common on
- [Golden Oyster Mushrooms](https://fcal-wis.org/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. Their mild, nutty flavor and tender texture make them a favorite among mushroom
- [Swimming drone explores underwater mountain in Lake Superior](https://fcal-wis.org/swimming-drone-explores-underwater-mountain-in-lake-superior/) - Known to some as the “Freshwater Everest,” if you want to explore this mountain, you don’t go up, you go down. In the middle of Lake Superior, near the boundary between Canadian and US waters, sits the Superior Shoal, a mountain that’s completely underwater. The shoal is about 4 square miles of volcanic rock that
- [Wearing life jackets grows in importance as waters cool in the fall](https://fcal-wis.org/wearing-life-jackets-grows-in-importance-as-waters-cool-in-the-fall/) - As we get deeper into fall, water temperatures will be going down on area lakes. The DNR says that makes it especially important to take extra precautions like wearing a life jacket. They say hypothermia can impair your ability to swim or stay afloat. “Life jackets are the simplest and most effective safety way to
- [Science on Tap: The significance of deer mice](https://fcal-wis.org/science-on-tap-the-significance-of-deer-mice/) - When you think of all the species of wildlife that call the Northwoods home, deer mice probably aren’t what first comes to mind. But a local researcher says they’re essential. The Northwoods is home to two species of deer mice—the North American and White Footed. Dr. Michael Cramer says both play key roles in the
- [Seasonal protection against Lyme disease on the horizon](https://fcal-wis.org/seasonal-protection-against-lyme-disease-on-the-horizon/) - A new treatment is being developed for seasonal protection of Lyme disease, which is on the rise in Wisconsin. Lyme disease is a tick-borne infection caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria. Seth Lederman, CEO of Tonix Pharmaceuticals, the company licensing the antibody treatment, said it works by neutralizing a key component of the bacteria. "There are about
- [Warm temperature slow and extend fall colors](https://fcal-wis.org/warm-temperature-slow-and-extend-fall-colors/) - The combination of temperature changes and fewer hours of light are the biggest influences on the changing color of leaves. It’s why the yellows, browns, oranges, and reds come around the same time each year. “The trees start to shut down in September and basically there's a penalty if you hold your leaves through the
- ['Magnificent’ monarch migration has begun, with sightings in Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/magnificent-monarch-migration-has-begun-with-sightings-in-wisconsin/) - Wildlife experts call this a magical time of year as monarch butterflies have begun their migration from their northern breeding grounds to Central Mexico for the winter, with recent sightings in Wisconsin. The journey takes about two and a half months with the arrival of the monarchs coinciding with a significant cultural holiday in Mexico known as
- [Golden Oyster Mushrooms a new invasive threat to forests](https://fcal-wis.org/golden-oyster-mushrooms-a-new-invasive-threat-to-forests/) - Golden Oyster Mushrooms may be tasty, but they can also be a problem. The Wisconsin DNR says recent research from the University of Wisconsin-Madison shows these nonnative mushrooms are raising concerns. They’re aggressively taking hold in forests throughout the Midwest, including Wisconsin. The DNR says they’re spreading at a troublesome rate. They can crowd out
- [DNR hopes to get more deer samples from hunters to test for Chronic Wasting Disease](https://fcal-wis.org/dnr-hopes-to-get-more-deer-samples-from-hunters-to-test-for-chronic-wasting-disease/) - The DNR wants to get more samples to test for Chronic Wasting Disease in deer, especially in priority areas. Vilas, Oneida, Langlade, Lincoln and Marathon Counties are all on that priority list. Additional samples in priority areas will help the DNR better understand disease levels and distribution. They say hunters play a significant role in
- [Bill aims to bring aviation biofuel facility to northern Wisconsin, help state forestry industry](https://fcal-wis.org/bill-aims-to-bring-aviation-biofuel-facility-to-northern-wisconsin-help-state-forestry-industry/) - Wisconsin’s Forestry Industry is a $42-billion industry providing more than 126,000 jobs, many in the northern portion of state. But, as WXPR has previously reported, the industry also faces many challenges. Disease, pests, climate change, and loss of mills are a major concern. There’s been a decline in harvesting since the closure of several mills starting in
- [Ruffed Grouse](https://fcal-wis.org/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 hunters, birdwatchers, and nature lovers. The ruffed grouse thrives in
- [Chronic Wasting Disease](https://fcal-wis.org/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, and ultimately death. Since its discovery in Wisconsin in 2002, CWD has continued to spread, raising concerns among hunter,
- [When Wisconsin fall colors are expected to peak in 2025](https://fcal-wis.org/when-wisconsin-fall-colors-are-expected-to-peak-in-2025-2/) - When can you expect peak fall color in your favorite Wisconsin destinations? Travel Wisconsin’s Fall Color Report, which offers weekly updates in season for many state locations, suggests peak color around the second week of October for some northern destinations such as Ashland; the third week of October for Door County and Eagle River; the fourth
- [Wolf population numbers remain stable in Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/wolf-population-numbers-remain-stable-in-wisconsin/) - The estimated number of wolves in Wisconsin has been around 1,200 for the last three years. This is according to revised estimates that take into account winter track surveys, live trapping, and GPS collar monitoring. DNR staff told the wolf advisory committee last week there’s high certainty that the current population is between1,087 and 1,379
- [DNR reminds deer hunters to watch out for wandering elk](https://fcal-wis.org/dnr-reminds-deer-hunters-to-watch-out-for-wandering-elk/) - Hunters taking to the woods in Wisconsin need to know the difference between an Elk and a Deer. The DNR says elk occasionally wander outside of where you would normally expect to find them in the Clam Lake and Black River ranges. That’s especially true during the fall breeding season. How To Identify An Elk:
- [DNR Seeking Public Comment On Updated Wisconsin Wildlife Action Plan](https://fcal-wis.org/dnr-seeking-public-comment-on-updated-wisconsin-wildlife-action-plan/) - MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking public feedback on the updated Wisconsin Wildlife Action Plan for 2025-2035. The Wisconsin Wildlife Action Plan is a voluntary plan that focuses on the conservation of rare and declining species and their habitats. First published in 2005, it was updated in 2015 to satisfy funding eligibility
- [Bow Season](https://fcal-wis.org/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 a newcomer to the sport, Wisconsin provides an unparalleled
- [Wood County reports its first human case of West Nile Virus this year](https://fcal-wis.org/wood-county-reports-its-first-human-case-of-west-nile-virus-this-year/) - The first human case of West Nile virus of the year in Wood County has been confirmed, prompting local health officials to advise residents to protect themselves against mosquito bites. This follows other cases in Wisconsin, affecting both humans and animals. West Nile virus is primarily spread through mosquito bites. Mosquitoes contract the virus from
- [Keep your eyes peeled for 8 animals migrating across Wisconsin this fall](https://fcal-wis.org/keep-your-eyes-peeled-for-8-animals-migrating-across-wisconsin-this-fall/) - From butterflies to birds, Wisconsin’s home to some of the most fun-to-watch migrating animals, and you don’t want to miss these eight this fall. Just as we change many aspects of our daily lives in the winter, such as spending more time indoors and dressing entirely differently, many animals have to adapt to colder weather.
- [Do not eat’ advisory issued for fish in the Moen Chain in Oneida County due to PFAS contamination](https://fcal-wis.org/do-not-eat-advisory-issued-for-fish-in-the-moen-chain-in-oneida-county-due-to-pfas-contamination/) - Fish harvested from the Moen Chain of lakes in Oneida County are no longer considered safe to eat. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and Wisconsin Department of Health Services issued new consumption advisories for fish and deer in the Stella/Starks area of eastern Oneida County. Private wells in the town of Stella tested positive
- [Field Notes: Ruffed Grouse in the Northwoods](https://fcal-wis.org/field-notes-ruffed-grouse-in-the-northwoods/) - Cool temperatures and changing leaves can mean only one thing. Summer is over and fall is just around the corner. Today we will turn our attention to one of the most iconic fall birds of our northern forests: the ruffed grouse. This remarkable bird, with its mottled brown and black plumage, is a master of
- [Get ready to spot hundreds of hummingbirds flying over Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/get-ready-to-spot-hundreds-of-hummingbirds-flying-over-wisconsin/) - Hummingbirds are beginning their seasonal migration out of Wisconsin. Here’s what you need to know about these tiny travelers. Blink and you might miss them! The hummingbirds that flocked to Wisconsin during the springtime are going to be making their way out of the state in late August. Their migration season (which sees them flying
- [When Wisconsin fall colors are expected to peak in 2025](https://fcal-wis.org/when-wisconsin-fall-colors-are-expected-to-peak-in-2025/) - When can you expect peak fall color in your favorite Wisconsin destinations? Travel Wisconsin’s Fall Color Report, which offers weekly updates in season for many state locations, suggests peak color around the second week of October for some northern destinations such as Ashland; the third week of October for Door County and Eagle River; the fourth
- [Bear Season](https://fcal-wis.org/bear-season/) - Northern Wisconsin is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and among its most cherished traditions is bear hunting. With its dense forests, rolling hills, and abundant wildlife, the region offers a unique and rewarding experience for hunters. Beyond the thrill of the hunt, bear hunting in Northern Wisconsin plays a vital role in wildlife management and
- [ATV/UTV Safety](https://fcal-wis.org/atv-utv-safety/) - Northern Wisconsin is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking landscapes and an extensive network of trails perfect for ATV and UTV adventures. However, with the thrill of off-road riding comes the responsibility to prioritize safety. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, understanding and practicing safety measures is essential to ensure a fun
- [Satellite imagery shows less wild rice this year in northern Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/satellite-imagery-shows-less-wild-rice-this-year-in-northern-wisconsin/) - This year’s wild rice crop in northern Wisconsin appears likely to be lower than last year. That follows a pattern seen in recent years. Crop estimates can now be done using satellite imagery. The Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission says imagery suggests that surface coverage of wild rice is 18% less than last year. Researchers
- [Scientists wonder if Lake Superior can continue to avoid an invasion of mussels](https://fcal-wis.org/cientists-wonder-if-lake-superior-can-continue-to-avoid-an-invasion-of-mussels/) - SLE ROYALE, Mich. (AP) — With no cellphone towers, roads or permanent residents, this wilderness archipelago is about as remote as it gets. Yet it’s still not isolated enough to evade a notorious Great Lakes villain. That’s why Lauren Isbell and Alex Egan, National Park Service scientists by training, recently found themselves diving more than
- [UPDATE:  No public hearing on industry supported wake bill on Tuesday](https://fcal-wis.org/update-no-public-hearing-on-industry-supported-wake-bill-on-tuesday/) - released by noon today, Monday, August 25, meaning there will be no public hearing on the issue tomorrow, as previously speculated. On Friday, Wisconsin Lakes reported suspicion that a bill would be released today with a hearing to quickly follow on Tuesday. For the bill to have been heard at tomorrow's Assembly Forestry, Parks,
- [Pine cones needed to provide seed for Wisconsin tree nurseries](https://fcal-wis.org/pine-cones-needed-to-provide-seed-for-wisconsin-tree-nurseries/) - ou can make some extra money gathering pine cones, but they need to be the right ones. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources needs help gathering red and white pine cones for its reforestation program. "The state nurseries will pay collectors to bring in these cones," said Joseph Vande Hey, Wisconsin DNR reforestation team leader
- [Wisconsin Lakes Welcome to our new Executive Director!](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-lakes-welcome-to-our-new-executive-director/) - Ben Wohajn appointed new Executive Director of Wisconsin Lakes Wisconsin Lakes is proud to announce the hiring of Ben Wojahn (pronounced Woah-yahn) as its next Executive Director! Ben will take over fully from current Executive Director Michael Engleson starting in October, working a part time training schedule through the rest of the summer. Ben
- [Lake Turnover](https://fcal-wis.org/lake-turnover-3/) - Wisconsin is home to a stunning array of lakes, each with its own unique ecosystem. One fascinating natural event that occurs in these lakes is lake turnover, a seasonal process that plays a vital role in maintaining the health and balance of aquatic environments. Lake turnover refers to the mixing of water layers in a
- [PFAS](https://fcal-wis.org/4305-2/) - PFAS Northern Wisconsin known for its pristine lakes, lush forests, and vibrant communities, faces a growing environmental challenge: PFAS contamination. These are commonly known as “forever chemicals,” and scientifically known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have become a pressing concern for residents, environmental advocates, and policymakers alike. PFAS are a group of human-made chemicals widely
- [Deer hunter discovers rare subtropical wood stork in the wilds of Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/deer-hunter-discovers-rare-subtropical-wood-stork-in-the-wilds-of-wisconsin/) - By Associated Press August 16, 2025 MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A very rare and apparently very confused subtropical wood stork somehow found its way to the wilds of Wisconsin. A hunter scouting for deer first sighted the bird Sunday in a remote section of the Mud Lake Wildlife Area in Columbia County, about 35 miles (56
- [Surprising stories behind 6 Wisconsin shipwrecks](https://fcal-wis.org/surprising-stories-behind-6-wisconsin-shipwrecks/) - By Cassidy Grubusic Did you know there are more than 700 known shipwrecks in the Wisconsin Great Lakes? And while some are beginning to disappear, many are remarkably well-preserved due to the fresh, frigid lake waters. Every year, people from all over the country and the world come to visit and scuba dive these wrecks.
- [Climate change is giving ticks and mosquitoes more chances to spread disease](https://fcal-wis.org/climate-change-is-giving-ticks-and-mosquitoes-more-chances-to-spread-disease/) - Certain species of ticks and mosquitoes can carry various diseases. In Wisconsin, Lyme disease is becoming more common with nearly 6,500 cases reported last year, with many cases reported in the Northwoods. The state sees spikes of illnesses from Powassan and West Nile Viruses every couple of years. Dr. Erin Mordecai is a professor of
- [ACTION ALERT:  Wake Boat Update](https://fcal-wis.org/action-alert-wake-boat-update/) - University of Minnesota Saint Anthony Falls Laboratory has released it's phase 2 report on power boat hydro-dynamics and their impact The study recommends wake boats should operate in 20 ft of water or greater when in semi-displacement (surfing) mode. To view the Saint Anthony Falls Laboratory study click HERE. The following videos clearly document the impact.
- [Goldenrod](https://fcal-wis.org/goldenrod/) - Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land Conservation and Land Information Department. For more information contact Lucas O’Brien, Forest County Land Conservation Technician at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at Lucas.O@co.forest.wi.us Goldenrod, a striking wildflower native to Northern Wisconsin, is a hallmark of the region’s late summer and early fall landscapes.
- [Wild Instincts takes in more than 1,000 animals each year. Its funded almost entirely by donations](https://fcal-wis.org/wild-instincts-takes-in-more-than-1000-animals-each-year-its-funded-almost-entirely-by-donations/) - “It's been a very strange year.” Wild Instincts Wildlife Rehabilitation Director Mark Naniot says this year will likely be right up there with the record number of animal admissions. That’s not the strange part. “Not as many songbirds, like I said, a lot more mammals it seems. A lot more baby mice, a lot more
- [Garlic Mustard in Northern Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/garlic-mustard-in-northern-wisconsin/) - Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolate) is a highly invasive plant species that poses a significant threat to the ecosystems of northern Wisconsin. The plant was originally introduced to North America in the 1800’s as a culinary and medical herb, this plant has since spread aggressively, outcompeting native vegetation and disrupting delicate ecological balances. Garlic mustard is
- [Snapshot Day invites people to search lakes and rivers for aquatic invasive species](https://fcal-wis.org/snapshot-day-invites-people-to-search-lakes-and-rivers-for-aquatic-invasive-species/) - Eurasian water milfoil, curly leaf pondweed, and spiny water fleas are a couple aquatic invasive species known to have found their way into some lakes in the Northwoods. “It's definitely not a losing battle,” said Emily Heald, the Rivers Educator with UW Madison Division of Extension. Heald says if you can catch an invasive species
- [A Field Study of Recreational Powerboat Hydrodynamics and their Impacts on the  Water Column and Lakebed](https://fcal-wis.org/a-field-study-of-recreational-powerboat-hydrodynamics-and-their-impacts-on-the-water-column-and-lakebed/) - SAFL-Boat-Report
- [The Spongy Moth in Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/the-spongy-moth-in-wisconsin/) - Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land Conservation and Land Information Department. For more information contact Lucas O’Brien, Forest County Land Conservation Technician at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at Lucas.O@co.forest.wi.us The Spongy Moth in Wisconsin The spongy moth (Lymontria dispar) formerly known as the gypsy moth, is an invasive
- [The Wisconsin Permaculture Convergence is coming to Rhinelander. Here’s what to know](https://fcal-wis.org/he-wisconsin-permaculture-convergence-is-coming-to-rhinelander-heres-what-to-know/) - As a homesteader and manager of the Northwoods Community Garden and Permaculture Training Center, Mike Haasl has incorporated permaculture in a lot of different ways. “Like in my homestead, I've got chickens, so my food scraps go to the chickens, the chicken outputs goes to the garden, which grows vegetables, and then that comes back
- [Snapshot Wisconsin celebrates 10 years of capturing wildlife](https://fcal-wis.org/snapshot-wisconsin-celebrates-10-years-of-capturing-wildlife/) - Snapshot Wisconsin is celebrating two major milestones. This year marks the 10-year anniversary and the collection of 100 million photos. Snapshot Wisconsin is a wildlife photo collection project through the Wisconsin DNR. It utilizes a statewide network of volunteer-managed trail cameras. Anyone can help classify the species spotted in these photos by visiting the Snapshot Wisconsin
- [Green Bay collaborations help restore wildlife, wetlands](https://fcal-wis.org/green-bay-collaborations-help-restore-wildlife-wetlands/) - An effort to restore Northern pike habitat in Green Bay is also benefiting other wildlife species and raising local awareness about the effects of climate change. The primary goal of the multicounty collaboration was to create fish passage openings by building culverts and restoring wetlands to improve spawning habitat for the Northern pike. Ken Dolata, county conservationist
- [Eurasian Water Milfoil](https://fcal-wis.org/eurasian-water-milfoil/) - Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land Conservation and Land Information Department. For more information contact Lucas O’Brien, Forest County Land Conservation Technician at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at Lucas.O@co.forest.wi.us Eurasian Water Milfoil Eurasian Water Milfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum), an invasive aquatic plant, has been a significant ecological challenge in Wisconsin.
- [2025 Minocqua Dragon Boat Festival](https://fcal-wis.org/2025-minocqua-dragon-boat-festival/) - Event Details Paddles Up! The Minocqua Dragon Boat Festival is a fun, free, family event that has entertained thousands since it started in 2016. Over 152 teams have paddled from across 13 states and Canada. This excitement and energy have also had an immense impact on the health and wellness of our community by raising
- [Rhinelander’s Boom Lake Boat Races](https://fcal-wis.org/rhinelanders-boom-lake-boat-races/) - There was a time when Boom Lake in Rhinelander wasn’t just a quiet, scenic waterway, it was a Northwoods’ racetrack. As Rhinelander’s sawmilling era declined, and the old log booms that gave the lake it's name were removed, Boom Lake gradually transformed from an artery of the lumber industry into a playground for aquatic recreation.
- [WI Healthy Lakes and Rivers Program](https://fcal-wis.org/wi-healthy-lakes-and-rivers-program/) - Wisconsin is home to 15,000 lakes and many rivers. These water bodies are crucial to ecosystems that support diverse wildlife, provide recreational opportunities, and contribute to the state’s economy. However, maintaining the health of these aquatic systems requires intentional care and collaboration. That’s where the Wisconsin Healthy Lakes andRivers Initiative steps in—a program designed to
- [Wisconsin group empowers women to restore prairies, pollinators](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-group-empowers-women-to-restore-prairies-pollinators/) - June is National Pollinator Month and a local agricultural group which aims to empower women in conservation is bringing awareness to how prairie restoration can aid the declining population of bees, butterflies and other pollinators. Through its Wisconsin Women in Conservation program, the Michael Fields Agriculture Institute is showing how reintroducing native plant species, among other practices,
- [Purple Loosestrife Beetles](https://fcal-wis.org/purple-loosestrife-beetles/) - Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land Conservation and Land Information Department. For more information contact Lucas O’Brien, Forest County Land Conservation Technician at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at Lucas.O@co.forest.wi.us Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), with its vibrant magenta blooms, is a plant that charms the eye but is really
- [Health officials encourage safe firework handling this holiday weekend](https://fcal-wis.org/health-officials-encourage-safe-firework-handling-this-holiday-weekend/) - Firework displays are planned all across the Northwoods for tonight. Health officials are urging people that plan to light off their own to use caution. Every year, fireworks send thousands of children in the U.S. to the emergency department. Fireworks-related injuries often affect the hands, fingers, legs, head, and eyes. Many involve burns and are
- [New Potawatomi Chairman selected](https://fcal-wis.org/new-potawatomi-chairman-selected/) - The Forest County Potawatomi Community has elected a new Chairman. A post on the Forest County Potawatomi Community Facebook page congratulated Chairman Brooks Boyd Sr. He had previously been serving on the Potawatomi Executive Council. Boyd follows James Crawford in the post. Crawford resigned recently after being offered the position of the United States Department
- [What happens when you restore a shoreline that’s been developed? These researchers are working to find out.](https://fcal-wis.org/what-happens-when-you-restore-a-shoreline-thats-been-developed-these-researchers-are-working-to-find-out/) - After staking out plots along the shores of Crystal Lake in Vilas County, Caroline Gruber and Madeline Hetland begin documenting what they see. They’re undergraduate research fellows at UW Trout Lake Station. Gruber is focused on the woods along the shore. “You can take a peek at the sheet here, but what we're trying to
- [Which States Have the Most Lakes?](https://fcal-wis.org/which-states-have-the-most-lakes/) - Who doesn’t love a lake? They’re the perfect place to idle the day away swimming, boating, waterskiing, or fishing. But what exactly defines a lake? Scientists and government agencies differ on which bodies of water count as big enough to be considered a lake, and some don’t include human-made reservoirs. With that caveat, here are the
- [A Guide to America’s 11 National Scenic Trails](https://fcal-wis.org/a-guide-to-americas-11-national-scenic-trails/) - In 1968, the U.S. government passed the National Trails System Act, which called for the creation of publicly accessible trails in urban and rural settings across the country in order to promote appreciation and enjoyment of the great American outdoors. These trails were to be divided into three groups: national scenic trails, national historic trails, and national
- [The 5 Largest Reservoirs in the U.S.](https://fcal-wis.org/the-5-largest-reservoirs-in-the-u-s/) - Building a dam leads to the creation of enormous artificial lakes known as reservoirs. They are used to store water later used to supply households and businesses, as well as for collecting water that generates hydroelectricity. Moreover, many of these bodies of water have become popular recreation areas for outdoor activities such as boating and fishing, too, making them
- [Garlic mustard aphids may help to slow down the invasive plant](https://fcal-wis.org/garlic-mustard-aphids-may-help-to-slow-down-the-invasive-plant/) - Hopes are one non-native species may help slow down another. Garlic mustard is one of the earliest invasive plants to be found in the spring. It’s widespread throughout Wisconsin. Hopes are the garlic mustard aphid may help by munching on the plants. The aphid was first spotted in the U.S. in 2021, and there have
- [Alcohol on board: smooth sailing or serious legal trouble?](https://fcal-wis.org/alcohol-on-board-smooth-sailing-or-serious-legal-trouble/) - State Bar of Wisconsin June 17, 2025 Know Your Legal Rights is a bi-monthly column distributed by the State Bar of Wisconsin. It is sponsored by the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Lawyer Referral Service (LRS), which connects Wisconsin residents with lawyers throughout the state. To find an attorney in your area, visit wislaw.org. Download this column as
- [Wakesports Reform Coalition, News Updates](https://fcal-wis.org/wakesports-reform-coalition-news-updates/) - ----- Forwarded Message ----- From: Cody Kamrowski Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 at 08:58:22 AM CDT Subject: Wakesports Reform Coalition, News Updates Hello Wakesports Reform Coalition members and supporters, We hope you are enjoying the summer and getting out on your local water bodies and enjoying yourselves! At this time, we have nothing to report from the WI
- [Coalition to Protect Wisconsin’s Lakes Now Largest in the U.S.](https://fcal-wis.org/coalition-to-protect-wisconsins-lakes-now-largest-in-the-u-s/) - For Immediate Release Monday, June 30, 2025 Contact: Steve Lyons (608) 220-7478 Coalition to Protect Wisconsin’s Lakes Now Largest in the U.S. Surge in Group Size Hits 80 WI Groups Membership Now in the Tens of Thousands Madison... A coalition focused on protecting Wisconsin's lakes from wake-enhanced boating has become the largest of its kind
- [FLOW AIS Annual Meeting Presentation Follow Up](https://fcal-wis.org/flow-ais-annual-meeting-presentation-follow-up/) - Hello All, Here are the three presentations from the FLOW AIS annual meeting from the 12th at the Northwoods Inn In pickerel. Two are attached as a PDF, one is in link form below. I truly appreciate all of you for coming to the event. I hope you enjoyed the day and were able to take
- [DHS recommends people test for Powassan virus after death in Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/dhs-recommends-people-test-for-powassan-virus-after-death-in-wisconsin/) - WAUSAU, Wis. (WSAW) - The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has reported that as of June 2025, there are three reported cases of Powassan virus (POWV) disease in Wisconsin adults. All three individuals were hospitalized, and one died from the infection. What to Know Powassan virus is transmitted to people through an infected blacklegged (deer) tick.
- [People encouraged to go “Lights Out” this weekend to help limit light pollution](https://fcal-wis.org/people-encouraged-to-go-lights-out-this-weekend-to-help-limit-light-pollution/) - There are a lot of insects, animals, and even plants that need darkness to thrive. Something as simple as a porch light left on all night can disrupt that. Oneida County Conservationist Michele Sadauskas says right now fireflies are good examples, especially after the heat wave we just had. “They depend on darkness, so when
- [Lucas O'Brien "Land Conservation Technician"](https://fcal-wis.org/lucas-obrien-land-conservation-technician/) - Algal Blooms in Northern Wisconsin Northern Wisconsin, known for its clean lakes and rivers, is facing an environmental challenge that threatens its natural beauty and ecosystem: algal blooms. These blooms occur when algae, microscopic organisms found in water, grow uncontrollably. While algae are a natural part of aquatic ecosystems, their excessive growth can have harmful
- [Top 10 Largest Lakes in the U.S.](https://fcal-wis.org/top-10-largest-lakes-in-the-u-s/) - From tiny ponds to bodies of water the size of entire countries, the United States is home to hundreds of thousands of lakes. America’s lakes create natural habitats for countless fish, bird, and amphibian species and play a key role in everything from recreation to trade, agriculture, and tourism. Discover the 10 largest lakes in the United
- [Summer safety reminders](https://fcal-wis.org/summer-safety-reminders/) - Enjoy Wisconsin waterways — practice hydro dam safety Injuries and even death occur each year at dams across the nation. Avoid accidents when fishing or boating by: Staying clear of restricted zones. Understanding dangers. Obeying all warning signs and devices. Dam site safety Every year, people are seriously injured or killed at dams. Most of
- [6 Best fly fishing spots in Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/6-best-fly-fishing-spots-in-wisconsin/) - Fly fishing is a popular technique—and pastime—for many anglers in the Badger State. Here are six of the best fly fishing spots in Wisconsin. According to DriftHook, Wisconsin’s trout streams have grown “from 2,677 and 9,500 miles in 1980 to now more than 2,989 stretching across 13,000 miles,” making it a paradise for anglers. With so
- [5 Wisconsin parks with the best fairy-tale vibes](https://fcal-wis.org/5-wisconsin-parks-with-the-best-fairy-tale-vibes/) - From stunning nature escapes to children’s attractions full of whimsy, you won’t want to miss out on these Wisconsin parks with fairy-tale vibes. It should go without saying, but getting out under the sun is one of the best ways to spend the warmer months in Wisconsin. After all, our winters can be bitter, and
- [Summer time is swimming time. Here’s how to avoid 4 common Wisconsin lake hazards](https://fcal-wis.org/summer-time-is-swimming-time-heres-how-to-avoid-4-common-wisconsin-lake-hazards/) - f your dad ever told you to go jump in a lake, now is the time to do it. With Memorial Day in the rearview mirror, and Labor Day off in the horizon, the fast-moving months of June, July and August are the prime time to go to a Wisconsin beach, soak in the sun
- [Wildlife experts remove a plastic lid that was stuck on a Michigan bear's neck for two years](https://fcal-wis.org/wildlife-experts-remove-a-plastic-lid-that-was-stuck-on-a-michigan-bears-neck-for-two-years/) - HILLMAN, Mich. (AP) — Michigan wildlife experts finally were able to trap a black bear and remove a large lid that was stuck around his neck — for two years. “It’s pretty incredible that the bear survived and was able to feed itself,” state bear specialist Cody Norton said Wednesday. “The neck was scarred and
- [Pollinators need your help to keep doing their important job](https://fcal-wis.org/pollinators-need-your-help-to-keep-doing-their-important-job/) - Some simple steps can help support pollinators in the environment. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources says most of the pollinators in the state are bees, butterflies and moths. Hummingbirds and some beetles and flies also lend a hand. “Wisconsin is an important part of the remaining habitat for the federally endangered rusty patched bumble
- [First Annual FLOW AIS Meeting](https://fcal-wis.org/first-annual-flow-ais-meeting/) - Recently, our department attended the 1st Annual FLOW AIS meeting hosted at the Northwoods Inn on June 12th. The FLOW AIS program works towards improving aquatic ecosystems through Aquatic Invasive Species prevention, education, public outreach, and waterbody monitoring in Forest, Langlade, Marinette, & Oconto Counties in Northeast Wisconsin. Derek Thorn is the FLOW AIS coordinator
- [Manure spill in Monroe County kills hundreds of fish](https://fcal-wis.org/manure-spill-in-monroe-county-kills-hundreds-of-fish/) - At least eight miles of a Southwest-Wisconsin stream were polluted by a manure spill earlier this month. The spill killed hundreds of fish, including many wild brown trout. The affected waterways — Spring Valley Creek, Moore Creek and the Kickapoo River — have long been remarkable for their healthy water quality, healthy enough to sustain naturally-reproducing trout populations.
- [A Guide to Seeing the Northern Lights from Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/a-guide-to-seeing-the-northern-lights-from-wisconsin/) - The aurora borealis, aka Northern Lights, is usually visible in Alaska, Canada, and Scandinavian countries like Greenland. But there’s good news: The show in the sky is expected to be especially active this summer, and Wisconsin is one of a dozen US states where you can see it. What are the Northern Lights? The aurora
- [WISCONSIN LAKES FAQ](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-lakes-faq/) - Frequently asked questions about lakes are answered on this page. Water Levels and Drought Does drought make blue-green algae worse? Does the drought make Cladophora worse? Why are water levels on my lake lower? What causes water levels to go up and down? Are low water levels bad for lakes? The short answer is no.
- [Waterside Campsites for Adventure-Seekers](https://fcal-wis.org/waterside-campsites-for-adventure-seekers-3/) - Northeast Wisconsin The rapids crash and flow over rock ledges in this stretch of the Oconto River inside the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, and you’ll find Bagley Rapids Campground in the heart of the action. The sites are
- [Waterside Campsites for Adventure-Seekers](https://fcal-wis.org/waterside-campsites-for-adventure-seekers-2/) - Northwest Wisconsin St. Croix National Scenic Riverway You’ll want to bring a canoe on this trip – more than 100 free primitive campsites are strung out along
- [Waterside Campsites for Adventure-Seekers](https://fcal-wis.org/waterside-campsites-for-adventure-seekers/) - Some of Wisconsin’s best lakeside camping can be found in Door County, at these 17 hike-in sites along the Lake Michigan shoreline within Newport State Park. It’s worth the hike to spend the night where the forest meets the cobblestones, sand and waves of Lake Michigan’s stunning shores. And as one of the few International Dark Sky
- [History of Wisconsin Sip Building](https://fcal-wis.org/history-of-wisconsin-sip-building/) - Did you know the first submarine to be launched sideways (instead of nose first) was built by the Wisconsin company, Manitowoc Shipbuilding Company? On April 30, 1942, the submarine Peto was launched sideways into the Manitowoc River. This was the first submarine built by Wisconsin’s Manitowoc Shipbuilding Company. At 11:45 a.m. the wife of the
- [Dave’s Falls County Park (Amberg)](https://fcal-wis.org/daves-falls-county-park-amberg/) - Dave’s Falls is proof that sometimes the best things come in small packages.This little county park packs a big punch with its series of cascades tumbling over ancient bedrock.The falls are named after Dave Pearce, a local landowner who donated the land to the county.Thanks, Dave! Your generosity has given us a place to escape
- [Another record-breaking year for Wisconsin tourism, Northwoods!](https://fcal-wis.org/another-record-breaking-year-for-wisconsin-tourism-northwoods/) - Wisconsin had its third record-breaking year for tourism with $25.8 billion in total economic impact in 2024. Many Northwoods counties also had record-breaking years again, but there are signs back-to-back recent low-snow winters are having an impact. As the Coontail assistant manager and a buyer, Jason Schultz has seen a lot of changes to who
- [Forest County Land Conservation/Land Information Department.](https://fcal-wis.org/forest-county-land-conservation-land-information-department/) - This week I would like to introduce our newest addition to the Forest County Land Conservation/Land Information Department. His name is Lucas O’Brien. Lucas will serve as the Land Conservation technician. He is from Belle Plaine, Minnesota and graduated from Belle Plaine Senior High in 2021. After high school, Lucas attended the University of Wisconsin-Stevens
- [Civilian Conservation Centers, including Blackwell Job Corps, are under review](https://fcal-wis.org/civilian-conservation-centers-including-blackwell-job-corps-are-under-review/) - The futures of Job Corps Centers across the U.S. are uncertain. The Department of Labor made an announcement at the end of May to pause all contractor-operated centers by June 30th. The move has been temporarily blocked by a federal judge following a lawsuit to stop the halting of operations. The Job Corps program was
- [Field Notes: Mosquitoes in the Northwoods](https://fcal-wis.org/field-notes-mosquitoes-in-the-northwoods/) - I love the spring. The weather warms and the snow melts. A fun time to get out in the woods with my dog, Ole. This time of year is great, until the week before Memorial Day. What happens during that week? The mosquitoes come out and they usually come out in a big way. A
- [DNR Seeking Public Input On Great Lakes Beach Listings](https://fcal-wis.org/dnr-seeking-public-input-on-great-lakes-beach-listings/) - MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is asking the public to help update Wisconsin's Beach List to keep people safe on Great Lakes beaches this summer. Each year, the DNR's beach program contacts residents, local beach managers and public health departments along Wisconsin's Great Lakes coasts to determine any changes needed to the Wisconsin
- [Important Wakeboat Legislative Update](https://fcal-wis.org/important-wakeboat-legislative-update/) - Welcome to the latest edition of the Lakes at Stake Wisconsin newsletter! We are dedicated to preserving the beauty and safety of Wisconsin’s treasured glacial lakes. This is a brief update on what is happening in Madison. On May 28th there was a meeting at the Capitol with a group of legislators along with wakeboat
- [Spiny waterfleas found in Iron County lake](https://fcal-wis.org/spiny-waterfleas-found-in-iron-county-lake/) - IRON COUNTY - An aquatic invasive species known to hurt walleye and perch survival have been found on a lake in Southern Iron County. Spiny waterfleas have been discovered in Sandy Beach Lake about 9 miles southwest of Manitowish Waters. Initial evidence was documented in the summer of 2023 during routine lake monitoring. In 2024
- [6 Wisconsin Water Ski Shows That Will Astonish You This Summer](https://fcal-wis.org/6-wisconsin-water-ski-shows-that-will-astonish-you-this-summer/) - Did you know that Wisconsin is the “Show Ski Capital of the World”? It’s true! With more water ski show teams than anywhere else, you’ll find plenty of action staged on our many sparkling lakes and rivers. Teams all around the state spend the summers performing water ski shows for their communities and lucky travelers passing through, almost always for free! Amateur skiers ranging in age from young children through retired
- [Watch out for Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) this Summer!](https://fcal-wis.org/watch-out-for-aquatic-invasive-species-ais-this-summer/) - Summer is in full swing now and many people have their boats in the water. Whether you spend your time this summer fishing, skiing, or cruising on our area lakes, it is important to be aware of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) in the lake you are on. You may notice individuals at boat launches to
- [A first timer’s guide to whitewater rafting on Wisconsin’s Peshtigo River](https://fcal-wis.org/a-first-timers-guide-to-whitewater-rafting-on-wisconsins-peshtigo-river/) - Whitewater rafting doesn’t have to be confusing. If you live in or around Wisconsin, enjoy the Peshtigo River to the fullest with our comprehensive guide. Whitewater rafting is common in the Midwestern and Southern portions of the United States, but we in Wisconsin, in particular, are lucky to have an especially beloved rafting hot spot:
- [Natural Wonder Fund created to promote outdoor activities in the Rhinelander area](https://fcal-wis.org/natural-wonder-fund-created-to-promote-outdoor-activities-in-the-rhinelander-area/) - A Sheboygan County couple wants to make sure people living and visiting Rhinelander can access the natural beauty of the area. They’ve started an endowment fund with the Rhinelander Community Foundation aimed at non-motorized activities. Teri and Stan Strub spent years visiting friends who had property in the Rhinelander area. They had long talked about
- [DNR to Hold Aquatic Plant Management Rules Revision Roadshows](https://fcal-wis.org/dnr-to-hold-aquatic-plant-management-rules-revision-roadshows/) - Agency provides four opportunities for public comment on changes to NR 107 and NR 109, the administrative rules covering aquatic plant management The Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources is pursuing revisions and changes to the administrative rules governing aquatic plant management in the state. This is similar to an effort to update the rules
- [The Burn Pile](https://fcal-wis.org/the-burn-pile/) - Reminder of the 2023 Forest County Land & Water Plant Sale PICKUP We are wrapping up our 3rd Annual Plant Sale. If you ordered plants from us (Land & Water), you can pick them up on Friday, June 2nd beginning at 9am til 4pm in the Forest County Courthouse Square. We’ll be parked next to
- [Announcing the 2025 Forest County Land Conservation Native Plant Sale](https://fcal-wis.org/announcing-the-2025-forest-county-land-conservation-native-plant-sale/) - Once again, we are going to have our Annual Native Plant Sale! Native plants are a great way to attract bird, butterflies, and bees to your property. They can also help to stop erosion and sediment loss on shorelines. Consider planting native plants this summer instead of ornamental plants! A list of plants and an
- [Visit Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest For Its Centennial Celebration, June 7](https://fcal-wis.org/visit-northern-highland-american-legion-state-forest-for-its-centennial-celebration-june-7/) - MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites the public to attend the 100th anniversary celebration of the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest on June 7. Events will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Crystal Lake Day Use Area and pavilion. The roots of Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest's conservation
- [FISHING REGULATIONS Fishing Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/fishing-regulations-fishing-wisconsin/) - Fishing regulations are used as a tool to ensure good fishing exists in the future. Fishing regulations are used to: control angler impacts on fish populations; maintain numbers and sizes of fish in a lake or stream; provide different types of fishing experiences, such as fishing for dinner or a trophy fish, and make access to
- [Find Your Next Outdoor Adventure In Wisconsin During Free Fun Weekend, June 7-8](https://fcal-wis.org/find-your-next-outdoor-adventure-in-wisconsin-during-free-fun-weekend-june-7-8/) - MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites the public to head outdoors for the 13th annual Free Fun Weekend happening June 7-8, 2025. State Park admission fees, fishing licenses and trail passes are waived for all visitors. With 50 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, 84,000 miles of rivers and
- [AQUATIC PLANTS](https://fcal-wis.org/aquatic-plants/) - Aquatic plants form the foundation of healthy and flourishing lake ecosystems - both within lakes and rivers and on the shores around them. They not only protect water quality, but they also produce life-giving oxygen. Aquatic plants are a lake's own filtering system, helping to clarify the water by absorbing nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen
- [It started in Wisconsin…](https://fcal-wis.org/it-started-in-wisconsin/) - DID YOU KNOW? Water skiing was invented in 1922, when Ralph Samuelson used a pair of boards as skis and a clothesline as a tow rope on Lake Pepin, the largest lake on the Mississippi River (in between Minnesota and Wisconsin.) Samuelson went on to teach the sport for 15 years. Today, America alone is home to
- [Turtles may be crossing roads as they look for a place to nest.](https://fcal-wis.org/turtles-may-be-crossing-roads-as-they-look-for-a-place-to-nest/) - Turtles can be seen crossing roads this time of year as they look for a place to nest. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources encourages people to slow down and watch out for them. Drivers can help reduce turtle road mortality by being cautious when driving near swamps, lakes and rivers. Road deaths are a
- [Trout Waters in Forest County](https://fcal-wis.org/trout-waters-in-forest-county/) - Northern Wisconsin is known for its natural resources. Many outdoorsman, fisherman and nature lovers live or visit here each year. It is also home to some of the finest coldwater trout fisheries in the Midwest. Among its most treasured natural resources are its Class I trout streams, pristine waters that support naturally reproducing trout populations
- [Canadian Nightcrawlers: More Than Just Bait](https://fcal-wis.org/canadian-nightcrawlers-more-than-just-bait/) - If you’ve ever spent a cool morning at the edge of a lake with a fishing pole in hand, there’s a good chance you’ve used a Canadian Nightcrawler as bait. Fat, wriggly, and irresistible to fish, these worms are sold by the dozens at bait shops across North America. But while they’re famous among anglers,
- [Muskie Season Set to Open](https://fcal-wis.org/muskie-season-set-to-open/) - Musky season opens tomorrow. State officials are predicting a normal opener, despite the late spring. Tim Simonson from the DNR Bureau of Fisheries Management says spawning for muskies has generally already happened. “Yeah one of the reason that we open the season later in May is to allow the fish to spawn. Usually about 50-55
- [Creating A New Sargassum Value Chain](https://fcal-wis.org/creating-a-new-sargassum-value-chain/) - Source: https://vimeo.com/1022338679 Produced By: Pan Up Productions Agency - Newlab Production Company - Pan Up Productions // www.panup.tv Director - Robert Ravenscroft // www.ravenscroft.tv DP - Emmett Kerr-Perkinson
- [Life jackets save lives, but only if you wear them!](https://fcal-wis.org/life-jackets-save-lives-but-only-if-you-wear-them/) - By law, boaters are required to have a life jacket on board for every person, but those life jackets only work if you’re wearing them. Fourteen people died in boating incidents last year in Wisconsin, only two were wearing life jackets. “It doesn't do a whole lot of good if it's stowed in a compartment
- [When We Lose Land, We Lose Wildlife!](https://fcal-wis.org/when-we-lose-land-we-lose-wildlife/) - According to experts, more than a third of species and ecosystems in the United States are at risk of disappearing. From wide-roaming bears to migratory birds and freshwater fish, wildlife depends on healthy, connected landscapes to survive. But every year, thousands of acres of forests, wetlands, and open space are lost to development, fragmentation, and
- [Protect Loons! Do your part.](https://fcal-wis.org/protect-loons-do-your-part/) - Over the last seventy years, northern Wisconsin has experienced increasing development. Housing density maps from 1940, 1990, and 2010 clearly show cumulative density throughout the decades, particularly in the lakes regions. What does this mean for loons? Loss of habitat, declining water quality, and increased recreational use of lakes influence loon presence and survival. Dire
- [Turtle Nesting Season Begins](https://fcal-wis.org/turtle-nesting-season-begins/) - Among the first animals to make an appearance in spring time are the region's native turtles, slowly emerging from winter dormancy to bask in the warming sun and begin their seasonal routines. In Northern Wisconsin, turtles hibernate through the cold months by burrowing into the muddy bottoms of ponds, lakes, and rivers. Species that can
- [Wisconsin hotspot for Lyme disease spread as tick activity increases](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-hotspot-for-lyme-disease-spread-as-tick-activity-increases/) - May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month and the latest state data show Wisconsin recently recorded the highest number of Lyme disease cases in state history. Experts are urging residents to be mindful of the ticks carrying it as they become more active across the state. There are 16 confirmed tick species in Wisconsin and experts are focused
- [What is a Geographic Information System (GIS)?](https://fcal-wis.org/what-is-a-geographic-information-system-gis/) - In the Forest County Land Conservation and Land Information Department, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are used every day. I am sure you use GIS in your everyday life and you might not even know it. If you use Google maps to get directions or find a restaurant near you, you are using GIS. If you
- [Winter Salt Awareness Week](https://fcal-wis.org/winter-salt-awareness-week/) - Each year the DNR and Wisconsin Salt Wise invite the public to learn about the impacts of road salt on our drinking water and freshwater ecosystems during Winter Salt Awareness Week. This year it is January 27th-31st. It is a series of YouTube livestreams with speakers on various topics focusing on the impacts of salt
- [Wisconsin Wildlife in the Winter](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-wildlife-in-the-winter/) - Wisconsin wildlife have evolved a range of adaptations to help them survive the harsh winter conditions that we experience here in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Conditions like extreme cold that we have been having this winter, deep snow (that we have yet to get this year), and limitations on food availability. Some animals grow a
- [National Invasive Species Awareness Week](https://fcal-wis.org/national-invasive-species-awareness-week/) - National Invasive Species Awareness Week is this week, February 24th-28th. It is led by the North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA) which supports local, state, tribal, federal, regional, and national organizations. NAISMA hosts educational webinars on priority invasive species. Some speakers and topics for this year include: US Geological Survey, US Army Corps of
- [Sounds of Spring in Northern Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/sounds-of-spring-in-northern-wisconsin/) - Spring peepers (Pseudacris crucifer) are among Wisconsin's earliest and most vocal signs of spring. These tiny frogs, often no larger than a paperclip, are known for their high-pitched "peep" calls that echo through wetlands and woodlands from mid-April through early June.​ Although they are physically small and hard to spot, they can be recognized by
- [Forest County Land Information purchases Global Positioning System](https://fcal-wis.org/forest-county-land-information-purchases-global-positioning-system/) - The Forest County Land Conservation/Land Information Department is excited to announce that we purchased a new Global Positioning System (GPS). This is a step forward in modernizing our land records in the county. Myself and the County Surveyor, Jamie Anderson, will be able to use the survey grade GPS to locate, update, and maintain the
- [Annual Invasive Species Trade-Up Days](https://fcal-wis.org/annual-invasive-species-trade-up-days/) - The Wild Rivers Invasive Species Coalition (WRISC) is partnering with the Forest County Land Conservation/Land Information Department to host the 3rd Annual Invasive Species Trade-Up Days in May. For Forest County, drop off will be at the Forest County Courthouse May 7th-9th. Once you drop off your plants on the trailer that WRISC provides, you
- [WI Land & Water Middle School Conservation Camp - Scholarship Available](https://fcal-wis.org/wi-land-water-middle-school-conservation-camp-scholarship-available/) - Thanks to all that supported the Forest County Land Conservation Departments annual native plant sale! With the proceeds, we are able to offer one scholarship for the Middle School Youth Conservation Camp this summer. The Middle School Camp will be hosted at Upham Woods in Wisconsin Dells, June 15-18th, 2025. The cost of the camp
- [Earth Day April 17TH](https://fcal-wis.org/earth-day/) - April 22nd is Earth Day! Every year millions of people around the globe come together to celebrate Earth Day, a day dedicated to honoring and protecting the planet. Growing up, I remember various events we would do in school, like plantings trees or learning about the environment. Earth Day hasn’t always existed and this week
- [Native Plants and their Importance to our Shorelines](https://fcal-wis.org/native-plants-and-their-importance-to-our-shorelines/) - Now that spring is hopefully on its way, many lake property owners in the county may start to see damage along their shorelines from ice shove. Ice shove or ice push occurs when the temperature increases as spring approaches, causing the ice to melt and start to break up. Weakening ice with strong winds can
- [Wisconsin Conservation Congress -2025 Spring Hearing](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-conservation-congress-2025-spring-hearing/) - The Wisconsin Conservation Congress (WCC) is a unique, volunteer-based organization that works to advise and support the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in managing the state's natural resources. The WCC consists of citizens who represent different areas of the state and contribute to the decision-making process on environmental issues, wildlife management, and conservation efforts.
- [How Spring Can Affect our Land and Water](https://fcal-wis.org/how-spring-can-affect-our-land-and-water/) - Each year when warm temperatures start to bring signs of spring, it is also a time of year to pay attention to how the snow melt and increases in rain can affect our land and water. Spring runoff and rain events are significant topics for conservation in Wisconsin due to the state’s unique geography and
- [2025 Forest County Land Conservation Native Plant Sale – Orders Due Soon!](https://fcal-wis.org/2025-forest-county-land-conservation-native-plant-sale-orders-due-soon/) - Just wanted to get a reminder out about our annual plant sale! Order forms are due Friday, April 4th 2025. Native plants are a great way to attract bird, butterflies, and bees to your property. They can also help to stop erosion and sediment loss on shorelines. Consider planting native plants this summer instead of
- [Maple Syrup Production in the Northwoods](https://fcal-wis.org/maple-syrup-production-in-the-northwoods/) - As spring approaches many of us will get out to start our Maple Syrup operations. Wisconsin is ranked fourth in the nation for Maple Syrup production, trailing Vermont, New York, and Massachusetts. Our state produced 458,000 gallons in 2024, up 1,000 gallons from 2023, according to the USDA Wisconsin Ag News – Maple Syrup. The
- [WI Land & Water Announces 2025 Youth Summer Conservation Camps](https://fcal-wis.org/wi-land-water-announces-2025-youth-summer-conservation-camps-2/) - Each summer the Wisconsin Land and Water Conservation Association hosts two conservation camps for Wisconsin students. There is a middle school camp and a high school camp. The middle school camp is held at Upham Woods in Wisconsin Dells and this year it takes place Sunday, June 15th- Wednesday, June 18th, 2025. It is for
- [Area Winner for Conservation Poster Contest!](https://fcal-wis.org/area-winner-for-conservation-poster-contest/) - The theme for the 2025 Conservation Poster Contest this year was “Home is where the Habitat is”. We had one student place at the Area Conservation Poster Contest this year. That student was 10th grader, Lindsey Mihalko from the School District of Crandon. Because Lindsey took 1st Place at the Area Contest, she will advance
- [Local Conservation Poster Conservation Winners](https://fcal-wis.org/local-conservation-poster-conservation-winners/) - The theme for the 2025 Conservation Poster Contest this year was “Home is where the Habitat is”. The poster contest was open to kindergarten through 12th grade students, and posters were evaluated on the following criteria: conservation message, visual effectiveness, originality, universal appeal, and individual artwork. The students that took 1 st Place at the
- [Annual Native Plant Sale!](https://fcal-wis.org/annual-native-plant-sale/) - Once again, we are going to have our Annual Native Plant Sale! Native plants are a great way to attract bird, butterflies, and bees to your property. They can also help to stop erosion and sediment loss on shorelines. Consider planting native plants this summer instead of ornamental plants! A list of plants and an
- [Consider Invasives while Ice Fishing](https://fcal-wis.org/consider-invasives-while-ice-fishing/) - Did you know that aquatic invasive species (AIS) can still be spread even during the winter? Invasive species are non-native plants, animals and diseases that cause great ecological, environmental, or economic harm. Aquatic invasive species can crowd out native plants and animals and threaten the quality of boating and fishing in Forest County waters. You
- [Forest County Awarded Grant for Orthoimagery](https://fcal-wis.org/forest-county-awarded-grant-for-orthoimagery/) - Every 5 years Forest County partners with the Wisconsin Regional Orthoimagery Consortium (WROC) to update the county’s orthoimagery. Orthoimagery is a geometrically corrected aerial photograph. Orthoimagery has been the foundation of regional mapping efforts in Wisconsin since the first consortium was formed in 1995. It started with 1.0-meter resolution film photography of seven counties in
- [Great Lakes' $7 Billion Fishing Industry](https://fcal-wis.org/great-lakes-7-billion-fishing-industry/) - A stalemate between President Donald Trump and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker that threatened a $1.2 billion plan to keep invasive carp from reaching the Great Lakes appears to have been settled after the Trump administration offered assurances it will cover its share of the costs. After a delay that has stretched on since February, Illinois officials
- [Help Birds During Spring Migration](https://fcal-wis.org/help-birds-during-spring-migration/) - Native bird populations in the U.S. and Canada have declined by nearly 3 billion birds since 1970. You can help birds during this key time by taking a few small steps.Photo credit: Jacob Collison MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages bird watchers to enjoy the return of migratory birds to Wisconsin this
- [Early-season Scrambling-- The Loon Project](https://fcal-wis.org/early-season-scrambling-the-loon-project/) - Sheila Johnston’s cool photo from this spring shows her favorite loon, Lena. Lena was a victim of an early-season eviction last May and spent weeks recuperating. We are delighted to see her back this year and re-paired on her old territory. With some luck, she and her mate will raise chicks on Upper Gull
- [Communities in the Northwoods to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day](https://fcal-wis.org/communities-in-the-northwoods-to-celebrate-world-migratory-bird-day/) - On April 12, an estimated 15 million birds crossed the state Wisconsin. It was one of the busiest nights of the spring migration so far, according to BirdCast, a website that tracks migration. Some of those birds are just passing through, while others are here to stay in the Northwoods for the summer. “Biodiversity is
- [Wisconsin inland fishing season opens Saturday](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-inland-fishing-season-opens-saturday/) - Wisconsin’s inland fishing season opens across the state Saturday. The Wisconsin DNR asks those hitting the water to be careful not to spread aquatic invasive species. They say to remove all plants and animals from boats before moving them, drain any water, and never move live fish. They also want people to stay safe and
- [Wisconsin DNR reminds people to keep wildlife wild](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-dnr-reminds-people-to-keep-wildlife-wild/) - It’s that time of year where we see young wildlife throughout the Northwoods. The Wisconsin DNR is reminding people to keep wildlife wild, especially when it comes to fawns. If you encounter a fawn while outdoors, do not touch it or intervene in any way – there’s a good chance it’s right where it’s supposed
- [Last Wilderness Alliance](https://fcal-wis.org/last-wilderness-alliance-wake-boats/) - The mission for the Last Wilderness Alliance (LWA) is to "advocate for the protection of our natural resources to support the long term viability of Wisconsin’s Northwoods". Read about their work regarding wake boats.
- [WISCONSIN FISHING FINDER](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-fishing-finder/) - IT'S HERE! The Wisconsin Fishing Finder is now available to help you plan your next fishing trip. Give it a look. It will become your online resource (available on all platforms) for getting more fish on your line. FINDING YOUR FISH. FINDING YOUR FUN. Wisconsin has a lot of water to fish. But with over 15,000
- [Be Bear Aware: Take Steps Now To Avoid Potential Conflicts with Black Bears This Spring](https://fcal-wis.org/be-bear-aware-take-steps-now-to-avoid-potential-conflicts-with-black-bears-this-spring/) - MADISON, Wis. – As the weather warms and people across the state begin spending more time outside, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages the public to be bear aware and take steps to prevent potential conflicts with black bears this spring. Every spring, Wisconsin's estimated 24,000 black bears emerge from their winter torpor and leave their
- [The US and Canada have long managed the Great Lakes together](https://fcal-wis.org/the-us-and-canada-have-long-managed-the-great-lakes-together/) - "This story was originally published by Grist. Sign up for Grist's weekly newsletter here." This coverage is made possible through a partnership between Grist, Interlochen Public Radio in Northern Michigan, and WBEZ, a public radio station serving the Chicago metropolitan region. Great Lakes Day is an annual summit where politicians and officials of all stripes gather in Washington, D.C.,
- [Buckthorn in our Forests](https://fcal-wis.org/buckthorn-in-our-forests/) - Buckthorn in our Forests This week I’d like to talk about an invasive species that can be easily seen in the fall. Buckthorn is an invasive plant that most commonly looks like a shrub, but once mature can form into a small tree. There are two main varieties of buckthorn that are of concern
- [Safeguarding Wisconsin Turtles](https://fcal-wis.org/safeguarding-wisconsin-turtles/) - Safeguarding Wisconsin Turtles Last week, on a trip to the Fox Valley, I saw a smashed Snapping Turtle on the highway. It reminded me that we’re in ‘Turtle Crossing’ season. Wisconsin, known for its abundant wildlife and diverse ecosystems, is home to several species of turtles. These remarkable reptiles play a vital role in maintaining
- [Documentary brings Wisconsin tribe's pipeline resistance to national stage](https://fcal-wis.org/documentary-brings-wisconsin-tribes-pipeline-resistance-to-national-stage/) - By Judith Ruiz-Branch/Wisconsin News Connection via WXPR Patty Loew attended five screenings of a new film this year. She wasn't joining box office masses at Wicked or Inside Out 2, but Bad River: A Story of Defiance. The independent documentary, directed by Mary Mazzio and released in March, drew in masses of its own. AMC
- [All Things Outdoors: Fall boating](https://fcal-wis.org/all-things-outdoors-fall-boating/) - By Katie Thoresen, WXPR - Published November 11, 2024 Many people are getting out on the water before the ice sets in. WXPR's Katie Thoresen talks with Wisconsin DNR Conservation Warden Austin Babich about safety concerns this time of year. LISTEN ON WXPR.ORG (2m:29s)
- [Field Notes: The Fish of Vilas County](https://fcal-wis.org/field-notes-the-fish-of-vilas-county/) - By Lonnie Parry Gillis, WXPR - Published December 10, 2024 Hi my name is Lonnie Parry, I am a Masters Student at the University of Wisconsin- Madison studying fisheries science. Today, I am going to guide us on an exploration of the fish of Vilas County, Wisconsin—an area blessed with an astounding 1,300 plus lakes.
- [Field Notes: Bountiful Blooms in our Water Bodies](https://fcal-wis.org/field-notes-bountiful-blooms-in-our-water-bodies/) - By Gretchen Gerrish - Published October 11, 2024 This summer, plant and algal blooms in northern Wisconsin lakes have been a hot topic of discussion. At UW Trout Lake Station, we have received reports of surface-covering purple bladderwort, heard stories of bright green threads rising from rocky lake bottoms in new locations, and have had concerned
- [Waterfowl create new challenges in effort to restore wild rice on Spur Lake in Oneida County](https://fcal-wis.org/waterfowl-create-new-challenges-in-effort-to-restore-wild-rice-on-spur-lake-in-oneida-county/) - By Katie Thoreson, WXPR - December 19, 2024 Strapping his canoe back into his truck bed, Brian Biermier remembers Spur Lake in the 70s when wild rice grew thick on the Oneida County lake. “It was solid rice, shore to shore, you could not see the water,” said Biermier. “There was some opening day, there
- [Forest County Weather Station at the Crandon Airport](https://fcal-wis.org/forest-county-weather-station-at-the-crandon-airport/) - Forest County Emergency Management & the City of Crandon Airport partnered with University of Wisconsin to install a high-tech weather station. Wisconsin's Environmental Mesonet (WiscoNet) Program is supported by a $2.3 million grant from the University of Wisconsin- Madison’s Wisconsin Rural Partnership institute and the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation. A mesonet is a network of
- [Disposing of your Halloween Pumpkins](https://fcal-wis.org/disposing-of-your-halloween-pumpkins/) - Disposing of your Halloween Pumpkins As the Halloween season comes to an end, here are a few ways you can properly dispose of your pumpkins that are beginning to rot and mold. There are proper ways to dispose of your pumpkins to mitigate both methane release and the stink rotting pumpkins can bring to your
- [Ruffed Grouse Population Increases in Northern WI](https://fcal-wis.org/ruffed-grouse-population-increases-in-northern-wi/) - The ruffed grouse is a native Wisconsin species and popular upland hunting bird. Those of us in Forest County are familiar with them. We often see them on gravel roads in the fall and hear the thumping of their wings when walking in the woods. Their population is dependent on young forest habitat typically created
- [Fall Colors in Forest County](https://fcal-wis.org/fall-colors-in-forest-county/) - Fall Colors in Forest County have peaked in the last few weeks. During the peak color this photo was taken from our drone. The Forest County Land Conservation/Land Information Department has a DJI Matrice 300 RTK drone that has many different uses in the department. With 2 different camera options, features like aerial imagery,
- [FCAL - Fall Environmental Day](https://fcal-wis.org/fcal-fall-environmental-day/) - On Thursday, September 26th, high school students from Forest County schools gathered at the City Beach in Crandon for the annual Forest County Association of Lakes (FCAL) - Fall Environmental Day. Students spent a few hours in the morning learning about various environmental related topics. The students that attended are currently taking a high school
- [2024 Forest County Conservation Poster Contest](https://fcal-wis.org/2024-forest-county-conservation-poster-contest/) - Last week we highlighted the local winners of our conservation poster contest. The theme for the 2024 Poster Contest this year was “May the Forest be With You, Always”. The Poster Contest was open to kindergarten through 12th grade students, and posters were evaluated on the following criteria: Conservation message, Visual effectiveness, Originality, Universal appeal,
- [Decoding Wisconsin's Eccentric El Niño Winter](https://fcal-wis.org/decoding-wisconsins-eccentric-el-nino-winter/) - Wisconsin's winters are often characterized by biting cold, heavy snowfall, and frozen landscapes. However, the recent emergence of a peculiar weather phenomenon has brought unprecedented changes to the state's winter climate. El Niño, a climate cycle characterized by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, has been exerting its influence on Wisconsin's winter weather
- [Subnivean Zone and Lack of Snow](https://fcal-wis.org/subnivean-zone-and-lack-of-snow/) - Winter in Northern Wisconsin typically means the arrival of a serene landscape blanketed in snow, transforming the region into a picturesque wonderland. However, this winter has brought forth an unusual phenomenon – a conspicuous lack of snowfall. This deviation from the norm has not only altered the aesthetics of the environment but has also had
- [Announcing the 2024 Forest County Land & Water Plant Sale](https://fcal-wis.org/announcing-the-2024-forest-county-land-water-plant-sale-2/) - 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 order form on our Facebook Page:
- [Harnessing Biochar: A Sustainable Solution for Northern Wisconsin's Environmental Challenges](https://fcal-wis.org/harnessing-biochar-a-sustainable-solution-for-northern-wisconsins-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 biochar and how it has emerged as a promising tool to address these concerns sustainably.
- [Announcing Wisconsin Land & Water Summer Camps for Middle and High School Students](https://fcal-wis.org/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 education, outdoor adventures, and community stewardship, these camps aim to inspire the next generation
- [Importance of Birds](https://fcal-wis.org/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 fabric of the communities that call this land home. The presence
- [African Jumping Worms' Onslaught in Northern Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/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 residents alike. Originally from Asia, these worms have made their way to North America and
- [Great Wisconsin Birdathon 2024](https://fcal-wis.org/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 and awareness for bird conservation by forming a team or donating to a team. Birdathon teams can
- [Spongy Moths in Northern Wisconsin During Summer Months](https://fcal-wis.org/2024-week-25-spongy-moths-week-of-june-17-21-2024/) - 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 threat to the forests of Northern Wisconsin. Their larvae, commonly referred to
- [Deer Fawns](https://fcal-wis.org/2024-week-24-deer-fawns-week-of-june-10-14-2024/) - 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 months after mating. In Northern
- [The 17-Year Cycle of Cicadas in Northern Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/2024-week-21-cicadas-week-of-may-20-25-2024/) - 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, captures the interest of entomologists and the public alike with its remarkable and predictable emergence patterns. The
- [Students Test Environmental Knowledge at Wisconsin Envirothon](https://fcal-wis.org/2024-week-20-envirothon-week-of-may-13-17-2024/) - 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 Envirothon brings together middle and high school students for the state’s ultimate environmental
- [Bog Brook Wildlife Area in Forest County, Wisconsin: A Poor Fen Habitat](https://fcal-wis.org/2024-week-28-bog-brook-week-of-july-8-12-2024/) - In cooperation with the Wisconsin DNR and the Town of Nashville, the road into the Bog Brook Wildlife Area in Southern Forest County has been repaired. The Bog Brook Wildlife Area is a unique natural sanctuary that spans over 490 acres. This area is especially significant because it encompasses a rare and ecologically vital type
- [Wake boats: The Monster Trucks of Wisconsin Lakes](https://fcal-wis.org/2024-week-26-wake-boats-week-of-june-24-28-2024/) - Wake boats have rapidly become a prominent feature on Wisconsin lakes, drawing attention and controversy alike. Known for their powerful engines and ability to create massive wakes, these boats are often likened to monster trucks for their size, power, and disruptive presence on the water. This comparison, while vivid, encapsulates both the allure and the
- [The Decline of Insect Populations: The Impact of Neonicotinoids](https://fcal-wis.org/2024-week-23-your-food-and-fishing-week-of-june-3-7-2024/) - 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 referred to as "neonics," are a class of neuro-active insecticides chemically similar to nicotine. Introduced
- [No Mow May](https://fcal-wis.org/2024-week-22-no-mow-may-week-of-may-27-may-31-2024/) - 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 plants to grow to help provide
- [Find Public Land to Hunt this Season Using DNR Mapping Tools](https://fcal-wis.org/conservation-corner-find-public-land-to-hunt-this-season-using-dnr-mapping-tools/) - The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages the public to hunt on public land this hunting season. The WI DNR purchases land and conservation easements to manage and protect our natural resources to provide recreational opportunities for many. Through the real estate land acquisition program, wetlands, forests, scenic areas, wildlife and fish habitat are
- [Wisconsin wake boat bans, neighbors pitted against each other](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-wake-boat-bans-neighbors-pitted-against-each-other/) - By Bryan Polcyn and FOX6 News Digital Team JEFFERSON COUNTY, Wis. - Summer may be winding down, but a water war is still heating up in Wisconsin. A new kind of powerboat is prompting a wave of local ordinances all over the state. There is hardly a more sensitive issue on Wisconsin lakes than so-called "wake boats" – boats designed
- [Ordinances related to wake boats appear in several Northwoods communities](https://fcal-wis.org/ordinances-related-to-wake-boats-appear-in-several-northwoods-communities/) - By WAOW Television Jimmy Sadowski Several places around North Central Wisconsin have adopted wake boat ordinances including Newbold, Presque Isle and Lake Tomahawk. They do not ban wake boats, but ballast tanks on them. Those are located beneath the boat and create enhanced wakes which are large, powerful wakes that can go as deep as 30
- [Nine Lessons about Aquatic Invasive Species from the North Temperate Lakes Long-Term Ecological Research (NTL-LTER) Program](https://fcal-wis.org/nine-lessons-about-aquatic-invasive-species-from-the-north-temperate-lakes-long-term-ecological-research-ntl-lter-program/) - Abstract: Freshwater ecosystems can serve as model systems that reveal insights into biological invasions. In this article, we summarize nine lessons about aquatic invasive species from the North Temperate Lakes Long-Term Ecological Research program and affiliated projects. The lessons about aquatic invasive species are as follows: Invasive species are more widespread than has been documented;
- [Spring hearings provide latest landslide call for action on wake-enhanced boating](https://fcal-wis.org/spring-hearings-provide-latest-landslide-call-for-action-on-wake-enhanced-boating/) - By Paul A. Smith, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel May 1, 2024 It can be challenging to get an accurate gauge of public sentiment. Just ask professional pollsters who wade into political waters. To be fair, the roughly 50:50 split in many elections makes predictions about as accurate as a coin toss. But an issue in the Wisconsin
- [Clean Boats Clean Waters (CBCW) Inspector Training](https://fcal-wis.org/cbcw-inspector-training/) - Become a Clean Boats Clean Waters (CBCW) Inspector or renew your CBCW credentials by attending a local in-person training session or by completing an on-line course. In-person Training: https://www3.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/UWEXLakes/Pages/programs/cbcw/workshops/schedule.aspx On-line Course: Clean Boats Clean Waters On Demand Training for Forest, Langlade, Marinette and Oconto Counties
- [Six-County Lakes Meeting Updates its Agenda](https://fcal-wis.org/six-county-lakes-meeting-updates-its-agenda/) - Remember that on July 12 at Nicolet College there will be a meeting of lake leaders from six counties, including Forest County, and you are invited! After the Six-County meeting, FCAL will have it's July board meeting. We hope you are able to attend both! More Information: “Protecting Our Waters: We’re All Connected” is the
- ['Deeply disturbing news.' Invasive quagga mussels documented in Geneva Lake; first finding in Wisconsin inland lake](https://fcal-wis.org/deeply-disturbing-news-invasive-quagga-mussels-documented-in-geneva-lake-first-finding-in-wisconsin-inland-lake/) - Quagga mussels have been documented in Geneva Lake in Walworth County, the first finding of the aquatic invasive species in a Wisconsin inland lake. by Paul A. Smith, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Geneva Lake in Walworth County has long been known for its clear, deep water and scenic location. Over the last century it even acquired
- [Spiny Water Flea - What exactly is it?](https://fcal-wis.org/spiny-water-flea-what-exactly-is-it/) - A video from the Vilas County Land & Water Conservation Department about the Spiny Water Flea, an invasive plankton found throughout the Great Lakes region - including inland lakes in Wisconsin.
- [MGLP Lake Conservation Grant](https://fcal-wis.org/mglp-lake-conservation-grant/) - The MGLP is one of twenty partnerships that span the nation under the umbrella of the National Fish Habitat Partnership (NFHP). The MGLP area of focus is glacial lakes and their watersheds (see figure). Nine Midwestern states, numerous federal agencies, tribal governments, and private natural resource entities have been integral partners in the development and
- [New coalition announces goal to protect Wisconsin lakes](https://fcal-wis.org/new-coalition-announces-goal-to-protect-wisconsin-lakes/) - A broad coalition of Wisconsin groups recently formed to defend Wisconsin’s waters from the impacts of wake-enhanced boating. Originating members of the coalition include the Wisconsin Lakes, Wisconsin’s Green Fire, Lakes at Stake Wisconsin, Last Wilderness Alliance, and the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation. The group says that it will focus on educating elected and appointed officials
- [The Ecological Benefits of Not Raking Leaves into Forest County Lakes](https://fcal-wis.org/the-ecological-benefits-of-not-raking-leaves-into-forest-county-lakes/) - On a recent trip to one of our Forest County Lakes, I noticed several homeowners blowing or raking leaves into the lakes. As leaves carpet lawns and sidewalks, many residents and property owners traditionally rake and dispose of them, often into nearby lakes. However, it’s time to reconsider this practice. Nutrient Recycling When leaves naturally
- [FOREST COUNTY LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION DEPARTMENT RECEIVES 2019 NACD TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE GRANT](https://fcal-wis.org/forest-county-land-and-water-conservation-department-receives-2019-nacd-technical-assistance-grant/) - CRANDON, WI – The Forest County Land and Water Conservation Department in CRANDON, WI announced today that it was awarded funding through a 2019 NACD technical assistance (TA) grant, made possible through a partnership with the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to
- [PFAs Impact on Wildlife](https://fcal-wis.org/pfas-impact-on-wildlife/) - I recently attended a meeting on PFAS and its impact on wildlife. From bald eagles nesting near Lake Superior to mussels in the Mississippi River, scientists are increasingly studying Wisconsin wildlife for signs of the impact of ingesting the forever chemicals more commonly known as PFAS. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl chemical compounds, or PFAS, are odorless
- [DNR Announces new online tool for analyzing water qualify on lakes and streams](https://fcal-wis.org/dnr-announces-new-online-tool-for-analyzing-water-qualify-on-lakes-and-streams/) - MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced the release of the Wisconsin Water Explorer, a web-based tool that can help Wisconsin residents address concerns about the quality of water in their local lakes or rivers. Answering water quality questions requires sophisticated computer software and extensive datasets. The Wisconsin Water Explorer tool makes scientific
- [DNR Accepting Pre-Applications For 2025 Surface Water Grants](https://fcal-wis.org/dnr-accepting-pre-applications-for-2025-surface-water-grants/) - Funds Will Help Protect And Improve Surface Water MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced it will award more than $6 million to local groups to protect and improve surface water. Interested and eligible organizations are encouraged to apply for a surface water grant. A pre-application must be submitted by Sept.
- [Basic Lake Science Presentation](https://fcal-wis.org/basic-lake-science-presentation/) - Come learn our inland lakes. Ted Rulseh will provide a presentation on Basic Lake Science at the Lake Lucerne Advancement Association Pavilion on Saturday, August 17 at 9:30 AM, followed by Q/A. Ted is the author of author of A Lakeside Companion and Ripple Effects: How We’re Loving Our Lakes to Death. He is also
- [FCAL’s Fall Forum 2024](https://fcal-wis.org/fcals-fall-forum-2024/) - Learn about the water quality issues facing Forest County lakes by attending FCAL’s Fall Forum. All are welcome! When: August 16, 2024 from 9:30 am – 11:30 am Where: Lake Lucerne Advancement Association Pavilion 4301 County W Crandon WI 54520 Topics & Presenters: Shore Line Restoration Opportunities -- Kayla Littleton, Interim Director of the Forest
- [The Effects of Wake Boats on Lake Ecosystem Health: A Literature Review (May 2024)](https://fcal-wis.org/the-effects-of-wake-boats-on-lake-ecosystem-health/) - The mission of Wisconsin Green Fire (WGF) is "to advance science-informed analysis and policy solutions that address Wisconsin's greatest conservation challenges". WGF strives to help people "enjoy the benefits of clean water, clean air, and healthy ecosystems achieved through scientific and thoughtful management of natural resources". Read their updated literature review regarding the effects of
- [Announcing the 2024 Essay Contest Winners](https://fcal-wis.org/announcing-the-2024-essay-contest-winners/) - “Our Changing Lakes and Streams” was the topic for this year's essay contest sponsored by the Forest County Association of Lakes (FCAL). 5th and 6th grade students from Crandon, Laona and Wabeno were invited to participate. Students began by interviewing a local resident about changes that person has seen in a local waterway through the
- [Forest County Land Conservation Survey](https://fcal-wis.org/forest-county-land-conservation-survey/) - Forest County Farmers and Landowners, you may have received a survey in the mail from our office at the end of 2019. Land Conservation Technician, Cassidy Neilitz, put the survey together and has been receiving your responses. This week, she put together a Flow Chart to explain the process. Step 1: On-Site Visit Conservation Staff
- [How a Tree Grows](https://fcal-wis.org/conservation-corner-how-a-tree-grows/) - In my yard I have a massive old maple tree. There’s a hole in this tree that gets bigger every year. My wife and I are waiting for the tree to fall and looks like it will land in a place that won’t damage too much. Visitors to our place always ask how it’s still
- [Climate Change](https://fcal-wis.org/conservation-corner-climate-change/) - Last week, we marked the spring equinox on March 20, the first day of spring. I’m sure many of us are thinking about the change of seasons and the hope of warmer days to come. The warmer temperatures can also bring up the idea of climate change. There are many theories as to what our
- [Apps To Help Us In Our Woods](https://fcal-wis.org/apps-to-help-us-in-our-woods/) - From Wisconsin Woodland Owners Group: Living in a technology world gives us some great tools and resources at the touch of a button or the touch of a screen. Apps on our smart phone or tablet can make our lives a bit easier and organized. Here are some apps to help us in our woods,
- [Spring has arrived in Northern Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/spring-has-arrived-in-northern-wisconsin/) - Spring has arrived in Northern Wisconsin, and pretty soon the leaves will be emerging, greening up the Northwoods! There are many tools to help us become experts at identifying trees. I’ll share some of my favorite tools and resources. If you’re new to tree identification or just getting started, don’t worry. I have an easy
- [Coronavirus](https://fcal-wis.org/coronavirus/) - This week, I read a Blog from Bill Gates and his thoughts about the Coronavirus. I’ll try to summarize what he says in dealing with the ‘first modern pandemic'. Gates begins by stating that the coronavirus pandemic pits all of humanity against the virus. This is like a world war, except in this case, we’re
- [Walleye Management](https://fcal-wis.org/walleye-management/) - As a musky fisherman, I consistently hear walleye fishermen stating that they’d catch more walleyes if it weren’t for the muskies eating them all. They’ll say, “if we’re not catching walleye, then something else must be.” But, people’s beliefs about who’s eating who often venture into the “myth” level of misunderstanding. Let’s start with the
- [Oak Wilt Disease](https://fcal-wis.org/oak-wilt-disease/) - Tips for helping to prevent oak wilt disease It’s best to avoid cutting, pruning or damaging oak trees this time of year to prevent the spread of oak wilt disease. Oaks are most vulnerable to the disease during the growing season, especially from April 1 to July 15. “Disease prevention is key,” said Ben Walker,
- [Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)](https://fcal-wis.org/environmental-quality-incentives-program-eqip/) - This week I’d like to present a couple funding programs that are available to Forest County Landowners. The first program is the Environmental Quality Incentives Program or (EQIP). The tentative application deadline for the next round of funding for this program (EQIP) is February 28, 2020. The EQIP is a voluntary conservation program that
- [Mosquito Sprays](https://fcal-wis.org/mosquito-sprays/) - What’s in Mosquito Sprays? Most residential mosquito control companies use insecticides known as pyrethrins, which are chemicals derived from chrysanthemum flowers that are toxic to insects; or more frequently, pyrethroids, which are synthetic chemicals that mimic pyrethrins. Whether natural or synthetic, these are broad-spectrum insecticides that are highly toxic to a wide variety of insects,
- [Shoreland Restoration](https://fcal-wis.org/shoreland-restoration/) - As the weather warms and people are returning to the Northwoods, we’ve been busy scheduling our Shoreland Restoration projects. I’ve been reviewing/designing a few plans and a lot of them have fire pits incorporated in them. Several of the plans had firepits on the shorelines of their respective lakes and per my suggestion I’ve been
- [Wild Rivers Invasive Species Coalition (WRISC)](https://fcal-wis.org/wild-rivers-invasive-species-coalition-wrisc/) - Forest County is a partner and supporter of the Wild Rivers Invasive Species Coalition (WRISC). WRISC is a coalition which seeks and obtains grant funding from many sources to provide services to Forest, Florence, and Marinette Counties in Wisconsin and Dickinson and Menominee Counties in Michigan. Since 2009 WRISC has completed invasive species education, management
- [Shoreline Erosion](https://fcal-wis.org/shoreline-erosion/) - Lake Property Owners, have you noticed erosion along your shoreline? This is a challenge that many shoreland property owners face, we would like to share some tips on how to keep your shoreland property in place! The best way to identify and assess erosion problems is to check your shoreline regularly and monitor changing conditions.
- [What Causes Buds to Open in Spring?](https://fcal-wis.org/what-causes-buds-to-open-in-spring/) - Spring has finally sprung! Not only are crocuses, day lilies and daffodils starting to show up in our gardens, but many trees are also budding. It is a wonderful sight, giving us hope for longer and warmer days to come. Did you ever stop and think what causes trees to bud in the spring? Many
- [Keep Aquatic Invasive Species out of the lakes](https://fcal-wis.org/keep-aquatic-invasive-species-out-of-the-lakes/) - As the last of the ice is finally gone, many people look forward to getting their boats back in the water. This also means groups will once again head to boat launches in an effort to keep Aquatic Invasive Species [AIS] out of the lakes. AIS can be determinantal to a lake’s health. Eurasian Water
- [Thorn Hired as FLOW AIS Coordinator](https://fcal-wis.org/thorn-hired-as-flow-ais-coordinator/) - Lumberjack Resource Conservation & Development Council announced the hiring of Derek Thorn as the FLOW(Forest, Langlade, Oconto Waterways) AIS (Aquatic Invasive Species) Coordinator. Derek was born and raised in the Rhinelander area and attended Three Lakes High School, where he was first introduced to aquatic invasive species as a Clean Boats, Clean Waters Inspector for
- [‘Keep Wildlife Wild’ Week 2024](https://fcal-wis.org/keep-wildlife-wild-week-2024/) - In Wisconsin, April 4-10 is ‘Keep Wildlife Wild’ Week. Our year-round activities bring us outside to enjoy the natural environment and view our wildlife resources. Wild animals are valued by many, and it’s important to observe them at a respectful distance to keep them wild and allow for their ‘wild life’ to continue. During the
- [Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)](https://fcal-wis.org/per-and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas/) - Lately in Wisconsin media there has been a lot of talk about PFAS. I did some research and would like to share my findings. What are PFAS and Why are They a Problem?PFAS is a catch-all term for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which is a group of more than 5,000 synthetic chemicals. They can make
- [Trail Conditions Deteriorating](https://fcal-wis.org/trail-conditions-deteriorating/) - The Trails are open! On Friday morning, Wirtzie, one of the 100-mile Snow Safari trail groomers, reports that trails are beautiful (for now). Langlade County trails are closing and we can probably expect the same after the rains in Forest County on Saturday. Roger Hilberg reports that Lake Lucerne isn’t safe and Lake Metonga was
- [Introducing Steve Kircher, the new County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director](https://fcal-wis.org/introducing-steve-kircher-the-new-county-conservationist-land-information-gis-director/) - Welcome Back to Conservation Corner. First, let introduce myself, Steve Kircher, as the new County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director. As I settle in to an office that’s been vacant since this summer, I want to thank the Forest County Land Conservation and Personnel Committees and their confidence in my ability to serve the landowners, farmers, loggers
- [Task Force on Water Quality seeks to increase county conservation department funding](https://fcal-wis.org/task-force-on-water-quality-seeks-to-increase-county-conservation-department-funding/) - In a Press Release from Wednesday, January 8th, the Legislative Speaker’s Task Force on Water Quality seeks to increase county conservation department funding by nearly three million dollars. “We heard overwhelmingly at the Task Force hearings throughout the past year that Wisconsin’s county conservation department staff are undisputedly our state’s greatest asset in protecting water
- [Autumn Cleanup - Don't be in a hurry](https://fcal-wis.org/autumn-cleanup/) - My wife asked me to take care of the leaves this weekend. Again, I had to remind her that you don’t have be in a hurry to clean up every autumn leaf. While it’s important to clean up plant debris, we can also spare a thought for the beneficial bugs and birds who need shelter
- [Twelve Gifts of Conservation](https://fcal-wis.org/twelve-gifts-of-conservation/) - As we head into the holiday season, I’d like to highlight the Twelve Gifts of Conservation that we get when we conserve natural resources. Each breath of air, sip of water and bite of food you will ever take exists because of natural resources and how we protect them. Food Conservation secures our food supply
- [Deer are threatening American forests. Is more hunting the solution?](https://fcal-wis.org/deer-are-threatening-american-forests-is-more-hunting-the-solution/) - Excerpts from: https://grist.org/science/deer-are-threatening-american-forests-is-morehunting-the-solution/ Across the United States, the deer population has ballooned in recent years to an estimated 30 million. Once a rare sight, deer have become something of a pest, spreading disease and causing fatal car accidents at an increasing rate. The biggest issue is the impact of too many deer on the forest.
- [Droughts & La Niña](https://fcal-wis.org/droughts-la-nina/) - I read an interesting article this week about the US drought. While drought has been a persistent problem in the western US, it’s now spread across other parts of the country that aren’t typically this dry. Nearly 60 percent of the contiguous US is experiencing drought, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
- [Whirling Trout Disease](https://fcal-wis.org/whirling-trout-disease/) - The Wisconsin DNR discovered a trout parasite in wild trout in southwestern Langlade County. It can lead to what’s called “whirling disease” in select species of fish. https://www.wxpr.org/energy-environment/2024-04-05/parasite-found-in-wild-trout-in-langlade-county
- [Northwoods Six-County Lakes Meeting Set for July 12](https://fcal-wis.org/northwoods-six-county-lakes-meeting-july-2024/) - “Protecting Our Waters: We’re All Connected” is the theme for the annual Northwoods Six-County Lakes Meeting, set for Friday, July 12, at Nicolet College. Lake association leaders and members along with the general public will convene to learn about and discuss our interconnected water resources and our human connections to each other and to our
- [Wisconsin Conservation Congress Addresses Wake Boats](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-conservation-congress-addresses-wake-boats/) - Wisconsin Lakes reports on the Wake Boat-related questions from the Wisconsin Conservation Congress here.
- [Let’s Talk Turkey](https://fcal-wis.org/lets-talk-turkey/) - The wild turkey is one of wildlife conservation’s greatest success stories in the United States, including Wisconsin. In the early 19th Century, the wild turkey was reduced to a population of just 30,000. Today, the population numbers about 7 million in North America. The domesticated turkey of today bears little resemblance to their wild ancestors.
- [Deer Hunt 2022](https://fcal-wis.org/deer-hunt-2022/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. As you read this week’s submission, we will probably be in the midst of Wisconsin’s Gun Deer Season. Last week the
- [12 Days of Conservation, Christmas 2022](https://fcal-wis.org/1474-2/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Soon, we’ll be back out on our Wisconsin Lakes to begin the Hardwater Season. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
- [Wisconsin Winter Birds](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-winter-birds/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Winters in Wisconsin give us the unique opportunity to look up into the branches and treetops for our Winter birds. During
- [Wisconsin Conservation Congress Annual Spring Hearing and Public Input Opportunity](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-conservation-congress-annual-spring-hearing-and-public-input-opportunity/) - The Wisconsin Conservation Congress (WCC) and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will once again offer their annual opportunity for the public to provide input on a variety of natural resource-related questions with an in-person opportunity April 8, 2024, at 6 p.m. (which will be over by the time you read this) but in case
- [Ring-Necked Pheasant](https://fcal-wis.org/ring-necked-pheasant/) - In previous articles, I talked about the Japanese beetle, an exotic invasive that is eating gardens across the Northwoods. Of course, there are many more exotic invasive plants and animals in Wisconsin including the Eurasian Watermilfoil, Common Buckthorn, Garlic Mustard, the Rusty Spotted Lanternfly, and the Spiny Water Flea to name a few. There are
- [New Zealand mud snails discovered in Black Earth Creek](https://fcal-wis.org/new-zealand-mud-snails-discovered-in-black-earth-creek/) - New Zealand mud snails discovered in Black Earth Creek First occurrence in inland Midwest MADISON – The invasive New Zealand mud snail that has been a problem in western U.S. streams has been detected in Black Earth Creek, a renowned trout stream in Dane County. The discovery, the first in an inland Midwestern stream, is
- [How to identify juvenile Asian carp](https://fcal-wis.org/how-to-identify-juvenile-asian-carp/) - The Fisheries Division in collaboration with the AIS core team and Michigan-out-of-doors TV has developed and produced an education and outreach video that focuses on identification of juvenile Asian carp. The overall message of the video is to increase awareness of a potential pathway for the introduction of these detrimental invasive species that the common
- [A reminder to watch what plants you are purchasing from garden centers and plant nurseries](https://fcal-wis.org/a-reminder-to-watch-what-plants-you-are-purchasing-from-garden-centers-and-plant-nurseries/) - A recent article shared by John A. Preuss, Lumberjack Aquatic Invasives Coordinator for Lincoln, Langlade and Forest Counties: Yard MD blog: Warning! Garden centers are selling invasive shrub Avoid purchasing and planting Scotch Broom May 5, 2014 | Rob Zimmer Post-Crescent Media Source: Yard Md Blog This spring, a few large retail garden centers in our area
- [5 bighead carp captured in St. Croix River near Stillwater](https://fcal-wis.org/5-bighead-carp-captured-in-st-croix-river-near-stillwater/) - MINNESOTA DNR NEWS – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 2, 2015 Five bighead carp were captured in the St. Croix River in the past week, just south of Stillwater near the Xcel Energy Allen S. King power plant, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. This is the furthest upstream invasive carp have been detected
- [A Zebra mussel sniffing dog!](https://fcal-wis.org/a-zebra-mussel-sniffing-dog/) - From John Preuss... A busy sumer on Minnesota’s lakes and rivers the spread of zebra mussels. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reports they found zebra mussels in at least eight new lakes this summer. Whether you’re launching or leaving the water, the search for zebra mussels is now part of the boating culture. At
- [Emerald Ash Borer Detected in Dunn, Florence, Oconto, Pepin, Price, and Shawano Counties](https://fcal-wis.org/emerald-ash-borer-detected-in-dunn-florence-oconto-pepin-price-and-shawano-counties/) - The Emerald Ash Borer isn’t in Forest County yet, but they’re getting closer. As you head out to cut your winter firewood please pay attention to these invasive beetles. In partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has detected emerald ash borer (EAB) for
- [Purple Loosestrife control](https://fcal-wis.org/purple-loosestrife-control/) - This week we finished mapping the county roads for Wild Parsnip and Purple Loosestrife locations. We noted that the Wild Parsnip has bolted (flowered and gone to seed) and is pretty much done causing problems for the year. Next spring, we will begin treatment of the sites along the county roads where we expect it
- [European Frog-bit](https://fcal-wis.org/european-frog-bit/) - Earlier this summer, botanists discovered a population of the wetland invasive plant European frog-bit (Hydrocharis morsus‐ranae) in Oconto County. This is the first time this species, which is widespread along the coastal areas of lakes Erie and Huron up to the eastern Upper Peninsula, has been found in the wild in Wisconsin. The population was
- [Spotted Lanternfly Alert](https://fcal-wis.org/spotted-lanternfly-alert/) - The Spotted Lanternfly is an invasive species native to Asia. In 2014 it was found in Pennsylvania and has since spread to multiple counties which are now quarantined. If you see a spotted lanternfly, kill it, squash it, smash it...just get rid of it. In the fall, these bugs will lay egg masses with 30-50
- [Phragmites in Forest County](https://fcal-wis.org/phragmites-in-forest-county/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Last week, Forest County Land & Water was able to collaborate with Wild Rivers Invasive Species Coalition (WRISC) and the Forest,
- [Wisconsin Caterpillars](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-caterpillars/) - Every summer at my household, my wife collects milkweed and monarch butterfly eggs. She’ll put the milkweed and eggs in a large terrarium and then has her daycare monitor their growth and transformation from caterpillars to butterflies. She usually is able to raise and release about a dozen butterflies. Did you know that there are
- [Blue-Green Algae](https://fcal-wis.org/2022-week-35-blue-green-algae/) - Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. My family and I were out pontooning on Lake Metonga last week and my grandkids commented that all of the algae looked like
- [Golden Rod](https://fcal-wis.org/conservation-corner-20/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. This time of year, many of you may be sneezing and suffering with allergies. I bet many of you are blaming
- [Garlic Mustard](https://fcal-wis.org/garlic-mustard/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Along with trilliums and trout lilies, invasive garlic mustard has become another harbinger of spring in Wisconsin. Right now, the pesky plant
- [Hemlock Woolly Adelgid](https://fcal-wis.org/hemlock-woolly-adelgid/) - Our neighbors to the East in Michigan have reported an outbreak of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid. These insects are considered invasive because they are not native to the state and can cause significant harm to Michigan’s estimated 170 million hemlock trees. As they feed, these tiny, soft-bodied insects consume a hemlock’s stored nutrients, slowly sucking the
- [2024 Essay Contest Underway - "Our Changing Lakes and Streams"](https://fcal-wis.org/2024-essay-contest-underway-our-changing-lakes-and-streams/) - The 2024 Forest County Association of Lakes essay contest is underway! 5th and 6th grade students at Crandon, Laona, and Wabeno schools are participating. This year’s topic is Our Changing Lakes and Streams. Students will be conducting interviews with someone familiar with a local lake or stream. They will prepare questions about changes in animal
- [National Forest Products Week](https://fcal-wis.org/national-forest-products-week/) - In a previous article, I failed to acknowledge the Forest County Tourism Commission and the Pickerel-Crane Lake Protection & Rehabilitation District, who were financial contributors to the three boat landing projects. Additionally, Crane Lake’s landing did not get new lighting or signage. National Forest Products Week: Celebrating Wisconsin’s Natural Heritage Last week was National Forest
- [Cost Share Contractors](https://fcal-wis.org/cost-share-contractors/) - Unlocking Opportunities: Join Forest County Land and Water’s Cost Share Program Are you a landscape contractor looking to expand your horizons and contribute to environmentally responsible projects? Forest County Land & Water has an exciting opportunity for you! We invite you to learn about our Cost Share program and how you can get involved in
- [“Wonders in the Skies: The Spectacular Dragonfly Migration of Northern Wisconsin”](https://fcal-wis.org/wonders-in-the-skies-the-spectacular-dragonfly-migration-of-northern-wisconsin/) - Forest County, with its pristine lakes, lush forests, and abundant wildlife, is a region known for its natural beauty. However, hidden in this picturesque landscape is a remarkable natural phenomenon that often goes unnoticed—the dragonfly migration. I didn’t know they did this! Each year, thousands of dragonflies embark on an extraordinary journey, traveling great distances to
- [The Key to a Successful Hunting Season: Prioritizing Safety in Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/the-key-to-a-successful-hunting-season-prioritizing-safety-in-wisconsin/) - Every year, thousands of hunters take to the woods and fields, hoping to fill their tags with the trophy buck or wild turkey they’ve been dreaming of. However, a successful hunting season in Wisconsin isn’t just about bringing home game; it’s also about ensuring the safety of both hunters and the general public. Safety is
- [Invasive Species Could Reap Benefits From Extreme Weather](https://fcal-wis.org/invasive-species-could-reap-benefits-from-extreme-weather/) - According to a new study I read, extreme weather might be wreaking havoc across the globe, but some non-native plants and animals could be benefiting from the disasters, adding risk to already threatened local species. Researchers have found Invasive species often transported by human activity, are thought to be playing a major role in global
- [Bat Week](https://fcal-wis.org/bat-week/) - Halloween is this week, and it’s also Bat Week. This is a national annual event that showcases the importance of bats in our ecosystem and the need for their conservation. This week-long celebration highlights the unique role these creatures play in maintaining the balance of our environment. From their role in pollination to controlling insect
- [White Tails & Deer Ticks](https://fcal-wis.org/white-tails-deer-ticks/) - I recently read an article in Field Notes, newsletter of the Southwest Wisconsin CWD, Deer and Predator Study. In the article, researchers continue to look for ways that CWD spreads through a population. Dr. Inzalaco, at UW-Madison realized that one of the most common social behaviors among deer, allogrooming, could be facilitating CWD exposure and
- [Climate Change](https://fcal-wis.org/climate-change-2/) - Last week, I wrote that Lake Metonga had finally froze up. Well, this past week, there was a fishing boat out on the lake. They must have been catching fish because they were there most of the afternoon into the early evening. This event made me think of how climate change is impacting us here
- [Wisconsin Salt Awareness Week](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-salt-awareness-week/) - Wisconsin Salt Awareness Week, observed from January 22-26, 2024, aims to shed light on the often-overlooked consequences of excessive road salt usage in winter. While road salt is crucial for ensuring road safety during icy conditions, its environmental impact on drinking water and freshwater ecosystems cannot be ignored. As winter approaches, the use of road
- [DNR News Release: PFAs Grant](https://fcal-wis.org/dnr-news-release-pfas-grant/) - New PFAs Grant Program for Small Public Water Systems Opens in 2024 https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/newsroom/release/86001 The WDNR has announced the opening of a new grant program in 2024 that will help Other-Than-Municipal Community and nonprofit, Non-Transient Non-Community public water systems address PFAS and manganese contamination. The Emerging Contaminants for Small or Disadvantaged Communities Grant Program for these
- [World Wetlands Day](https://fcal-wis.org/world-wetlands-day-2/) - On Friday, February 2nd, we celebrate World Wetlands Day. This annual event is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of wetlands and their role in our environment. Wetlands are crucial ecosystems that provide a wide range of ecological, economic, and social benefits, yet they are often undervalued and threatened. Wetlands are areas where water
- [2024 Forest County Conservation Poster Contest](https://fcal-wis.org/2024-forest-county-conservation-poster-contest-2/) - Each year the National Association of Conservation Districts has a poster contest open to grades K-12 for public, private, or home school students. Each poster created must go through a Local/County contest before advancing on to Area, State, and Nationals. We hosted ours here at Forest County in January and had a good turnout for
- [What Happens to Soil in Winter?](https://fcal-wis.org/what-happens-to-soil-in-winter/) - The soil under your feet is still teeming with life, even in the frozen temperatures of winter. Soil is essential to life. One reason is that soil protects plant roots, animals, and microbes from freezing in the winter. As air temperatures drop below 32° F, water within the top layers of the soil will eventually
- [Porcupines](https://fcal-wis.org/porcupines/) - The largest order of mammals belongs to the rodents. Rodents are known for their teeth or more specifically their gnawing. While they don't have canine teeth, they have a single pair of incisor teeth in each jaw. These incisors never stop growing. The incisors have thick enamel layers on the front but not on the
- [Pruning Oak Trees in Winter: A Crucial Step to Preventing Oak Wilt](https://fcal-wis.org/pruning-oak-trees-in-winter-a-crucial-step-to-preventing-oak-wilt/) - Oak trees are not only majestic additions to landscapes but also play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity. However, these iconic trees face a significant threat known as oak wilt, a deadly disease caused by the fungus Ceratocystis fagacearum. Once infected, the disease can spread rapidly, leading to the decline and death of the oak
- [How Many Trees Are There?](https://fcal-wis.org/how-many-trees-are-there/) - It is an age-old question; how many trees are there? In recent years some have asked, Are there more trees on earth than stars in the Milky Way? NASA estimates that the Milky Way has approximately 100 billion stars. So let’s see how trees stack up. In the United States, the U.S.D.A., U.S. Forest Service
- [Ice Safety](https://fcal-wis.org/ice-safety/) - I noticed this morning that Lake Metonga finally froze over. Soon, we’ll be back out on our Northwoods lakes to begin the Hardwater Season. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) urges the public to practice ice safety on all of Wisconsin’s waterbodies as they begin traveling on ice. “Temperature swings, strong winds, currents, underground
- [Announcing the 2024 Forest County Land & Water Plant Sale](https://fcal-wis.org/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 order form on our Facebook Page: Forest
- [Form County Lakes Association](https://fcal-wis.org/form-county-lakes-association/) - A group of individuals from five different area lakes met Saturday, August 22 and decided to form the Forest County Association of Lakes, Inc. (FCAL). This will be the fifth county-wide lakes organization in Wisconsin. The county-wide group will allow lake organizations to have a forum to share with each other and learn from each
- [Seventeen Lakes Represented at Meeting](https://fcal-wis.org/seventeen-lakes-represented-at-meeting/) - Thirty people representing seventeen lakes attended an early morning meeting on Saturday, July 11 regarding county-wide lakes issues and the possibility of forming a county-wide lakes association. The meeting began with Mary Bierman, president of the Butternut/Franklin Foundation and a director with the Wisconsin Association of Lakes addressing the group and letting them know that
- [The Natural Rhythm of Change: Understanding Lake Turnover in Forest County](https://fcal-wis.org/lake-turnover-2/) - Among the many natural phenomena that grace the Northwoods, one of the most intriguing is the annual event known as “lake turnover.” What is Lake Turnover? Lake turnover, often referred to as lake mixing, is a vital process that occurs in temperate and polar regions, including the lakes of Forest County. This natural phenomenon takes
- [Why Trees in Forest County Change Colors in the Fall](https://fcal-wis.org/why-trees-in-forest-county-change-colors-in-the-fall/) - As summer’s warmth fades away and crisp breezes begin to sweep through Forest County, a transformation unfolds. The lush green canopies of trees across the region start to metamorphose into a dazzling display of vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, browns and this fall especially, purple. This annual spectacle is a testament to the fascinating processes at
- [Reflecting on the Success of the Forest County, WI Summer Conservation Tour](https://fcal-wis.org/summer-tour/) - Reflecting on the Success of the Forest County, WI Summer Conservation Tour Last Friday, a remarkable conservation tour unfolded, bringing together Conservationists from nine counties in northern Wisconsin to explore some of the treasures of Forest County. The summer conservation tour in Forest County was part of a yearly event that happens with the North
- [Battling the Spongy Moth Outbreak in Northern Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/spongy-moths/) - Battling the Spongy Moth Outbreak in Northern Wisconsin Forest County and Northern Wisconsin, is currently facing a challenging ecological situation: a widespread outbreak of the Spongy Moth (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae). These voracious defoliators have the potential to wreak havoc on the local ecosystem, impacting not only the trees but also the broader wildlife and human activities.
- [Blue-Green Algae in Northern Wisconsin Lakes](https://fcal-wis.org/1750-2/) - Here in Forest County our landscape is adorned with over 800 pristine lakes that provide a serene environment for recreation and aquatic life. However, in recent years, these beloved lakes have been facing a growing threat from blue-green algae, scientifically known as cyanobacteria. Blue-green algae blooms, fueled by nutrient pollution and climate change, have become
- [Private Well Testing for PFAS Contamination in Northern Wisconsin](https://fcal-wis.org/private-well-testing-for-pfas-contamination-in-northern-wisconsin/) - Recent concerns about the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the region’s private wells have raised alarm among communities. PFAS, a group of man-made chemicals known for their water- and grease-resistant properties, have been linked to potential health risks. PFAS contamination has gained attention due to its adverse effects on human health and
- [Successful Plant Sale 2023](https://fcal-wis.org/successful-plant-sale-2023/) - The Forest County Land & Water Department wrapped up another successful Plant Sale on Friday, June 2nd . Native plant orders went out in February and plants were ordered from Hansen’s Greenhouse in Oneida County. In all about a dozen pre-orders were received. The plants ranged from native columbine, cardinal flowers to thimble berries. Plants
- [FCAL Essay Contest 2023](https://fcal-wis.org/fcal-essay-contest-2023/) - Students from Laona and Crandon 5th and 6th grades wrote essays for the Forest County Association of Lakes (FCAL) annual essay contest. The topic was “Protecting Nature from Invasive Species.” Students were asked to write a true-life or entirely fictional story of an encounter with an aquatic or terrestrial invasive species in Forest County. In
- [Wisconsin Bag Limits vs. Possession Limits: Understanding Regulations and DNR Fines](https://fcal-wis.org/1687-2/) - On Thursday, June 15th, I’ll be presenting, Three Fish, The Story of Invasive Species & the Great Lakes at the Crandon Public Library, Meeting Room @ 5:30pm. Wisconsin Bag Limits vs. Possession Limits: Understanding Regulations and DNR Fines On a recent fishing outing, I observed another fisherman with a ‘large amount’ of panfish. This got
- [Moths vs Butterflies](https://fcal-wis.org/1684-2/) - Wisconsin, a state known for its diverse natural landscapes, is home to a remarkable variety of insect species, including butterflies and moths. Although butterflies and moths belong to the same order of insects, Lepidoptera, they exhibit several key differences in their physical characteristics, behaviors, and ecological roles. I’ll start with Wings: Butterflies: Butterflies possess slender,
- [Leveraging Drones in County Conservation and Land Information Offices](https://fcal-wis.org/leveraging-drones-in-county-conservation-and-land-information-offices/) - Recently, my office was called upon to provide drone coverage for a couple events/investigations. These events prompted me to provide some information regarding how we use/plan to use drone technology within Forest County. The rapid advancement of drone technology has revolutionized various industries, and the field of conservation and land information management is no exception.
- [Wisconsin Braces for Drought and Wet Days Ahead in Summer 2023](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-braces-for-drought-and-wet-days-ahead-in-summer-2023/) - The summer of 2023 brings a combination of drought conditions and wet days, posing significant implications for the state’s ecosystems, agriculture, and overall water management. Drought Conditions The drought conditions during summer 2023 in Wisconsin can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the state has experienced a prolonged period of below-average precipitation, leading to a
- [Raising Purple Loosestrife Beetles](https://fcal-wis.org/purple-loosestrife/) - Raising Purple Loosestrife Beetles Northern Wisconsin is home to diverse ecosystems and natural landscapes that require conservation efforts to maintain their ecological balance. One of the challenges faced in this region is the invasion of non-native plant species, such as purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria). This aggressive plant has the potential to disrupt native habitats and
- [Preparing for More Smoky Summers in the Midwest and Northeast](https://fcal-wis.org/smoke-on-the-water/) - Preparing for More Smoky Summers in the Midwest and Northeast The Midwest and Northeast regions of the United States have experienced an alarming increase in the frequency and intensity of smoky summers, especially this summer. The haze of smoke, often originating from distant wildfires in Canada, has become a recurring phenomenon, posing numerous challenges for
- [Disappearance of Bats](https://fcal-wis.org/disappearance-of-bats/) - In an article I did back in June, I reported the possession limit for most fish species in Wisconsin is three times the daily bag limit. The possession limit is the maximum number of a species that you can control, transport, etc., at any time. It is twice the total daily bag limit. The Disappearance of Bats
- [Swimmers Itch](https://fcal-wis.org/swimmers-itch/) - Swimmer’s Itch Outbreak Plagues Wisconsin Lakes in 2023 Last weekend, I sent my grandbabies on a mission to catch some crayfish for my office aquarium. My youngest grandson came out of the lake and a few hours later said he was itchy. My daughter checked him out and I concluded that he has ‘the itch’.
- [Piers and Docks](https://fcal-wis.org/piers-and-docks/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Piers and Docks in Wisconsin Wisconsin is home to more than 15,000 lakes, making it an ideal place for water enthusiasts.
- [Ladybugs](https://fcal-wis.org/ladybugs/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Lady Beetle, also known as ladybug, refers to all members of the beetle family Coccinellidae, which is comprised of over 400
- [Winter Rains](https://fcal-wis.org/winter-rains/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Heavy winter rains are happening more often in Wisconsin. That's a problem. Here's why we should care. Many southeastern Wisconsin residents
- [Spring Equinox](https://fcal-wis.org/spring-equinox/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Spring officially begins on Monday, March 20th @ 4:25 CT. As we venture into Spring, I’d like to point out a
- [Maple Syrup](https://fcal-wis.org/maple-syrup/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. By the time you read this, we’ll have ‘sprung ahead’ with Daylight Savings Time. This also means that spring is near
- [Snow Fleas](https://fcal-wis.org/snow-fleas/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. With the recent snows, I began noticing little black spots in my tracks. Upon closer examination, I saw that most of
- [Frost Cracks](https://fcal-wis.org/1577-2/) - Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. During our last cold spell, I ventured out of my house and heard a loud report. I thought for a second that my
- [Announcing the FLOW AIS Poster Contest](https://fcal-wis.org/2023-flow-ais-poster-contest/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,2_3″ _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://fcal-wis.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Logo_FLOW_AIS.webp” title_text=”Logo_FLOW_AIS” _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”|8px||||” custom_padding=”|0px|0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]2023 FLOW AIS Poster Contest[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]The FLOW AIS Program (Forest, Langlade, Marinette, & Oconto Waterways Aquatic Invasice Species Program) is seeking entries into their 2023 Invasive Species
- [2023 Forest County Conservation Poster Winners](https://fcal-wis.org/1501-2/) - The Forest County Conservation Department hosted a poster contest at the beginning of 2023. The Poster theme was “One Water”. We received about 20 posters from local students ranging from grades Kindergarten – 8th, winners (pictured below) received Certificates from the Forest County Conservation Department and Gift Cards. First Place Winners were advanced to
- [2023 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention](https://fcal-wis.org/2023-wisconsin-lakes-and-rivers-convention/) - Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention Thursday, April 20 - Saturday, April 22, 2023 Holiday Inn Stevens Point Convention Center Steven Point, WI Network with citizens and professionals from around the state as you learn more about our lakes and rivers and the critters that live on or near them. https://wisconsinwaterweek.org/home/lakes-and-rivers-convention/
- [World Wetlands Day](https://fcal-wis.org/world-wetlands-day/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. World Wetlands Day is celebrated each year on February 2nd to raise awareness about wetlands. Why do we have a World
- [Week 3, 2023, PFAS](https://fcal-wis.org/week-3-2023-pfas/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. In the last few years, you’ve probably heard about the public’s concern for PFAS or the ‘forever chemicals. In 2020, I
- [Week 2, 2023, Winter Birds](https://fcal-wis.org/week-2-2023-winter-birds/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Winters in Wisconsin give us the unique opportunity to look up into the branches and treetops for our Winter birds. During
- [Week 1, 2023, Fox](https://fcal-wis.org/fox/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Recently, a Red Fox skipped through my yard looking for one of the squirrels that frequent our feeders. That visit made
- [Ice Season](https://fcal-wis.org/ice-season/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Soon, we’ll be back out on our Wisconsin Lakes to begin the Hardwater Season. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
- [Christmas Trees](https://fcal-wis.org/christmas-trees/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Hope you had a terrific Thanksgiving with family, friends and a lot of food. To the hunters, hope you had a
- [Downy vs Hairy Woodpecker](https://fcal-wis.org/downy-vs-hairy-woodpecker/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Downy vs. Hairy Woodpeckers – Identification Tips The other morning, I was enjoying my coffee with the birds. There was a
- [Wildlife Specialist Speaks at 2022 Annual Meeting](https://fcal-wis.org/2022-annual-meeting-keynote/) - At the Annual Meeting on October 22, 2022, the Forest County Association of Lakes hosted keynote speaker Christian Cold, a retired DNR Wildlife Specialist, speaking on the topic of Wildlife Ecology and Management, with emphasis on forest and wetlands View The Presentation Wisconsin Wildlife Fast Facts About Mr. Cold Christian W. Cold is a retired
- [Zebra Mussels (Dreissena polymorpha)](https://fcal-wis.org/zebra-mussels-dreissena-polymorpha/) - Zebra mussels are small bivalve mollusks that are fingernail sized and native the Caspian Sea region of Asia. These mussels are filter feeders and one mussel can filter one liter of water per day. In the water they feed primarily on phytoplankton, zooplankton, and algae. When the water is filtered it creates several issues for
- [Yellow Floating Heart (Nymphoides peltata)](https://fcal-wis.org/yellow-floating-heart-nymphoides-peltata/) - Yellow floating heart grows in dense mats. It is originally from Eurasia, the Mediterranean, China, India, and Japan. It is believed to spread from releases from water gardens and the nursery trade. It reproduces by seeds, stems, or broken off leaves with part of a stem attached. Dense mats displace native species, reduce biodiversity, decrease
- [Spiny and Fishhook Waterfleas](https://fcal-wis.org/spiny-and-fishhook-waterfleas/) - This little predatory zooplankton is native to Europe and Asia. They can grow up to ¾ of an inch in length and eat native Daphnia, which is a food source for many smaller juvenile fish species. Young fish have difficulties eating the waterflea because the tale often becomes lodged in their throat making them difficult
- [Rusty Crayfish (Orconectes rusticus)](https://fcal-wis.org/rusty-crayfish-orconectes-rusticus/) - Rusty crayfish are native to streams in the Ohio River Basin states of Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, and Tennessee. They were introduced to Wisconsin by anglers who used them as fishing bait. These crayfish impact native crayfish populations, aquatic plant communities and whole lake ecosystems. The lakes that have a large population of rusty crayfish
- [Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria)](https://fcal-wis.org/purple-loosestrife-lythrum-salicaria/) - Purple Loosestrife is a wetland perennial plant that originally arrived here from Europe and Asia. It was distributed and sold by plant nurseries because of its attractive purple flowers. People then planted this species in their yards, gardens and lake front properties. The plant itself can produce 100,000 to 2,000,000 seeds annually and is easily
- [Japanese Knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum)](https://fcal-wis.org/japanese-knotweed-polygonum-cuspidatum/) - Japanese knotweed is a semi woody shrub that can reach heights of 8 to 15 feet tall. The plant resembles bamboo and is often called Japanese bamboo. It originated in Japan and made its way to the United States and Wisconsin as an ornamental plant that people planted in their yards and gardens. Many people
- [Eurasian Water Milfoil (Myriophllum spicatum)](https://fcal-wis.org/eurasian-water-milfoil-myriophllum-spicatum/) - Eurasian water milfoil is a submersed aquatic plant that is native to Europe, Asia, and northern Africa. It was first documented in the United States in 1942 and arrived in Wisconsin in the early 1960’s. It was likely introduced in the aquaculture or aquarium trade. It spreads lake to lake by fragmentation and is often
- [Curly Leaf Pondweed (Potamogeton crispus)](https://fcal-wis.org/curly-leaf-pondweed-potamogeton-crispus/) - Curly Leaf Pondweed is one of 80 pondweed species found within the world. It is native to Eurasia, Africa and Australia. It was accidently introduced with the common carp in the early 1800’s and made its way to Wisconsin in 1905 with fish imported from Europe. This plant has a unique growing cycle and starts
- [Chinese + Banded Mystery Snails (Bellamya chinensis and Viviparus georgianus)](https://fcal-wis.org/chinese-banded-mystery-snails-bellamya-chinensis-and-viviparus-georgianus/) - There currently is not much information known about these non native snails. What is known is they compete with native snails for the same resources and they often die off in large numbers in the summer. The snails are not very tolerant of low oxygen levels and warming water which are the causes of the
- [FCAL Board Officer Election](https://fcal-wis.org/2022-fcal-board-officer-election/) - The election for Board Officers will be held November 18th at 9:30 AM in the lower level of the Crandon Library
- [Leaves](https://fcal-wis.org/leaves/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Last weekend at a Saturday morning football game, my Grandson asked me why leaves change color? I think I get asked
- [Firewood Month](https://fcal-wis.org/firewood-month/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Firewood Month Most people don’t spend much time thinking about firewood. If it’s split and dry, it’s good to go, right?
- [Understanding your Legal Description](https://fcal-wis.org/understanding-your-legal-description/) - Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. This week, I would like to switch to my Land Information hat and talk about your property’s legal description. Understanding the legal description
- [Keystone Plants](https://fcal-wis.org/keystone-plants/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. In Wisconsin, some keystone plants stand above all the others: oak trees. Keystone oaks for the Dairy State include white, bur,
- [Fall Cleanup](https://fcal-wis.org/fall-cleanup/) - Conservation Corner Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. This time of year, many of you are probably thinking of closing down and cleaning up your gardens. There are many
- [Lake Turnover](https://fcal-wis.org/lake-turnover/) - Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. Remember that warm day last week when you went swimming in your lake, and you felt that the water was warmer near the
- [Announcing the 2022 Forest County Land & Water Plant Sale](https://fcal-wis.org/announcing-the-2022-forest-county-land-water-plant-sale/) - Once again, we are going to have our 2nd Annual Plant Sale. This year, we have added more wildflowers, shrubs and trees. 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
- [Disappearing Grosbeaks](https://fcal-wis.org/disappearing-grosbeaks/) - The other morning, I was having my coffee and watching the birds on our feeders. I got to thinking that I hadn’t seen evening grosbreaks on our feeders in like, forever! So, when I got to my office, I decided to do a little research and find out where they’ve gone. I found that the
- [Reminder of the 2022 Forest County Land & Water Plant Sale](https://fcal-wis.org/reminder-of-the-2022-forest-county-land-water-plant-sale/) - We are wrapping up our 2nd Annual Plant Sale. This year, we have added more wildflowers, shrubs and trees. 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. Then drop it off or mail it in
- [Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-initiative-on-climate-change-impacts/) - Last week I received the Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts (WICCI) 2021 Assessment Report. I’ll try to summarize what the report means for us in Northern Wisconsin. We are already feeling the impact of climate change. We are fortunately starting to come together to make our communities more climate-resilient. The report’s key findings and
- [Climate Change](https://fcal-wis.org/climate-change/) - Last week I summarized how Climate Change is affecting us in Northern Wisconsin. This week, I will try to summarize the impact on Water and People. Climate change is bringing warming temperatures and changing precipitation patterns in Northern Wisconsin and these changes are decreasing water quality and changing aquatic ecosystems. • Warmer water temperatures and
- [Timber Stand Improvement (TSI)](https://fcal-wis.org/timber-stand-improvement-tsi/) - One of the programs I manage provides landowners access to a Forester who will provide you with a Forest Management Plan at no cost to the landowner. Part of the Management Plan usually involves Timber Stand Improvement (TSI). What is Timber Stand Improvement? It is a term used by people involved with Forestry to identify
- [Maple Syrup Time](https://fcal-wis.org/maple-syrup-time/) - As Spring approaches, many of us will get out to start our Maple Syrup operations. Pure maple syrup is a natural and nutritious sweetener and a smart choice as a sweet topping or as a flavorful ingredient in baking and cooking. Maple Syrup is 100% natural and unrefined, retaining the inherent nutritional value of the
- [Awards](https://fcal-wis.org/awards/) - FCAL RECOGNITION'S AND AWARDS The Lake Metonga Association and the Forest County Association of Lakes Sponsor a Lake Outing Lake Metonga Association and Forest County Association of Lakes Members Harry Resch and Les Schramm received recognition from Andy Space, the Crandon High and Middle School Principal and from teacher Mrs. Edlund at a November 2013
- [FCAL  Announces 2016 Essay Contest Winners](https://fcal-wis.org/fcal-essay-contest-winners-2015/) - The title of this year’s FCAL essay contest was “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly in Forest County Lakes and Streams” This essay contest is one of the events FCAL uses to raise the awareness of our youth to the importance of our waterways and their part in being good stewards of those waterways.
- [2014 Fall Forum](https://fcal-wis.org/2014-fall-forum/) - On September 13th our annual Fall Forum was held at the Lake Lucerne Clubhouse. There were a number of guest speakers including Jim Kreitlow, DNR: Mike Pruell, Mole Lake Sakagon Fish Biologist, Emily Anderson, Wild Rivers Invasive Species Coalition and John Pruess, AIS Coordinator. Lunch was served after the forum. Please join us next year
- [A deadly parasite moving north](https://fcal-wis.org/a-deadly-parasite-moving-north/) - USA Today news article published December 4, 2013
- [Please be on the lookout for invasive Phragmites patches while outside this Fall and Winter.](https://fcal-wis.org/please-be-on-the-lookout-for-invasive-phragmites-patches-while-outside-this-fall-and-winter/) - Phragmites is a tall grass that can grow as tall as 15 feet. It grows extremely dense and shades out other species. It is the same grass that blankets the shoreline of Lake Michigan in the Green Bay area. A grant was awarded for the treatment of Phragmites sites in Langlade, Forest, Oneida and Vilas
- [Advance of Asian Carp](https://fcal-wis.org/advance-of-asian-carp/) - Advance of Asian carp in western Wisconsin remains slow — for now By Lee Bergquist of the Journal Sentinel
- [2013 Essay Contest](https://fcal-wis.org/2013-essay-contest/) - Forest County Association of Lakes (FCAL) Has a Very Successful 2013 Essay Contest The Forest County Association of Lakes (FCAL) again had the fifth and sixth graders at Crandon, Laona and Wabeno participate in their 2013 essay contest. Crandon had 74 students write essays, while Laona had 26 students and Wabeno 14. The essays were
- [Suggested reading from John A. Preuss - Lumberjack Aquatic Invasives Coordinator](https://fcal-wis.org/suggested-reading-from-john-a-preuss-lumberjack-aquatic-invasives-coordinator/) - The following article "Study: Mussels improve lake property values Invasive species improves water clarity" was recently shared by John A. Preuss, Lumberjack Aquatic Invasives Coordinator.
- [Invasive algae found for the first time in a Wisconsin lake](https://fcal-wis.org/invasive-algae-found-for-the-first-time-in-a-wisconsin-lake/) - Please click the link below to read the article on Starry Stonewort: http://www.jsonline.com/news/invasive-algae-found-for-the-first-time-in-a-wisconsin-lake-b99397718z1-283977751.html
- [Open Florence/Forest County Frog and Toad Survey Routes](https://fcal-wis.org/open-florenceforest-county-frog-and-toad-survey-routes/) - An email message from Wisconsin DNR Conservation Biologist Andrew Badje: Dear WDNR Biologists (Florence/Forest Counties), I’m the Wisconsin Frog and Toad Survey Coordinator and am in the process of beginning to fill the vacant frog and toad routes across the state for the 2015 season. I feel the best way to reach out to volunteers
- [New Invasive Plants Found in Florence and Forest Counties](https://fcal-wis.org/new-invasive-plants-found-in-florence-and-forest-counties/) - This summer, while conducting grant-funded invasive species inventory and control work, the Wild Rivers Invasive Species Coalition (WRISC) confirmed the presence of two invasive plant species new to the region, Musk Thistle (Carduus nutans) and Garden Valerian (Valeriana officinalis). Musk Thistle was discovered during a private land invasive plant inventory in northern Florence County. WRISC Coordinator Emily Anderson
- [Deadly Fish Disease Could Cause Mass Die-Offs In Lake Winnebago, Researchers Say](https://fcal-wis.org/deadly-fish-disease-could-cause-mass-die-offs-in-lake-winnebago-researchers-say/) - By Samantha Mathewson Oct 25, 2015 09:54 PM EDT What causes freshwater fish to develop red splotches and swollen, bulging eyes? Researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison discovered that a deadly disease known as viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus, or VHSv, is to blame. These findings follow the mass death of hundreds of freshwater drum, also
- [High School Environmental Day a Success](https://fcal-wis.org/high-school-environmental-day-a-success/) - Forest County Association of Lakes (FCAL) sponsored an environmental day for high school students Sept. 15 at Veteran’s Memorial Park on Lake Metonga. Cindy Edlund from Crandon High School, Steve Kircher from Laona and John Twardowski and their science classes attended the event. Students learned about many environmental issues confronting resident of Forest County at
- [Upper Peninsula Invasives Council Newsletter](https://fcal-wis.org/upper-peninsula-invasives-council-newsletter/) - Thanks to Emily Anderson, WRISC Project Manager, for sharing the UPIC January/February 2016 eNews. Please click on the newsletter image to read the full newsletter.
- [Invasive Species Alert : New Zealand Mudsnail](https://fcal-wis.org/invasive-species-alert-new-zealand-mudsnail/) - Many thanks to the Michigan DNR for this valuable information.
- [Invasive Species Alert : Didymo ("rock snot")](https://fcal-wis.org/invasive-species-alert-didymo-rock-snot/) - Many thanks to the Michigan DNR for this valuable information.
- [Let’s Talk About Dredging](https://fcal-wis.org/lets-talk-about-dredging/) - Natural scenic beauty and erosion control are components of the State’s shoreline protection program. Riparian landowners accomplish these goals by allowing native vegetation to overtake the shore yards, slowing runoff of pollutants toward the waterbody and masking human habitation. Each year, surrounding vegetation sheds leaves, needles and summer growth. Much of this vegetative matter enters
- [Annual Meeting](https://fcal-wis.org/annual-meeting/) - FCAL members and guests enjoyed an informative and very interesting program at the 2016 Annual FCAL Meeting,Banquet and Program. Christopher Cold shared 300 slides featuring Wisconsin wildlife and wildlife habitat along with some live “critters” which concluded his presentation. There were approximately 70 people in attendance at TBob’s in Laona for this event.
- [Life jacket stations](https://fcal-wis.org/life-jacket-stations/) - These photos were presented at the June 16 FCAL meeting by the Forest County Health Department. The Health Department in conjunction with the Crandon Lions Club is piloting a program this summer at Lake Metonga and also at Silver Lake. They intend to offer life vests on loan to boaters who may find themselves short
- [Congratulations to Les Schramm](https://fcal-wis.org/congratulations-to-les-schramm/) - Congratulations to our very own Les Schramm for his recognition in the most recent issue of Lake Tides.
- [November 2017 meeting date](https://fcal-wis.org/november-meeting-date/) - The date of the November 2017 Board of Director's meeting has been changed. We will meet on Friday, November 10th beginning at 9 a.m. in the lower level of the Crandon Public Library
- [Donna & Les Schramm Pavilion Kitchen Dedication Set for August 20](https://fcal-wis.org/donna-les-schramm-pavilion-kitchen-dedication-set-for-august-20/) - Dear Friends of Les & Donna Schramm, The Crandon Lions will host a City Beath Pavilion Kitchen dedication in honor of Donna and Les Schramm at 6 pm on Monday, August 20, 2018. Rain or Shine! The Lake Metonga Association furnished the stainless steel serving tables and shelving necessary to complete the new kitchen. As
- [Cost Share Program](https://fcal-wis.org/cost-share-program/) - Property Owners, are you aware of the Forest County Cost-Share Program? This is a program administered by the Forest County Land and Water Conservation Department. The Grant money is provided by the Wisconsin Dept. of Agriculture, Trade, & Consumer Protection (DATCP) to fund the program. Under the program, the landowner pays for all project
- [DNR Seedlings Distribution](https://fcal-wis.org/dnr-seedlings-distribution/) - The DNR’s reforestation program will be accepting orders starting October 7, 2019 from Wisconsin forest landowners for trees and shrubs to be planted in spring 2020. For more than 100 years, the Wisconsin DNR has provided high-quality seedlings of native species, appropriate for planting throughout Wisconsin. Seedlings grown by the state nurseries are used for reforestation and
- [What Does the County Conservationist Do?](https://fcal-wis.org/what-does-the-county-conservationist-do/) - Over the last couple weeks, many people have asked what is the Land & Water Conservation Department and what does it do for Forest County? Well, if you locate the new website www.forestcountylandandwater.org , you may find out. Also, as per the Forest County Website www.forestwi.gov under Land Conservation, you’ll see that the Land and Water
- [Gun Deer Hunters](https://fcal-wis.org/gun-deer-hunters/) - As you read this week’s submission, we will probably be in the midst of Wisconsin’s Gun Deer Season. Last week the DNR reported that our waterways and landscape may be treacherous because of all the fall rain we received. I reposted some of their safety tips if you didn’t get their newsletter. The Wisconsin Department
- [Farmers are you aware of the cost share program?](https://fcal-wis.org/farmers-are-you-aware-of-the-cost-share-program/) - Forest County Land Conservation Department has been working on ways to provide farmers and agriculture producers with basic information regarding state regulation which may affect their operations. A cost-share program is a method for sharing installation costs for non-point source pollution controls between a governmental entity and a farmer. This program provides reimbursement for up
- [2021 Essay Contest Winners Announced by FCAL](https://fcal-wis.org/2021-essay-contest-winners-announced-by-fcal/) - Forest County Association of Lakes (FCAL) is proud to announce this year’s essay contest winners from the 5th and 6th grades of Crandon, Laona and Wabeno schools. This year’s essay theme was “ Aquatic Invasive Species and How They Affect Forest County Lakes and Streams”. The essays were judged by 12 volunteers from FCAL. They were judged on content, composition and originality. 3 prizes are awarded to
- [Fall Gardens](https://fcal-wis.org/fall-gardens/) - This time of year, many of you are probably thinking of closing down and cleaning up your gardens. There are many reasons NOT to clean up your garden in the fall. What we do in them every autumn can either enhance or inhibit that role. Here are some reasons to ‘leave the mess’ in fall
- [No Wake Zones](https://fcal-wis.org/no-wake-zones/) - Boaters in Wisconsin have long had to cut back on speed near docks, rafts, piers and restricted areas. Did you also know that the slow, no-wake rule also applies to the full lake shoreline on all lakes in the state? The law prohibits boaters from operating their boats faster than slow, no-wake anywhere within 100
- [Migraton](https://fcal-wis.org/migraton/) - Lately, people have been asking, ‘Where are my Orioles or the Redwing Blackbirds? Did you know that even though it's summer, birds have already begun their fall migration? Fall migration starts as early as June and lasts until early January, with peak times running from August to mid-October. Migratory birds are birds of both game
- [Woodland Pollinators](https://fcal-wis.org/woodland-pollinators/) - Did you know Pollinators are responsible for helping aid in over 80% of the world’s flowering plants reproduce, along with wind and water? Without pollinators, animals and humans would not have much food at all, or beautiful flowers to enjoy. Pollinators are animals that move pollen from the male structures (anthers) of a flower to
- [When is the Best Time to Seed Your Prairie Flowers?](https://fcal-wis.org/when-is-the-best-time-to-seed-your-prairie-flowers/) - Fall is a great time to plant your prairie grasses and flowers. Smooth Phlox, Wild Petunia, Blue Vervain, and Wild Bergamot are just a few that are native to Wisconsin. These seeds need exposure to cold, damp conditions for better germination rates. Most of these flowers and grass seeds have a built-in dormancy that need
- [Autumn](https://fcal-wis.org/autumn/) - By the time you read this, we will have passed the Autumnal Equinox that arrived on Tuesday, September 22nd. Did you know that Equinox comes from the latin meaning equal night? During the equinox, the sun crosses the celestial equinox creating days and nights of equal length followed by days of shorter daylight. The sun
- [Top 10 Ways to Help Lakes from Home](https://fcal-wis.org/top-10-ways-to-help-lakes-from-home/) - Plant native & diverse vegetation Deep-rooted native plants and trees help absorb water and hold topsoil in place during rain events. As an added bonus, they will add beauty to your property and provide habitat for songbirds and butterflies. Create a rain garden Not only will rain gardens capture stormwater runoff and beautify your property,
- [2021 Forest County Land Conservation Plant Sale](https://fcal-wis.org/2021-forest-county-land-conservation-plant-sale/) - The first annual “Forest County Land Conservation Department Plant Sale” is here! Although winter is just around the corner, it is time to start thinking about what colorful additions you can add to your landscaping next spring. This year, our Land and Water Conservation Department has decided to host a plant sale, selling only plants
- [Pruning Techniques](https://fcal-wis.org/pruning-techniques/) - Did you know the best time of year to trim and prune trees and is late fall into winter? This is because you can easily see the structure of the tree and the wounds will close better the next growing season. Also, sap and resin flow will be minimal in the dormant season, so there
- [Top 10 hunting violations during firearm deer season](https://fcal-wis.org/top-10-hunting-violations-during-firearm-deer-season/) - As we gear up for the 2020 firearm deer season, DNR officials are expecting that this year’s higher hunting license sales will mean more new and experienced hunters in the woods. Here’s a list of the 10 most common hunting violations that conservation officers encounter every firearm season. #1 – Using the wrong tag or
- [Wisconsin Wetlands](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-wetlands/) - Did you know that there are six different kinds of wetlands in Wisconsin? Wetlands can be classified as: Marshes Marshes have water depths between six inches and six feet. Some have standing water year-round, others for only part of the year. Sedge meadows Sedge meadows are dominated by grass-like plants called sedges. Annually, they will
- [Your Lake in Winter](https://fcal-wis.org/your-lake-in-winter/) - Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. The lake you live on or near is a very different place when iced over for the winter, but it’s still a living
- [Cost Share Program](https://fcal-wis.org/cost-share-program-2/) - The recent warmer weather has reminded our office that it’s time to start thinking about Shoreland Restoration. Property Owners, are you aware of the Forest County Cost-Share Program? This is a program administered by the Forest County Land and Water Conservation Department. The Grant money is provided by the Wisconsin Dept. of Agriculture, Trade, &
- [Wisconsin Water Week](https://fcal-wis.org/wisconsin-water-week/) - Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land &Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at lcc@co.forest.wi.us. As you’re reading this week’s article, I’ll be at the Wisconsin Water Week Convention, ‘virtually’. Wisconsin Water Week 2021, is a virtual interactive
- [Youth Education Committee Hosts Virtual 64th Annual Conservation Awareness Poster and Speaking Contests](https://fcal-wis.org/youth-education-committee-hosts-virtual-64th-annual-conservation-awareness-poster-and-speaking-contests/) - The Wisconsin Land and Water Conservation Association (WI Land+Water) hostedits 68th Annual Conservation Conference virtually on March 2-5, 2021. The youth speeches arealways the highlight of the conference and usually kick-off the WI Land+Water conference. Thisyear, with a virtual conference, the Youth Education Committee hosted its 64th AnnualConservation Awareness Poster and Speaking Contest and first
- [Shoreland Lighting: A Special Concern](https://fcal-wis.org/shoreland-lighting-a-special-concern/) - As Spring approaches and our lakes open up, one of the issues that came to my attention is Shoreland Lighting. During the daytime Shorelands are heavily used for recreation. Artificial lighting allows us to engage in nighttime activities that would be impossible or unsafe under normal nighttime conditions. Whether it’s boating, fishing or simply sitting
- [Blue-green algae](https://fcal-wis.org/blue-green-algae/) - Blue-green algae, also known as Cyanobacteria, are a group of photosynthetic bacteria that many people refer to as "pond scum." Blue-green algae are most often blue-green in color, but can also be blue, green, reddish-purple, or brown. Blue-green algae generally grow in lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams when the water is warm and enriched with
- [PFAS Coordinating Council](https://fcal-wis.org/pfas-coordinating-council/) - In 2019, Governor Tony Evers declared it the Year of Clean Drinking Water. As part of the state-wide initiative to ensure Wisconsinites have access to clean, safe drinking water, Gov. Evers signed Executive Order #40 in August 2019 to address the issue of PFAS(per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances in Wisconsin. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a
- [Governor Evers Signs Bill Encouraging More Wetland and Floodplain Restoration](https://fcal-wis.org/governor-evers-signs-bill-encouraging-more-wetland-and-floodplain-restoration/) - Governor Tony Evers put his final approval on Senate Bill 91 (now 2021 Act 77) which focuses on restoring the natural capacity of wetlands to manage water. The legislation calls for the creation of a hydrologic restoration general permit for simple, voluntary projects that repair hydrology, often involving upper watershed wetland restoration and floodplain reconnection.
- [Surface Water Grants Program](https://fcal-wis.org/surface-water-grants-program/) - Landowners, have you considered adding a rain garden or native plants to your shoreline? By stopping run-off from entering your lake or river, you can protect them for future generations. A rain garden or native planting can provide beautiful flowers all summer long. They will bring more wildlife to your yard and deter geese and
- [Land Management Plans](https://fcal-wis.org/land-management-plans/) - Why do you need a land management plan? They are the key to the successful management of your forest. Land management plans are long-term and provide continuity through generations of ownership. Make sure to go over your plan with family members that may be purchasing or inheriting the land in the future. If you don't
- [2019 Lake Ecology Field Day a Huge Success!](https://fcal-wis.org/2019-lake-ecology-field-day-a-huge-success/) - The Lake Ecology Field Day which is sponsored annually by the Forest County Association of Lakes (FCAL) was a good educational experience for high school students from Crandon, Laona and Wabeno Environmental Science classes. Lake Ecology Day took place on Tuesday, September 17th from 9AM until 1:30PM at the Veterans Memorial Park on the south
- [2019 Lakes Partnership Convention and Water Action Volunteers Symposium](https://fcal-wis.org/2019-lakes-partnership-convention-and-water-action-volunteers-symposium/) - Forest County Association of Lakes members are invited to Stevens Point for the annual Lakes Partnership Convention and Water Action Volunteers Symposium! This year's theme, "Pay it Forward," is a popular concept. When someone does something for you, instead of paying that person back directly, you pass it on to another person instead. This practice
- [QUIET WATERS OF FOREST COUNTY](https://fcal-wis.org/quiet-waters-of-forest-county/) - Quiet Waters of Forest County is a project completed by the Forest County Land Conservation Department in cooperation with the Forest County Health Department to promote paddling sports including kayaking and canoeing and the healthy aspects of such sports in the county. Quiet Waters of Forest County- Lakes Forest County has 824 named lakes and
- [Board of Director's Meeting](https://fcal-wis.org/annual-meeting-invitation/) - Public Announcement of Board of Directors meeting on Nov. 9th at 9AM in lower level of Crandon Public Library. The board will elect officers at this meeting.
- [Harold Resch Wins Wisconsin Lakes Stewardship Award in the Educator Category](https://fcal-wis.org/harold-resch-wins-wisconsin-lakes-stewardship-award-in-the-educator-category/) - (Excerpts from his acceptance speech) “After teaching chemistry and math at Crandon High School for 36 years, I retired in 2001. Shortly after that Les Schramm asked me to join the Forest County Association of Lakes (FCAL) as a board member. And then, shortly after THAT, I was asked if I would help with the
- [FCAL’s Lake Ecology Field Day](https://fcal-wis.org/fcals-lake-ecology-field-day/) - Submitted by FCAL Member Vi Lamers On Sept. 9, 2017 Environmental Studies students from Wabeno, Crandon and Laona High Schools participated in FCAL’s 5th annual Field Day at Lake Metonga’s Vet Memorial Park. These 51 students were divided into small groups for better learning and able to attend eight different educational stations manned by a
- [Announcing the FCAL Lake Association Grant](https://fcal-wis.org/fcal-association-grant/) - The 2018 FCAL Board of Directors is excited to announce the opportunity for Lake Associations that are members of FCAL to apply for a $500 matching grant to assist with a lake project. The guidelines are as follows: The applicant must be a member of FCAL. The project must be to better the quality of

## Pages

- [Forest County Association of Lakes](https://fcal-wis.org/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” display_conditions=”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” custom_padding=”||19px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ next_background_color=”#ffffff” admin_label=”Header” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_direction=”120deg” background_color_gradient_stops=”rgba(0,37,68,0.7) 60%|rgba(0,37,68,0.5) 60%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”on” background_color_gradient_start=”rgba(0,37,68,0.7)” background_color_gradient_start_position=”60%” background_color_gradient_end=”rgba(0,37,68,0.5)” background_color_gradient_end_position=”60%” background_image=”https://fcal-wis.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/AdobeStock_26745333-scaled.jpeg” custom_padding=”3vw|0px|3vw|0px|true|false” bottom_divider_style=”mountains2″ bottom_divider_flip=”horizontal” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_width_px=”1280px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font=”Open Sans||||||||” text_font_size=”16px” text_line_height=”1.8em” header_font=”Squada One|||on|||||” header_font_size=”60px” header_letter_spacing=”1px” header_line_height=”1.1em” background_layout=”dark” max_width=”700px” animation_style=”fade” text_font_size_tablet=”” text_font_size_phone=”” text_font_size_last_edited=”on|desktop” text_line_height_tablet=”” text_line_height_phone=”” text_line_height_last_edited=”on|desktop” header_font_size_tablet=”” header_font_size_phone=”32px”
- [Meeting Minutes](https://fcal-wis.org/our-association/agendas-minutes/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”] Current Year’s Minutes 2026 January 16, 2026 No Meeting February 20, 2026 No Meeting March 20, 2026 April 2026 No Meeting May 15,2026 June 19, 2026 July 19, 2026 August 21,
- [Archive - Past Years' Agendas & Minutes](https://fcal-wis.org/our-association/agendas-minutes/archives/) - Meeting Minutes Archive 2025 January 2025 No Meeting February 2025 No Meeting March 20, 2025 No Meeting April 18 2025 May 15,2025 June 20, 2025 July 18, 2025 August 15, 2025 September19, 2025 October18, 2025 November 21, 2025 No Meeting December 19, 2025 No Meeting 2024 January 19, 2024 - Board of Director's Meeting (February
- [Agendas & Minutes](https://fcal-wis.org/agendas-minutes/)
- [Events](https://fcal-wis.org/events/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”50px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”78.2%” custom_margin=”2px|auto|125px|auto||” custom_padding=”25px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” min_height=”2711.7px” custom_margin=”|21px|146px|||” custom_padding=”||49px|0px||” global_colors_info=”{}”] FCAL Events Monthly Board Meetings The FCAL Board typically meets monthly on the 3rd Friday at 9:30 am at the Associated Bank,
- [Newsletters](https://fcal-wis.org/newsletters/) - FCAL Newsletters FLOW AIS Newsletters Conservation Corner Newsletters FCAL Newsletters FCAL newsletters are made available in large part to a grant from the Mole Lake Sokaogon Chippewa Community. Thank you! Summer 2026 Newsletter Summer 2025 Newsletter Summer 2024 Newsletter Summer 2023 Newsletter
- [Business Members](https://fcal-wis.org/our-association/business-members/) - Please support these businesses that help support us! CoVantage Credit Union * Sokaogon Chippewa Community, Mole Lake * Northern Lakes Service Town of Blackwell Hometown MFG Inc. Sokaogon C-Store Lake View Resort Crandon Senior Snoop Shop Schaefer’ s IGA Johnnie’s Resort Laona State Bank Associated Bank Crandon Docks and Lifts Road House 139 Wild Rivers
- [Resources](https://fcal-wis.org/resources/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”|||55px||” global_colors_info=”{}”] List of Lakes in Forest County NEARBY COUNTY-WIDE ASSOCIATIONS OF LAKES & RIVERS Langlade County Waterways Associationlangladecountywaterways@gmail.com Oconto County Lakes and Waterways Association Oneida County Lakes and Rivers Association Vilas County Lakes and
- [Lake Association Members](https://fcal-wis.org/our-association/lake-association-members/) - [et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding="50px|||||"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding="3px|||||"] Lake Association Members The following Lake Associations are members of the Forest County Association of Lakes. Also included are links to the corresponding listing from the UW Stevens Point (UWSP) Extension
- [Shop](https://fcal-wis.org/shop/)
- [Our Association](https://fcal-wis.org/our-association/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”About Us” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#f4f4f4″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_module=”1718″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ text_font=”Open Sans||||||||” text_line_height=”1.8em” header_font=”||||||||” header_2_font=”Squada One||||||||” header_2_font_size=”40px” custom_margin=”||0px|” custom_padding=”40px||40px||true|false” header_2_font_size_tablet=”35px” header_2_font_size_phone=”25px” header_2_font_size_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_css_free_form=”li {|| font-family: inherit; ||}” border_color_all=”rgba(0,0,0,0)” border_width_top=”8px” global_colors_info=”{}” max_width__hover=”100%” max_width__hover_enabled=”100%” use_background_color_gradient__hover=”off” use_background_color_gradient__hover_enabled=”off” background_color_gradient_start__hover=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_start__hover_enabled=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end__hover=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_end__hover_enabled=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type__hover=”linear” background_color_gradient_type__hover_enabled=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction__hover=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction__hover_enabled=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial__hover=”center” background_color_gradient_direction_radial__hover_enabled=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position__hover=”0%” background_color_gradient_start_position__hover_enabled=”0%”
- [Contact Us](https://fcal-wis.org/contact-us/) - [et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]We would love to hear from you! Please contact us about your interests and concerns. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Name *FirstLastEmail *Comment or Message *Submit [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column] [/et_pb_row] [/et_pb_section]
- [Non-Native Invasive Species on Forest County](https://fcal-wis.org/resources/non-native-invasive-species/) - TERRESTRIAL: Purple Loosestrife Garlic Mustard Wild Parsnip Common Tansy Buckthorn Japanese Knotweed Spotted Knapweed Reed Canary Grass Phragmites Emerald Ash Borer Earthworms Jumping Worms ACQUATIC: Eurasian Milfoil Yellow Floating Heart Curly Leaf Pondweed Rusty Crayfish Zebra Mussels
- [My account](https://fcal-wis.org/my-account/)
- [Cart](https://fcal-wis.org/cart/)
- [Checkout](https://fcal-wis.org/checkout/)
- [Board of Directors & Officers](https://fcal-wis.org/our-association/board-of-directors-officers/) - Board meetings are held the third Friday of each month starting at 9:00 a.m. . FOREST COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF LAKES BOARD OF DIRECTORS Pam Schroeder – President (Little Long Lake) Lee Lamers- Vice-President (Roberts Lake) Kathy Babcock – Secretary (Butternut/Franklin Lakes) Bob Ebben – Treasurer (Arbutus Lake) Mike Henderson – (Lily Lake) Harry Resch –
- [Forest County Lake Data](https://fcal-wis.org/our-lakes/lake_data/) - Forest County Lake Data [source: Wisconsin DNR Find a Lake. Updated March 2013] [table id=2 /]
- [Helpful Links](https://fcal-wis.org/helpful-links/) - Forest County Land and Water Midwest Glacial Lakes Partnership Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Wisconsin Lakes Clean Boats, Clean Waters Clean Boats, Clean Waters - UW-Extension Lakes Lumberjack Resource Conservation and Development Woody Invasives of the Great Lakes From StormSafety.org: Questions & Answers About Drought & Water Conservation 10 Reasons Why We Should Not Waste Water
- [Forest County Lake Associations](https://fcal-wis.org/our-lakes/forest-county-lake-associations/) - The following Lake Associations are members of Forest County Association of Lakes: Arbutus Lake Bear Lake Bishop Lake Butternut-Franklin Lakes Ground Hemlock Lake Howell Lake Lake Julia Jungle Lake Lake Lucerne Lost Lake Lily Lake Little Long Lake Lake Metonga Pine Lake Roberts Lake Silver Lake Trump Lake Whiteye Lake (updated November 2019)
- [Winter Spearfishing Report](https://fcal-wis.org/our-lakes/winter-spearfishing-report/) - Forest County Lakes
- [Photo Contest](https://fcal-wis.org/photo-contest-2/) - Photography Contest Sponsored by Forest County Association of Lakes (FCAL) Prizes: 1st Place=$100, 2nd Place=$50, 3rd Place=$25 Who is eligible: All Forest County High School Students, including graduating seniors and incoming freshmen. Rules: Prizes will be awarded for the most creative pictures involving vegetation from a Forest County waterway (lakes, rivers, or streams). The entry
- [Our Lakes](https://fcal-wis.org/our-lakes/)
- [Photos](https://fcal-wis.org/our-association/lake-news-2/) - Photos from some of our association activities.
- [By-laws](https://fcal-wis.org/our-association/by-laws/) - FOREST COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF LAKES, INC BYLAWS Bylaws originally adopted by the Board of Directors 9/28/92. Restated Bylaws adopted by the Members 9/18/93. Amended Board of Directors 6/10/94. Amended Annual Meeting 9/17/94 and the Board of Directors 10/10/94. Amended Board of Directors 1/6/95. Restated bylaws adopted by the Members 10/7/95. Amended Board of Directors 9/17/2010. Restated Bylaws

## Products

- [Monofilament Fish Line Container](https://fcal-wis.org/product/monofilament-fish-line-container/)
- [FCAL Annual Dinner 2026](https://fcal-wis.org/product/fcal-annual-dinner/) - View PDF of invitation
- [FCAL Annual Membership](https://fcal-wis.org/product/fcal-membership/) - Thank you for your support! "The purpose of the Forest County Association of Lakes, Inc. is to facilitate education, research, and sharing between organizations, individuals, governmental bodies, and the general public of Forest County inland water bodies, environs, and watersheds for now and future generations." Please consider joining FCAL by completing this membership form online. If you would prefer to mail in a paper version of the membership form, you may download a form to print here. FCAL is now a 501(c)(3) so all contributions are tax-deductible. Dues are payable on a calendar year.
- [Lake Associations Annual FCAL Membership](https://fcal-wis.org/product/lake-associations-annual-fcal-membership/) - Thank you for your support! "The purpose of the Forest County Association of Lakes, Inc. is to facilitate education, research, and sharing between organizations, individuals, governmental bodies, and the general public of Forest County inland water bodies, environs, and watersheds for now and future generations." Please consider joining FCAL by completing this membership form online. If you would prefer to mail in a paper version of the membership form, you may download a form to print here. FCAL is now a 501(c)(3) so all contributions are tax-deductible. Dues are payable on a calendar year.
- [FCAL Membership Five Year Dues](https://fcal-wis.org/product/fcal-membership-five-year-dues/) - Thank you for your support! "The purpose of the Forest County Association of Lakes, Inc. is to facilitate education, research, and sharing between organizations, individuals, governmental bodies, and the general public of Forest County inland water bodies, environs, and watersheds for now and future generations." Please consider joining FCAL by completing this membership form online. If you would prefer to mail in a paper version of the membership form, you may download a form to print here. FCAL is now a 501(c)(3) so all contributions are tax-deductible. Dues are payable on a calendar year.
- [Businesses Membership Annual FCAL Dues](https://fcal-wis.org/product/businesses-membership-annual-fcal-dues/) - Business Organizations: For-profit businesses and other organizations who subscribe to the purpose of the Corporation may become a "Member" by paying the appropriate fee.

## Board Documents

- [FCAL-minutes-08.15.25-pdf](https://fcal-wis.org/board-documents/fcal-minutes-08-15-25-pdf/)
- [June-Minutes](https://fcal-wis.org/board-documents/june-minutes/)
- [2025-04-18 Forest County Association of Lakes - Meeting Minutes](https://fcal-wis.org/board-documents/fcal-minutes-04-18-25-pdf/)
- [2025-09-27 Forest County Association of Lakes - Inivitation](https://fcal-wis.org/board-documents/fcal-annual-meeting-and-dinner-invitation-2025/)
- [2024-10-24 Forest County Association of Lakes - Meeting Minutes](https://fcal-wis.org/board-documents/fcal-annual-meeting-minutes-10-24-24-pdf/)

## Categories

- [Aquatic Invasive Species News](https://fcal-wis.org/category/invasive-species/ais-news/)
- [Lake news](https://fcal-wis.org/category/updates/) - WE DO OUR BEST TO KEEP THE SITE UPDATED However if you have a question that isn’t answered or you have comments, suggestions or criticisms please go to the Contact section and send us a note.
- [Conservation Corner](https://fcal-wis.org/category/conservation-corner/)
- [News](https://fcal-wis.org/category/news/)
- [Learn About Invasive Species](https://fcal-wis.org/category/invasive-species/ais-learn/)
- [Invasive Species](https://fcal-wis.org/category/invasive-species/)
- [Events](https://fcal-wis.org/category/updates/events/)
- [Wake Boats](https://fcal-wis.org/category/wake-boats/)

## Tags

- [conservation](https://fcal-wis.org/tag/conservation/)
- [Corner](https://fcal-wis.org/tag/corner/)
- [September 12](https://fcal-wis.org/tag/september-12/)
- [Fall Cleanup](https://fcal-wis.org/tag/fall-cleanup/)
- [invasive species](https://fcal-wis.org/tag/invasive-species/)

## Product categories

- [FCAL Membership Annual Dues](https://fcal-wis.org/product-category/dues/)
- [Recycling Bin](https://fcal-wis.org/product-category/recycling-bin/)
- [Businesses Membership Annual FCAL Dues](https://fcal-wis.org/product-category/business-fcal-membership-annual-dues/)
- [Lake Associations Annual FCAL Membership Dues](https://fcal-wis.org/product-category/lake-association-fcal-annual-membership-dues/)
- [FCAL Membership Five Year Dues](https://fcal-wis.org/product-category/fcal-membership-five-year-dues/)
- [Annual Dinner Meeting](https://fcal-wis.org/product-category/annual-dinner-meeting/)

## Document Type

- [Meeting Minutes](https://fcal-wis.org/document-type/fcal-meeting-minutes/)
- [Invitation](https://fcal-wis.org/document-type/invitation/)

## Document Tags

- [Annual Meeting](https://fcal-wis.org/document-tag/annual-meeting/)