JANUARY 2017 VOLUME 44 NUMBER 1

Wisconsin Natural Resources Board Approves Separate Lake Trout Measures for Lakes Superior, Michigan

ADISON, Wis. – Two separate measures re- rules could include an increase in the lake trout daily garding lake trout harvests in lakes Supe- bag limit from the current level of two lake trout per Mrior and Michigan gained approval by the day; allowing a year round open season in the Wisconsin Wisconsin Natural Resources Board on Wednesday. waters of Lake Michigan, except for the Mid Lake Reef The separate measures reflect the difference in lake Complex; and allowing fishing on the Mid Lake Reef trout abundance between the two Great Lakes. Next Complex from January 1 to September 30. steps will involve stakeholder meetings in both regions. The scoping statement and rule development effort For Lake Superior: The Natural Resources Board follow a series of stakeholder meetings in 2016 during approved an emergency rule to amend lake trout har- which angler expressed interest in expanded fishing op- vest limits for the 2016-17 harvest season to reflect con- portunities for lake trout. Comments received also fa- tinued challenges to the population. Terry Margenau, vored changing the regulations for lake trout. DNR Lake Superior fisheries supervisor, said the recre- Brad Eggold, Great Lakes District fisheries super- ational season runs from Dec. 1, 2016 through Sept. 30, visor, said the department anticipates holding a public 2017. The commercial fishing season is open from Nov. meeting in January or February as part of the rule de- 28, 2016 through Sept. 30, 2017. velopment effort. For more on Lake Michigan fisheries Under the rule, in the area known as WI-2 extend- management, visit dnr.wi.gov and search “Fishing Lake ing east of Bark Point, only two lake trout may be har- Michigan.” vested per day. In WI-2, lake trout must be greater than Contact(s): Terry Margenau, DNR Lake Superior 15 inches but only one may be greater than 25 inches. fisheries manager, 715-779-4035, Terry.Margenau@wis- If the recreational harvest reaches 7,350 or 75 percent consin.gov; Brad Eggold, DNR Great Lakes fisheries su- of the total allowable recreational lake trout harvest of pervisor, [email protected], 414-382-7921; 9,800 fish, the recreational lake trout season will close Jennifer Sereno, DNR communications, 608-770-8084; with no further harvest or fishing for lake trout allowed [email protected] in the WI-2 area. West of Bark Point, in the area known as WI-1, the current three fish daily bag limit will remain for lake trout with a 15-inch minimum size limit and only one lake trout may be harvested over 25 inches. Even if the recreational season closes east of Bark Point, up to three ICE: lake trout per day may continue to be harvested west of Bark Point. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers The emergency rule separates lake trout from the current five total daily bag limit for trout on Lake Su- t is good for people to remember that no ice is ever completely perior. Under the rule, anglers will be able to take up to safe. Lakes and rivers are dynamic places with water currents, Isprings, water control structures, cattails, snow cover and many two (WI-2) or three (WI-1) lake trout per day as well as up to five other trout per day. other factors that affect the thickness of the ice and how it forms. “While lake trout were formerly part of the five trout Many of these factors are hidden from us and are difficult to see. Knowing that ice is never completely safe, here are some guidelines bag limit, the new rule will allow an angler the potential on what loads good, clear ice can hold: to harvest, for example, five brown trout plus their bag ~ 4 inches can hold a person of lake trout,” Margenau said. This would apply to both ~ 5 inches can hold a snowmobile WI-1 and WI-2 waters of Lake Superior. ~ 10-12 inches can hold a small car The rule also revises harvests for commercial fish- ~ 12-18 inches can hold a light truck ers and prohibits previously allowed fishing in the Gull If people are going to venture onto the ice here are some safety tips Island refuge. However, because of agreements among to keep in mind: the parties to the Lake Superior Fishing Agreement, the • Talk to someone familiar with the lake you are going to visit rule also removes restrictions from the Hagen’s Beach about ice conditions. area, opening this area to commercial fishing between • Take a set of ice picks or nails with to help you get back on the ice in the event that you fall in. June 1 and Aug. 31, 2016. • Let someone know where you are going and when you will be Margenau said the department anticipates holding a back. public hearing in late January in northern Wisconsin on • Remember that standing or parking in a group will require more the emergency rule. For more on the rule development ice than what is recommended in the guidelines. process for lake trout in Lake Superior, visit dnr.wi.gov • Ice conditions can change from day to day. and search “Lake Superior fisheries management.” For Lake Michigan: The board approved a scope statement for development of an emergency rule and a permanent rule. Changes to the current lake trout

NOTICE Shooting Range The Wisconsin Wildlife Federation (WWF) has been generously granted Seminar steel-shot ammunition from the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) and Ervin Industries. In turn, WWF is offering this product to its affiliate Page 3 organizations to support youth day and mentored youth hunts that are planned and executed by WWF affiliated clubs around Wisconsin. See Page 6 for details! WISCONSERVATION 2 January 2017

* * * OFFICERS * * * ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS STATE AFFILIATES Craig Challoner, Omro, WI DIRECTORS/REPRESENTATIVES President George Borchert, 7420 US Hwy 45, Oshkosh, WI 54902, (920) 688-3122. Email: Jim Huhn, Watertown, WI [email protected] American Wild Turkey Hunting Dog Association Roxanne Taylor, Plymouth, WI Jon Freis, Maribel, WI, 920-776-1272 Bill Tollard, Omro, WI First Vice President Bill Tollard, 4630 Friedrich Ave., Omro, WI 54963, (920) 379-3429. Challenge The Outdoors, Inc. Email: [email protected] Andy Lewandowski, Muskego, WI Larry Laehn, Milton, WI, 920-540-9927 Carolyn Brown, Milton, WI Richard Baudhuin, Sturgeon Bay, WI Izaak Walton League, Bill Cook Chapter Second Vice President Gary Dieck, E2326 Crandall, Wonewoc, WI 53968, (608) 464-3290. Ronald Macdonald, Stevens Point, WI, 715-344-0054 Email: [email protected] Dakota Johnson, North Freedom, WI Connie Kadubek, Gleason, WI Sturgeon for Tomorrow, North Chapter Secretary Amber Rappe, 1200 North Point Dr. Apt. D16, Stevens Point, WI 54481, Chris Leighty, Cottage Grove, WI Wayne Hoelzel, Menasha, WI, 920-725-1206 (920) 901-3425. Email: [email protected] Matt Lallemont, Tomahawk, WI Trout Unlimited, Aldo Leopold Chapter Monica Banaszak, Stevens Point, WI Scott Allen, Reedsburg, WI, 608-524-1753 Treasurer Dave Verhage, 2610 Lanaeh Lane, Plover, WI 54467, (715) 344-3497. Email: Carl Gierke, Shiocton, WI Trout Unlimited, Green Bay Chapter [email protected] Amanda Smith, Madison, WI Paul Kruse, Green Bay, WI, 920-494-4220 Amber Rappe, Stevens Point, WI Walleyes for Tomorrow, Inc. Molly O’Grady (CLC) Michael Arrowood, Oakfield, WI, 920-922-0905

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR / LEGISLATION HONORARY DIRECTORS WI Association of Field Trial Clubs Billy Ploucher, Appleton, WI, 920-257-4816 George Meyer, 201 Randolph Dr., Madison, WI 53717, (608) 516-5545. Email: georgemeyer@ Art Jorgenson tds.net Catherine Koss, Land O’ Lakes, WI WI Association of Sporting Dogs BUSINESS MANAGER Vern Mangless Robbie Brooks, Cascade, WI, 920-602-1439 Ruth Ann Lee, 213 North Main Street, Suite 100, PO Box 460, Poynette, WI 53955, (920) 623- Jim Mense, Menomonie, WI WI Association of Beagle Clubs 9975. Email: [email protected] Ray Rheinschmidt Jerry Knuth, Stevens Point, WI, 715-340-5414 J. L. Schneider WI Coon Hunters Association Betty Schneider-Borchert, Oshkosh, WI Dennis Roehrborn, Plymouth, WI, 920-467-3845 Art Seidel, Brookfield, WI WI Council of Sportfishing Organizations Al Kube, Cochrane, WI John Durben, Cecil, WI, 715-745-2248 Wisconservation Joe Zanter, Sparta, WI WI Deer Hunters Association Bucky Kilishek, Menasha, WI Mark Toso, Roberts, WI, 715-781-4887 WISCONSERVATION (USPS 108-190 ISSN 0164-3649) is published monthly for $25 per year by Martha Kilishek, Menasha, WI Wisconsin Wildlife Federation, 213 North Main Street, Suite 100, PO Box 460, Poynette, WI 53955. Periodical post- Mary Cassidy, Plainfield, WI WI Deer Hunters Inc. age paid at Poynette, WI and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: WISCONSER- Ken Zettlemeier, Waukesha, WI Dennis Hoffman, Neshkoro, WI, 920-293-4098 VATION, 213 North Main Street, Suite 100, PO Box 460, Poynette, WI 53955. All communications regarding adver- Norm Moes, Green Bay WI Federation of Great Lake Sport Fishing Clubs tising, editorial, circulation and Wisconsin Wildlife Federation matters should be sent to 213 North Main Street, Mark Hasenberg, Kenosha, WI, 262-652-9503 Suite 100, PO Box 460, Poynette, WI 53955. Permission to reprint articles is normally given providing proper credit HONORARY VICE PRESIDENTS WI Hunter Ed Instructor Association is given both publication and author. Views expressed by freelance writers are their own and do not necessarily Joseph A. Gruber, Campbellsport, WI Norb Moes, Green Bay, WI, 920-434-1999 represent those of the publication or the WWF. Dr. Dan Trainer, UW-Stevens Point WI Muzzleloaders Association $25.00 of annual dues paid to Wisconsin Wildlife Federation entitles members to one year’s subscription Les Voigt Carolyn Brown, Milton, WI, 608-868-2514 to Wisconservation. One year’s subscription to non-members—$25.00. WI Sharp Tailed Grouse Society PAST PRESIDENTS Printed by Ripon Printers, 656 S. Douglas St., Ripon, WI 54971. Jim Evrard, Grantsburg, WI, 715-463-2446 John Wagner Chuck Matyska, Cecil, WI WI Taxidermist Association Bucky/Martha Kilishek, Menasha, WI, 920-734-8774 WISCONSERVATION EDITOR Jack Nissen, Dousman, WI Daniel A. Gries Lil Pipping, Elkhart Lake, WI WI Trappers Association Phone: (920) 725-4092 Corky Meyer, Kewaskum, WI Scott McAuley, Wisconsin Rapids, WI, 608-354-2725 Fax: (920) 725-1013 Jerry Knuth, Plover, WI WI Woodland Owners Association [email protected] James Weishan, Cambria, WI Dale Zaug, Tigerton, WI, 715-754-5774 Martha Kilishek, Menasha, WI Wild Ones Natural Landscapers LTD. Russell Hitz, Wheeler, WI Donna VanBuecken, Neenah, WI, 920-730-3981 ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jim Baldock, West Bend, WI Wildlife Society, WI Chapter Ralph Fritsch Ralph Fritsch, Townsend, WI Pat Kaiser, Lodi, WI, 608-592-7974 (715) 850-2456 Robert Miller, Sparta, WI Wings Over WI Doug Olson, Viroqua, WI Burt Bushke, Mayville, WI, 920-387-5198 Doug Johnson, Hartford, WI BOARD OF DIRECTORS DISTRICT 7 James Wareing, Sussex, WI WI Chapter American Fisheries Society Dave Chingway, Watertown, WI, (920) 261-0379. Leo Roethe Thomas Slawski, New Berlin, WI Kevyn Quamme, Sun Prairie, WI, (608) 209-3842. DISTRICT 1 Bill Buckley WI Division – Izaak Walton League of America Mike Meyer, Watertown, WI, (920) 342-9439. Ken Lundberg, Lake Nebagamon, WI, (715) 374-3404. Dick Hemp George Guyant, Amherst Junction, WI, 715-824-4205 Pat Quaintance, Bayfield, WI, (715) 779-5104. DISTRICT 8 Bob Lachmund WI Trapshooting Association Alex Mertig, Mason, WI, (715) 413-0213. Greg Kronschnabel, Dousman, WI, (262) 965-3057. Jerry Laudon Bruce Stitely, Tomahawk, WI, 715-453-5271 Don Camplin, North Prairie, WI, (262) 392-4183. Ron Piskula DISTRICT 2 WI Waterfowl Association Steve Brasch, Dousman, WI, (262) 392-4196. Harold Spencer Pat Smith, Janesville, WI, 608-774-1157 Laurie Groskopf, Tomahawk, WI, (715) 453-6301. Les Woerpel Walt Camp, St. Germain, WI, (715) 891-2156. DISTRICT 9 Nick Schertz, Tomahawk, WI, (715) 966-6116. Rick Lazarczyk, West Allis, WI, (414) 321-5750. Janet McLaughlin, Menomonee Falls, WI, (262) 252-4810. DISTRICT 3 Gordon Merz, Pewaukee, WI, (262) 695-0060. Jim Swanson, Menomonie, WI, (715) 232-8266. DISTRICT 10 Dean Borofka, Rice Lake, WI, (715) 234-6303. Gary Dieck, Wonewoc, WI, (608) 415-9417. Jeff Johnson, North Freedom, WI, (608) 434-3896. DISTRICT 4 Al Skemp, Kendall, WI, (608) 489-3209. Delbert Dietzler, Rudolph, WI, (715) 421-2591. Dave Verhage, Plover, WI, (715) 344-3497. DISTRICT 11 Dieter Golla, Milladore, WI, (715) 457-2139. Norb Moes, Green Bay, WI, (920) 434-1999. Keith Pamperin, Green Bay, WI, (920) 494-3990. DISTRICT 5 George Borchert, Oshkosh, WI, (920) 688-3122. DISTRICT 12 Bob Ellingson, Lakewood, WI, (715) 276-7129. Dan Gries, Menasha, WI, (920) 725-4092. Mike “Oscar” Stueck, Crivitz, WI, (920) 323-9230. Kevin Marquette, Shawano, WI, (715) 851-4175. Thomas Johnston, Niagara, WI, (859) 285-8978.

DISTRICT 6 N.W.F. REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE John Wetzel, Holmen, WI, (608) 526-4238. Jason Dinsmore, 199 Kristin Drive NW, Rochester, Andy Chikowski, Taylor, WI, (715) 538-3392. MN 55901. Office: (507) 206-3732. Cell: (517) 204- Michelle Graff, LaCrosse, WI, (608) 791-9204. 8962. Email: [email protected].

WISCONSIN WILDLIFE FEDERATION COMMITTEE CHAIRS COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSON PHONE EMAIL OFFICE PHONE: Annual Meeting Dave Verhage 715-344-3497 [email protected] 800-897-4161 - Toll Free Awards Lil Pipping 920-876-4312 [email protected] Banquet Janet McLaughlin 262-252-4810 Bylaws Betty Borchert 920-688-3122 [email protected] Calendar Bill Tollard 920-379-3429 [email protected] WEB PAGE Conservation Leadership Corps Lil Pipping 920-876-4312 [email protected] Dog Andy Lewandowski 262-527-1988 [email protected] ADDRESS: Education Jim Huhn 920-718-2378 [email protected] www.wiwf.org Endangered Resources Larry Laehn 920-540-9927 [email protected] Environment Jim Swanson 715-232-8266 [email protected] Forestry and Parks Jerry Knuth 715-344-0017 [email protected] Great Lakes Keith Pamperin 920-494-3990 [email protected] OFFICE Inland Fisheries Gordy Merz 262-695-0060 [email protected] Membership Kevyn Quamme 608-209-3842 ADDRESS: Nominating Jerry Knuth 715-344-0017 [email protected] 213 N. Main St., Ste. 100 Scholarship Betty Borchert 920-688-3122 [email protected] Shooting Range Bill Tollard 920-379-3429 [email protected] PO Box 460 Waterfowl John Wetzel 608-526-4238 [email protected] Poynette, WI 53955 Wildlife Kevin Marquette Wisconservation Dan Gries 920-725-4092 [email protected] WISCONSERVATION 3 January 2017 CLC Report County Deer Advisory Councils to Discuss ec. 2nd and 3rd the class of 2016-17 met for their 2nd class. On Friday eve- ning they watched the Green Fire film on Aldo Leopold. Chronic Wasting Disease Recommendations D On Saturday they had lessons on how to meet with your legislature and lobby for what you have a passion for or what you believe in, how to relate your points at Special January Meetings to your legislature or even your boss. ADISON -- County Deer Advisory including CWD surveillance and monitoring, Our instructors were Amber Meyer Smith, Director of Programs and Government Councils will hold special meet- hunting season tools, captive cervid regula- relations for Clean Wisconsin and Todd Ambs. Todd is currently serving as Director of Mings in January for the specific tions, biosecurity and safety, research, and the Healing Our Waters – Great lakes Coalition. purpose of discussing recommendations for public involvement. Later in the session they selected 4 topics for their resolutions which they will work responding to chronic wasting disease state- To help council members gather public on in February with their mentors on those topics. These are the resolutions that will wide and on a local level. feedback prior to the meetings, an on-line be presented at the annual meeting in April next year. Each council will review information re- public input form survey is available on the So as you can see they had a full weekend. garding CWD and discuss the Wisconsin CWD Response Plan review.Additional public Department of Natural Resources’ 15-year comments will be accepted at each January Chronic Wasting Disease Response Plan. This CDAC meeting. plan guides the department’s approach to ad- For CDAC meeting information, search Calendar Report dressing CWD in Wisconsin, and is currently keyword “CDAC” and select the link labeled emember to get your calendar stubs in as soon as possible so the office has under review by DNR, DATCP and the Con- “Find your county’s January meeting loca- time to get everything in order for the first drawing on Monday, January servation Congress along with a stakeholder- tion, date and start time.” Meeting dates can R23rd. You can actually sell until the 16th of January but be sure that your based CWD Response Plan review committee. also be found through the public meetings Each council will use current CWD data, calendar - search keywords “County Deer stubs are returned in time for the drawing. preliminary recommendations from the re- Advisory Council.” We are having a successful year so far in sales and hope to top last years. Our cal- view committee, and online public feedback Final CWD response plan recommenda- endar committee is meeting this Friday night and hope to bring new items to the 2018 to submit recommendations on action items tions will be presented to the Natural Re- calendar. in the plan. The response plan covers topics sources Board in March 2017. Thanks to everyone who sold calendars for WWF. We truly appreciate and wish you good luck in the drawings. Northern and Central Wisconsin Award Nominations gain it is time to start getting your nominations in for our annual Award WWF Shooting Range Seminar program which is April 22nd, 2017 at the Mead Hotel in Wisconsin Rapids. March 18th, 2017 The best way to stay open A The necessary info is in the Wisconservation. Remember to submit the 8:30am – 4pm Range Safety form with it with full info included so we can reach the winner. Return your entries Range Protection to the office by March 17th to be eligible. If any questions please contact theofficeor Grand Lodge and Waterpark Funding Sources myself at 920-876-4312. 805 Creske Avenue Standard Operating Procedures and Rothschild, WI 54474 Signage Reports all submitted by Lil Pipping, Chair Target Placement $15 fee (covers lunch) (Speaker fees, Security and safety room rental and course materials cov- Sound ered by WWF) Alert Lead and Other Environmental Factors Signup Deadline is March 10, 2017 Club Finances Signup by emailing Ruth Ann Lee, Presenters: Jeff Nass, Nass Consult- WWF Business Manager at RuthAnn@ ing, LLC and Keith Warnke, Wisconsin wiwf.org or calling 608-635-0600 DNR R Topics Covered Include: The Federation will hold a Shooting How to Prevent Challenges to Range Range Seminar for Southern Wiscon- Operation sin in 2018

No Public AccessR

Petition to the Wisconsin Legislature W.W.F. and Governor to Restore Public Access Business Membership

to Public Land and Water Silver

✂ ✂ Steve’s Southside Citgo, Watertown Paul R. Sommers, DDS, SC, Watertown or over 100 years, state law allowed the public to directly cross railroad Advanced Building Corporation, Verona tracks in Wisconsin. Now Wisconsin citizens are denied this safe tradi- Ftional legal access to hundreds of miles of wild public Wisconsin land and Bronze Best Sound Service, Watertown water due to an unjustified law change in 2006. DNR identified 134 former RR Keck Furniture, Watertown crossings to the Mississippi River which cannot be used because of the threat of Dave’s Turf and Marine, trespass. In addition 121 DNR wildlife areas fishery areas, forests, natural areas Watertown and parks have RR crossing which makes access to major portions of those proper- Theder Home Services and

✂ ties are difficult or in some cases impossible to access without trespassing dueto Construction, Watertown the 2006 law change. Castle Rock Marine Inc., For over 100 years it was legal and safe for people to step across railroad New Lisbon right-of-way to access public lands and waters. Almost all fatalities of people on ✂ foot are at dedicated crossings not those just stepping directly across the right of Support Businesses That way for recreational purposes. A bill to restore the right for the public to legally Support Conservation step across the railroad right of way passed the Assembly late in the 2016 legisla- tive season but was not considered by a senate committee. Anglers, hunters, bird- ers, trappers, photographers, hikers, cross country skiers, resort owners, business leaders, tourism leaders, local government officials, agency staff, sheriffs, judges and district attorneys have expressed their concern about the loss of this long held right to access public lands and waters. We the undersigned hereby petition our state of Wisconsin Legislators to pass ✂ and the Governor to sign legislation that will restore the right of the public to President’s Report January 2017 legally step across railroad right of way to gain access to public land and water. ✂

Name Address nother Year has passed and I Annual meeting and submit it by March hope that your Holidays were 15th. The format for the resolution can be Afilled with Joy and Happiness found on our website: www.wiwf.org. Also 1.______and that all your New Year resolutions do you know an individual or a sports 2.______will come true. The Federation thanks club that has done an outstanding job you for all the support that you have in terms of forestry, wildlife, fisheries, 3.______given over the past year to support the hunter education, water or air or land conservation issues we tackled in 2016. protection, conservation law enforce- 4.______With your help the Federation has ac- ment, or conservation education, please ✂ complished a great deal and is strongly send your recommendation to the WWF 5.______committed to continue these efforts. Awards Committee in the next couple of It is also time to say thank you to all months. Once again, check our website of you that sold and bought the Wiscon- or the Wisconservation on the format for 6.______✂ sin Wildlife Federation Calendar. The the nomination. income from our calendar sales is what Also if you are interested in attending 7.______enables the Federation to carry on our our Shooting Range Seminar, obtaining conservation education programs, repre- free shot shells for youth skills or learn 8.______sent you on conservation issues before to hunt events or are concerned about the the DNR, the Legislature and Congress. loss of public access because of railroad Please mail completed petition by December 20, 2016 to: Just a reminder, if you have any natu- trespass, check out the articles in this Wisconsin Wildlife Federation ral resources issues that you would like Wisconservation. to have the Federation work on, develop George Borchert, 213 North Main Street, Suite 100 a resolution to be presented at the WWF PO Box 460 President Poynette WI 53955 ✂ ✂ WISCONSERVATION 4 January 2017 2nd Notice 2nd Notice Affiliate Clubs and Associate Membership                    

CONSERVATIONIST OF THE YEAR FOREST CONSERVATIONIST For the outstanding overall conservation efforts OF THE YEAR and achievements in any field of natural resource For outstanding effort in forest conservation and management, for a significant contribution to the management over an extended period of time. Eligible cause of conservation, or for meaningful progress or areas of effort include tree planting, timber stand achievement toward a solution of a major conservation improvement, and other forest management practices problem in the state during the past year. Nominees with emphasis on the development of multiple use on from all other categories can be considered for the forest lands. The recipient may be a landowner, public Conservationist of the Year Award. or private, individual or business or someone involved in the administration of forestry programs. HUNTER SAFETY EDUCATOR CONSERVATION OF THE YEAR SOIL, AIR, AND WATER ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR For outstanding efforts by an individual volunteer CONSERVATIONIST OF THE For outstanding contributions to the conservation of or organization over an extended period of time in YEAR natural resources by an organization in the state for an the education of hunter safety. Also such efforts by (3 categories) extended period of time.Statewide or local organizations an individual or organization that has developed an including sportsmen’s clubs or civic organizations are innovative and successful method of educating novice For outstanding contributions to the conservation of eligible. The recipient should have demonstrated keen hunters in hunter safety. our soil, air or water. Recipient could be a landowner, interest in projects and programs within the state which administrator, technician or organization involved deal with significant natural resource or issues. with such things as watershed management, soil CONSERVATION conservation measures, wetlands or estuarine conservation, wild rivers protection and protection COMMUNICATOR OF THE YEAR of surface or groundwater water quality or quantity CONSERVATION LEGISLATOR For outstanding conservation efforts by a person, group, standards. OF THE YEAR newspaper, magazine or radio or television station or a form of social media in the state. The recipient of this For outstanding legislative accomplishment during their award may be any recognized communication medium WARDEN OF THE YEAR career which has made a significant contribution to the within the state that has accomplished a high degree of For outstanding efforts relating to environmental and preservation and management of our state’s natural public awareness of the importance of natural resource conservation law enforcement, community outreach resources. conservation. and educational programs over their career.

WILDLIFE OR FISHERIES CONSERVATION EDUCATOR OF YOUTH CONSERVATIONIST CONSERVATIONIST THE YEAR OF THE YEAR OF THE YEAR For outstanding efforts in conservation education over For the outstanding conservation effort by a person who an extended period of time. The recipient may be an did not attain the age of 19 during the past year – Youth For outstanding efforts and accomplishments in making individual or organization that has demonstrated groups acting together in a conservation program are a significant contribution to the management and/or successful education techniques and accomplishments also eligible. The winner should have demonstrated restoration of wildlife resources in Wisconsin over the relating to the use and/or conservation of natural ability, leadership, and accomplishment in any phase of course of their career. resources. conservation, either individually or as a group.

Conservation Achievement Awards OFFICIAL CALL FOR RESOLUTIONS! Wisconsin Wildlife Federation For presentation at the 2017 Annual Meeting of the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation. What is a resolution? 213 N. Main St., Suite 100 • A formal, written motion which follows a specific format. PO Box 460 Poynette, WI 53955 Why submit a resolution? • To set a course of action for the WWF Board of Directors to follow. OFFICIAL NOMINATION APPLICATION • To set and express an opinion of the WWF. Who can submit a resolution? The Wisconsin Wildlife Federation invites you to nominate a person or group • Any affiliate organization of WWF, regardless of size. who has shown outstanding conservation effort and achievement in any of • Any member of the WWF Board of Directors. the categories listed. To make a nomination, send one copy of this form and • Any individual associate or sustaining member – please contact an a copy of a résumé. Attach all supporting documents and send to the above Associate Director or District Director to submit it on your behalf. address. Deadline for receiving nominations is March 17, 2017. How should a resolution be submitted? Name of Nominee ______Phone ______• Typed on official organization letterhead preferred. Address ______• Signed by the author and/or officer of the submitting organization. • Mailed to the WWF office. City/State/Zip______• Postmarked no later than March 17, 2017. Award Nominated For ______What topics should resolutions deal with? (For each nomination you must use a separate form. Please specify one of • Issues pertaining to natural resources and their management or the envi- the categories for which the nomination is made.) ronment. • Issues of importance to the entire state. Nomination Made By (Name) ______Mail your resolutions to: Address ______Wisconsin Wildlife Federation City/State/Zip______Attn: Resolutions 213 N. Main St., Suite 100 Please Note Following Instructions: PO Box 460 1. Please read the general rules carefully. Poynette, WI 53955 2. Follow the outline covering the category for which the nomination is being made. 3. Attach typewritten copy of a résumé of achievements. Contact the office for additional information or for specific writing format guidelines. 4. Include organizational memberships, affiliations, past achievements for which nomination is based on. (800) 897-4161 WISCONSERVATION 5 January 2017 WWF 2017-2019 Legislative & Policy Agenda

December 10, 2016 E. Waterfowl Committee 38. Specifically work with the NWF 48. Continue active input on threats coalition to reduce nutrient pollution to to the Great Lakes Compact A. Wildlife Committee 31. Evaluate with the DNR, the ad- the Mississippi visability of allowing cross zone goose 39. Monitor and support efforts to as- H. Dog Committee 1. Push US Congress to delist the hunting between the Horicon and Exte- sure that the state is properly enforcing wolf from the Federal Endangered Spe- rior Zones. environmental laws. 49. Continue to push for a Class 1 cies List 32. Work with the DNR to upgrade 40. Continue supporting reasonable and Class 2 training and trialing area on 2. Continue providing input to DNR’s the Assistant Waterfowl Ecologist to a regulatory efforts to reduce greenhouse the Sauk Prairie Recreation Area Wolf Management Plan including quo- permanent position with duties to in- gas emissions on a national and state 50. Push US Congress to delist the tas, goals and seasons. clude the implementation of the goals level. wolf from the Federal Endangered Spe- 3. Build a coalition to allow crossing outlined in the Waterfowl Strategic Plan: 41. Oppose state and federal weaken- cies List of railroad lines for hunting, fishing and 2007 - 2017. ing of environmental laws that harm fish 51. Press for legislation removing re- trapping 33. Seek the legal authority for the and wildlife laws quirement for on dog tags for bear and 4. Support more funding going into wolf Hunting. hunting, fishing, trapping and law en- 52. Push for fair treatment of the forcements programs through a license What the Wisconsin Wildlife WWF’s beagle clubs in the MFL program fee increase or stamp program. 53. Continue effort for quality dog 5. Support additional funding for the Federation Is Doing For Wisconsin training area on the Rainbow Springs Federal State Wildlife Grant program property 6. Work to strengthen Chronic Wast- Sportsmen and Women 54. Continue to monitor Wisconsin ing Disease prevention regulations Department of Agriculture implementa- 1. Leading efforts to convince Congress not to sell or transfer wholesale National 7. Support the Wisconsin Trappers’ tion of the state’s Dog Breeder regula- forests, parks and fish and wildlife refuges. Association in passing changes to the tions. Trapping Mentoring law 2. Working hard to pass legislation to remove the wolf from the Federal Endan- 55. Monitor and oppose anti-sport 8. Oppose weakening of the Hunting gered Species list. dog ownership legislation on a state and Mentor law 3. Screened DNR’s mandated sale of 10,000 acres of public land to insure that it federal level. 9. Continued to monitor conservation did not affect valuable land to hunters and anglers. 56. Work to get new replacement of law enforcement citations. 4. Successfully fought a State Budget proposal that would make the Natural Re- Class 1 Trial Area at Pine Island. 10. Support better WDNR population sources Board only an advisory group. 57. Continue efforts to resolve Bong survey techniques for bobcat and wolves 5. Successfully fought a state budget proposal that would ban DNR public land Recreational Class 1 Dog Trialing area utilizing information from hunters and purchases for thirteen years. user conflict issues. trappers. 6. Working with Kids and Mentors Outdoors to increase the number of hunting 58. Continue relationship with 11. Continued involvement on the and fishing mentorog pr rams in Wisconsin. WDNR Wildlife Management on dog tri- WDNR’s species management plans. 7. Successfully petitioned DNR to restore the northern coyote season during the aling and training issues/resolve prob- 12. Work with DNR to allow coon nine-day gun deer season. lems. hunting after normal park hours in spe- 8. Successfully worked with other sports groups to pass a wolf management law 59. Monitor and oppose overly re- cific parks authorizing hunting and trapping of wolves. strictive municipal ordinances on owner- ship and breeding of dogs 9. Worked with other groups to pass the Hunting Mentorship law and the Hunter B. Fisheries Committee Recruitment and Retention law. I. Endangered and Nongame Species 13. Study and report on the impact of 10. Worked with other groups to pass the Concealed Carry law. Climate Change on Wisconsin sport fish- 11. Successfully fought to get strong rules for public access for hunting, fishing 60. Continue to advocate for local, ing and trapping on Stewardship purchased lands. county, and state efforts to increase de- 14. Continue efforts to obtain a use- 12. Successfully filed an appeal to open roads closed by the Chequamegon-Nicolet velopment of habitat and programs that able launch on North Lake, Waukesha National Forest. Hundreds of miles of roads opened up as a result. increase the Monarch Butterfly and oth- County. 13. Worked successfully with Southeastern WI area field trialers to restore- ad er butterfly species populations in Wis- 15. Continue to oppose boat trans- equate field trialing at Bong Recreational Area. consin and the United States. fer system at Rapid Croche Lock on Fox 14. Worked with the Wisconsin Trappers Association to successfully reform wild 61. Advocate with the EPA, US Fish River. fur possession and sale statutes (green fur bill) and Wildlife Service, US Department of 16. Continue to work to prevent the 15. Appealed four DNR decisions denying public access for trapping and hunting Agriculture and appropriate Wisconsin spread of aquatic invasive species in in- on lands purchased with Stewardship funds. This appeal is resulted in 11,000 acres agencies to ban the use of Neonicotinoids land waters. of land being opened to turkey hunting. and neonic pesticides that are decimat- 17. Support effort to fill vacancies in 16. Successfully drafted and passed a bill streamlining laws for wetland restora- ing honeybee populations in Wisconsin the DNR Fisheries Bureau. tion projects which will net Wisconsin millions of dollars to restore wetlands. and the United States 18. Continue working with the Wis- 17. Worked with dog interest groups to assure that legislation regulating dog 62. Support additional funding for consin Fisheries Advisory Council. Breeders has minimal impact of sportsmen and women. the Federal State Wildlife Grant pro- 19. Support more funding going into gram hunting, fishing, trapping and law en- Wisconsin Wildlife Federation Continues Its Major Efforts in forcements programs through a license Youth Conservation Education J. Education Committee fee increase or stamp program. 1. Established a long-term endowment to maintain school-based environmental 63. Support legislation to restore education at the MacKenzie Environmental Education Center in Poynette. C. Shooting Range Committee funding for the Wisconsin Environmen- 2. Created a Wisconsin Conservation Leadership Program for high school and tal Education Board grants 20. Hold a shooting seminar in 2017 college students to develop a new generation of conservation leaders. 64. Continue to develop increased on safety and environmental manage- 3. Provides grants to organizations holding outdoor skill classes related to hunt- use of the WWF Outdoor Skills Grant ment of shooting ranges. ing, fishing and trapping. Program 21. Monitor and support improve- 4. Provides two staff field biologists for nine Wisconsin schools to have weekly 65. Send one youth to summer camp ments to Wisconsin’s Range Protection outdoor conservation learning experiences. from each WWF Banquet Act. 5. Sponsors ten annual scholarships to the UW-Stevens Point College of Natural 66. Continue to WWF-Friends of 22. Continue strong support for the Resources for future fish and wildlife managers, foresters and wardens. MacKenzie Agreement with donation to Second Amendment 6. Sponsorsyouth scholarships for conservation summer camp. the MacKenzie Environmental Educa- 7. Furnishes free of charge fully equipped educational trunks for schools and tion Center D. Forest and Parks Committee camps (K-12) for whooping cranes, bears, wolves and small mammals. 67. Increase the use of the WWF Edu- cational Trunk program 23. Push for fair treatment of the WWF’s beagle clubs in the MFL program DNR to provide managed waterfowl 24. Strongly oppose the sale of Fed- G. Great Lakes Committee hunts on DNR owned property. eral public lands 34. Seek the legal authority for the 42. Monitor and provide input to is- 25. Continue being an active member DNR to regulate the placement of wa- sues of non point run off pollution in re- of the Wisconsin Young Forest Initiative. terfowl blinds on DNR owned properties. gard to CAFO farming Operations. Moni- 26. Support increased timber harvest (Note: This would allow the DNR to re- tor and provide input to proposed in lake on the National Forest including the quire that blinds be removed on a daily commercial fish farming rules. partnership with the DNR in the Good basis on some properties.) 43. Continue work on the threats and Neighbor program 35. Seek an legislative increase in the spread of invasive species in the Great 27. Monitor the changes in the MFL state duck stamp to $15. Lakes including blocking pathways for Tax Structure that are going to be re- Asian Carp viewed in 2017 44. Monitor and provide input regard- 28. Support efforts to educate the F. Environment/Wetlands Committee ing Commercial/Sport Fishing Issues public on the best management practices 36. Support efforts to protect ground 45. Continue to monitor and work on to deal invasive species. and surface water protection by strength- predatory fish/bird issues, ( Cormorants 29. Support continued funding of the ening high capacity well legislation. Op- and Pelicans) Stewardship program including public pose efforts to weaken high capacity well 46. Support Great Lakes Restoration access for hunting, fishing and trapping. laws. funding on a Federal level. 30. Continue support for strong fund- 37. Continue to work to strengthen 47. Continue involvement in the de- ing for the State Park system. regulations reducing phosphorus dis- velopment of the DNR Great Lakes Fish- charges to Wisconsin waterways eries Management Plan WISCONSERVATION 6 January 2017 Wisconsin Wildlife Federation Cold, Windy December Day Yields NWF Steel Shot for Youth Programs Important Data for Lake Michigan

The Wisconsin Wildlife Federation (WWF) has been Fisheries Management generously granted steel-shot ammunition from the National BOARD THE RESEARCH VESSEL “Our focus at this time of year is on the Wildlife Federation (NWF) and Ervin Industries. In turn, WWF COREGONUS – At a time of year yellow perch because we do have ongoing Awhen most Lake Michigan anglers concerns about the survival rates given the is offering this product to its affiliate organizations to support are content to count their blessings, Wiscon- changing Lake Michigan ecosystem,” Schin- youth day and mentored youth hunts that are planned and sin Department of Natural Resources fisher- delholz says. The spread of filter feeding executed by WWF affiliated clubs around Wisconsin. ies staff are out counting fish. aquatic invasive species such as quagga and With a cold northwesterly wind blowing zebra mussels reduce the volume of phyto- Requirements: across 5 miles of open water on this Decem- plankton and ultimately zooplankton avail- 1. Applicant must be a current WWF affiliate organization. ber day, it’s not an easy job. Lifting two gangs able to young perch, which also face compe- 2. Ammunition must be used to support youth day and mentored youth hunts. of graded mesh gill net stretching some 1,600 tition for habitat from invasive round gobies. 3. Events in which the ammunition is used must be planned and executed by the WWF feet, the four fisheries team members aboard The December perch surveys follow spawning affiliate organization. the DNR Research Vessel Coregonus are col- assessments conducted in early June with 4. Applicant must agree to report the number of youth/new shooters served, location of lecting data that will help inform manage- both gill nets and dive team members. sponsored event, description of activities, and media/photographs of the sponsored ment decisions on yellow perch and round The invasive mussels and gobies make whitefish. their presence known as the gill net rolls up event. The team is led by Dave Schindelholz, from the depths, streaming in through a slid- Additional Information: a DNR fisheries technician with more than ing window and onto the stainless steel table • Steel shot ammunition supplies are limited, this is a one-time offer 15 years of experience who is serving as bi- inside the processing area of the Coregonus. ✩ Shot Size of 7 = 1 box per participant up to 20 boxes (i.e. youth shooting events) ologist-in-charge. Working in an enclosed lab Hung the previous day, the net yields a re- ✩ Shot Size of 6 = 1 box per participant up to 5 boxes (i.e. mentor hunts & hunter safety) and processing space behind the boat’s pilot markable diversity of aquatic species -- in- • Deadline for application is March 1, 2017. house, Schindelholz alternates between free- cluding invasive mussels that are caught in • Applicants will be notified of their status by April 1, 2017. ing fish from the incoming net and recording the plastic mesh and clatter around on the • WWF will deliver (in person) the ammunition to your organization, after April 1, 2017. data from the entire team so that surviving table as the fisheries team members pull them ✩ Ammunition will not be shipped fish can be quickly released. off. Round gobies meet a fitting end as they Joining him are Brandon Bastar, the re- • Each event for which you’d like to apply for ammunition must be submitted with its own are tossed back outside the window to a flock search vessel’s captain; Tim Kroeff, a fisher- of waiting seagulls. application. ies technician based with Bastar in Sturgeon The net also pulls in both stocked and Bay; and Tom Burzynski, a fisheries techni- naturally reproduced lake trout. While open Please complete the following application and return to WWF by March 1, 2017. cian with Schindelholz out of Milwaukee. As water swimming species such as chinook and Name of Affiliate Organization: ______the men wait for the hydraulic winch to reel coho salmon generally avoid the gill nets, ale- in the next round of fish, they talk casually wives, brown trout, burbot and round white- Name of Event: ______about how cold air moving over warm water fish fill out the catch ofy. theda The round creates bigger waves - seemingly oblivious to whitefish are kept for further data collection Date(s) of Event: ______the effects of the unpredictable swells as the back on shore while the other fish are quickly Location where the event will take place: ______60 foot boat pitches forward, backward and released. side to side. A few young perch have found their way Contact Name:______“The Coregonus is a critical part of our into the net, important evidence that the bio- research effort and really allows to us work logically significant and highly sought-after Contact Address:______safely and efficiently in all kinds of weather,” species continues to reproduce on the historic Contact Email: ______Schindelholz says. Commissioned in 2011, the spawning grounds. It will take additional data vessel’s name derives from the genus of nine collection and analysis in the weeks ahead to Contact Phone: ______species of fish native to Lake Michigan includ- determine how overall numbers fit into the ing the commercially important lake white- broader trends observed in recent years. Number of Yo uth: ______fish, lake herring and bloater chub. Back on shore, inside UW-Milwaukee’s Number of boxes of ammunition requested: ______With safety equipment including a 10-per- School of Freshwater Sciences, Schindelholz son life raft, emergency positioning beacon, and Burzynski set to work on the whitefish, Please select your preferred Shot Size: cold water survival suits and watertight com- measuring, weighing and dissecting them with ✩ Shot Size of 7 = 1 box per participant up to 20 boxes (i.e. youth shooting events) partments to keep the boat afloat if the hull surgical skill to check on the overall health of ✩ Shot Size of 6 = 1 box per participant up to 5 boxes (i.e. mentor hunts & hunter safety) is punctured, the Coregonus represents a ma- the fish and remove the delicate otoliths or jor advance over the 74-year-old RV Barney ear bones needed to ascertain age. With preci- Please include a brief description of the activities in which the steel- shot will be utilized. Devine that was retired after the 2010 season. sion that can only be achieved through years (flyers, brochures, etc. are also encouraged to submit – please attach) A key feature of the Coregonus is the large of practice, they take turns with knife and winch system used for hauling in weighted gill pen, processing and preparing samples for 28 nets that are hung in established locations and fish in about 30 minutes. strung together in gangs of up to 2,000 feet. Brad Eggold, DNR Great Lakes fisheries The boat also supports the use of trawl supervisor, said the success of DNR’s Lake nets and diving survey work. The size and Michigan management efforts depends on the scope of its capabilities keep the Coregonus abilities of the team members as well as the busy almost continuously from early April research infrastructure required to support through December as fisheries staff conduct their work in the harshest of conditions. By signing below, applicant and associated WWF Affiliate Organization acknowledge that assessments of whitefish, lake trout, burbot, “We’re fortunate to have the dedicated peo- the steel shot will be used to support youth day and/or mentored youth hunts. In addition, forage fish such as alewife, bloater chubs ple that we do, as well as access to the tools we agree to submit photos and other media of event for WWF/NWF promotional use. and yellow perch as well as Green Bay off- need to perform our full range of work,” Egg- shore stocking activities. From its home port old says. “This type of applied research is criti- Applicant Signature:______date: ______in Sturgeon Bay, the Coregonus travels from cal to understanding the population dynamics northern Lake Michigan and Green Bay south of key species and the impacts of lake-wide Please submit complied application to: to Algoma, Port Washington and Milwaukee. changes in the Lake Michigan food web. The Wisconsin Wildlife Federation The yellow perch work that takes place work is fundamental to our fisheries manage- Attn: Steel Shot for Yo uth PO Box 460 in early December is conducted over known ment efforts.” Poynette, WI 53955-0460 spawning habitat in 65 to 80 feet of water. To To learn more, visit dnr.wi.gov and seach Email: [email protected] maximize the benefits of the time on the wa- “Research Vessel Coregonus.” For more infor- ter, Schindelholz and the crew are also collect- mation about Lake Michigan management ef- Office Use Only: ing data on round whitefish populations and forts and news of upcoming opportunities for Approved Ye s / No alewife numbers as well as information about stakeholder engagement, visit “Fishing Lake the yellow perch. Michigan.” WWF District ______Director ______Shot Awarded ______Quantity Awarded ______Delivery ______MILWAUKEE CASTING CLUB 19th ANNUAL Copy application for your records

When is ice safe?   There really is no sure answer, and no such thing as 100 percent safe ice. You cannot judge the strength of ice SATURDAY, JANUARY 28TH by one factor like its appearance, age, AT AJí S BAR & GRILL thickness, temperature or whether the S90 W13970 BOXHORN DRIVE MUSKEGO WI. ice is covered with snow. Ice strength is based on a combination of several MAIN RAFFLE factors, and they can vary from water 1st: $500 - 2nd: $300 - 3rd: $150 4th: $100 - 5th & 6th: $50 - 7-10th: $25 body to water body. Ice strength can also vary in different areas of the same MEAT RAFFLE, body of water. DOOR PRIZES AND FISH PRIZES WISCONSERVATION 7 January 2017

2017 Calendar Sales Listing The W.W.F. Board of Directors encourages the patronage of the volunteer calendar sales businesses listed within.

Adell Sportsmen...... Adell Kyoteí s Bar...... Menomonie Pat Ramirez...... 920-838-1266...... Sheboygan Falls Bootleggers Bar & Grill ...... Amherst Junction Jeanna Hrubes...... 608-553-2191...... Montfort Smerkeí s Sportsmen Club...... Sheboygan Falls Carboí s Junction Bar ...... Amherst Junction AJí s Rangeline Bar, Hwy X ...... Mosinee Farmers & Sportsmen...... Sheboygan Rob Kersten ...... Appleton Hammer Down Bar, Hwy B ...... Mosinee Larry Freitag...... Sheboygan Sports Hollow...... Ashland Mosinee Sportsmaní s Alliance ...... Mosinee Suscha & Fale Conservation Club...... Sheboygan Wagon Wheel Bar & Eatery ...... Bancroft Twin City Rod & Gun Club...... Neenah J & H Game Farm ...... Shiocton Ron & Christine Schultz .....715-299-4414...... Black River Falls Timberline Taxidermy...... Neillsville Jungle Jimí s Bar and Grill ...... Silvercliff Dave & Tamií s Marsh Inn...... Collins Foleyí s Nita Brew...... Nekoosa Debbie Sippel...... 920-999-4572...... St. Cloud Kim Lang ...... Columbus Wingers Tap ...... Oconomowoc Snarleyí s ...... South Milwaukee Reví s Windbreaker ...... Deerbrook Phil Mersberger...... Oostburg Jon Schaefer ...... Stratford Stolleyí s Hogg Alley Bar...... DelaÆ eld Parnell Tavern ...... Parnell Trigí s Market ...... Stevens Point Great River Roadhouse ...... DeSoto Old Mill ...... Phlox Sullivan Saloon ...... Sullivan Hermitage Conservation Club...... Elkhart Lake Sportsman Lodge...... Pickerel Susan Murphy ...... 608-372-3890...... Tomah Lil Pipping...... 920-876-4312...... Elkhart Lake Dougí s Sports Pub, Hwy 54...... Plover Backhaus Retreat...... Wabeno Tommy Dahlen ...... 715-238-7814...... Granton Shooterí s Bar & Banquet, Hwy 39 & 54...... Plover Washburn Hardware...... Washburn Robiní sTHANK Barber Shop...... Hillsboro Sunny Grove Farms ...... Plover Daveí s Turf & Marine ...... Watertown Kalí s Korner ...... Hixton Crystal Lake Sportsmen Club...... Plymouth Jim Huhn ...... 920-918-2378...... Watertown Linda Amundson ...... 608-868-2258...... Janesville Terryí s Bait Bucket...... Plymouth Mike Schwai ...... 262-483-6177...... West Bend Johnsonville Rod & Gun Club...... Johnsonville Dorothy Behr ...... 920-893-5497...... Plymouth Burdyí s Bar ...... Weyerhaeuser Rolling Hills Sportsmans Club...... Kendall Nicky Boy Charters ...... Port Washington Scott Dempewolf ...... White Lake Kiel Bait Shop...... Kiel John Balfanz...... Prairie du Sac Esquire MufØ er ...... Wisconsin Rapids Danz Bar...... Laona Sauk County Sportsmans Alliance...... Prairie du Sac Freddieí s Pub & Eatery ...... Wisconsin Rapids Castle Rock Marine Inc...... Mauston Beví s Saddle Mound Tap...... Prey J&D Auto Body...... Wisconsin Rapids Debra Schotten ...... 608-381-0654...... Mauston Dean Borofka ...... Rice Lake Laylaí s Pub...... Wisconsin Rapids Dan Gries...... Menasha Turboí s Bar...... Richland Center Mr. Image Barber Shop ...... Wisconsin Rapids Louis Quella ...... Menasha Alí s Auto Glass...... Rudolph Club Chapparal...... Wonewoc Bruce Terwilliger...... Menasha/Flech, MI Wilderness Sportsmaní s Club ...... Rudolph LaValle Sportsmaní s Club ...... Wonewoc Tonyí s Bar ...... Menasha Between the Lakes Muskies...... Sheboygan Falls Slim & Mary Anní s...... Zittau Work Wise LLC ...... MenomoneeYOUFalls Koenig Conservation Club ...... Sheboygan Falls More than 30 Candlelight Events Scheduled this Winter at Wisconsin State Parks, Forests and Trails

ADISON – Early snowfall that has covered all 6-9 p.m. Saturday, January 28, 2017 and snowshoeing are also permitted during this event. Picnic Mof Wisconsin, combined with cold tempera- • Wildcat Mountain State. Ski or hike (pending weather • Black River State Forest. Candlelight ski and snow- tables and a large barbecue grill will be available near the tures in the forecast to keep the snow around, conditions) a 1.5-mile torch lit trail. Warm up by the bonfire shoe. Join the Black River State Forest and the Black River trail head for persons who wish to cook their food, and hot should create good conditions for the 30 candlelight events after enjoying the trail. Sorry, no pets please. A park sticker Forest Trail Foundation for a night of skiing, snowshoeing, dogs, chili and spiced tea will be provided. Large warming planned this winter at Wisconsin state parks, forests, recre- is required and can be purchased at the park entrance. Wild- hiking and fun. A 1.5-mile ski trail and a 1-mile snowshoe/ fires will also be built and maintained throughout the night. ation areas and trails. cat Mountain State Park is located 3 miles east of Ontario on hiking trail will be lit with candle luminaries. Warm up This as a casual family-type outing for families and friends “Most properties are reporting that they are already State Hwy 33. 5-9 p.m. around a large bonfire or in the heated shelter. Hot choco- to spend the evening together. The candles should provide a packing ski trails, and with a bit more snow most will also be Saturday, January 14, 2017 late and hot dogs will be available for purchase. Meet at the luminescent atmosphere for all to enjoy. Starting at 5 p.m. all able to set tracks for cross-country skiing,” said Paul Holtan, • Lake Kegonsa State Park. Enjoy a beautiful evening of Smrekar shelter located 4 miles east of Millston off County day-use fees at the trailhead will be waived. The Flambeau communications specialist for the state parks program. candlelight skiing. Approximately 2 miles of trail will be lit Road O. This event will still be held as a hike/snowshoe if Hills Trailhead is located on County Highway W, 21 miles This winter’s candlelight events kick off January 7 with hundreds of glowing luminaries. When you are finished, there is not enough snow for skiing. 6-9 p.m. west of Phillips and 15 miles east of Winter. Note: This event at Blue Mound State Park west of Madison, Mirror Lake warm up by the bonfire and enjoy hot cocoa and baked goods • Hartman Creek State Park. Candlelight ski, hike and will take place regardless of snow conditions. If there is no State Park southeast of Lake Delton and Wildcat Moun- sold by the Lake Kegonsa State Park Friends Group. This is snowshoe. Come out and ski, hike or snowshoe by candle- snow, take a candlelight walk. 6-9 p.m. tain State Park near Ontario, and run on weekends through a ski event only. Hikers, snowshoers and pets are prohibited light around Hartman Creek State Park! Start at the shelter • Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit. Cross- February 18. on groomed cross-country ski trails. This event is weather by Hartman Lake, where fires and snacks will be waiting, country ski or hike in the Kettle Moraine State Forest-North- Skiing, snowshoeing and hiking by candlelight have be- and snow conditions permitting; if snow or weather condi- and go around the lake and woods. A vehicle admission ern Unit by candlelight. At the bonfire join fellow hikers and come some of the most popular winter events at Department tions do not permit, a back-up date is Saturday, February 11. sticker is required. This event is sponsored by the Friends of skiers for hot drinks and snacks provided by the Friends of of Natural Resources properties, with some events attracting 6-9 p.m. Hartman Creek State Park. 5-8 p.m. the Kettle Moraine. The trail is perfect for novice skiers with more than a thousand visitors. Last year a candlelight event • Rib Mountain State Park. The Friends of Rib Moun- • Point Beach State Forest. Candlelight Ski and Hike. no steep hills or sharp turns. The Zillmer shelter building will at the Lapham Peak Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest tain State Park invite everyone to explore the park trails on The Friends of Point Beach State Forest will be hosting the be lit and heated. Meet at the Zillmer Trail Area (located off attracted so many visitors that all of the available parking at snowshoes. Meet at the newly constructed Friends Shelter annual Candlelight Ski and Hike. One mile of wooded trail County Road SS between County Road G and Hwy 67 near the property filled and entrance gates to the property had to located just past the park entrance. Plan to bring snowshoes; will be lit with candles for skiers and hikers to enjoy. Be New Prospect). Zillmer Trails. A winter stargazing event will be closed, causing backups and traffic problems. limited pairs will be available to borrow. Also bring flash- sure to stop at the lodge building where the fireplace will be also be held on Feb. 4 from at the Ice Age Visitor Center. A candlelight event at Horicon Marsh has become so lights or headlamps. Enjoy hot chocolate and snacks after- going and the Friends group will be selling food and refresh- 5:30-8:30 p.m. popular that the Friends of Horicon Marsh Visitor and Edu- wards. Parking is limited and carpooling is recommended. ments. 5-9 p.m. • Lake Wissota State Park, Candlelit ski, snowshoe cation Center has set up shuttle busses running from May- This event is free and donations are welcome to help cover • Stower Seven Lakes State Trail. Candlelight Ski, & walking trails. At your leisure, enjoy the candlelit trails ville and Horicon between 4:30-9:30 p.m. and is encourag- costs. An annual or daily state park vehicle admission sticker Snowshoe and Hike. Come and enjoy a winter night ski, through woods and prairie. Campfires, hot chocolate and hot ing visitors to use them as parking at the facility is limited. is required. 5:30-7:30 p.m. snowshoe or walk in the brilliance of a luminary-lit, nearly cider are available. Bring your own provisions and hot dogs “We encourage people to plan ahead and to consider at- Saturday, January 21, 2017 2-mile trail. This event will be held on the trail in Amery at to cook over the fire. Don’t forget the marshmallows! Snow- tending a candlelight event at a property they may not have • Governor Dodge State Park. 18th Annual Governor Soo Line Park. After some good exercise you can enjoy some shoes available on a first-come, first served basis. This event visited in the past. Also this year we plan to use the DNR Dodge State Park Candlelight Ski, Hike and Snowshoe. Ski, hot chocolate or hot apple cider furnished by the Friends of is sponsored by the Friends of Lake Wissota State Park. 5-8 Twitter social media platform to provide current information hike or snowshoe (pending weather conditions) on a trail lit the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail. 5-7 p.m. p.m. about specific events,” Holtan said. with glowing candlelight. Warm up by the bonfire after en- • Whitefish Dunes State Park. Join the Friends of White- • Peninsula State Park. Enjoy a 1-mile loop with hun- Some properties offer skiing, snowshoeing and hiking, joying the trail. Snacks and hot beverages will be available fish Dunes and Park Staff for the annual winter candlelight dreds of lit candles lining the trail. Following the ski or hike while others offer just skiing or just snowshoeing and hiking. for purchase. Weather and snow conditions determine trail ski, hike and snowshoe. A 1.5-mile path will be lit with lu- participants can enjoy a bonfire and cookies and cider in the Most events begin around sunset and run until 8:30 or 9 p.m. location. Sponsored by the Friends of Governor Dodge. Sor- minaires for the ski trail portion, and run along a segment of warming shelter. Event will be cancelled if there is inclem- Many of the events include additional activities such as ry, no pets please. Park stickers required and will be available the Red Trail. The hiking/snowshoe portion will take place ent weather. Co-sponsored by the Friends of Peninsula State bonfires, and hot chocolate and other refreshments maybe for purchase at the event. 6-9 p.m. on a 1.5-mile section of the Black Trail. Pets and sleds are Park. Pets are not allowed at the event. 5:30-8 p.m. available for sale. Some events offer grills for cooking food • Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center. 7th An- not allowed on the ski trail portion of this event. If snow con- Sunday, February 5, 2017 or roasting marshmallows. Some properties have warming nual Horicon Marsh Candlelight Hike/Snowshoe. The Edu- ditions are not favorable for skiing on the trails, a candlelit • Mirror Lake State Park. Torch Lit Ski, Hike, and shelters that are open for the events. Many of the events are cation Center will be open for people to warm up, view the hike will still take place. Refreshments will be available at Snowshoe. Join the Friends of Mirror Lake for the annual organized by the friends groups of the parks, which provide 20-minute “Horicon Marsh Story,” visit the gift shop or have the shelter building, as well as Friends merchandise at the winter hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing event. There will be much of the volunteer labor for the events. the kids do a fun craft to bring home! There are also snacks nature center. A park sticker is required and can be purchased bonfires, hot chocolate and hot cider and of course, sweet People can check on the details of each event by going available for purchase and the Flyway Gift Shop is open for upon arrival. 5-8 p.m. treats all for a good will donation. to the Department of Natural Resources website, dnr.wi.gov, shopping. The Horicon Marsh Explorium will also be open Saturday, February 4, 2017 Saturday, February 11, 2017 and searching keyword “candlelight.” For more information for people to learn about Horicon Marsh through these new • Big Foot Beach State Park. Candlelight Hike. The • Brule River State Forest. Candlelight ski and snow- on park or forest properties and locations, search for key- interactive displays (fee). The event is sponsored and hosted Friends of Big Foot Beach State Park are presenting a can- shoe. Candles will light 5 kilometers of the After Hours Ski words “find a park.” Regular park and trail fees apply for the by the Friends of Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Cen- dlelight hike at the park shelter. There will be a naturalist Trails including a part of the snow shoe trail. Grills, picnic events unless otherwise noted. ter and the Wisconsin DNR. 5-9 p.m. program starting at 6 p.m. under the shelter. So come and tables, and a bonfire will be provided. Trail passes not re- While most events will not be cancelled due to lack of • Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit .Come enjoy an evening hike, then warm yourself by the bonfire quired for this event, which is sponsored by the Brule River snow, they still could be cancelled if conditions are icy, ex- explore 1.6 miles of mixed majestic pines and scenic views while enjoying hot chocolate, apple cider and s’mores. Fun State Forest with volunteer assistance from the Brule Valley tremely cold or have severe wind chills, so people are en- of the purple loop at the Nordic Trailhead. Ski, hike or snow- for all ages! A daily or annual park admission sticker will be Ski Club. Go to www.brulexcski.com for more information. couraged to check the website, follow the DNR Twitter feed, shoe. Cozy up by the bonfire or warm up inside the warm- required to enter the park. 6-8 p.m. 5-9 p.m. or call properties directly to confirm the event will be held if ing shelter with chili and snacks for a small fee. Supplies • Blue Mound State Park. Candlelight Ski/Hike/Snow- • Devil’s Lake State Park. Candlelight Snowshoe. Its threatening weather is in the forecast. for s’mores will also be available for purchase with roasting shoe. Spend a night with family and friends at Blue Mound winter, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay inside!Cure sticks available on site. This event is not dependent on the State Park with a candlelight ski, hike, and snowshoe event your winter cabin fever and join the Friends of Devil’s Lake 2017 Wisconsin State Park Winter Candlelight Events weather. Dogs are allowed on the ski trail-at this event only. hosted by the Friends of Blue Mound State Park. A 1- and State Park for this winter adventure! Go on a self-guided Saturday, January 7, 2017 They must be leashed at all times. State Park stickers and day 2-mile candlelit wooded loop will be available to ski, and a snowshoe (depending on snow) or hike through the park. • Blue Mound State Park. Spend a night with family and passes will be available for purchase when you arrive. No separate 0.75-mile candlelit wooded trail for hikers, snow- There will be a new and longer trail this year! Warm up by friends at Blue Mound State Park and welcome in the New skate skiing and no skijoring. 6-9 p.m. shoers and leashed pets. Warm up with free hot drinks inside the campfire and make a s’more. Bring your snowshoes or Year with a candlelight ski, hike, and snowshoe event hosted Friday, January 27, 2017 the heated Friends Shelter, and enjoy some hot food, baked borrow a pair from the Nature Center - there are sizes to fit by the Friends of Blue Mound State Park. A 1- and 2-mile • Red Cedar State Trail. Cross-Country Ski the can- goods and commemorative shirts for sale. Enjoy the bonfire everyone in the family. Make sure you dress appropriately; candlelit wooded loop will be available to ski, and a separate dlelit Red Cedar State Trail from the Depot to the lit ice and free marshmallows for roasting. Guided hikes through the event will happen rain, snow or shine. Meet outside the 0.75-mile candlelit wooded trail for hikers, snowshoers, and wall. Snowshoe the candlelit trail in Riverside Park. Hike the the illuminated woods with the parks Naturalist will be held Rock Elm shelter on the park’s north shore. Sponsored by the leashed pets. Warm up with free hot drinks inside the heated candlelit Junction City Trail. All activities start at the De- at 6 and 7 p.m. The only cost for this fun-filled family event Friends of Devil’s Lake State Park. 6-9 p.m. Friends Shelter, and enjoy some hot food, baked goods and pot of the Red Cedar State Trail, Highway 29 West. Enjoy is a daily or annual park sticker, which may be purchased • Interstate State Park. Candlelight night in the park. commemorative shirts for sale. Enjoy the bonfire and free free hot chocolate provided by ConAgra/Swiss Miss. Door upon entry to the park. Experience a winter evening by candlelight as hundreds of marshmallows for roasting. Guided hikes through the illumi- prizes provided by the Friends of the Red Cedar State Trail/ • Flambeau River State Forest. 25th Annual Flambeau candles are lit to guide skiers, snowshoers and hikers on sep- nated woods with the park Naturalist will be held at 6 and 7 Hoffman Hills. Bonfire will keep you warm. Depot will be River State Forest Candlelight Ski. Cross-country skiing at arate trails. Both the ski and snowshoe trails begin at the Ice p.m. The only cost for this fun-filled family event is a daily open. Skis are required for the Red Cedar State Trail. Bring night by candlelight will be offered for the 25th year at the Age Center. There will be hiking opportunities no matter the or annual park sticker, which may be purchased upon entry your own skis, or a limited number are available for rental Flambeau River State Forest at the Flambeau Hills Trailhead. snow conditions. Beginning at the Camp Interstate Shelter, to the park. 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Stout Adventures- 715-232-5625. Bring your own snow- A 1.8-kilometer trail loop will be groomed, tracked and lit hikers can enjoy a candlelit walk beside the St. Croix River. • Mirror Lake State Park. Torch Lit Ski, Hike, and shoes or a limited number of snowshoes are available for free with more than 600 candles. The trail is for skiers or hik- There will be warming fires at the trailheads. At the IceAge Snowshoe. There will be bonfires, hot chocolate and hot ci- use generously provided by the Mayo Clinic Health System. ers and winds through the heart of the forest. The trail is Center enjoy food and refreshments served by the Friends of der and of course, sweet treats all for a good will donation. 6-9 p.m. wide enough for diagonal striders and skate skiers. Hiking Interstate Park. 6-9 p.m. WISCONSERVATION 8 January 2017

Wisconsin Wildlife Federation’s Take Note! Winter Banquet! Shooting Range Seminar. Page 3 When: January 28, 2017 Achievement Awards. Page 4 Where: Chula Vista, 2501 River Rd., WWF Activity Topics. Page 5 Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965

Calendar Sales Thank You. Page 7 Ticket Information: 608-752-9946 Editor D. A. Gries Ticket Price: $125.00 each

GRAND PRIZE: $10,000 2017 WWF BANQUET CALENDAR DISTRICT CONTACT DATE LOCATION *Raffle activity – 50 plus firearms to be awarded District 3 North Brian Hobbs March 11, 2017 Crickets Bar & Grill (Osceola) 715-417-0940 Amery, WI [email protected] District 4 East Gary Fitzgerald Sept. 7, 2017 Shooter’s (Plover) 715-824-6310 Plover, WI [email protected] District 4 West Randy Teresinski April 1, 2017 American Legion Watertown Conservation Club, Inc. (Neillsville) 715-897-8832 Loyal, WI District 5 Jerry Lingnofski April 6, 2017 Darboy Club Annual Spring Banquet (Fox Valley) 920-841-8427 Darboy, WI [email protected] Saturday March 18, 2017 District 6 Michelle Graff Feb. 4, 2017 Fox Hollow Banquet (LaCrosse) 608-797-1292 Facility [email protected] At Turner Hall 300 S. 4th St. District 6 Christine Schultz March 4, 2017 Castle Hill Supper Club (Black River Falls) 715-299-4414 Merrillan, WI Watertown, Wi. 53904 [email protected] District 8 Jack Nissen March 24, 2017 Olympia Resort Doors Open at 5:30pm, Dinner 7:00pm (Oconomowoc) 262-370-8154 Oconomowoc, WI [email protected] Raffles: Sportsman’s, Gun, Silent, 50/50 Cash District 9 Janet McLaughlin March 18, 2017 Hilton Garden Inn - (Milwaukee) 262-252-4810 Park Place Scholarship, Midshow, Silent Auction [email protected] Milwaukee, WI District 10 Gary Dieck April 29, 2017 Club Chapparal Tickets: $40.00 Donation: Call Jon 920-988-1170 (Wonewoc) 608-464-3290 Wonewoc, WI [email protected] or Wayne 920-988-4430 Statewide Wayne Thayer Jan. 28, 2017 Chula Vista Resort (WI Dells) 608-754-4965 Wisconsin Dells, WI [email protected] Waukesha County Conservation Alliance 56th Annual Banquet & Raffles December 2016 Friday, February 3, 2017 Calendar Olympia Resort & Hotel 1350 Royal Mile Road, Oconomowoc, WI Winners Doors open 5:30 PM. Dinner at 7:00 PM.

Raffles for ca$h prizes, Æ rearms, outdoor gear, 1 $1000 Cash Kathryn Kahler, Malone, WI 2637 2 Thompson Center Icon Rifle Patricia A Malecki, Ixonia, WI 3337 home dÈ cor, wine baskets…and more. 3 Gander Mountain Card $100 Michael Bernier, Oshkosh, WI 1031 4 $100 Cash Eric Losinski, De Soto, WI 6474 Tickets: $50 per person. 5 Remington 700 SPS Rifle Brenda Stevens, Fort, WI 4809 6 Gander Mountain Card $100 Scott Foote, Madison, WI 325 Groups can reserve tables for 8, 9 or 10. 7 $100 Cash Jim Crayfod, Afton, MN 5264 8 CZ 104 12 Gauge o/u Wayne Johnson, Waukesha, WI 4282 To order tickets, mail the form below with a check payable to: 9 Gander Mountain Card $100 Travis Ernst, Butler, WI 8075 WCCA 10 $100 Cash David E Judeika, Van Dyne, WI 10047 W142 N8286 Merrimac Drive 11 Stevens 512 o/u Shotgun Brian Hottmann, Dodgeville, WI 2960 Menomonee Falls, WI 53051 12 Gander Mountain Card $100 Eric Blount, Sparta, WI 7816 13 $100 Cash Luke Waga, Fort Atkinson, WI 4799 or call 262-251-0529 14 Henry Golden Boy 22 Rifle Pat Blashka, Brillion, WI 5247 15 Gander Mountain Card $100 Tom Trupke, Genesee Depot, WI 6524 16 $100 Cash Brent & Tracy Wildt, Cedarburg, WI 2621 17 Ruger American Rifle Bob Belling, West Allis, WI 9610 I’m ordering ______tickets. I’ve enclosed a check for $______18 Gander Mountain Card $100 Walter Sulewski, Green Bay, WI 4646 19 $100 Cash Mike Kohl, Omro, WI 1075 Your Name ______20 Mossberg 100 Rifle Jerry & Suzy Schaff, Greenfield, WI 7445 21 Gander Mountain Card $100 Mark Strping, Kiel, WI 480 Street ______22 $100 Cash Rollie Long, Janesville, WI 4080 23 Weatherby Upland Pump Shotgun Jerry Miksch, Ixonia, WI 5591 City ______State ______Zip ______24 Gander Mountain Card $100 Tom Schafer, Gibbon, MN 38 25 Gander Mountain Card $200 Louis R Quella, Menasha, WI 7632 email ______Phone ______26 Remington 770 Rifle Pkg. Mark Davis, Pickett, WI 6157 Your personal contact information is conÆ dential. We do not sell or share it. 27 Gander Mountain Card $100 Paul Kuhr, New London, WI 7388 28 Stoeger 12 ga Pump 350 Lisa Much, Dale, WI 10645 If reserving tables for 8-10, please give a name for your group: ______29 Gander Mountain Card $100 Trevor Gilek, Racine, WI 8818 30 $100 Cash William Prisciandaro, Haines, AK 10436 Note: We must give the facility a count by January 18, 2017. 31 Gander Mountain Card $200 Dennis Napreilla, Franklin, WI 3470 After January 18, call Randy at 262-251-0529 for availability.