Successes, Failures in Recent Slate of Bills Thanks to TU Members, We Saw Promising Results in the Last Legislative Session

Wisconsin Council of Trout Unlimited NONPROFIT ORG. 2515 Bigler Circle U.S. POSTAGE News and Views from Wisconsin Trout Unlimited Verona, WI 53593 PAID wicouncil.tu.org PERMIT NO. 1 MADISON, WI Wisconsin Trout Spring 2016

Council banquet an overwhelming success By Mike Kuhr, Council Vice Chair and execution. The Council is fortunate Banquet Chair to have Bill Heart, Heidi Oberstadt, Henry Koltz, Jim Wierzba, Kim Mc- The numbers are in, and any way Carthy, Linn Beck, and Todd Frank- you look at it, our 2016 State Coun- lin working on its behalf. cil Banquet was a huge success. Our donors really came though More than 200 people gathered this year, and the prize package was in Oshkosh to show support for our our most valuable in recent memo- coldwater resources. We handed ry. A big thank you to all the chap- out more than $23,000 in prizes. Af- ters that made prize and cash ter the bills were paid, Treasurer donations. Gary Stoychoff reported that we Also, a number of individuals raised more than $17,000. contributed prizes for the event. TU friends and members from Most notable were creations from every corner of the state came to- Randy Arnold and Virgil Beck, gether to honor a deserving group each of which raised a significant of WITU award winners. Their con- amount of funding for the Council. tributions will help the Council con- It would not be possible to assemble tinue to advocate for cold, clean, that kind of prize package without a fishable water in Wisconsin. huge amount of help from our The Oberstadts The most important number – chapters and the individuals who “One TU,” represents the volunteer care greatly for the work that we do. CHAPTER FLY BOXES A FAVORITE AT BANQUET efforts that made this event success- The Council thanks the many Organized by Bob Haase, the chapter fly box section of the silent auction has ful. volunteers who performed so many The Banquet Committee was become popular with attendees, competitive for chapters seeking the highest outstanding in both planning and Please see BANQUET, Page 21 bid, and a great revenue generator at the State Council banquet. LEGISLATIVE UPDATE Successes, failures in recent slate of bills Thanks to TU members, we saw promising results in the last legislative session. By Henry Koltz, National Trustee and discussing this issue and urging that negatively impact streams to which simply correct the unfortunate im- WITU Legislative Committee member the parcels be retained. they are connected. pact that the 2005 railroad package Thanks to all of our efforts, and Wisconsin TU appeared in Madi- law change has had, and to allow The past session of the Wiscon- the efforts of many other concerned son and testified in opposition, and hunters, trappers and anglers to sin Legislature has been exception- organizations and citizens, the DNR notably regarding those components once again cross tracks in the pur- ally busy, and as a result, Wisconsin recommended that the spring of this large bill that would negative- suit of their sporting activities as TU’s Legislative Committee has ponds, along with the vast majority ly impact coldwater systems. they had for years prior to 2005. been equally busy. The committee of other parcels of interest to Wis- Thankfully, an amendment was Wisconsin TU engaged on this bill would like to thank Wisconsin TU consin TU, be retained. Thank you affixed to this bill which made sig- and contacted legislators on the members who responded to our to everyone who helped make this nificant changes to the bill, and committees that were hearing these calls for action by calling, mailing, result a reality, and thanks to the which, from TU’s perspective, re- bills, and we supported the passage giving testimony and meeting with DNR for hearing, understanding moved discharge permitting exemp- of these bills. their legislators on our behalf. We and addressing our concerns. tions from drainages and roadside Unfortunately, the bill was not are incredibly humbled by your ef- ditches, which serve as fish spawning successful this session. However, forts and we are very proud to rep- AB 600/SB 459 – Dredging habitat, or passages to fish spawning sporting groups’ efforts did congeal resent your interests. in lakes, etc. habitat. In short, the amendment around these bills during this last made clear that unregulated dis- session, and it is our hope that simi- AB 600/SB 459 is a very large DNR land sales charges into such areas are not per- lar legislation will appear next ses- bill, which ultimately passed both mitted. Wisconsin TU thanks the sion, such that we will be able to 2013’s Act 20, and policies and houses of the Wisconsin Legislature, legislature for creating this amend- discuss it with legislators during the procedures approved by the Natural and which is available for signature ment, and for working to protect “off-season,” and convince them of Resources Board (NRB), required into law. This bill makes changes re- critical fish areas. the merit of removing restrictions the DNR to make 10,000 acres of garding the title to certain filled which prevent hunters, trappers and state-owned land available for sale. navigable waters, allows DNR to set AB 876/SB 734 – Crossing anglers from crossing railroad tracks As part of that process, the DNR the level and flow of navigable wa- in the pursuit of their sports. identified parcels of land around ters, allows DNR to create a general railroad tracks Wisconsin which could be sold. On permit allowing riparian owners to In 2005 a large railroad bill pack- that list were numerous spring pond remove up to 30 cubic yards of ma- age was passed. Within that bill, un- AB 823/SB 660 – Dredging parcels located in northern Wiscon- terial from inland lakes, and up to fortunately, was a seemingly simple behind impoundments in sin, notably in Langlade County, 100 cubic yards of material from change which made it illegal to cross rivers and other parcels adjacent to trout outlying waters, deals with piers and railroad tracks at non-designated AB 823 and SB 660 were aimed streams. boathouses in lakes, and further crossings. As to sportsmen, this at allowing a person who owns wa- Wisconsin TU actively engaged deals with seawalls, riprap and boat change had a large impact, however, terfront property adjacent to a wa- in efforts to convince DNR to re- shelters. In addition, the bill deals as it made it illegal to cross tracks in ter effected by a man-made move such parcels from its list of with utility permitting procedures the pursuit of hunting, trapping and impoundment to dredge unconsoli- land for sale. To that end, our chap- and non-point water pollution. fishing activities. dated sediment from the impound- ters, members and leadership ac- Of the greatest concern within Information about what prompt- ment without being required to tively worked with the DNR to this large bill to Wisconsin TU, how- ed this change is scarce, but it does obtain any manner of permit. In express the incredible value of such ever, was that as proposed it would not appear to be aimed at protecting short, this bill would have allowed parcels, given their unique status on have exempted discharges which re- fisherman from train-versus-angler the unregulated dredging of mill a truly worldwide basis, and given sult from sedimentation or storm- accidents, as there does not appear ponds and other water impound- the economic engine that they help water detention basins, and to be any recorded instance of such ments caused by dams. fuel. Wisconsin TU’s leadership, as associated conveyances from per- an event occurring. well as our Legislative Committee, mitting requirements. Such unregu- AB 876 and SB 734 were intro- Please see LEGISLATION, Page 27 spent hours on the phone with DNR lated discharges could then duced late in the session in order to PagePage 2 Wisconsin Trout SpringJuly 2016 2006

Wisconsin TU Chapters, Presidents, and Websites Aldo Leopold (#375): Scott Allen, E4835 N Stoney Ridge Road, Reedsburg, WI 53959; (608) 495-1482; [email protected]; aldoleopold.tu.org Antigo (#313): Scott Henricks, 213 Mary St., Antigo, WI 54409-2536 (715) 623-3867; [email protected] WILD RIVERS Blackhawk (#390): Terry Vaughn; 4710 E. Creek Road, Beloit, WI 53511; (608) 362-4295; [email protected]; Bayfield Douglas NORTHWOODS www.BlackhawkTU.org Central Wisconsin (#117): Michael San Dretto; 467 Hawthorne St., Iron Ashland Neenah 54956 (920) 722-8478; [email protected]; cwtu.org, Vilas Coulee Region (#278): Curt Rees; W5190 Birchwood Lane, La- Burnett Washburn Crosse, WI 54601; [email protected]

Sawyer Price Florence www.CouleeRegionTU.org Oneida Forest Fox Valley (#193): Tom Lager, 1700 Spring Hill Ct., Neenah, WI MARINETTE Polk Rusk 54956 (920) 540-9194; [email protected]; Barron Marinette www.foxvalleytu.org ANTIGO GREEN BAY Lincoln Frank Hornberg (#624): Matt Salchert, 1800 Minnesota Ave., Ste- Taylor Langlade WOLF vens Point, WI 54481 (715) 321-1394; [email protected]; RIVER St. Croix Chippewa www.Hornberg-TU.org Dunn WISCONSIN Menominee RIVER VALLEY Oconto Green Bay (#083): Adrian Meseberg, 315 South Michigan Street, OCONTO WI CLEAR Marathon DePere, WI 54115 (920) 562-6129; [email protected]; green- Shawano RIVER Clark WATERS Door baytu.org Pierce Eau Claire SHAW-PACA Kewaunee Harry & Laura Nohr (#257): Tim Fraley, 2 Pagham Court, Madison, Pepin Wood Waupaca WI 53719; hm:(608) 271-1733; c:(608)220-0762; Portage Buffalo Outagamie Brown FOX [email protected]; www.NohrTU.org Jackson FRANK HORNBERG VALLEY Kiap-TU-Wish (#168): Tom Schnadt, 2174 Commonwealth Ave., St. Trempealeau Manitowoc Waushara Winnebago Paul, MN 55108; 651-245-5163; [email protected]; KIAP-TU-WISH Calumet LAKESHORE Adams CENTRAL www.kiaptuwish.org Monroe La Crosse Juneau WISCONSIN Marquette Lakeshore (#423): Gordy Martin, N7601 Royal and Ancient Dr., Sheboygan Green Elkhart Lake, WI 53020; [email protected]; Lake Fond du Lac www.WisconsinTU.org/Lakeshore Vernon ALDO LEOPOLD Marinette (#422): Doug Erdmann, 2418 Woodview Lane, Marinette, Dodge Ozaukee Columbia WI 54143 (715) 735-7407; [email protected]; marinette- Richland Sauk Washington county.new.tu.org Crawford Northwoods (#256): Jay Joppa; 5083 Grossman Avenue, Rhineland- COULEE Dane SOUTHEASTERN Jefferson Waukesha Milwaukee er, WI 54501; (715) 499-1022; [email protected]; north- REGION Iowa WISCONSIN Grant SOUTHERN WISCONSIN woods.tu.org Oconto River (#385): Tom Klatt; 1677 Forest Glen Drive Green Bay, Rock Walworth Racine Lafayette Green WI 54304 (920) 621-9266; [email protected]; ocontorivertu.com

HARRY & Kenosha Shaw-Paca (#381): Nate Sipple, 931 E. Fifth St., Shawano, WI LAURA NOHR 54166; (715) 304-7581; [email protected]; Wisconsin- TU.org/ShawPaca; www.facebook.com/shawpacatu BLACKHAWK Southeastern Wisconsin (#078): Boyd Roessler; 212 S. James Street, Waukesha, WI 53186; [email protected]; 252-896-8471; SEWTU.org; facebook.com/southeastwisconsintroutunlimited Southern Wisconsin (#061): Matt Krueger; (608) 852-3020 [email protected]; www.swtu.org Wild Rivers (#415): Bob Rice 74355 Kaukamo Road, Iron River, WI 54847; (715) 292-1143; [email protected] www.wisconsintu.org/wildrivers Wisconsin Clear Waters (#255): Al Noll, N4336 500th St., Meno- monie, WI 54751; H(715) 235-0814; C(715)-556-4212 noll@uw- stout.edu www.WisconsinTU.org/ClearWaters Visit WITU online at: Wisconsin River Valley (#395): Doug Brown, R4800 Timber Lane, Ringle, WI 54471; [email protected]; wicouncil.tu.org www.wrvtu.org Wolf River (#050): Tim Waters, 409 Second St., Menasha, WI 54952; (920) 751-0654; [email protected]; WolfriverTU.org

State Council Leadership Are you getting emails from TU? State Chair: Linn Beck, 160 W. Education: Bob Haase, W7949 If you are currently not receiving news and event-related email 19th Ave., Oshkosh, WI 54902 Treptow Ln., Eldorado, WI 54932 messages from your chapter, the state council and TU National, (920) 216-7408; (920) 922-8003 (H); then you are truly missing out on what’s happening at all three lev- [email protected] [email protected] els. TU National manages the mailing list for the council and chap- Vice Chair: Mike Kuhr, 6103 Communications: Position is ters, so update your address by going to www.tu.org, log in, then go Queensway, Monona, WI 53716; open. Please contact Council (414) 588-4281; Chair Linn Beck to “Email Preferences.” You can also call 1-800-834-2419 to make [email protected] Friends of WITU and Watershed these changes, or to ask questions about making the changes via Secretary: Tom Lager, 1700 Spring Access Fund: Doug Brown, R4800 the web site. Hill Ct., Neenah, WI 54956; Timber Ln., Ringle, WI 54471 (920) 540-9194; (715) 899-0024; [email protected] [email protected] Treasurer: Gary Stoychoff, 1326 Legal Counsel: Winston Ostrow, WISCONSIN TROUT 14th Ave., Green Bay, WI 54304 233 N. Broadway #120, De Pere, Vol. 28, No. 2— Spring 2016 [email protected] WI 54115 920-362-6609 (W); National Trustee and Past State [email protected] Wisconsin Trout is the official publication of the Wisconsin Council of Chair: Henry Koltz, 2300 N. May- Legislative Chair: Henry Koltz Trout Unlimited and is distributed to the members of Wisconsin’s 21 fair Rd., Ste. 1175, Milwaukee, WI (see above) TU chapters. Non-member subscriptions are $12.50/year. Publication 53226 (414) 331-5679 (H); Membership: Linn Beck and Mike dates are the first weeks of January, April, July and October. Dead- [email protected] Kuhr (see above) lines for articles and advertisements are the 10th of December, March, Vice Chair, Central Region: National Leadership Council June and September. For a current advertising rate sheet, contact the Tom Lager, see above Representative: Kim McCarthy, editor. Vice Chair, Northeast Region: 736 Meadowbrook Ct., Green Photo/article contributions, letters to the editor and advertisements Paul Kruse, 500 Saint Jude St., Bay, WI 54313 (920) 434-3659; Green Bay, WI 54303 (920) 494- [email protected] are welcomed. Submit to: 4220); [email protected] Water Resources: Bob Obma, Todd Franklin, Editor Vice Chair, Southern Region: Jim 12870 West Shore Drive, Moun- 2515 Bigler Circle Wierzba, 2817 Country Club tain, WI 54149 (715) 276-1170 (H) Verona, WI 53593 Drive, Mequon, WI 53092 (262) [email protected] (608) 516-3647 238-0282; [email protected] Website: Position is open. Please [email protected] Vice Chair, Western Region: Gary contact Council Chair Linn Beck. Horvath, 623 W. Pine Street, River Women’s Initiatives: State Council Officers Falls, WI 54806 (715)425-8489; Heidi Oberstadt, 456 Wadleigh St., Executive Committee includes officers and vice chairs [email protected] Stevens Point, WI 54481; 715-573- Awards: Bill Heart, 29450 Verners 5104; [email protected] Linn Beck, Chair Mike Kuhr, Vice Chair Road, Ashland, WI 54806; (715) 209-0431; Tom Lager, Secretary Gary Stoychoff, Treasurer [email protected] Spring 2016 Wisconsin Trout Page 3 Chairman’s Column We all volunteer...a lot, and opportunities are endless. By Linn Beck, Council Chair Scouts and is a great opportunity to get young girls involved in the out- Our Wisconsin TU members doors via conservation and fishing. never fail to amaze me with what we It also includes a mentoring pro- are able to accomplish. gram that the girls need to complete Consider volunteer hours. These to earn their badge. are the numbers that are reported The WITU Youth Fishing Camp on each chapter's annual financial teaches all aspects of fishing, along reports. The total for all of our with water safety, entomology, knot chapters came to 43,275 hours. With tying, fly tying, lure making, water the national rate for volunteers cur- safety and conservation, including a rently $23.07 per hour, our volun- restoration seminar and stream teer members donated a staggering shocking exhibition. $998,354.25 in labor. According to Chapters provide a number of the chapter’s reports, more than 80 youth tying events all around the conservation projects and 88 youth state. education events accounted for The Midwest Outdoor Heritage much of these volunteer hours. Education Expo in Poynette in May Congratulations to all of you on a relies on Wisconsin TU volunteers fantastic accomplishment. to teach hundreds of kids how to tie BECK AND A BIGHORN BROWN flies and more. Wisconsin State Council Chair Linn Beck enjoys some well-earned vacation Volunteer opps abound Our Women's Initiatives pro- time on the Bighorn River in Montana. grams helps educate women on fish- There are many amazing oppor- ing, conservation and TU tunities for members to be involved. WITU opportunities need of a couple of people to be- involvement. come the beginning webmasters for Consider the Trout In the Class- Some of our chapters have Proj- The Council is looking for a room (TIC) program. A growing list member who is interested in be- this site. We are checking into a ect Healing Waters programs, which website that will allow us to have of chapters are now supporting this are dedicated to the physical and coming a co-chair for the member- program in their local schools. Re- ship committee. We would like to several webmasters, and also the ca- emotional rehabilitation of disabled pability for committee chairs to en- cently, the Council put together a military service personnel (active have two individuals step up and committee to assist chapters that take over the committee from Vice ter information about their and veterans) through flyfishing and activities. are interested in TIC. We are also associated activities. Chair Mike Kuhr and myself. If this working on procuring grants to help interests you please contact Mike or As of now we don’t have a defi- For those of you who like to get nite site, so we are open to sugges- fund the program. dirty, chapter work days and water myself. Stream girls is another opportu- Secondly, we are moving our tions. If you are interested, please monitoring efforts provide opportu- contact me and we can work out the nity. This program has been devel- nities for member involvement. Council website to a more user- oped in conjunction with the Girl friendly operation and we are in details. Railroad trespass bill WITU adopts stamp position The Wisconsin Council of Trout Unlimited is committed to protecting sidetracked by committee Wisconsin's trout stamps. Funds generated by our trout stamps have a special legal status, which ensures that they must be used for trout-related purposes. As such, trout anglers truly put their money where their mouths are when A bill intended to restore hunter being threatened with citations by they purchase stamps, as they help to directly support the sport that trout an- and angler rights to cross railroad zealous railroad security employ- glers love. tracks was sidetracked by the State ees. It’s not only the Mississippi Riv- In the recent past, efforts have been made to consider eliminating trout Senate’s Judiciary and Public Safety er. To reach Black Earth Creek in stamps. Wisconsin TU stands opposed to such efforts, and as a result drafted, Committee, chaired by Sen. Van many places, anglers have to cross and passed by unanimous consent of Wisconsin’s Chapters, the following Wanggaard, (R-Racine.) It had been or walk along railroad tracks. statement: proposed by Rep. Lee Nerison (R- Railroads variously claimed the Westby) and Sens. Howard Mar- angling and hunting users were a The Inland Trout Stamp provides funds for inland trout habitat work. Funds klein (R-Spring Green) and Kath- safety problem, but did not provide generated by the stamp are segregated funds which are protected by state statute, leen Vinehout (D-Alma), and had information to prove it. Many critics to be used solely for inland habitat work. passed the assembly. But the senate of the limitations say most of the The Great Lakes Trout and Salmon Stamp program generates funds used to committee chair refused to give it a very few deaths on railroad tracks support robust populations of trout and salmon in the Great Lakes. Such funds hearing or a vote. involve suicides, drunks or thrill- are also segregated and protected by statute, for use only in the Great Lakes. Historic rights to cross the tracks seekers, and few of those individuals Wisconsin Trout Unlimited is committed to keeping the current benefits of were taken away by the legislature are on the tracks to get to a fishing both trout stamps, including their statutorily protected/segregated status. in 2005, and a restoration measure hole. If a new stamp is created that would be required of current outdoor users who was vetoed by Gov. Scott Walker in George Meyer, director of the are not already covered under existing stamps, and the current stamps are re- the last state budget. But anglers Wisconsin Wildlife Federation, said tained with all of their existing statutory protections, then the Wisconsin State and hunters protested that the mea- he believed the proposal could be Council could support such a new stamp. sure would cut off more than 120 improved and presented again in an Wisconsin Trout Unlimited is strongly opposed to the creation of any new historic access points along the Mis- upcoming legislative session. stamp or plan which would eliminate existing trout stamps, and/or negatively im- sissippi River, and many others pact existing stamps’ revenue stream, and/or which would remove existing trout around the state. Now anglers are —Duke Welter stamps’ segregated and statutorily protected status. Page 4 Wisconsin Trout Spring 2016 National Trustee Report Second women’s clinic A challenge to be more doesn’t disappoint open and welcome By Amy H. Koltz By Henry Koltz, Back for a second year, and with a full panel of women trainers and TU National Trustee speakers, the Women’s Fly Fishing Clinic did not disappoint. Approximately 20 beginner and experienced female anglers attended the event, which was This past quarter Wisconsin TU might become the next great stream held in conjunction with the State Council meeting and banquet February 6. has asked its members to be very restoration champion, or a future Nome Buckman led the training, adapted from Southern Wisconsin TU’s engaged in political issues. This chapter president. “By Women for Women Beginner Fly Fishing Clinic.” Buckman, along with quarter, I challenge our members to Our chapters are welcoming. program founder Tina Murray and notable speakers, including Jen Ripple of focus on making TU a welcoming, They offer numerous ports of entry Dun Magazine, Geri Meyer of Athena and Artemis Women’s Fly Shop and open and outward-facing organiza- for potential members, and they numerous other volunteers, shared their knowledge, stories and contagious tion. welcome all types of members, re- enthusiasm for the sport. Training topics included technical elements such as TU is a big umbrella. We wel- gardless of political affiliation, gen- insect identification and correlating flies, assembling a fly rod, and using es- come women, youth, and minori- der, age, race, orientation, or sential gear. The hands-on portions of the training included casting and fly ties. It is each of our jobs to make fishing preference. I challenge each tying with individualized instruction. sure that our events are safe and of us to ensure that our events re- Beyond what we may have expected from a fly fishing clinic were mo- welcoming, and that anyone seeking flect the better angels of our nature, ments such as the slideshow that Buckman shared. During her presentation to learn what TU is about finds a and that poor behavior is identified she talked about taking time for ourselves, getting away from the demands of reason to stay. and stopped. everyday life to be “in the moment,” exploring, observing, experiencing na- Encouraging new faces to care TU is a force for positive action. ture, and creating memories. Beautiful surroundings, encounters with insects about cold water, future genera- Whether we’re restoring streams or and animals in their element, and watching other anglers enjoying the same tions and military veterans is not getting our youth outdoors or work- things. As Buckman explains, and most attendees agreed, the time with your the sole province of one member- ing with veterans, TU engages in an friends is what you remember, not the fish you caught. ship chair, or a small number of incredible amount of positive activi- The overall message from the trainers was that we, as women, have a committee members. Creating an ty. growing community that will support us. Geri Meyer shared a diagram of all open door policy and a soft landing In the face of such positivity, the various women’s fly fishing trainings, events and groups that have come spot for those interested in what there is no place for speech or be- together in recent years. It is obvious that momentum is growing. Women are TU is about is a job that belongs to havior which denigrates, which welcome and belong on the water. all of us collectively. makes participants feel unwelcome I encourage anyone reading this article who is or knows of a woman, who Sometimes it’s as simple as just or unsafe, or which is not reflective may have the slightest interest in fly fishing, to start with the following sites: being nice. If you see someone new of the unbelievable legacy that our • Wisconsin Women’s Fly Fishing Clinics: http://www.swtu.org/ at a meeting, say hello and start up current members and those who wffc_womens_clinics.htm or https://www.facebook.com/SWTUWomen- a conversation. Talk about fishing. came before them have achieved. sClinic/ Talk about trips. And talk about Each of us must safeguard and en- • Wisconsin Women of Trout Unlimited on Facebook: https://www.face- your chapter and what it does. The hance that legacy by ensuring that book.com/groups/705865156166530/ simple effort to say hello, and to TU stands on the leading edge Thank you to the Council and Women’s Initiative Chair Heidi Oberstadt learn a new participant’s name, can when it comes to having open for a great second year. Further thanks to all the trainers and volunteers who have a long-lasting and profound doors, and welcoming new mem- made the clinic a wonderful experience. I am hopeful this will continue to impact. The individual you welcome bers from all walks. grow as an annual event for Wisconsin women anglers to connect. Spring 2016 Wisconsin Trout Page 5 Spring Council meeting WITU youth camp in July Date: Saturday, May 14 Volunteers sought for annual camp July 14-16 The third annual Wisconsin Trout Unlimited Youth Fishing Camp is July Place: Vernon Memorial Hospital 14-16 at Pine Lake Bible Camp near Wild Rose, Wisconsin. 507 South Main Street, Viroqua The curriculum and format will be similar to last year with some minor changes. We have added a couple more breakout sessions and classes. We will be using the same format for selecting and sponsoring youths for After the meeting: Fishing the camp. There will be an open enrollment period until April 15, during which each chapter can sponsor one child. We will be accepting 20 youths for this year’s camp. After April 15 chapters may sponsor a second youth, if After the fishing: Eating, drinking, fishing tales there are openings available. Chapters considering sponsoring a youth should make their selection and application as soon as possible. This year we also are getting a lot of interest from other youth groups, and also from If you have items to put on the agenda, send them to chapters in other states. Council Chair Linn Beck The camp is open to youth ages 12-16. The cost remains at $250 per youth, to be paid by the sponsoring chapter. It would be the responsibility of the parents or the sponsoring chapter, with parental approval, to transport the youths to and from the event. NLC Report We hope that sponsoring chapters will stay in touch with their sponsored students long after the event, and help further introduce them to fishing, en- Chapter youth coordinators, financial oversight vironmental work and Trout Unlimited. We have had youths from previous camps help out at chapter events, while others are returning to help out with By Kim McCarthy, TU National wide range of youth activities sup- the camp this year. Leadership Council Representative ported by National TU and serve as There will be classes, demonstrations and hands-on training covering all a resource for their chapter as youth types of fishing, including spinning gear and fly rods. Some of the areas cov- First up is the matter of having activities are planned and carried ered include knot tying, fly tying, lure making, entomology, safety, sports- each chapter appoint someone to out. We’re hoping that these youth manship and ethics, reading the water and on-the-water fishing. One of the serve as a second set of eyes on the coordinators will help the chapters new classes will cover invasive species. chapter books. National Trout Un- reap the benefits of the tremendous Many of those who volunteered last year plan to return again this year. If limited is mandating that each chap- amount of information available you would like to volunteer contact Wayne Parmley or Linn Beck to confirm ter have one individual appointed from National TU regarding youth that you will be coming. Please provide your name, contact information who will spend a few minutes each activities. (phone and E-mail), the list of days and times you would be available, and month verifying that there are no We are off to a great start, and any specific skills that you have such as spin or bait fishing, fly tying, knot ty- questionable transactions in the about half of our chapters now have ing, fly casting, on stream fishing, entomology, etc. chapter accounts. This should not youth coordinators in place. More WITU will be picking up the cost of the meals for all the volunteers and take much time and can be as sim- hope to have someone in place fair- provide on-site lodging for those staying overnight. All volunteers need to ple as using online banking and ally soon. As your chapter fills its have background checks and we have a service through TU National that lowing a second individual access to youth coordinator position please will provide this for us. We will contact everyone with the information to the account. We are asking all chap- email me at [email protected]. complete this as soon as our volunteer roster is set. ters to get this done as quickly as com with the person’s name and Not all youths have a pair of waders, fishing vest, or stream-side accesso- possible. Please send the name and email address. ries, so we are trying to build up a small inventory of gear. Chapters are also email address of the individual to I want to end by thanking our encouraged to provide their sponsored students with loaner gear. If you Beverly Smith at [email protected] chapters for their cooperation with have a pair of youth waders that your kids grew out of and would like to do- and myself at [email protected]. these new positions. The response nate them please let Wayne, Bob Haase or Linn know. If you have an old com as you fill the position. has been very good. wading vest or old net that you are no longer using or accessories such as We also discussed having chap- As usual, if you have any ques- nippers and forceps or supplies such as leaders and tippets, strike indicators, ters assign youth coordinators. We tions, don’t hesitate to contact me. floatant, and split shot and would like to donate them to the program also would like each chapter to find a If I don't have the answer I will find let Wayne, Bob or Linn know. All this stuff would be maintained and stored youth coordinator who would take it somewhere. for use in future camps. the time to become familiar with the We will provide each youth a small plastic fly box with some flies to start out with, and they will also be tying some of their own. If you have any extra flies that you would like to donate, please send them to Bob Haase, as he will be putting the boxes together. We would also like to thank Jess Piotter Support Wisconsin TU! from Angling Solutions in Berlin for donating small trout spinners for each youth. He also plans to teach the students how to make spinners. If you have any questions, or need application forms and waiver forms, or Get your Wisconsin TU license anything else, contact Wayne Parmley at [email protected] or 920-540- 2315, Bob Haase at [email protected] or 920-579-3858 or Linn at chl- Support Wisconsin TU [email protected] or 920-216-7408. and get your Wisconsin TU license plates now. Strategic plan update Go to By Linn Beck, Council Chair manner. www.dot.state.wi.us/ We will put these points into an Following the lead of National order that will allow us to build off drivers/vehicles/ TU, the State Council has decided of each. All the points will be used personal/special/ to develop a strategic plan to be put to complement each other, so when into implementation upon comple- all are completed the plan will be ul- trout.htm tion. With the anticipated increase timately completed. We’re hoping in funding from WITU license the timeline will be three years or plates, it is important to have such a less after implementation of the first plan to direct the best use of these point. We are hoping to have it com- funds, and also help us develop pleted and ready to vote on by the more funds. spring State Council meeting on A strategic plan is vital to keep- May 14 in Viroqua. ing an organization moving forward. When this strategic plan is com- It’s a powerful approach that helps pleted we then will work on devel- organizations figure out what’s real- oping a new plan that will further ly important and what to do about it. the development of Wisconsin Trout Without a plan it is very easy to miss Unlimited on the points thus far, or or “forget” about the things that that will benefit any new directions make it successful. that Wisconsin Trout Unlimited will We created a committee com- be taking to in the future. prised of the executive committee, We are encouraging all the chap- regional chairs, and three chapter ters to develop their own strategic Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a wild, sparsely-populated leaders. The goals of the committee plans. I know some of the chapters land and the U.P. Fly Angler is the only outfitter licensed will be: are working on or have completed To develop a 3- to 5-year plan for their strategic plans and I want to to guide anglers in the Ottawa National Forest. all items, consisting of where we will thank all of you for taking the time Visit the U.P. Fly Angler at: need to be, what we need to get to for this. If you need help getting the goals, how to maintain the goals started, please contact me. we have set. Watch for more on this in the up- Put together a S.M.A.R.T. pro- coming months. This is an exciting https://upflyangler.com/ gram – Specific, measureable, at- time for Wisconsin Trout Unlimited [email protected] tainable goals, with relevant and should be an incredible journey information and do it all in a timely as we go forward. Page 6 Wisconsin Trout Spring 2016 Latest manure spill raises more questions Fish kill totals, gallons spilled still in question. By Duke Welter After the investigation is complete, various DNR offices will decide whether to refer the case to the Wisconsin Attorney General’s office for While the DNR continues to mull its enforcement options in the wake of prosecution. Potential remedies could include forfeitures or restitution for a large manure spill which killed trout in one of Grant County’s best-known cleanup costs or loss of fish. For dead trout they found, the DNR could ask trout streams, Castle Rock Creek, other farmers and neighbors to the Misty reimbursement to the state of about $26 per fish. The AG’s office would Morning Dairy are speaking up. have its own decision to make regarding whether to prosecute. Fish survey Chuck Horn, who lives a quarter mile downstream, was one of the first to data would not be sufficiently specific to provide evidence for prosecution, observe the brown flow of liquid manure, as it ran through his yard toward only for making restocking decisions, said Mark Cain, DNR’s Wastewater the stream. While the landowner estimated a spill of 50,000 gallons came Engineer assigned to the case. from a faulty hose connection, Horn believes the spill was more like “hun- The extent of the fish kill remains unclear, beyond the 50 corpses found dreds and hundreds of thousands of gallons.” By one report, the hose was by DNR fisheries staff walking part of the stream. But it’s likely, according to carrying 500 gallons a minute, which could mean as much as 240,000 gallons several sources, that there were “significantly” more than 50 trout killed. over an eight-hour period. The CAFO operator had put together a do-it-yourself pumping operation to pump manure through hoses from a 3-million-gallon pit to a 3.9-million- gallon pit a quarter mile away. A coupler broke. According to reports, it had last been checked around 11 p.m. The spill was reported at 7 a.m. Horn observed it at 7:30 a.m. Within hours, the DNR hired crews to build a temporary berm and pump the flowing manure and snowmelt water for several days, while fisheries crews tried to break through ice covering the manure-filled creek to assess losses. They only found 50 dead trout over the next couple of days, but one says it was likely there were “significantly” more trout killed that aren’t likely to be found, either picked up by scavengers, washed downstream or sunk at the bottom of the stream. Castle Rock Creek, also known as the Fennimore Fork of the Blue River, begins northeast of Fennimore and is a long-time favorite of Grant County anglers and visitors. It has healthy reproducing populations of brown trout and often is the lair for a few very large trout. Horn, in a letter to local legislators, called it “the crown jewel of Grant County’s trout fishery.” The stream is regularly stocked with large brood-stock fish, and some had been stocked days before the incident. It is anticipated both catchable sized trout and some larger fish will be replaced in the stream. He found numerous dead trout, both brook and brown trout, all the way down to the large spring in- flow several miles downstream in the most popular fishing water on the stream. But they did not find great numbers of dead fish, and one explana- tion is that a rapid thaw following the spill may have flushed the dead fish downstream before they could be found. “The loss of this fishery affects not only the fishers, but the businesses that cater to them, such as restaurants, bars, hotels, etc.” Horn wrote. “While we have other neat things to see and visit…, it was the trout fishery, and Cas- tle Rock was a major component of that, that made Fennimore a destination location. Again, all these businesses will suffer due to the irresponsible action of one business.” Fennimore guide Jim Romberg also assessed the impacts on his community: “There are other trout streams around here, lots of them. But this is one of the best-known and a great fishing destination, and it will be affected, and that’s going to hit our local businesses hard. This hurt Castle Rock, but it’s a tragedy for the area.” A resident who farms nearby said, “farmers take care of their land and how they handle their manure. There are plenty of ways to warn of a problem, but none of them were used here. This was just negligence.” Often dairies use flexible hoses to pump liquid manure from a pit to a field, using an agitator (like a spinning boat propeller on a shaft) to keep the stuff liquefied and a pump to move it, often significant distances. Should the landowner have had a warning device to indicate of a failure of the system, VICTIMS OF LARGE MANURE SPILL or not have left it unmonitored overnight? Overflow alarms are only required of covered pits and these were open. Draindown alarms aren’t re- Misty Morning Dairy neighbor Chuck Horn and DNR staffers collected a quired. number of dead trout in Castle Rock Creek in the days after a large manure The DNR’s permit for the ma- spill, which flowed undetected for eight hours. nure pit didn’t require either, since recent legislative changes have limited DNR’s authority to order “This is one of the best- Several reasons for the uncertainty? The stream was frozen over for one to them. Sources report most spills two miles below the spill, and the manure ran under the ice, so impacts were occur where manure is being known and a great obscured. The likely culprit killing the fish was ammonia toxicity, which pumped from one pit to another or fishing destination, and doesn’t kill them for a day or two after exposure. These fish wouldn’t be like- where a coupling fails or hose mal- it will be affected, and ly to float because they had little food in their systems to decompose, which functions. Both apparently hap- causes gases that would bring them to the surface. On the bottom, they could pened here. A retired engineer that’s going to hit our rot under a layer of sediment and manure. Along the shore, they will be eat- who is a TU member checked out local businesses hard.” en by scavenging raccoons and other animals or birds. the options available to dairies “As it happened, the whole watershed melted two days after the spill, and pumping manure. They are com- the discharge almost tripled.” said Dave Rowe, the DNR’s Regional Fisher- monly available and not complicat- ies Supervisor, “So it’s likely the bodies were swept downstream.” Still, he ed systems. Still, the Misty found more dead fish a week after the spill. Morning pit-pumping operation was not checked for about eight hours. Rowe, Fisheries Biologist Gene Van Dyck and others shocked the stream Some citizens have raised concerns about the dairy’s ability to afford safe- in mid-March to compare what they found with prior survey data. That will guards that would have prevented the spill. Neighbors who have been prom- enable them to compare the remaining population with earlier studies from ised payment from the operator for land-spreading manure on their lands 2007-14 that showed an average of 270 fish larger than 6 inches per mile. have not been paid. The dairy declared bankruptcy a few years back and its That will aid them in setting a re-stocking strategy, but it isn’t specific nearly-full manure pit had to be pumped out by the DNR, which was eventu- enough to allow them to establish a level of loss to require restitution from ally reimbursed its costs of $50,000. Afterward, the dairy operator requested the landowner. Re-stocking, if the population has seen significantly impacts, an increase in animal units for the CAFO (Controlled Animal Feeding Op- will include both catchable-sized trout and larger brood-stock trout. eration) from about 1,300 to more than 1,700, which the DNR granted. He The area of the spill is in the upper waters of Castle Rock Creek, which is promised to install a manure digester, but has not done so because of limited classified as Class III water by DNR fisheries. However, downstream lies funds. However, the DNR doesn’t have authority to consider financial Class II water with both naturally-reproducing and stocked trout, with signif- wherewithal in its permitting decisions. icant recruitment of small fish from a number of quality tributary streams. Nobody, including the public, knows for certain how many gallons of ma- The Harry & Laura Nohr Chapter of TU has been a leader in protecting nure went into Castle Rock Creek. The landowner claims it was 50,000 gal- and restoring trout waters in the Blue River watershed. Chapter President lons, but that number should be considered notoriously unreliable. The Tim Fraley commended DNR for quick action in responding to the spill, landowner faces prosecution for the incident and benefits from the number which he says could have been a worse tragedy otherwise. being low. Neighbors say it was many times more. DNR staff would neither On the opening day of the general fishing season Saturday, May 7, pro- release the amount pumped by DNR-hired trucks nor give the capacity per ceeds from the Angler’s Breakfast, sponsored by the Castle Rock Lutheran hour of the hose being used by the dairy operator. Church, will be dedicated to restocking the trout population in the creek. Spring 2016 Wisconsin Trout Page 7

POST-SPILL ELECTROSHOCKING ON CASTLE ROCK CREEK Richard Hanson and I were invited to accompany DNR Fisheries personnel Gene Van Dyck, Bradd Simms and Lloyd Meng as they electro-surveyed A STREAM OF MANURE Castle Rock Creek March 14 to determine the effects of the manure spill on Landowner Chuck Horn awoke to find this brown stream flowing through his February 18. front yard on February 18, and discovered the source to be a manure pit from a We surveyed the area between the fence downstream from the confluence of nearby CAFO. The flow eventually reached nearby Castle Rock Creek. Doc Smith Branch to the second riffle upstream of Castle Rock Spring. Typically, this area would have produced 150-300 adult trout, according to past surveys. Incident Report: The first segment, between the fence and first large pool downstream of Doc Awaking to a stream of manure in his front Smith, yielded 35 adult and one yearling brown trout and one rainbow trout. Another segment produced 19 adult and five yearling brown trout, 5 yearlings, yard, this man’s report is an amazing and 1 rainbow trout. A third segment yielded four adult and two yearling brown account of the events following the spill. trout two rainbow trout. A fourth segment yielded only three adult and one cerns about the impact of the ma- brown trout and one brook trout. The last segment produced only one adult The following are excerpts from an nure on the trout fishery. and one yearling brown trout. incident report submitted by Charles At approximately 10:30 a.m. I It was apparent that the influx of water from Doc Smith branch significantly S. Horn, a neighbor of Misty Morning went back to the stream in front of Farm and a concerned trout angler. my home and noted the manure was reduced the impact of the spill and most, if not all, of the trout found upstream still flowing. The attached photos from Doc Smith had either migrated up from below, from Doc Smith itself or On Thursday, February 18, 2016 show the flow of manure through had come down from the spring. There were significant numbers of white at about 7:30 am, I was out in my my property, in the streambed on suckers and mottled sculpin, as well as a few creek chubs and stickleback, yard, located at 3510 Wood Road, the north side of Wood Road. Fennimore, WI 53809 in the town- On Friday, February 19 at about more in the downstream segments than the upstream. The fisheries staff ship of Fennimore, Grant County, noon I went down to the public indicated that they had requested a supplemental stocking, including some Wisconsin when I noticed that there easement section of Castle Rock surplus brood fish, to try to replace what was lost. was liquid flowing in the streambed Creek, and parked at the Church in my front yard and adjacent to Road bridge and walked northward —Chuck Horn Wood Road. As the temperature (downstream) from this bridge and was only about 20 degrees Fahren- noted that the stream was extremely heit, I did not believe that it was just turbid, water depth visibility was an water from snowmelt in the stream- inch or less and there was a very bed. I walked up to the streambed strong odor of manure coming from Lake Michigan Scott W. Grady and could smell manure and ob- the stream. It should be noted that Rodmaker served a river of manure, about four there were no fresh human foot- Fisheries feet across and 7-8 inches deep, prints in the snow along the bank. I flowing in the streambed. I got in observed a dead brook trout, which Forum meets my truck and drove west on Wood was caught in some emergent vege- Split Bamboo Rods Road approximately a quarter mile tation about 200 yards downstream April 9 New, repairs, restoration, appraisals and observed manure flowing down from the Church Road Bridge. Rodmaking Tools and Advice the hill from the upper slurry pit at I continued walking downstream Misty Morning Dairy, located at past the Castle Rock Spring and to- The next meeting of the Lake Michigan Fisheries Forum (LMFF) Call or email Scott for details at 3743 Wood Road. The stream of wards the farm road bridge on the 920/687-0987 or [email protected] manure flowed north down the hill Mike Graves property. I observed will take place Saturday, April 9 at to Wood Road and I observed two dead brown trout, about half in Lakeshore Technical College in where some of the material was on the water on the west bank of Castle Cleveland. It will be held in the the road. The flow continued Rock Creek at the end of a riffle Wells Fargo Room starting at 8:30 through a culvert under Wood Road about 100 yards upstream from the a.m. and ran in the streambed on the Lo- Graves farm road bridge. I took a In 2012, the LMFF changed is Duha property, 3614 Wood Road, representative photo of one of the from an advisory group to a forum along the north side of Wood Road trout, both were about 13 inches devoted to raising awareness of to our adjacent property line, where long. Lake Michigan fisheries issues and it continued along my property and On Saturday, February 20 I providing an opportunity for discus- went under a culvert on my drive- drove down to Castle Rock Creek sion and feedback. way, where it entered a pasture, also and parked north of Castle Rock The LMFF is a citizen-based owned by Lois Duha. I went east on Spring, along County Highway Q. I group, and its charge is to review Wood Road and observed the ma- was accompanied by James Rom- and provide input into the fishery nure flow following the streambed berg, a trout fishing guide from Fen- goals, objectives and management and onto property owned by Glenn nimore, David Gehrke, who owns plans for Lake Michigan. Members Larson, 13731 County Highway Q. the farm directly across from Misty will assist fisheries managers in The manure flowed through a large Morning Dairy and Katherine Lar- charting the future course of fisher- box culvert under County Highway son and Claire (last name un- ies management by providing feed- Q and I could see where it entered known), two reporters from back to the DNR’s Lake Michigan the Fennimore Fork of the Blue WKOW out of Madison. While Lar- Fisheries Team. River (also known as Castle Rock son was interviewing James Rom- Anglers, commercial fishers and Creek), streambed. It appeared that berg, I walked a short distance anyone else with an interest in Lake the manure was flowing on top of upstream from the Castle Rock Michigan's fisheries are encouraged the frozen snow and ice at this time. Spring and did observe two dead to join. The LMFF is facilitated by Titus I returned to my residence where brown trout in a shallow pool imme- Elevate your fly fishing to a new Seilheimer, UW-Sea Grant, and is I called Conservation Warden Mar- diately upstream from the Castle level. The Original BlueSky tin Stone to report this discharge. Rock Creek. I went back to my vehi- independent of the DNR. Repre- Warden Stone advised that he had cle and put on a pair of hip boots sentatives from major sport fishing Furled Leader. Sizes for all fish & clubs on Lake Michigan and Green heard the same information from and waded into this pool to retrieve fishing conditions. BlueSky - the the DNR spills coordinator and was the trout. I left them sitting by a Bay, commercial fishers, the Con- leader in furled leaders.TM awaiting further instruction on how large rock on the south bank of the servation Congress and the Univer- to handle the spill. I also called Castle Rock Spring and left a text sity of Wisconsin System are formal FurledLeaders.com members of the forum. Meetings DNR Fisheries Biologist Gene Van message for Warden Stone, [email protected] • Ph/Fax 920-822-5396 Dyck in Dodgeville and advised him are open to the public. Please see REPORT, page 10 1237 Yurek Rd., Pulaski WI 54162 USA of the spill and expressed my con- Page 8 Wisconsin Trout Spring 2016 Chapter President Profile Youth a key focus of Salchert’s leadership The Frank Hornberg Chapter president is a young leader who truly embraces getting youth into the outdoors. community. A few years ago Matt was engaged in conversation with one of his custom- ers, Stu Grimstad, a member of the Frank Hornberg Chapter. Talk turned to trout fishing. Stu is never one to pass up an opportunity to recruit new members for the trout-fishing community, and he invited Matt to come to a Horn- berg work day on the river. The rest, as they say, is history. Matt did come to a work day. That was all it took; he was hooked. Since then, Matt has sharpened his skills by fishing on local trout streams with members of the Hornberg chapter, including the aforementioned Stu Grimstad, the late Stu Nelson, Jan Tully and Wyatt Bohm. Especially Wyatt. Excellent teachers, all of them. They know the streams. They know the fish. They know how to catch them. Trout fishing is just one of Matt’s outdoor interests. The high mountain streams of Colorado are places where he has combined fishing with back- packing. The south shore of Lake Superior—from the Apostle Islands to the Porcupine Mountains—is where he enjoys hiking and camping with friends and family. Matt’s wife, Andrea, is an accomplished painter. His five-year-old daughter, Emily, took up flyfishing last year. Not surprisingly, her first catch of a brook trout was a proud moment for her and her parents. Like father, like A NATURAL-BORN TEACHER, AND A GREAT LEADER daughter. Frank Hornberg Chapter President Matt Salchert has worked with countless Matt moved rather quickly from chapter member to board member to children and adults during his time with the chapter. president. He arrived on the scene at just the right time. The Hornberg Chapter came to realize that its long-term future would require younger members and younger officers personally committed to the chapter's future. By John Vollrath We believed Matt would fill that bill perfectly. We couldn’t have been more right. Now we don’t know what we’d do without him. Matt Salchert grew up in St. Cloud, Wisconsin, a village in Fond du Lac In a recent conversation over coffee, Matt listed some priorities he sees County, on the banks of the Sheboygan River. He graduated from the Uni- for himself and for the community of flyfishers in general. One priority is that versity of Wisconsin—Stevens Point in 2004, and he has lived here in Portage flyfishers should devote more time working with boys and girls to give them a County ever since. For some time now he has been manager of the Auto Se- strong personal appreciation of fishing and related outdoor activities. It takes lect service facility on Highway 10 East. One advantage of his job is that when time and dedication, but, he thinks, it is well worth the effort. Here Matt he is working the front counter he gets to know many people in the local speaks for all of us in the Hornberg Chapter. Driftless Area to Brook trout research Using DNA studies, we are trying to locate a population of native brook that have been isolated in a remote Wisconsin spring pond in northern Wis- receive $2.9 million consin since the end of the Pleistocene, (ice age), 12,000 years ago. We have caught, fin clipped for DNA studies and released brook trout The Minnesota and Wisconsin Driftless Area will from six isolated northern Wisconsin spring ponds. The DNA sequencing and analysis has been done by Dr. Brian Sloss and Keith Turnquest from the receive $2.9 million in Farm Bill dollars for UW Stevens Point genetic lab. Sloss has done much of the original DNA developing coldwater restoration projects. work on Wisconsin hatchery-raised and stocked brook trout in the Driftless Area. He has an excellent understanding of what the DNA of Wisconsin hatchery-raised brook trout looks like. Some of you may have fished these By Jeff Hastings, project. spring ponds: Foulds, Willow, Siphon, Good Year, Elvoy and Hoglee. TUDARE Project Manager Depending on the qualifications The International Federation of Fly Fishers. IFFF has supported this of the person we hire, we hope to DNA research with Conservation Small Grants totaling $3,000. During the next five years Trout provide additional technical assis- Our DNA data so far is inconclusive. We know that Foulds Spring Pond Unlimited chapters, DNR fish habi- tance in surveying and design. Cur- in Price County contains DNA from stocked hatchery brook trout. The oth- tat crews and local conservation rently, we have to depend on our er five spring ponds contain DNA that have similarities, but differences in field offices working in the Driftless local field offices to conduct the their DNA. These differences in DNA relate to diversity, a word used in fish Area will have additional dollars to surveys, design and oversight of the genetics in a positive sense. The higher the DNA diversity, the better the work on coldwater projects. project, and not all field offices in chance that the species has for survival. I wrote the grant (Regional Con- the Driftless Area have developed My position is thatwe need more brook trout DNA data from servation Partnership Program, this kind expertise or relationship spring ponds from other watersheds. Next summer we plan to sample spring RCPP) so that our chapters would with our chapters. ponds from the Lake Superior watershed. Each of the spring ponds that we not have to compete at the local lev- We want to pursue EQIP dollars have collected DNA clips from have required multiple trips to obtain the el for Environmental Quality Incen- as part of our funding for stream number of clips required to make up a statistical DNA sample. tive Program (EQIP) dollars. projects because EQIP can often Anyone who would like to suggest a spring pond for consideration in The grant also includes funding cover as much 75 percent of the to- this DNA study, and is willing to help with the canoe trip and the catching of for technical assistance for chapters tal costs. the brook trout, please contact me at [email protected] and landowners who want to devel- Several chapters in the Driftless I want to thank Wisconsin trout fishermen Kit Deubler, Wayne and Clay op projects. We plan to utilize fund- Area, as well our state fish habitat Parmley, Terry Cummings, Travis Ver Hey, Matt Tabbert, Eric Frodesen and ing from the Natural Resources crews, already work with landown- Jim Nelson for helping me with the long canoe trips, the muck running up Conservation Service and other dol- ers to obtain EQIP dollars. The the small stream to reach the headwater spring pond and then the catching lars we have raised, and to hire a chapters are responsible for raising of the brook trout for the DNA samples that formed the basis for this full-time conservationist to work the landowners’ share for the re- study. I will keep you posted on our search for a native brook trout popula- with our chapters to develop high- maining costs of the project. So a tion from a remote Wisconsin spring pond. Come join the search! quality projects. $100,000 project could result in the By Robert Tabbert, who is an exploration geologist and life member of TU The Natural Resources Conser- chapter or DNR only having to and IFFF. He is also chair of IFFF’s Coldwater Committee, brook trout DNA, vation Service has gone to a scoring come up with the remaining senior conservation advisor to IFFF’s board. He spends his winters in Louisiana system that scores all potential EQ- $25,000. and his summers in Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin. IP projects. In order for a stream We are anticipating a June 10, restoration project to score “high,” 2016 sign-up for the first round of and be eligible for EQIP funding, funding. the chapters will need to have com- If you have questions you can pleted a nine-step planning process call me at 608-606-4158 or email that includes obtaining the neces- [email protected] sary permits and designs for the Get “social” with our Facebook pages We’re getting social. The Council now has an official Wisconsin Trout Unlimited Facebook page at facebook.com/WisconsinTU. So go ahead and give us a “Like!” We’ve also set up a Wisconsin Trout Unlimited State Council “group” on Facebook for people to share SPRING POND RESEARCH INVOLVES CATCHING BROOK TROUT upcoming event info and conservation-related news. This characteristically colorful brook trout from a northern Wisconsin spring pond may have ancestry dating back thousands of years. Spring 2016 Wisconsin Trout Page 9 An angler’s case for Public Trust Editorial, are. DNR, handles these types of applications and ac- By Dave Zeug The Minnesota Cargill family owns the Crystal knowledged issues exist related to navigation and Brook Trust Fish Farm (CBTFF) and is the licens- public rights versus the privatization of public wa- Natural Waterbody Fish Rearing Permits, former- ee. This trust controls the land along the stream ters this license allows. “These types of licenses ly called Private Fish Farms, have been part of Wis- beginning with the clear, cold spring headwaters are uncharted waters in some ways. Language in consin’s landscape for nearly 100 years. Many of several miles downstream to the highway below, the state statutes clearly says these old licenses these permits are on landlocked ponds with no legal but they don’t control access from the highway. are grandfathered,” he said recently, while also avenue for the public to access them. Others, such The Wisconsin Public Trust Doctrine is based acknowledging there are legal issues around this as the Crystal Brook Trust’s license held by members in our constitution and —in theory at least — pro- type of permit that could be challenged. of the Minnesota Cargill family, are legally accessi- tects against the privatization of navigable waters, For the record, the Crystal Brook license isn’t ble because the navigable river, in this case a pristine as Doc Bauer argued so many years ago. The Su- a fish hatchery in the traditional sense. The own- trout stream, crosses a public highway. While access preme Court confirmed this in 1913 after a suc- ers of the license don’t raise trout on this stream, is legal, the public is restricted from fishing on them, cessful challenge to the Diana Hunt Club’s claim but instead simply buy trout to add to the river’s although a 1915 Wisconsin Supreme Court decision they controlled part of Horicon Marsh made by a wild population. Since aquaculture is considered upheld the Public Trust Doctrine’s basic premise of duck-hunting attorney with these words. “The a business, there’s also a section on the renewal allowing public use of navigable waters. wisdom of this policy...carefully preserved to the form asking what the Business Purpose of the li- The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resourc- people the full and free use of public waters can- cense is and what activities it will be engaged in. es is the trustee of the state’s navigable water and not be questioned…they should be free to all for The answer penned by the trustee in the Crystal has issued these licenses for decades. When the recreation…including hunting and fishing, which Brook license application pretty much said it all. Crystal Brook license expired and came up for re- are mainly certain forms of recreation,” the Wis- It was for “private, personal fishing.” And that newal last year, this writer objected to its issuance consin Supreme Court said at that time. Why doesn’t include you and me. based on language in the 1915 Wisconsin Supreme Crystal Brook was granted this license to privatize The current Crystal Brook license clearly Court’s Diana Hunt Club decision that upheld the the fishing a few short years later in 1918 has been states only the impounded waters — several dams state’s Public Trust Doctrine. lost to time. that were built on the stream years ago — are cov- Subsequently, after 98 years of renew- ered under this license, which means ing this application, the DNR determined other free-flowing portions of the Crystal Brook Trust no longer needed a stream are open to the public. Unfor- license because of changes in the fish tunately, neither the owners nor the farming laws. From now on, the Wiscon- DNR have designated where the im- sin Department of Agriculture, Trade and pounded areas end and public fishing Consumer Protection would handle li- becomes legal. In fact a hand-drawn censing of fish rearing facilities as this. Is- map by the trustee on the application sues of the public rights on this stream indicates there is virtually no water not and others similar to it still need to be de- covered by the license. termined or challenged in a court of law. The case comes down to a couple of One highly regarded DNR biologist basic issues. No one is arguing Crystal referred to these licenses as the “sins of Brook Trust wasn’t granted this license our fathers.” The constitutionality of that privatized the impounded water these sins needs to be addressed. The col- they created when they erected two umn below first appeared in the Wiscon- small dams on the trout stream many sin Outdoor News and is reprinted years ago. Nor can it be argued the li- courtesy of that publication. Stay tuned cense was grandfathered by the legisla- for more on this issue. ture. What is at issue, which the DNR acknowledges exists, is whether the li- “I feel that it is wrong that special cense would meet a challenge stem- privilege has apparently been granted ming from the wording of the public certain individuals. If everybody is al- trust doctrine. lowed to take a piece of the stream (to The other issue is the absence of fish), regardless of the amount of mon- the signage designating the boundar- ey they have or the color of their skin, it STATUTES VERSUS PUBLIC TRUST DOCTRINE ies of these impoundments, so if the li- is all right, but when one individual can The Crystal Brook Trust’s license, held by members of Minnesota’s Cargill cense is renewed, members of the take a public property which is a navi- public would know where it begins and gable stream and have special privileg- family affects a pristine trout stream, which crosses a public highway. While ends so they can legally fish in the un- es, I think it is wrong…otherwise we are access is legal, the public is restricted from fishing on them, although a 1915 licensed sections of Crystal Brook. Of- not having the democracy that we Wisconsin Supreme Court decision upheld the Public Trust Doctrine’s basic ten in rivers flowing into lakes, there’s claim. We will be like the American premise of allowing public use of navigable waters. a landmark or sign denoting where the boys (during World War II) who found river ends and the lake begins. out in Austria, Germany and France it The Wisconsin Supreme Court un- has been the rich people who have the sport, who Many of the existing “Natural Waterbody Per- derstood its role in protecting the public’s rights have been able to have the deer hunting and trout mit”s today are private ponds without public ac- more than 100 years ago. They believed some- fishing.” cess because the licensee owns or controls all the thing as precious as a trout stream should be pre- These moving words are from the testimony of land around them. Crystal Brook, because of the served for public use. What’s unclear is what the Dr. William Bauer of Ladysmith, better known in highway access, doesn’t meet this standard. Cur- DNR will decide to do with this license renewal trout fishing circles as Doc Bauer, during his testi- rent wording involving these licenses tells new ap- application in light of wording in the statutes re- mony in front of the Public Service Commission plicants seeking one, “a permit is only issued if lated to dams and grandfathered provisions, as in Spooner 61 years ago. His concerns were the DNR determines that no public or private rights opposed to the words of the Public Trust Doc- dams and the privatization of Crystal Brook, a in the body of water will be damaged.” This clear- trine. Some fear what may happen if the issue is navigable trout stream in Washburn County that ly reflects the language in our Constitution and elevated to our current Supreme Court. was licensed as a “Private Fish Hatchery.” His tes- protects the public’s rights now, but doesn’t affect Simply put, as Doc Bauer said, something as timony also made it clear that he and others were the recently expired Crystal Brook license that’s special as a trout stream shouldn’t be used by only stopped from fishing the river. The PSC pointed up for renewal. According to the DNR, these old a privileged few. This philosophy is shared by ma- out their responsibilities didn’t include navigabili- licenses are eligible for renewal because of a ny, including our family, which opened the land ty or private fish hatchery licenses. “You under- grandfathered clause. A grandfather clause is a we own along the Brule River to fishermen, pro- stand that all this does not concern the Public provision in which an old law continues to apply vided they respect the property, the river and the Service Commission at all,” was their response, while a new law applies for future cases. fish that call it home. according to the transcripts. In other words, since this license has been Stay tuned for further developments on this re- Nothing has changed in the decades since around for such a long time, they’re eligible to cently expired Crystal Brook license, but in the then, and questions still exist about where – or if – keep it, regardless of the wording of the Public meantime, I’m in Doc Bauer’s camp on this one. what’s now called a “Natural Waterbody Fish Trust Doctrine and the state constitution, unless And I bet you are, too. Rearing Permit” instead of a “Private Fish Farm” it’s constitutionality is successfully challenged in a would meet a constitutional challenge and where court of law. the boundaries of the license along the stream Paul Cunningham, Fisheries Ecologist for the Page 10 Wisconsin Trout Spring 2016 Great tips for fishing trout using live bait There’s a lot more to bait fishing for trout than you might think, including safely releasing fish. By Mike Arrowwood When retrieving bait along the Any of these baits, when present- member the last time I had a gut- stream bottom with weighted line, ed within sight or smell of trout, will hooked fish. The three fundamental aspects losing hooks from snagging is com- elicit a feeding response and subse- A tip for improving hookups and of live bait fishing are tackle choice, mon and has to be treated as an ac- quent bite. The key here, using the lip-hooking trout when using night bait selection and technique. Each ceptable aspect of fishing or heavier above mentioned tackle and tech- crawlers is to break the crawler in has a myriad of choices depending line must be used for hook retrieval. niques, is to place or present the half and not use a full crawler. This upon the species fished for, the type Weighting the line using sinkers bait where it is accessible to the also provides more scent to attract of habitat fished and the individual is a continually changing variable feeding trout. the fish. style of fishing employed. while stream fishing. The desire for More often than not the hook set long and accurate casts, water Technique will be successful and the trout Tackle selection depth, amount of snagable material brought to net. This technique will present and water flow speed must When trout strike an offered bait allow hooked fish to be kept or re- Tackle selection can be best dis- all be considered. it is very quickly swallowed. This is leased to be caught another day at sected based upon four categories. The obvious reason for sinker the normal feeding response, as it the discretion of the angler. Regard- They are rod-and-reel combos, line use near the baited hook is to cause frees the trout to be immediately less of what method of angling you type, sinker selection and hook size. the bait to be where it is most acces- ready to attack and consume the use, it is important to learn the best Rod and reel selection is the sible to the trout. Generally speak- next forage that presents itself. With fishing techniques and release prac- most diverse category. A variety of ing this is within a few inches of the competition from other fish and on- tices to allow for successful release fly rod and spinning rod combos are bottom. When wading upstream and ly a limited amount of forage avail- of a fish. used and they are both equally ef- casting, sufficient weight is neces- able, this feeding strategy is Mike Arrowood of Fond du Lac is fectively. sary to accomplish a longer cast with essential for growth and survival. an avid fisherman and is also active Fly rods are best used for float- spinning rods. It is not as necessary An angler-presented bait will be in fishing, hunting, conservation, and ing the bait in a natural drift presen- when using fly rods and heavier fly consumed in the same manner. The environmental issues in Wisconsin. tation where limited weighting of lines. trout will quick- He has been a delegate to the Conser- the line is used. Floating fly line The use of 2 ly swallow the of- vation Congress for more than 36 with a leader of Fire Line or other or 3 BB size or fered bait. When years, serving on the Warm Water synthetic leader works well. smaller remov- fishing, this re- Committee for much of that time. He For fishing undercut banks, the able sinkers You can successfully sponse can be is one the founders and chairman of longer fly rods allow the angler to placed 12 to 15 fish with live bait and lip- felt by the an- the board of Walleyes for Tomorrow stand back from the bank and allow inches above hook nearly 95 percent gler via the line which has 18 chapters and more than the line to pull the bait along with the hook is the and rod in hand. 4,000 members. He serves on the Wis- the current. In a deeper water situa- norm. They are of the fish that bite. I The tap, tap, tap consin Fishery Advisory Council and tion like this a single small split shot easily added or can’t remember the last of a trout bite is the Winnebago System Fishery Advi- 12” above the bait will carry the bait removed as the the positioning sory Council. In addition to this Mike down to make it more accessible. water condi- time I had a gut-hooked of the bait in often attends and testifies at many leg- Spinning rod combos are best tions change fish. their mouth to islative hearings, Natural Resource used for fishing upstream when the along each sec- allow swallow- Board meetings, and other related angler is wading in the water. tion of the ing the bait. This events like this. Mike is also one of the Stream size and vegetation growth stream or river is the time to set presenters at our Youth Camp talking along the bank dictate the rod fished. More the hook. to the kids about live bait fishing for length desired. Longer rods allow weight in swifter or deeper water is A delay in trout. for extended length casts and bait required for rapid bait fall to the setting the hook until it has been drift and retrieve. bottom for retrieval. Conversely less swallowed may result in tissue dam- Proposal would eliminate Conversely, shorter rods make weight can be used to drift bait age or death to a trout deemed too “artificial-only” restrictions fishing around brushy and over- downstream into brushy habitat or small, or large, to be kept. Removal Question #14 on the Conserva- hanging vegetation much less frus- along undercut banks. of the hook from a gut-hooked fish tion Congress Spring Hearings this trating. Many shorter rods are of the Hook size is very important when will result in damage to the stomach April will ask: Do you favor elimi- ultra-light category. These should drift fishing bait along the bottom. and/or “throat” of the fish. Leaving nating the “artificial-only” restric- be avoided in favor of a rod with lit- Generally speaking size 10, 12 or 14 the hook in place by cutting the line tion from the regular season trout tle stiffer spline, as casting is more hooks work best. The hook must be is also not a desirable alternative regulations? This is advisory only easily controlled in tight cover with small enough to have the point of and both can lead to delayed mor- and if approved by those in atten- a stiffer rod. the hook hidden or imbedded in the tality. dance and the Congress delegates at Fly lines are the best selection bait to prevent hooking or snagging Angling with live bait is as much the Congress Annual Meeting, it when using fly rods. It allows for the multiple logs or branches on the about the “feel” of the bite as it is would be forwarded to the DNR more efficient casting and natural bottom. The imbedded hook point the art of casting the line and place- and the Natural Resources Board drift of the bait. will have little to no affect with the ment of the bait. After casting, the for consideration. If approved, it Monofilament or other synthetic hooking efficiency when a fish picks rod should be held tip high and the could take up to three years to im- lines are best with spinning rods. up the bait. reel slowly spun to take up line as plement as a rule. Synthetic lines offer smaller diame- the bait is retrieved along the bot- Right now we lack scientific evi- ter and less drag or resistance in the tom to keep enough tension to im- Bait selection dence as to mortality differences be- water when quick drop of bait into mediately feel any bite. With a tween methods of trout fishing. deeper holes or wide sweeping The norm for bait fishing for downstream drift along an undercut Regardless of our fishing methods, bends is the preferred fishing habi- trout is the use of night crawlers or bank, let the line out slowly, allow- there are things we can do to reduce tat. earthworms. However, small leach- ing the bait to drift naturally along mortality of hooked fish. How we Line weight is a factor as well. es, small minnows, crickets, grass- the undercut, but keeping enough play our fish and techniques for re- Lighter weight line offers better bait hoppers, wax worms, wigglers and tension on the line to feel the bite. lease can reduce mortality. presentation. Hook loss through many other types of bait are very ef- In either case, the tapping felt on If you have information for re- snagging will definitely increase fective. Even whole kernel corn or the line as the trout attacks the of- ducing trout mortality when bait with the use of the lighter line. Of- small marshmallows have been used fered bait is the time to set the fishing, spin fishing or fly fishing, ten snags can be pulled loose and effectively. Trout are generally very hook. You can successfully fish with please send them to the editor and the hook retrieved when using voracious predators, and they prey live bait and lip-hook nearly 95 per- we’ll share them with all TU mem- heavier breaking strength line. upon a wide variety of species. cent of the fish that bite. I can’t re- bers.

REPORT, from page 7 stream from Church Road down- the Church Road Bridge and found dead fish that were on the bottom of stream to the spring. The water clar- one more trout. I then walked from the stream and then recover them Jean Unmuth, and Gene Van Dyck ity was about five inches at this time. Doc Smith confluence downstream downstream with a seine. Many of as to the location of the fish. It It was evident by the manure on the to the first County Highway Q the holes and pools in this section should be noted that the water clari- banks that the water level had risen bridge and did not observe any more were too deep to wade. The staff re- ty was extremely poor again, with a and receded during the day and dead fish. The water clarity was still covered about 25 dead trout be- visibility of only about 1-2 inches. It night before. I did observe three only about 5 inches. Gene picked tween the Castle Rock Spring and should also be noted that James more dead trout in the same pool me up at the bridge and we drove Confluence with Doc Smith Branch. Romberg and I turned over a couple above the spring and collected back to Mike Graves farm road I walked upstream to the Church of rocks about 200 yards down- these. I continued walking down- bridge where I took a water sample Road bridge, but did not observe stream from the spring and did ob- stream and did observe and collect to test for ammonia with an aquari- any more fish. Gene Van Dyck and I serve a few aquatic insect larvae still one more brown trout between the um test kit. The ammonia level then went to the third bridge down- alive as well as several small leeches Castle Rock Spring and Mike showed .25, which was considered stream on County Highway Q, and attached to the underside of the Graves farm road bridge. “safe.” walked upstream to the middle rocks. Gene had walked the section be- On Monday, February 22 I ac- County Highway Q bridge and did On Sunday, February 21 at about tween the farm road bridge and the companied DNR fisheries staff as not observe any fish, alive or dead. 9:45 a.m. I asked Gene Van Dyck if confluence with Doc Smith Branch they attempted to recover more Water clarity was about 6-8 inches at he would like some help surveying and had found three more trout. dead trout on Castle Rock Creek. this time. The other fisheries staff for more dead trout, and he accept- Gene then walked on the east bank Staff were wading in the holes with had surveyed the upstream sections ed. I walked the section of the of the Castle Rock Creek back to poles and attempting to dislodge of the stream in the same manner. Spring 2016 Wisconsin Trout Page 11 Story of a lifelong spinner fisherman Part 1: Discovery

years.” This is when I tested and take his son out on his first run that learned about gear, as well as learn- it dawned on me. I told him I would ing how to read water. I was after as be honered. This is why I got in- much input as I could gather. It’s volved with the youth camp. during this period that I really Mike Stary started trout fishing in learned what the sport was all 1974 but it wasn’t until he moved about. back from California in 1994 that he Part 3 is the final (and still ongo- really got into it. He started scouting ing) stage. I refer to it as the “giving and fishing all the rivers and streams back stage.” It began when, unbe- near his house, sneaking away as of- knownst to me, I was teaching less ten as he could, which he still does. experienced stream fisherman how He joined TU in the late 1990’s, but to fish. It wasn’t with intent, as I was not very active until he heard would merely observe, then make about the WITU Youth Fishing suggestions to help them catch more Camp. This year will be his third at fish. It wasn’t until many years later camp, he plans to “amp up” the spin-

Mike Stary when one of the original members ner presentation this year to really get of our fishing group asked me to the kids into it. ENJOYING SOME EARLY SEASON SPINNER FISHING Matt Stary, brother of author Mike Stary, stalking trout with a spinning rod during the early season.

By Mike Stary That’s all it took, and the very next weekend we loaded up our gear and During nearly half a century of headed up to the K.O.A. camp- trout fishing I have realized that my ground on Cranberry Lake. trout story falls into three distinct It was a lean trip, with just the periods. The first was the “discovery basics. After all, we were high period: my first experience wading school kids making $1.60/hour. for trout.” The second I refer to as Camp was sparse but efficient. Pete “the learning years,” and the third, and I were both in the scouts, so and still current, would be the “giv- camping was natural for us. Food ing back” phase. In the following ar- planning, on the other hand, was ticles I will attempt to describe to not so natural. Armed with a loaf of you what a blissful experience white bread and a jumbo pack of stream fishing can be, particularly bologna, we figured we had it spin fishing for trout. So let’s get licked. Wrong. After about six started with the discovery period. straight meals of that, we were A BEAUTIFUL SPINNER-CAUGHT BROWN TROUT Many people are surprised when ready for some hot and fresh meat. I tell them I spin fish for trout in riv- We actually built a crude box trap ers and streams. “I thought you and tried catching the camp chip- used a fly rod for fishing trout,” they munks. Right!? But we still had the ask. And although flyfishing is the fishing, and that’s why we were purest and a widely accepted meth- there. od, it is by no means the only way. The first day out was a mixed When it comes to trout fishing, feel bag. After studying the map, we de- free to try flyfishing, spinner fishing cided on a starting point, parked the and live bait fishing. The common car and jumped in the river a ways denominator between them all is downstream. The going was tough obvious: They all lead to catching at times, and fishing was hit or miss. trout! It wasn’t until we were about 100 yards down river from our car that Zebcos and worms we hit the jackpot! We both had our limit in short order; no bologna for Like a lot of you, I started fishing dinner tonight! at a young age. Growing up in Wis- Needless to say, we knew where consin, a child is never far from to start fishing the next day. It al- some source of water, be it a stream, most seemed too easy! Again, we pond or lake. All you needed was both had our limits early, but we your trusty Zebco 202, a hook, a were by no means ready to quit. couple of sinkers and a can of The highlight of the trip for me worms. was also the lowlight. Most of the The night before we would get fish we were catching were in the 7- out the flashlight and garden hose, 10 inch range, which were nice eat- and go nightcrawler hunting under ers, but nothing to brag about. So the moonlight. The following morn- when this middle-teen-class brown ing on the way to the river we would darted out from under the bank and stop by the local grocery store and slammed my Little Cleo, I got real ask the meat manager if he had an excited! That excitement shortly old liver. When we got to the river turned to disappointment as I we would bait up, cast our lines and watched that fish swim away with wait. While we were waiting on the my lure in tow. The big fish of the next bite, we would tie a piece of liv- weekend had just snapped my line er on a string and fish for crayfish and stole my lure. That was the end next to the fallen trees. We would of 2-pound test line for me. bring them up and collect them in a But just seeing that fish attack coffee can punched with holes. On a my lure made the whole trip worth- good day we would catch half a doz- while, and solidified my love of the en bullheads, and if we were really sport. There’s just something differ- lucky, a carp. ent about being embedded in the el- As fond as those memories are, it ement that separates wading for Gear up with Fontana Sports for your spring Trout wasn’t until I strapped on a pair of trout from all other types of fishing. and Steelhead adventures. waders and got busy in a trout So when people ask me why I stream that I really fell in love with spin fish for trout, I tell them this, the sport. “Because it’s the way I started and I never lost the passion for it.” So un- First road trip for trout til next time, spin early and spin of- My first real trout-fishing trip ten! was in 1974, and my best friend Pete and I heard they were biting on the Two future segments Deerskin River up in Vilas County. Part 2 will be about the “learning Page 12 Wisconsin Trout Spring 2016 DNR ramping up State land sales update By Mike Stapleton, WITU Legislative Committee easement purchases Since the time of the 2015 release of a list of state owned lands to be con- By Lisa Gaumnitz mation that would help them considered for sale as required by provisions of 2013 Wisconsin Act 20, the bien- tact landowners and move toward nial budget bill, Wisconsin TU members have been tracking this process Kurt Welke has lifted hundreds successfully securing easements closely, discussing it at chapter meetings, contacting local and central office of fish nets and fin-clipped thou- from willing parties. DNR staff, and contacting their legislators. sands of fish in his 15 years as the “We used to create a list of eli- The inclusion of numerous spring pond properties in Langlade and other lead state biologist working to im- gible waters, then groups would counties was the main eye-opener for our members, although a number of prove fishing in Dane County. come in to apply. Now, we’re out other properties involving important coldwater resources also drew atten- Now on the cusp of retirement, approaching them and deliberately tion. Welke is harnessing modern tech- focusing on where we think the pri- Throughout the fall, many of our members debated, made calls, wrote nology, Knowles Nelson Steward- orities are,” Cunningham said. letters, and participated in an email campaign to save as many of those par- ship Program funding and kitchen “Our fish biologists are able to cels as possible, as they anxiously awaited the completion of DNR field re- table diplomacy to make the big- track hundreds and hundreds of views and the release of department recommendations for the parcels of gest difference yet for anglers, now landowners in the negotiation pro- concern to us. and in the future. cess.” The list of properties with department recommendations became avail- He’s reeling in private landown- The effort is focused on three able on the DNR web page in early February. On February 6, Paul Cunning- ers willing to agree to conservation primary geographic areas: trout ham of the DNR provided WITU with an update at the State Council easements that pay them to allow and smallmouth bass streams of the meeting in Oshkosh, by which time it was known that the department would anglers to access trout streams on Driftless Area, the Northern Ket- be recommending retention of the spring pond properties and some others their land, while protecting stream- tles, and trout streams of northeast containing stream frontage. He provided a summary of lands proposed for side buffers important to keeping Wisconsin. sale, retention and holdover for further study. the water clean and the trout popu- In the current fiscal year the While advising us that the process will get more difficult as it enters Phase lations healthy. DNR plans to allocate up to $2.2 3, Cunningham also advised us that the NRB had the ability to change the “This is the most important and million in treambank easements. recommendations, put lands up for sale to the public rather than govern- rewarding thing I’ve done in the Since mid-September of 2015, fish- ment units, and modify proposed conditions of sale. last 15 years of my career,” Welke eries staff and land agents have Phase 1 of this process, which did not involve as much potential impact to says. been addressing the backlog of coldwater resources as the current Phase 2, is now at the point where some When the 2013-2015 state bud- streambank landowners who earlier sales are being finalized. Cunningham provided an update on those sales, get reduced Knowles Nelson Stew- expressed interest. Here staff are and in early March the figures were posted on the Land Sales web page. ardship funding overall and focusing on important recreational The Natural Resources Board met in Madison on February 24 to review stipulated that two-thirds be spent angling opportunities, parking ar- and act on the department's Phase 2 recommendations. Doug Haag, deputy on conservation easements, Paul eas, walk-in corridors and blocking director of the Bureau of Lands and Facilities, briefed the board about the Cunningham and other DNR staff to existing easements. Additional- status of completed sales from Phase 1, and summarized by category the de- involved in the longstanding ly, DNR staff now have the North- partment recommendations for Phase 2. streambank protection program east Stream Team up and running. During the public comment period, Duke Welter presented his request to went to work. The table is an update summary the Board for the retention of two parcels on Elk Creek in Dunn and Eau They wanted to maximize the of landowners who have signed ap- Claire Counties. The property contains a half mile of stream frontage, and Stewardship funding available for plications for the period from May he believed that building sites were present that, if used, had potential to streambank protection and access. 2014 through February 5, 2016. cause damage to the creek. They streamlined the identifica- Note: DNR staff are working with Although the property is landlocked, Welter stated his belief that the tion, appraisal and acquisition pro- many additional interested land- presence of building sites made it likely that access to them would eventually cesses and created databases owners who are considering sub- be provided by a new owner so that building construction could occur. The allowing biologists to easily track mitting an application. board, however, declined to change the department recommendation, which and display on digital maps infor- was to offer the property for sale to adjoining property owners with the department obtaining a stream bank easement as part of the sale. George Meyer of the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation also addressed the board, first by stating his opposition to the sale of any property with water frontage, but in particular requesting retention of a 464-acre parcel in Forest County, which contains several tributaries to the Peshtigo River and which Meyer described as being “water rich.” The department recommendation was to offer it for sale to adjoining property owners (one of which is Forest County). In later deliberations, the Board voted to offer it to the county, and if the county does not buy it to hold it over for further study. Following deliberations and several minor changes to department recommendations, the NRB adopted the following recommendations: 24 parcels, totaling 2,805 acres, will be offered for sale to municipalities and tribal nations; 33 parcels, totaling 2,004 acres, will be offered for sale only to adjoining property owners; 24 parcels, totaling 824 acres, will be offered for sale through a public bid- ding process; 35 parcels, totaling 1,632 acres, will be retained by the department; and, 32 parcels, totaling 2,195 acres, will be held for further study in Phase 3. Where parcels approved for sale have frontage on trout streams, the recommendations include obtaining a stream bank easement at the time of sale. According to the above figures, recently posted on the DNR’s Land Sales web page, the total amount of land approved for sale by the NRB in Phases 1 and 2 comes to 103 parcels containing 7,040 acres. The lands being held over for further study, even if all of it is offered for sale, which is not likely, will not by itself enable the department to reach the statutorily mandated amount of 10,000 acres that must be offered for sale by the June, 2017 deadline. In recognition of this, Cunningham said the department would soon begin a new search of their landholdings in order to find and evaluate additional eligible lands that would allow them to meet the required 10,000-acre MIKE’S total. Phase 3 will not just consist of lands held over from Phase 2. He em- phasized that the statute requires that lands be offered for sale, not that such SERVICE an amount must actually be sold. He also said that the plan for Phase 3 is to conduct field reviews this sum- AT LANGLADE mer, formulate department recommendations by August, and present those JUNCTION OF HWY. 55 AND 64 recommendations to the NRB at their September 2016 meeting. FLY SHOP AUTO REPAIR Cunningham also made it clear that contacts from TU members during this process have far outnumbered those from other constituencies, and that our involvement has had a definite impact on department recommendations. Fly Shop & Sporting Goods WITU thanks those who took the time to research this issue, involve themselves in chapter discussions, contact DNR staff and their legislators through Need a special pattern? Ask Mike! letters, calls and emails. Your efforts enabled us to impact this process in a manner that saved many important properties for continued public use and • Custom Tied Flies • coldwater resource protection. It was previously reported that Rep. Mark Spreitzer, D-Beloit, had introduced AB 499, which would repeal the statutory provisions that gave rise to MICHAEL & (715) 882-8901 the current land sale process. AB 499 did not receive a public hearing and ALICE KLIMOSKI 4505 STATE ROAD 55 the legislative session has ended. Owners WHITE LAKE, WISCONSIN 54491 Wisconsin TU members should continue following the process, as Phase 3 is just around the corner. There will likely be properties under consider- Spring 2016 Wisconsin Trout Page 13 Chapters, council pitching in to “reconnect” the Hunting and Wolf rivers

By Linn Beck, Council Chair Mike Miller from the DNR recently contacted me about the Hunting River roadway crossing in the Langlade County Township of Elcho, on Fitzgerald Dam Road. This crossing currently has four culverts through which the river flows. The culverts are undersized for the flow volume and create a water-velocity barrier for upstream movement of fish and other aquatic and amphibious life. It is essentially a barrier between the Wolf and Hunting rivers. The flow velocity measured in the culverts is above three feet per second, which is faster than the sustained swim speeds of many fish species, with fish size also being a factor. The roadway and culverts are approaching the point where they need to be replaced, and recent state legislation now allows the responsible party, in this case the Town of Elcho, the ability to replace “in-kind” the current structure. DNR staff are concerned that the township will again install a se- ries of undersized culverts to minimize costs. It is estimated that installing a crossing that will not be a barrier to aquatic life will cost $65,000. Jon Simonsen, a DNR staff person in the Rhinelander office who works on various road and stream issues, contacted the township to see if it would be interested in writing a River Management Grant proposal. The DNR’s River Management Grant Program provides financial support to various en- tities to fund river restoration efforts. Grants can be up to $50,000 and the township has submitted a grant request for the monies to help offset the cost of repairing this crossing the proper way. As of now we do not know the out- come of the grant request. As part of the grant ranking, having partners that contribute funds or labor to projects increases the rank of projects. RECONNECTING THE HUNTING RIVER IN LANGLADE COUNTY This is where TU comes in. The Council asked chapters in its Northeast This crossing on Fitzgerald Dam Road currently has four culverts through Region to see if there were any contingency funds available. The group had which the river flows. The culverts are undersized for the flow volume and just held its funding meeting in December, and the chapters agreed to pool their resources to fund requests from various agencies. Unfortunately, there create a water-velocity barrier for upstream movement of fish and aquatic and weren’t a lot of funds available. The State Council and the Wild Rivers amphibious life. It is essentially a barrier between the Wolf and Hunting rivers. Chapter each contributed $1,000, and the Marinette Chapter contributed $500. The rest of the chapters in the region have pledged their support in by Wisconsin Great Lakes Stream Restoration Manager Laura MacFarland the form of volunteer labor for work days on the project. and Wisconsin Great Lakes Restoration Specialist Greg Orum. Mike Miller also will be meeting with DNR fisheries staff who manage Jon Simonsen, Jim Klosiewski and Mike Miller also met with Chin Wu, a trout stamp funds to seek as many partners as possible for this project. Ac- hydrology and environmental engineering professor from UW-Madison. cording to Mike, Dave Seibel sees value in the project and may have trout They collected data on this crossing in December. Wu hopes to have one of stamp funds he can allot for this project. The township as of this writing had his students develop several design scenarios for this crossing. Perhaps more submitted a grant request for the monies to help offset the cost of repairing importantly, he would like to develop assessment tools that local govern- this crossing the proper way, but as of now there wasn’t any word on the out- ments and others can use to identify crossings that are barriers, and develop come of the grant. tools to help with restoration/retrofitting. So if this pilot project for UW goes This project would be directly in line with the mission of the new TU well, one of the outcomes of this project would have implications and appli- workgroup that has been hired in the northeast part of the state, headed up cations well beyond this one crossing. Reconnecting brook trout habitat in the National Forest

By Laura MacFarland, TU Great as well as refuge from flood events Lakes Stream Restoration Manager and rising temperatures. This coming field season we will As was mentioned in the last is- be assisting the USFS to replace sue of Wisconsin Trout, TU Nation- several culverts by providing finan- al has hired two full-time staff to cial and technical support. I will also assist in reconnecting brook trout be coordinating the inventory and habitat in northeast Wisconsin. assessment of hundreds of addition- Greg Orum, TU’s stream restora- al road crossings throughout the Ni- tion specialist, and myself will be colet National Forest. This working closely with our many assessment will help to prioritize agency partners and Wisconsin our efforts in the future, enabling us TU’s northeast regional chapters to to make the most of our limited re- fund, design and implement resto- sources and raise additional fund- ration projects throughout the Ni- ing. colet National Forest. I have already experienced what Here in northern Wisconsin, an invaluable resource our local TU thousands of inadequate road leaders and volunteers are when it stream crossings prohibit trout and comes to identifying priorities. I’ll other aquatic organisms from mi- be sure to continue to seek your in- grating between critical habitats. put and assistance in the field when For example, a 2008 study dis- such opportunities arise. If you have covered that 67 percent of the 169 any questions or comments, please road crossings in the Pine-Popple feel free to contact me at lmacfar- watersheds pose some sort of barri- [email protected] or 715-401-0499. I RECONNECTING PESHTIGO RIVER TRIBUTARY: ARMSTRONG CREEK er to fish movement. look forward to continuing to work An important word in the TU mission is “Reconnect.” Now there is staff in The large majority of these barri- with you as this initiative gets roll- place to pursue more such reconnection projects in the Nicolet National Forest. ers are culverts on small headwater ing. streams which are extremely impor- This summer TU staff will help the USFS replace these perched culverts on tant rearing grounds for young fish, Armstrong Creek, a tributary to the Upper Peshtigo River. Support Wisconsin TU! Get your Wisconsin TU license plates! Support TU and get your Wisconsin TU license plate now. Go to www.dot.state.wi.us/ drivers/vehicles/personal/ special/trout.htm Page 14 Wisconsin Trout Spring 2016 Chapter News

the leftover costs on the Kilen Proj- TUDARE’s 10-year history plus ect on the West Fork of the Kicka- various new stream restoration poo River, above Avalanche. The methods, personal reminiscences, project, in an easement held by the and the advice to keep a journal. DNR, was completed in 2015, with Missing, of course, was any mention major funding from NRCS and of his favorite trout stream. TUDARE. Our annual Spring Banquet is On two different weekends in Monday, April 25. It will be held January and February five chapter again at the Pontiac Convention members including Bud Hilgen- Center in Janesville, which is just off dorf, Ron Machajewski, Dave Pat- I-39 at Exit 171B. Tickets, including rick, Don Studt and Harley Whitt dinner, bucket raffle and watercraft popped into the Orvis & Cabela’s raffle tickets, and door prizes, are stores in Madison and gave fly-tying $50 each or two for $90. Doors open demonstrations, which were well re- at 6 p.m. and we try to finish by 10 ceived. p.m. Please come on down south for Also well received was Duke the evening! Welter’s presentation at our Febru- —Dave Hinde ary meeting. Duke shared with us Scott Allen

ALDO LEOPOLD CHAPTER’S TIC CLASS These Reedsburg fifth graders were excited to visit the Nevin Fish Hatchery in Madison. Now they’re keeping a close eye on their rainbow fry. Aldo Leopold Chapter

The Aldo Leopold Chapter has to help us clear willow and return had a busy winter and early spring. this section of Tainter Creek to a Shaking off winter, the chapter com- fine brook trout stream. This event pleted its five-week introductory fly will also double as a camping and tying class at the Baraboo Public Li- fishing outing for each chapter. brary. Many of those students con- Camping will be at West Fork Sports tinued on to the Fly Fishing 101 Club in Avalanche. casting class held at the Barbaboo Other chapter work days include Civic Center, sponsored by Orvis- assisting DNR with tree planting at Madison and instructed by Tristan Rowan Creek Fishery Area on April Kloss, fishing manager at Orvis. Fif- 16 and continued brush control at teen prospective fly fishers, ages sev- Manley Creek in Sauk County on NEW FISHING RIGS FOR THESE AMBITIOUS TEENS en to seventy, attended, and left May 21. with both smiles and complimentary Tuesday, June 14 is the chapter Each year the Blackhawk Chapter presents rod & reel outfits to youth who TU memberships thanks to Orvis. picnic fundraiser at Habermann successfully complete its 10-week fly-tying class. From left to right are Ron Our Trout In the Classroom pro- Park in Lodi. In addition to raffle Machajewski, students Grant McMahon and Noah McMahon with their outfits, gram is swimming along in Reeds- and auction items, the event will and Don Studt. burg. The rainbow fry have settled have a “swap meet” for members to in to their new confines with zero sell their gently used fishing tackle, Central Wisconsin Chapter “floaters” for 60 days. The two par- clothing and accessories. Ten per- ticipating classrooms look forward cent or more of the sale will go to to a spring day when they will re- the chapter. Join the fun, make a lit- January and February are busy There is a materials fee for the lease the fish to a nearby brook. tle money and return home with months for the Central Wisconsin course and at each two-hour session The chapter looks forward to re- some great deals. The picnic begins Chapter. During January and early they learn two or three patterns. turning to Tainter Creek in Vernon at 5 p.m., but show up a little early if February CWTU Masters Fly Tying Most consider the course fee a bar- County June 11 with our venerable you are bringing items to sell. meets weekly on Thursday evenings. gain when you consider the cost to sidekick Southeastern Wisconsin The chapter welcomes Dan This group meets to learn and tie try a new pattern on your own. Chapter. This work day was origi- Braun of rural Baraboo as our inter- new fly patterns from an “instructor Members can participate in a fly ex- nally scheduled at Little Willow net manager and Bob Moss of Pard- of the week.” And while we do have change if they want. The flies are Creek in Richland County, but was eeville as our membership chair. some “Master” fly tyers in the mounted on foam boards with each relocated due to a change in the Dan and Bob have already made big group, many, including myself, are fly named and the name of the tyer. habitat improvement plan by DNR. contributions to the chapter in their intermediate tyers who enjoy fly ty- The group makes up a couple extra Joining us this year will be the Cou- short tenure. ing and want to improve our skills. of these for fundraising. The men lee Region and Blackhawk chapters —Scott Allen To fill the classroom at Win- and women of Masters Fly Tying are neconne High School, members of the “go-to” group when there is a Antigo Chapter area TU chapters join us. This year, need for fly tying education or do- along with usual variety of flies, we nated flies. also tied a Muskie fly and spray- TroutFest, our winter show, held We at Antigo TU are very busy We’ll have more information on that painted poppers with a Copic mark- in February at the Fin N’ Feather in setting up and getting ready for our sooon. er system. Wisconsin regional tyers Winneconne, is the largest CWTU 34th annual fundraising banquet We are looking forward to work- and guides are often the instructors, community outreach program of the Saturday, April 2 at Northstar Ban- ing with Dave Siebel, our area fish along with members of the group. year. The primary goal is not fund- quet Center. We hope to have a manger, to help us with paperwork great turnout, with many great do- and easements so we can dredge the nations and prizes. Banquet income Mayking Flowage in 2017. We are will fund our projects and efforts for hoping this will happen. 2016. Think spring and let’s hope we We will also start planning our get some rain for this coming kid's fishing day, which is Saturday, summer. Think coldwater fishing! June 4 at Antigo City Park. —Scott Henricks We are still working on setting up a fishing day for disabled veterans. Blackhawk Chapter

The chapter has lined up at least Creek under Paul Krahn’s leader- four workdays for 2016. On May 9 ship. we will have our annual work day In addition, there are potential with the Project Green Teen group workdays in the planning stage, in- from the Shabazz High School in volving SEWTU in their “Home Madison, along Weister Creek. In Waters” of Whitewater and Bluff June we’ll be working with a number Creeks. If all of them materialize, of chapters on Tainter Creek. Later we’re going to be pretty busy this Dretto San Mike in the summer we will work with the year. Coulee Chapter on Spring Coulee In January the chapter approved CWTU’S TROUTFEST IS A POPULAR ANNUAL EVENT Creek, followed by a day on Otter the expenditure of $1,100 to cover Tracy Moran (left) and Brad Magalski talk fly tying at TroutFest Spring 2016 Wisconsin Trout Page 15 Chapter News raising. Admission is free. We want ley TU’s Cabin Fever Day and people to come, learn, see and have joined Fox Valley TU and Green a good time. There are a few raffles Bay TU at the Northeast Sport Fish- which pays the rent and covers the ing Show in Oshkosh. cost of lunch for the speakers and This time of year we want to let the demonstration fly tyers. people know about our Annual Fly Youth fly tying is a big draw. Kids Fishing School now in its 39th year. can tie flies with parents nearby tak- If you know someone who wants to ing in the show. This year teen tyers learn or improve their fly fishing, participated in teaching kids, a good save the weekend of June 4-5. It is experience for both age groups. held along an absolutely inspiration- Displays of CWTU steam resto- al stretch of the Tomorrow River, at ration work and River Keeper the Riverside Bible Camp in Am- stream monitoring let people learn herst. On Saturday we cover the es- NEW BOOTH FOR FOX VALLEY CHAPTER about the work we do. Again we had sentials of trout and fishing, with Cabin Fever Day 2016 featured new booth, manned by Tony Garvey and Jen a great group of fly tyers tying a plenty of time for fly casting. Sunday wide variety of patterns. For pro- morning the students are matched Erickson. Photo by Tom Lager. grams we have mini seminars every up with experienced fly fishers for a Fox Valley Chapter half hour covering a wide variety of half day of fishing. Graduates of the fishing related topics. The list of school tell us the river is the best CWTU volunteers, presenters, dis- and most enjoyable classroom of all. We had a successful fifteenth an- planned for this summer and into plays and vendors is too long to For more information check out nual Cabin Fever Day in January. the future. Our March meeting and mention and thank individually. The www.cwtu.org or contact Dan at The chapter thanks all of the ven- presentation by chapter member best news for CWTU is 13 people 920-235-1761 or Russ at 715-824- dors, fly tyers and presenters, in- Steve Heuser entitled “Fly Fishing who walked in the door that day de- 3781 or [email protected]. cluding Dan Geddes, Matt Sment, New Zealand and other Adven- cided to join Trout Unlimited! —Mike San Dretto and Bob Haase. Thanks go out to tures.” Our chapter meetings are CWTU participated in Fox Val- Scott Grady for donating his hand- held at The Capitol Centre on the made cane rod, and to chapter vol- north side of Appleton. unteers, and most importantly those Roger Genske and Don Clouthi- Coulee Region Chapter individuals who attended the event. er are planning our second annual There were people from Michigan, fishing trip to southwest Wisconsin We had more than 100 attendees Jeremy Southworth was our fea- Minnesota, Illinois and Wisconsin. from April 14-17. Fish, dine, fish, at the Cedar Creek Country Club in tured presenter, sharing information Norm Christnacht, Al Johnson, Tom learn, fish and camp for one or all Onalaska in February for an evening about Reel Recovery, which pro- Lager, Joe Bach, Chuck Knoeck and four days. Details about the trip will of fish talk, camaraderie, good food vides fly fishing retreats for men liv- Optima Graphics did a fantastic job be online and on our Facebook and time dedicated to coldwater ing with cancer. There will be a Reel of making sure that the event was page. protection. Thanks to Mat and Geri Recovery event in southwest Wis- successful. Our chapter habitat days for this Wagner of the Driftless Angler fly consin in September 2016. Find Thanks to all of these individu- year begin April 16, and as we have shop for donating our grand door more details as they develop at the als, we raised $9,000 for coldwater done for many years, we will meet prize, a Simms chest pack full of CRTU website at couleeregion- fisheries. We are in the planning with Elward Engle on the Davies gear. Rick Kyte’s custom-made 6’6” tu.org. Duke Welter will be our stages for next year’s event on Janu- Creek. The Davies Creek feeds the 2-weight rod was a very popular raf- speaker at our April 20 meeting and ary 14, 2017, and again at the Grand Pine River and this is the location of fle item. Many thanks to Moe will highlight what is happening with Meridian in Appleton. one of the chapter’s first habitat Amundson for selling out all of the TUDARE. TUDARE and other Our January chapter meeting projects. Our May-through-Septem- GoPro raffle tickets. conservation organizations in the ar- was a presentation by Chef John ber habitat days will be joint efforts Virg Beck was also on hand to ea have been very successful lately Balistrieri and several students at with CWTU. All of these habitat paint a custom piece of art, which with finding grant dollars that will Fox Valley Technical College. Our days will be the third Saturday of went to lucky winner 12-year-old protect and improve Driftless-area chapter records indicate that this the month, with the possibility of a Gavin Southworth of Onalaska. As watersheds. was either the 26th or 27th annual couple of additional days added to the winner of the painting, Gavin We have a couple work days presentation by the students from the schedule. Monitor our website got to choose a featured fly for the planned for this spring. On May 14 the Culinary Arts program at FVTC for information. painting and he made a great choice we will be working with the Black- to the FVTU chapter. Chef John On May 21 we are sponsoring with a pink squirrel. hawk TU chapter and Mike Leon- and the students prepared a number the 38th annual Fishing Day for Our featured speakers for the ard of the DNR to build LUNKER of specialties using everyone’s People with Disabilities at a new lo- evening were Jordan Weeks, DNR structures on Spring Coulee Creek. campfire favorite – Pudgy Pie Irons. cation. We have partnered with the fisheries biologist, and Duke Welter, Work begins at 9 a.m. and CRTU Topping everything off was a desert Appleton YMCA and we will be us- representing TUDARE. Jordan will provide lunch. On June 11 we of Pudgy Pie Smores. While we were ing their Camp Shioc Pond for our highlighted some of the changes for will work with the Aldo Leopold and enjoying the meal, Tom Lager made fishing day. Check our Facebook the 2016 season and Duke explained SEWTU chapters to do brushing several presentations to various page for information. and praised all of the work in the work on Tainter Creek. Work begins chapter members and friends of the The chapter will be involved in Coulee Region that was benefitting at 9 a.m. and lunch is provided by chapter, thanking them for their on- other activities throughout the coldwater habitats. Many thanks to the SEWTU crew. Looking even going support of chapter activities. spring and summer months, so all of our CRTU members and further ahead, put July 23 on your A number of chapter members please check our website at foxval- friends for making the 2016 banquet calendar, as it’s the Trout Fest in attended the State Council annual leytu.org and our Facebook page, a great success. Coon Valley. meeting and banquet in Oshkosh which chapter member Jen Erickson At our March chapter meeting —Curt Rees February 6. Congratulations to Joe updates almost daily. Bach for receiving the Gold Net Old Man Winter is starting to Award from the State Council. The lose his grip on us so as you plan for FVTU chapter also received the Sil- the spring and summer that will ver Trout Award from the State come, enjoy the beauty of God’s Council. streams, creeks, rivers and lakes. Our February chapter meeting And as our late chapter president featured a presentation by Shawn Tony Treml would close his columns Sullivan regarding habitat work and comments, “We’ll see you on a completed by the DNR and TU in trout stream.” the Central Sands Region. Shawn —Rich Erickson also highlighted work that is being Frank Hornberg Chapter

During the month of February equipment are provided. We wel- the Hornberg Chapter concentrated come applications from fly fishers of on fly tying. We had a fly-tying eve- all levels. Information is available ning social event at Clancey’s Stone from Ken at Frankhorn- Lion in Custer. We had two fly-tying [email protected]. workshops for the Boy Scout Troop, We expect to have several work sponsored by the Methodist Church days during the summer. We will be in Stevens Point. The scouts earn making repairs to some structures

Jim Cox merit badges for their participation. installed years ago. We were happy to assist. —John Vollrath HAPPY YOUNGSTER WINS VIRG BECK CUSTOM TROUT PAINTING One of the chapter’s main events At a recent Coulee Chapter banquet, Virg Beck painted a custom piece of art, is the annual fly-fishing school May which went to lucky winner 12-year-old Gavin Southworth of Onalaska. 21 in Nelsonville, on the banks of the Tomorrow River. Lunch and Page 16 Wisconsin Trout Spring 2016 Chapter News

how his company started, his mer- other session of Project Healing chandise and what Spey fishing is all Waters. As we continue down this about. road we are seeing more veteran We participated in a couple com- participation. Regular GBTU mem- munity outreach events. In January bers at the meetings include Dani members Adrian Meseberg, Dave Long, Paul Kruse, Dave Ostanek Ostanek, Paul Kruse, Allan Jamir, and Mike Renish. Jerry Schwan and Mike Renish In February about 350 guests at- were joined by Jeff Deerberg, Ryan tended our 41st Annual Fundraising Nagel and Cabelas’ own Brian Banquet. A big thanks goes to ban- Mease for a fly-tying event at the quet chair Paul Kruse, the banquet Green Bay Cabelas’ store. In Febru- committee, our donors, guests, vol- ary we teamed with CWTU and the unteers and emcee Henry Koltz. FVTU for a fly-tying demo at the For more information on what Annual Fish Expo in Oshkosh. GBTU has going on, visit our web- Next, with the guidance of new site at greenbaytu.org. program chair Dani Long, several —Adrian Meseberg of our members continued onto an- Harry & Laura Nohr Chapter

Projects completed in the sum- Here are the organizations that mer of 2015 were on the upper helped make the fourth annual reaches of Six Mile Branch and on event a reality:

Dave Ostanek the Widerow property on the Blue Grant County Outdoor Sport Al- GREEN BAY TU TEACHES KIDS AT OSHKOSH FISHING EXPO River, about a quarter mile above liance (organizer); Southwest Wis- Adrian Meseberg and Mike Renish help a couple kids tie their first fly at the the Shemack Road bridge. consin Technical College Blue Line Projects for 2016 include Pom- Club, Auto Body Club, School Am- Oshkosh Fishing Expo in February. The chapter teamed up with the Central pey Pillar Creek, which was delayed bassadors, and the Marketing De- Wisconsin Chapter. from 2015 due to a permitting department; Wisconsin DNR lay. Also we’ll work on the Blue including experts in fish manage- River below Shemack Road and be- ment, forestry, hunter education, Green Bay Chapter low our last work there down to the conservation wardens, Nelson Dew- next road. The latter has very high ey State Park; Trout Unlimited; The Green Bay Chapter of Trout Snitgen spoke about efforts to im- banks and will require moving a lot Grant County 4-H Shooting Sports; Unlimited (GBTU) enjoyed a busy prove trout streams in Brown Coun- of dirt. This is the lowest area on River Valley Sporting Dogs; Cass- quarter. In January Oneida Nation ty. In February SpeyCo Co. owner the Blue River with access. ville High School; Platteville High Water Resource Supervisor Jim Tim Pantzlaff shared the story of A project for 2017 includes a School; Sheire Taxidermy; Cabe- new property on the Blue River la’s; Wisconsin Trapper's Associa- above Bower Road, for which we tion; Starsplitters; Patrick are getting a TU easement and are LaBarbera and his red-tailed hawk. starting the permitting process. We On February 17-18, there was a are also looking at a piece of ground large manure spill due to a failed with access on Borah Creek by Lan- coupling from a CAFO (Concen- caster. trated Animal Feed Operation) We had a very successful “Lie near the trout waters of the Castle and Tie” at Stonefield Apartments Rock Creek, which then ran down in January, tying flies for the State into the creek. Recovery may take Council banquet and the Women’s several years. Doc Smith branch was Initiative group. not affected. How far down the There was a Grant County creek was affected is not known at Sportsmen’s Youth Day at South- this time, but the normally fished west Technical College in Fenni- areas are definitely heavily impact- more, where we demonstrated fly ed. tying and taught basic casting. Our annual membership meet- Thanks to all those who participat- ing, tentatively scheduled in April at ed. Announcing this event on our UW-Platteville, will feature the Facebook page got lots of traffic, summer intern’s report and annual with about 450 attending. officer and board elections. Come Without the commitment of vol- to hear the great research that is do- unteer help, seminar speakers, the ne each summer on our local loan of hands-on equipment such as streams. furs, archery equipment, snowshoes, The chapter banquet is Friday, the laser shot trailer, BB guns, de- May 6 at the Arthur Haus in Ar- coys, calls, fishing rods, hunting thur, a few miles north of Platte- dogs, taxidermy mounts, etc. the ville. event would not have been possible. —Brian Larson Kiap-TU-Wish Chapter

This winter has been a busy sea- stretch which had been restored in son of planning and activity for Ki- 1999-2001. The work on Gilbert was ap-TU-Wish. The chapter has done in preparation for continued finished up winter brushing work restoration work this summer. Gil- and is awaiting the DNR crew to be- bert Creek is within the Clearwa- gin on the Kinni’s Red Cabin proj- ter’s Chapter area, but many Kiap ect. Two fly fishing educational members live close to the stream clinics are underway and a third and wanted to pitch in and help. As Trout In the Classroom program in past winter brushing efforts, Fair- was started in Kiap’s area. In addi- mont Santrol volunteers from tion to the project work and educa- Maiden Rock and Hager City spent tional activities, Kiap-TU-Wish has multiple work days on site to log been monitoring and providing and clear. feedback on the hydro-facility reli- At the Kinnickinnic River Red censing effort by the City of River Cabin project, approximately 25 Falls. loads of rock have been delivered in To d a t e , K i a p -T U -Wi s h h a s h e l d preparation for this summer’s work. KIAP-TU-WISH WORKS WITH GIRL SCOUTS more than 10 bushing sessions this Retired DNR habitat crew leader Girl Scout Juniors in Menomonie look at live insects and make observations of past winter. Approximately 45 vol- John Sours will be back this summer insects collected by two aquatic entomology/water resources graduate unteers have logged more than 700 and he and Rod Frederick will start students from the University of Minnesota. Kiap-TU-Wish and the Fly Fishing hours cutting, hauling and burning the heavy equipment work in May, Women of Minnesota organized the event. Volunteers had as much fun as the brush on Cady and Gilbert creeks. weather permitting. The work on Cady involved clearing Preliminary brushing work was kids, and plan to do it again. overgrown willows and brush from a completed in the winter of 2014 and Spring 2016 Wisconsin Trout Page 17 Chapter News work was planned for completion one of our local trout streams. time you heard of a dam of any kind through another tough winter. Ma- last summer, but heavy rains and In two of our TIC programs— being removed in Wisconsin, let ny trees and branches have fallen in- DNR project workloads delayed Hudson and Amery fifth-grade alone on a trout stream? This is to the river and will need to be progress. After road restrictions are classes—the eggs have hatched and without question due to the hard removed and cleaned up in the com- lifted this spring, the DNR crew will the fry are doing well. The Hudson work of Larry Doebert and John ing months. I have spoken with sev- remove the stumps and begin the re- class has already chosen a release Nelson, as without their efforts this eral fisherman and they have told construction with grading and place- date celebration on May 24 to re- would have been a much longer pro- me that some decent fish have been ment of rock. Randy Arnold, Kiap’s lease the trout into the Willow River cess. Also huge thanks to the DNR caught in the early season on a vari- volunteer coordinator, collected da- at Willow River State Park, com- and, of course, Camp Evelyn and to ety of nymphs and streamers. SEW- ta from every work day and has re- plete with a picnic and fly-casting all who were involved in this pro- TU is assisting us once again with ported that 70 volunteers from a demos from chapter members. In cess. It’s a major win for our local our Onion River work day on April number of organizations racked up another exciting development for trout streams. 23. We will meet on the County an impressive 1,100 hours in 2015. the kids, noted entomology profes- Lakeshore TU will allow the riv- Highway E bridge at 8 a.m. and di- At the Trimbelle River/Trudeau sor Dean Hansen is going to bring in er to find its natural course and, vide into several groups. For those project site, chapter member Dan live examples of aquatic bugs found with seeding and other minimal of you who do not know the Onion Wilcox worked with Caitlin Smith of in our area streams, and allow the work, hopefully our chapter will be River very well this is a prime time the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to kids to have hands-on experience able to start doing improvements in to get involved, do some work and purchase prairie seed with funding with them. Chapter members will as- early 2017. Keep tuned because the maybe even gain a little knowledge from a North American Wetlands sist Dean with his program. Finally, Mullet River could very soon be an- of this lovely stream. If you have any Conservation Grant. On March 7 Kiap-TU-Wish has helped fund and other viable fishing option to the questions, please call me. Randy Arnold, Caitlin Smith and start another TIC program this year: Onion River. —Gordy Martin Tom Schnadt spread the mix of prai- Steve Schieffer’s Amery High The Onion River has made it rie grass and forb seeds along the ri- School class. We welcome Steve’s in- parian corridor of the Trimbelle. volvement as we continue to expand Marinette County Chapter According to Caitlin, “The first year our TIC programs throughout our it sleeps, the second year it creeps, area. In February and March our ported in northeast Wisconsin and and the third year it leaps.” The City of River Falls is still chapter held our free, four-night highlighted our various programs We are going to conduct a fly- waiting on a ruling by the Federal trout-fishing class for eight people. throughout the year. A fly-tying fishing-for-trout clinic in River Falls Energy Regulatory Commission re- Topics included trout biology and demonstration was held and attend- on Saturday, June 4. The clinic will garding their appeal of the denial habitat, trout fishing equipment, fly ees were given the opportunity to tie teach casting, knots, entomology, for a project deadline extension for tying, and fly casting. Participants their own flies. About 280 people at- fishing strategy and safe water wad- the hydroelectric facility on the Kin- were able to practice their casts at tended this dinner. ing practices. The clinic will also in- ni. While waiting, the city sought our an indoor venue. We received sever- Dale Lange also gave a one-hour clude supper and guided fishing in chapter’s input on the sediment al positive comments on the pro- presentation on fly rods and fly the evening. Mike Alwin and Brian study results conducted by Inter- gram. lines. He spoke about different Smolinski are organizing the clinic. Fluve Inc. The chapter submitted In March our chapter had an in- weight rods to use for various fish In February a group of volun- comments in early February. The formational booth at a wild game species. teers from Kiap-TU-Wish and the city also is seeking input on their dinner at Faith Baptist Church in —Doug Erdmann Fly Fishing Women of Minnesota proposed Kinnickinnic River Corri- Peshtigo. We provided information held the first of two fly-fishing dor Study, which will solicit input on the projects that we have sup- events for a troop of Girl Scout Ju- from community members on the niors in Menomonie. At this first future use of the river through town. event, the all-female group of volun- This study will gauge community Northwoods Chapter teers played a stream game with the support for dam removal. girls to help them understand rivers, Chapter board member elections The February meeting was held annual membership to a nonmem- where fish live and what they need were held in March. Reelected to in Eagle River at Wild Eagle Lodge, ber attending the presentation. to survive. the board were Randy Arnold, Gary with about 15 members and guests Our March meeting featured a After a snack, during which the Horvath, John Kaplan and Greg Ol- eager to hear Larry Zibell present a documentary written and narrated girls decorated cookies to look like son. Two new board members were program entitled “Wisconsin's Wild by David James Duncan, entitled brook or brown or rainbow trout, elected, John Carlson and Scott Rivers, 50 years and Beyond.” “Trout Grass.” This unique film they watched a fly tying demonstra- Wagner. Thanks to retiring board Larry introduced us to the state- documents the transformation of tion and then tied their own woolly members Bob Diesch and Bob Trev- designated wild rivers, which are bamboo from a hardy species of buggers. The girls wrapped up their is for all of their contributions to Ki- near and dear to many of us in the grass into a meticulously crafted day by looking at live insects collect- ap-TU-Wish during their tenure. Northwoods. His presentation fea- split-cane fly rod. ed by two aquatic entomology/water Thanks to Mike Alwin, Randy tured the geological, economic and Our April 12 meeting will high- resources graduate students from Arnold, Greg Olson, Tom Schnadt political aspects of the three original light fishing kayaks and rigging your the University of Minnesota. The and Gary Horvath for their contri- “Wild Rivers, the Pine, Pike and boat for the new open-water fishing volunteers had as much fun as the butions to this chapter summary. Popple. In addition, Larry shared season. girls and are already planning the —Maria Manion outstanding features and facts that There will be summer stream second event: a day of fly fishing on make these rivers unique. He also work on Alvin Creek in the Nicolet- discussed river access and safety, Chequamegon National Forest west Lakeshore Chapter two challenges facing these rivers. of Eagle River. Larry is an avid canoeist and has We will host a kids fishing event served as a member of the Wild Riv- at trout ponds in Sayner. It’s official: The dam on the Mul- Evelyn is down! This is huge news ers Citizen Advisory committee for Our annual banquet is scheduled let River at the Girl Scout’s Camp on many levels. When was the last nearly 20 years. Door prizes includ- for September. ed a fly box with flies tied by mem- —Jay Joppa ber Terry Cummings and a free TU Oconto River Chapter

The chapter has added another available from Dan at 715-745-6969. school district to its Trout In the The chapter is seeking young Classroom program. With financial people from the Oconto River area help from the Green Bay Chapter, to attend the environmental camps Pulaski High School was added to offered by UW–Stevens Point. Vari- the TIC program. The “eyed” eggs ous camps for youth ages 7-15, are hatched in late November and stu- offered. An application is available dents are now seeing the progres- from Moni Brunner at 920-855- sion of the fry. Students at Gillett, 6669. Campers will be announced at Lena, Marion, Oconto, Oconto the chapter banquet on April 21. Falls, Pulaski and Suring School Youth can also apply for the WITU Districts are feeding the fish, clean- Fishing Camp to be held July 14-17. ing tanks and monitoring water con- A Summer Outreach Event for ditions as these fry grow through the youth and new members is in the school year. planning stage for later in the sum- The banquet committee is pre- mer. paring for the annual fundraising Plans are being made to partici- banquet April 28 at Romy’s Holiday pate in DNR and USFS work days Inn at Kelly Lake. Banquet Chair planned in our area. Members will Dan Sumnicht says prizes are al- work with the Green Bay and Wolf SHOWING HIS TYING SKILLS ready being accumulated. Letters River chapters placing brush bun- Twelve-year-old Kevin Strietzel of Pembine, Wisconsin, ties a zebra midge at will soon be sent to past banquet dles, rocks and logs to improve habi- Marinette County TU’s Wild Game Dinner in Peshtigo. participants. Ticket information is tat. Dates and work locations will be Page 18 Wisconsin Trout Spring 2016 Chapter News published in the chapter newsletter. held monthly, except May and No- Chapter members receiving vember, on the first Wednesday. awards for 2015 were Dan Sumnicht Meetings are held at the Lone Oak for Member of the Year and Monie Gun club just North of Gillett start- Brunner as Lady Trout Member or ing at 7 p.m. the Year. Our chapter meetings are —Tom Klatt Shaw-Paca Chapter

The ShawPaca Chapter is already Dorado in Bolivia to smallmouth out and enjoying this unseasonably bass on the lower-Wisconsin River. warm spring weather. Members Our primary focus now is the an- have been out trout fishing, shed nual spring banquet Thursday, April hunting, hiking and biking. Many 7. Once again, this will be held in streams in Shawano and Waupaca Marion at Northwinds Banquet Counties were free of ice in Febru- Hall. Tickets will be available at the ary and March. I remember a num- door or by emailing us at ShawPaca- ber of years ago trying to find open [email protected] water in mid-April and coming up Our last meeting for the spring empty handed, so this is definitely a season will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, much-welcomed treat. April 21 at Mathew’s Supper Club The winter months flew by this in Clintonville. If you have anything year and the ShawPaca Chapter en- you’d be willing to donate to our joyed some great presentations banquet or just want to come join from local fishing celebrities. We us, please feel free! had presenters come and talk to us —Nate Sipple on a variety of topics, from Golden Southeastern Wisconsin Chapter

The Southeast Wisconsin Chap- thanks for bringing the Fly Fishing ter of Trout Unlimited (SEWTU) Film Tour to Milwaukee again. This holds chapter meetings the fourth event, held at Sprecher Brewery, Tuesday of each month at Thunder has provided SEWTU with a won- Bay Grille in Pewaukee. Meetings derful evening of entertainment and begin at 7 p.m. but many members fundraising for several years. We arrive for an optional dinner and so- want to thank Pat for generously cial period that begins around 6 supporting SEWTU with this event. p.m. The meetings are open to the SEWTU members Kyle Klamer and public and include chapter updates Josh Radlein, along with Pat, did a and news, as well as guest speakers. wonderful job organizing, imple-

Please feel free to stop by and join menting, and coordinating all of the Ric Genthe us! activities associated with the event. Our recent guest speakers have Jim Weirzba coordinated the raffle SWTU’S ICEBREAKER FEATURED FUN FOR ALL been entertaining and informative. events, and Stan Strelka and Jason Kids have fun poking around with invertebrates gathered and displayed by the Our January guest was Erik Helm Freund also helped everything run from the Orvis shop in Bayshore smoothly. DNR’s Mike Miller. Mall. Erik, who writes a blog titled Also, between March 2-6 Jim The Classical Angler, shared a very Folda, Jay Zawerschnik and Stan Southern Wisconsin Chapter poetic and insightful essay he wrote Strelka did a great job coordinating, about how special it is fishing setting up and running the SEWTU SWTU started 2016 as it does ev- very new permanent easements. “home water.” After the reading, booth at the Milwaukee Journal ery year, with the Icebreaker event! Find details in the Newscasts or on Erik discussed fishing for trout in Sentinel Sport Show. Chuck Beeler, It’s our largest fundraiser and it was the calendar at swtu.org. We’d be brushy places that are often neglect- who normally coordinates this event definitely one to remember! For proud to have anyone attend an ed. for SEWTU, was out of town this one thing, it was our first year at our event and lend a hand. It’s a lot of Our February meeting was year. But he took care of the prelim- new location, the American Family fun and you may well find a few new “Night of the Streamer,” and speak- inary planning. Insurance headquarters. For anoth- stretches to drift a fly through. ers were SEWTU members Jason The MJS Sport Show is a great er, Jeff Currier, our speaker, won Our annual Free Casting Clinic Fr e u n d a n d Ta y l o r To d d . J a s o n e x - opportunity to share the mission the praise of all with his friendly na- is set for Saturday, April 16 along plained the biology, identification and goals of SEWTU to a larger au- ture, fine fishing tips and engaging Black Earth Creek in Cross Plains. and habits of common baitfish. Tay- dience. anecdotes. We had plenty of room The event is being run by Matt lor, a licensed Montana fishing The following SEWTU mem- for fly-tying demonstrations, aquat- Sment this year and anyone is wel- guide, discussed the strategies, tac- bers volunteered to help: Logan ic invertebrates, conservation part- come to come learn about casting, tics and equipment for fishing Ambrookian, Roger Bell, Ben ners, stream explorers and more. reading the water, fishing gear and streamers. In addition, several Cheesman, Al Dalphonso, Bob Est- A thousand thanks to Amy Klus- more. members demonstrated tying lund, Todd Eddington, Tim Fuller, meier! She did an amazing job man- We are excited about 2016 and streamers prior to the meeting. In John Koivisto, Rick Larkin, Herb aging the Icebreaker and we’re all all that lays ahead: The fish; the March, Pat Ehlers of The Fly Fish- Oechler, Tony Olveda, Chuck Ur- looking so forward to what she and friendship; the ways large and small ers, discussed largemouth bass fish- ban, Dale Warwick, Barry Wichman her volunteer team do with next that we’ll make a difference for ing. and Dave Wunrow. Thanks, every- year’s event. We’ll have news to each other and for our coldwater re- SEWTU continues to be active in one! share soon on the speaker for next source. Learn more by checking out outreach programs, particularly fly- Now that spring is here, SEWTU year’s Icebreaker. our newsletter and online chapter tying opportunities. The Oak Creek activities such as workdays and out- Jim Hess is busy assembling the calendar at swtu.org. You can also Fly Tying group, led by Greg Schick, reach programs will increase. On “SWTU Stream Team” to make a find and like us on Facebook. continues to meet on the first and Saturday, April 23 we will be partici- difference along some key local —Drew Kesel third Tuesday of each month. This pating in the River Clean-up at the trout waters, including some with year the group is tying patterns that Menominee River near Miller Park. follow the seasonal hatches in Wis- We will also be assisting the Kid’s Wild Rivers Chapter consin. Fishing Clinic in West Bend on SEWTU members also orga- April 3. Rick Frye organizes both of Wild Rivers chapter has been sions, values and goals in a clear and nized and participated in six fly-ty- these activities for SEWTU. working on completion of a com- concise way. The meatier substance ing sessions at Cabela’s in Richfield. Also, on April 16-17, Jay Zawer- prehensive five-year strategic plan of the plan will be completed by the Thanks to organizer Al Dalphonso schnik will be organizing and run- for our chapter. Allison Werner of end of this month and will guide our and the following SEWTU volun- ning an SEWTU booth at Cabela’s the River Alliance of Wisconsin has decision-making regarding our fi- teers who helped make these ses- in Richfield during their annual been leading us through the process nancial resources and volunteer ef- sions successful: Rick Frye, Ron Fishing Classic. If anyone is inter- and board member Bob Traczyk has forts. Wojack, Jim Weirzba and Barry ested in helping at these events, let chaired the committee, supported Our annual expo will be held Wichmann. us know! by committee members Chuck April 2 from 1 p.m. until around 7 In addition, George Batcha, con- —Boyd Roessler Campbell, Jim Emerson, Kelly p.m. This is a primary chapter fund- tinues to organize and lead weekly McKnight, Bob Rice, Dick Berge raiser, with bucket raffles and a live fly tying opportunities for Project and Jason Stewart. We have com- auction. With the expo we receive Healing Waters. pleted a front-page document of the great participation from area part- Pat Ehlers of the Fly Fishers fly plan, which states our mission, vi- ners and stakeholders who are en- shop deserves recognition and Spring 2016 Wisconsin Trout Page 19 Chapter News

making it look like it did 15 years larger stumps. Approximately 15 ago. members were enlisted to haul In March the chapter joined brush away from the creek, and the forces with the DNR to clear alders chapter provided a nice lunch. We from the streambed of Hay Creek in hope the removal of the alders will Chippewa County. We provided two entice more fishers to again enjoy chain saw operators, working with Hay Creek. two staff applying herbicide to the —Al Noll Wisconsin River Valley Chapter

This winter we had our elections of his life. He grew up fishing on the and have some new and old faces on legendary Menominee River for the board. Our current chapter smallmouth and has learned a lot of board is made up of: Doug Brown, its secrets. He has traveled across president; John Meachen, vice pres- the country, from the legendary ident; Linda Lehman, secretary and trout streams in the mountain west Michelle McCarthy, treasurer. to the deep south in search of giant WILD RIVERS TU RERIGGING THEIR KIDS FISHING EQUIPMENT Board members include Bob Pils, bass. If it swims in the water he en- The Wild Rivers Chapter put new fishing line on all the rods used for its Kids Al Hauber and Pat Esselman. A joys finding out how to make it eat a Fishing Day. Dick Berge coordinated this with Susan Nelson from the Northern huge thanks to Pat for his term as fly. He now lives in northeast Wis- Great Lakes Visitor Center. They were joined by Chuck Campbell, Bop Traczyk, past president and to Betsey Hager consin with his wife and daughter, Jim Emerson and Pete Freiburger. for her years as treasurer. who currently holds the family’s This winter John Meachen largest smallmouth record (for gaged in work that supports we owe Jason a big thanks for his ef- worked hard to set up three presen- now). conservation, fisheries manage- forts. tations. February was a presentation April 19 is a presentation on cad- ment, habitat work and other issues Many of us have been getting to- on the Prairie River. The DNR’s disflies. They are the most common that complement our mission. More gether to tie flies throughout the Ben Rolling gave an excellent talk and constantly available insect for than 20 partner organizations have winter. We put together a good col- on the history of the river, as well as consumption by trout in our area. agreed to host tables at the expo this lection for the State Council annual the current project going on. It was Learn about the habits and haunts year. Consider making the trip banquet and we’re busy getting well attended with more than 30 of this fascinating creature. See and north for a fun-filled day. We will al- more together for the Expo. Dick people packing the small room at learn about flies and ways to fish so have guest speaker presentations Berge has always been a great sup- the Great Dane in Wausau. them effectively. from Laura MacFarland, a Trout porter of tying events in our chap- Our March presentation was by All presentations are held at the Unlimited staff member working on ter. In addition to Dick’s long-term Chris Jape of River's End LLC, who Great Dane in Wausau. We’ll see Chequamegon-Nicolet National support, Jim Emerson, Bob Traczyk, gave an informative presentation on you there. You can always reach us Forest habitat issues, and Luke Ka- Chuck Campbell and Kelly McK- fly fishing for smallmouth bass. Jape at wrvtu.org or on our Facebook vajecz, fishing guide on Chequa- night have done a lot of organizing has been fishing and exploring the page. megon Bay. We are grateful to expo and tying at the events. waters of Wisconsin for a majority —Doug Brown chair Chuck Campbell and his com- At the end of February the chap- mittee for all their hard work. ter put new fishing line on all the Wolf River Chapter We hosted our first Fly Fishing rods used for Kids Fishing Day at Film Tour this year at Northland the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Our membership meeting in working with Lumberjack Aquatic College in Ashland and at the Park Center. Last summer the reels were March included officer and board Invasive Species Coordinator for Theater in Hayward. We were hap- jamming and tangling so often we member elections. Andy Killoren is Langlade County John Preuss to in- py with the attendance, the revenue could hardly keep rods in kids’ the new president. Travis Stuck is stall a wader-cleaning station and brought in, and the opportunity to hands. Dick Berge coordinated our vice president. Laurie Netzow is signage to combat the faucet snail, make the work of TU and Wild Riv- relining all the reels with Susan Nel- secretary and Linda Anderson is an invasive species found on Elton ers chapter better known through- son at the NGLVC. They were treasurer. Board members include Creek last fall. Contact Andy Kil- out the area. Almost every aspect of joined by Chuck Campbell, Bop Bill Kallner, Bill Livingston, Brian loren at [email protected] the film festival was coordinated Traczyk, Jim Emerson and Pete Heikenen, John Rose and Zack Bu- for more information. and organized by board member Ja- Freiburger. We will all be grateful chanan. Welcome, John & Zack. The culverts at Fitzgerald Dam son Stewart. There’s a lot of work for their work this coming summer At our fall meeting we retained Road on the Hunting River are in that goes into making the festival on Kids Fishing Day. the services of local trapper Duane bad shape. We will be working with successful for groups like TU, and —Bob Rice Fronek. This spring Duane will be the DNR and Town of Elcho to re- trapping the remaining beaver on place the current culverts with mod- Nine Mile Creek. We will then work ern ones that do not impede the on removing the dams. movement and spawning of fish. A Our explorations of coldwater grant has been submitted by the feeder streams to the Wolf River DNR. See article on page 13. continues. Contact Tim Waters at The weekend of May 20-22 will [email protected] for be our second annual “Meet & more information. Greet.” Contact Travis Stuck at Saturday, August 20 is our [email protected] for more stream work day at a location to be information. determined. We also have two small Please visit our website for infor- projects on Elton Creek. A date has mation on events and projects. not been set for a small clean-up at —Tim Waters the fish hatchery. We will also be Oak Brook Chapter (Illinois)

Oak Brook Trout Unlimited’s with TU chapters in Wisconsin as (OBTU) conservation activities will these stream restoration opportuni- include both volunteer and financial ties arise through the year.” support for two projects in Wiscon- Farmers Valley Creek in Sparta

Mike Shanley sin in 2016. Besides continued fi- will continue to receive both OBTU nancial support for TUDARE, volunteer and financial support in financial and volunteer work sup- 2016. Stream restoration work that WISCONSIN CLEAR WATERS TU WORKS ON HAY CREEK port are committed for Farmers began in 2014 will continue next In March the Wisconsin Clear Waters Chapter joined forces with the DNR to Valley Creek stream restoration in year with the installation of LUNK- clear alders from the streambed of Hay Creek in Chippewa County. Sparta and financial support of the ER structures and bank restoration Approximately 15 members were enlisted to haul brush away from the creek, Weister Creek restoration in Ver- work to reduce both soil erosion non County. and phosphorus discharge within and the chapter provided a nice lunch. “We plan to return to Farmers the city. Valley Creek in Sparta where we be- Our financial contribution will Wisconsin Clear Waters gan work in 2014 and will begin sup- be leveraged to get a large govern- port of Weister Creek’s phase three ment grant. Our work day is cur- A main effort of the winter toration effort. The group included in the Driftless Area,” said Oak rently scheduled in May on a date months focused on maintenance ef- Sandmore-Senz excavation and Brook’s Conservation Committee to be determined. forts. We recruited members and as- chain saw operators. Chair Dave Moore. “Our chapter Weister Creek begins a new and sisted in clearing the woods along Members started clearing brush will also pursue other conservation expanded role for OBTU in Vernon Gilbert Creek to prepare for a res- along Cade Creek, with hopes of project work days in conjunction County. The project is a long-term Page 20 Wisconsin Trout Spring 2016 Chapter News

effort that is expected to quadruple hawk TU member. “By opening the fish population in this important canopy to more sunlight, primary tributary to the Kickapoo River in productivity (photosynthesis) will in- the heart of Wisconsin’s Driftless crease the base of the food chain. Area. OBTU’s contribution is finan- “Stream water temperature is be- cial. Work will be done by private ing monitored and is expected to be contractors or the DNR fisheries colder in the summer and warmer in crew, depending on grant require- the winter due to the faster current. ments. The three-mile project is all The banks will be planted to prairie on public land within the Kickapoo and managed with fire to control box Valley Reserve. elder, willow and beavers. Mowed “The stream dynamics will be trails on both sides of the riparian changed from wide, shallow, slow corridor will serve as fire breaks.” and shaded with log jams to narrow, For more information about Oak deeper, and swifter with riffles and Brook Trout Unlimited visit ob- pools,” said Paul Hayes, Kickapoo tu.org. Valley Reserve Board and Black- —Jim Schmiedeskamp

OAK BROOK TU HELPING WITH WEISTER CREEK PROJECT Weister Creek begins a new and expanded role for OBTU in Vernon County. The project is a long-term effort that is expected to quadruple fish populations in this important tributary to the Kickapoo River in the heart of Wisconsin’s Driftless Area. Kiap’s TIC eggs reach their destination By Tom Schnadt, Kiap-TU-Wish care resides in Fisk’s class, but he Chapter President wanted the other fifth-grade class to be involved as well. I gave a presen- It was 5:30 a.m. on Monday, Jan- tation to 49 students on TU’s con- uary 4, and I was setting out to pick servation mission, the history of up 500 eyed brown trout eggs from trout in the area, a trout’s basic the 7 Pines Fish Hatchery in Freder- needs, and the life cycle of trout. ick. Delivering trout eggs to excited The kids all got to see the eggs un- fifth graders is a great experience, der a magnifying glass (they all think and the weather added further exit is so “cool” to see the trouts’ eyes citement with every mile traveled. I already), and then helped to get 250 had mapped out a “short cut” to of the eggs into the tank’s egg bas- Frederick that involved taking as ket. many county highways and back- Then it was onto John Mueller’s roads as possible. fifth-grade class at River Crest Ele- The plowing essentially stopped mentary in Hudson. I gave the same once I crossed the bridge into Wis- presentation, this time to all three consin at Stillwater. After seeing a fifth-grade classes, totaling about lot of cars in the ditches I consid- 76. ered turning back. After Amery, I It has been great this year to had no idea where I was, as all the reach this many students! Both road signs were plastered with snow. schools are keeping in touch with Google maps is not be relied upon each other regarding their progress. in northern Wisconsin, and cell River Crest is on County F and is phone coverage is spotty. However, about five miles equidistant from the owner of 7 Pines, Richard Ket- the Kinni and Willow. I related to tula, was able to talk me in when I them, that at their age, I fished the did get reception the old fashioned Willow River almost daily when way, i.e., “there should be a lake school was out and at that time, it REECE’S FAVORITE THING? FISHING WITH GRANDPA coming up on your right, after that, was held in quite high regard as a turn left at the lone pine, if you get trout stream. to the green mailbox you went too I explained why we would be far….” stocking the Willow and not the Grandpa and Reece Upon finding the hatchery, Rich- Kinni with the trout we raised, why ard was presented with a plaque the Kinni no longer needs to be By Bill Walters from Kiap-TU-wish Chapter for his stocked, and the possible reasons help in establishing our Trout In the for the decline of the Willow and For the past 12 years our family has spent a week together in the Classroom programs by supplying rise of the Kinni. It was a very good northwoods of Wisconsin. For those of us that stream fish, the days the eggs and helping with the health discussion and kids at both schools begin early with a trek to Upper Michigan to fish the trout streams. certification for our fish. He was asked very insightful and thoughtful Meanwhile, those remaining at camp spend their days at the lake very surprised and honored by our questions. I was very impressed. award and said he is going to display With all the threats to our environ- enjoying great times swimming, pontoon rides, walks through the it in his living room. ment and our world in general, I can woods, scouting for raspberries and soaking up the sun after a long I was able to follow my tire tracks find myself getting down, but after winter. We all gather in the evenings, sitting around the campfire back to Amery, my first stop being spending a few hours with these toasting a marshmallow or two. Jeremiah Fisk’s fifth-grade class at kids, I left feeling very hopeful for This year, for the first time, I took my nine-year-old grandson, the Amery Intermediate School. the future. Reece, stream fishing. His eyes lit up knowing he was going to go The fish tank and responsibility for along and didn’t even put up a fuss when he was told he’d have to hit the sack early the night before since 6 a.m. comes mighty early after a day in the sun and water. When he awoke he asked if he Support Wisconsin TU! should put his waders on right away, but I assured him he could get them on once we hit the stream. Reece told his mom “whatever Get your Wisconsin TU license plates! Grandpa does, that’s what I am going to do.” Support TU and get your We had a great time on the water. Reece caught a few fish, most Wisconsin TU license plate now. without any help from me. I don’t know who was more proud, Re- ece or me. At the end of the week, grandma asked him what was Go to www.dot.state.wi.us/ the best part of “Walters Week,” and he thought for just a moment. drivers/vehicles/personal/ Then, with the biggest smile, said “Fishing with Grandpa.” special/trout.htm Bill Walters is a member of the Fox Valley Chapter of TU. Spring 2016 Wisconsin Trout Page 21

BANQUET MGTU Chapter raffle off a trip for two Continued from page 1 days of musky fishing in Wisconsin at tasks leading up to and during the their fundraiser. Now that’s “One TU.” banquet. Their efforts are critical to The Council was pleased to have If you are an angler... making an event like this run smoothly. some of our partnering organizations From staffing entry tables, selling tickets represented at the Banquet. Representa- for bucket or card raffles or demonstrat- tives from the DNR, River Alliance of If you are an angler, ing how to tie flies, we had an enthusias- Wisconsin, Wisconsin League of Conser- You see the way a trout tic group willing to donate their time. vation Voters, Wisconsin Wetlands Asso- Blends with river gravel, This group consisted of Stan Strelka, ciation, Wisconsin Women’s Fly Fishing Paul Kruse, Joe Bach, Gary Stoychoff, Clinics, Shabazz Project Green Teen, See the tiny caddis in its case Jen Kuhr, Michael San Dretto, Rich Er- TUDARE, and Badger Tenkara were on That others mistake for a stick. ickson, Matt Salchert, Chris Northway, hand to inform, answer questions and mingle with the crowd. If you are an angler, Amy Heitman, Nikki Benishek, and Bri- You appreciate the time it takes an Oberstadt, among others. Fly tying The awards program has become one demonstrators included Bob Haase, Jar- of the highlights of the evening. Wiscon- For a mayfly to be transformed ed Sagal, and Mark Rhinerson. The sin TU has become a force in the conser- From a nymph beneath a stone Council would also like to thank the nu- vation community because of the incredible efforts of many of our mem- To an adult gracefully rising merous volunteers who tied flies and On translucent wings. helped with the Women’s Clinic during bers, conservation professionals, corpo- the day. rate sponsors and others. Honoring them Bob Haase again made sure that each gives the State Council a chance to show If you are an angler, chapter had a fly box to fill, and the chap- our appreciation for their efforts. Mean- You know how it feels ters really came through. Each chapter’s while, awards ceremony speaker Steve fly box went up for silent auction, raising Born always adds a humorous touch to To have life surging a significant amount of funds for the the event, and we hope he’ll continue en- On a brittle tippet, Council. tertaining us in the years to come. A key to any banquet’s success is hav- What it is like We also have a very generous group of To be one donors who provided auction prizes, in- ing an accomplished master of ceremo- cluding guided trips from Damian Wilm- nies, and we have been blessed to have With a wild river... ot, Patrick Hager, Charlie Piette, Brian one of the best. David Seligman, who has If you are an angler, Ramsey, Gordy Martin, Dan Boggs and been our MC for a number of years, announced that due to travel plans this You probably wouldn’t Scot Stewart, as well as a beautiful carv- Wish to exchange your lot ing by Patrick Esselman. These were all would be his last year as MC. We are ex- highly sought prizes that evening. These tremely grateful for David’s efforts and For the riches of royalty. donations are greatly appreciated and wish him well in the future. raise a good deal of funding to support 2005 conservation efforts. Please join us on Saturday, Feb. 4, The Council would also like to thank 2017. We will return to the Oshkosh From the book “A Poet’s Gift To Anglers,” by Larry Mann from Hayward Fly Fishing Best Western Waterfront Hotel and Daniel O. Holland. For copies contact Dan at Company and the Madison – Gallatin Convention Center for the fourth [email protected] (MGTU) chapter in Montana. We year. The 2017 event planning is al- Some may wonder about the combination of trout swapped fishing trips with our fellow TU ready under way to assure another fishing and poetry, but everything about fly fishing is chapter and raffled off a trip for two days great evening. If you’d like to get in- poetry. Next time you go streamside, see the poetry of guided fishing and two nights lodging abiding everywhere. It will enrich your angling experi- volved with the banquet planning ence. — Dan Holland near Bozeman, Montana. In return we committee, contact Mike Kuhr at made arrangements with Larry to let the [email protected].

Colleen Grant Eden Prairie MN Thomas Rogers Princeton WI John Gribb Mt. Horeb WI Michael San Dretto Neenah WI Chris Gultch East Troy WI David Schiebel Abrams WI Stephen Hawk Madison WI Jeff Schmoeger Cottage Grove WI Ashton Hawk Madison WI Richard Schumann Hartford WI John Hawk New Holstein WI John Shillinglaw Madison WI Bill Heart Ashland WI Greg Smith River Falls WI Jan & Mark Heifner Appleton WI Stephen Somerville Green Bay WI Nancy and Dan Hill Spencer WI Michael Spittler Minneapolis MN Charles Hodulik Madison WI Charles Steudel Mineral Point WI Jonathon Jacobs Hudson WI Wayne Stockman Spring Valley WI Thomas Janssen Appleton WI Wayne Strelow Appleton WI David Kinnamon Bayside WI Taylor Struwe Altoona WI Barb and Joe Kruse LaCrosse WI Ronald Suslick Peshtigo WI Jim Larson LaCrosse WI Gary Tielens Athelstane WI Chris Long Mazomanie WI Bill Vanden Elzen Appleton WI Randy Lueth Marshfield WI Carol Vendt Oconto WI Spring 2016 update Larissa and Thomas Lyon Janesville WI Marten & Karen Voss Eau Claire WI Janice and Randy McGrath Janesville WI Doug Wadsworth Madison WI John McMullen Tomah WI Don Wagner Gillett WI By Doug Brown David Menke Bristol WI Raymond Weiss Grafton WI Peter Meronek Stevens Point WI Robert Welker Glendale WI Fred Mikolajewski West Allis WI Dan Wisniewski MiddletonWI The 2016 Watershed Access Fund campaign is in full swing, and the re- Harold Moilanen Glendale WI Robert Wyman Beaver Dam WI sponse has been incredible once again. Through your generous contribu- Frederick Motschman Appleton WI John Zei Wausau WI J. Peter Mullen Prairie du Sac WI tions, we are already approaching $7,500 this year! Thank you so much for Keith Nelson Waunakee WI Badger Fly Fishers Stoughton WI your support. Herb Oechler Wauwatosa WI Kiap TU Wish TU Winston Ostrow De Pere WI WI ClearWaters TU Eric Ratzlaff Grafton WI Marinette Co. TU The Watershed Access Fund is even more important these days to se- Bob Retko Cedarburg WI May Close, New London, in Memory of Jay cure permanent fishing access. All contributions will be used solely for Steve Robertson Verona WI Close Wisconsin acquisitions.

The current grant request is $7,500. Because two chapters may each re- Here is my contribution of $100 quest for a single acquisition and each chapter would have to match at 50 percent, the new limits would provide as much as $15,000 for a single pur- or more to the Watershed Access Fund chase or easement. The matching 50 percent from chapters can be in the form of volunteer hours. (Make your check payable to “Wisconsin Trout Unlimited”) Please consider making a generous contribution to the 2016 Watershed Access Fund. The need for access is critical for anglers to continue their MAIL TO: TU Watershed Access Fund passion for trout fishing. Access is also critical for Trout Unlimited to con- Attn: Doug Brown tinue its successful stream improvement work. R4800 Timber Ln. Ringle, WI 54471 I hope you all have a great 2016 fishing season!

Name 2015 Contributors Henry Barkhausen Winnetka IL Bruce Davidson Wauwatosa WI Address Edwin Barklay Shultz Prairie du Sac WI Dave Drewiski Hudson WI Charles Barnhill Madison WI Richard Duplessie Eau Claire WI Phil Blake Fitchburg WI Pat Esselman Weston WI City, State, Zip Stephen Born Madison WI John Ewen Neenah WI Edward Brockner Beaver Dam WI Cindy and Alan Finesilver DePere WI Will Burlington Madison WI William Flader, M.D. Madison WI Leigh Cherveny Sheboygan Falls WI Richard Galling Hartland WI Phone Lawrence Clowry, M.D. Wauwatosa WI Ralph Gaudio Desoto WI Terry Cummings Rhinelander WI Scott Geboy Fox Point WI Page 22 Wisconsin Trout Spring 2016 Council bestows awards at banquet The Wisconsin State Council of Trout Unlimited honored many individu- Fishing Camp, serving as a committee member, volunteering at the event als, one chapter and one corporate supporter at the annual banquet in Osh- and of course taking great photos. kosh on February 6. The council has been presenting awards since 1984. She has created and implemented TUs Women’s Initiative, holding semi- Thanks go out to Bill Heart for overseeing the banquet awards committee nars throughout the country, introducing women to flyfishing and conserva- and for assembling and editing the following award narratives. Other award tion. committee members include Kim McCarthy, Henry Koltz, Linn Beck, Mike Heidi, a professional photographer, can often be found at Council events Kuhr and Todd Franklin. with a camera in hand, capturing those moments when our volunteers do what they do best. Her photos can often be found accompanying a Wisconsin Thank you to the Oberstadts for taking photos of award Trout article or Facebook post. winners.

Robert Hunt Resource Professional Award: Mike Staggs Mike was the longtime Fisheries Bureau Chief for the DNR and spent his entire career as an advocate for healthy fisheries in Wisconsin. His commitment to that work was tireless, never failing to be there during the evenings or on weekends if necessary. Just one example of his efforts through the decades includes his handling of the outbreak of viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS) in Wisconsin. At the time, experts had no idea how bad this virus might be for fish populations, only that it could be devastating. Mike led the charge for the response from the DNR. He quickly brought a team together, identified the science needed, the policy responses required. He was the key department spokesperson at the time, calmly reassuring people, while underscoring the potential gravity of the situation if handled improperly. It was a masterful effort and was the embodiment of public service for a noble cause, in this case our fisheries. Mike also knew how to get the most out of any of his relentless trips around the state to work with regional staff, attend meetings of groups like TU chapters and other constituencies. A summer trip to Bayfield for instance, would be made in Mike’s jeep, which had no less than two dozen fishing rods of all types and ample gear so that he might “adequately sample the myriad freshwater resource opportunities” at numerous waterways on the way back. It’s very important to understand the resource you know.

JOE BACH RECEIVES THE GOLD NET AWARD FROM LINN BECK Gold Net Award: Joe Bach Joe has been a FVTU member since 2006. He has served as a past chapter president and has been a driving force involved in numerous habitat and resource conservation projects. These include projects coordinated with other TU chapters. This includes major 2015 brushing and cleanup on the Davies Creek, a tributary to the Pine River in Waushara County; coordinating chapter work days on Peterson Creek in Waupaca County in 2011-2014, South Branch of the Little Wolf River in Waupaca County in 2010-2014, Waupaca River’s Riverview Park improvement project in 2012, and Chafee Creek in Marquette County in 2014. In addition, Joe has participated in the annual DNR Scatter Plant of the Waupaca River and water monitoring program of Peterson Creek and the south branch of the Little Wolf River. Joe recently attended the WITU regional planning session with the goal of supporting long-term plan development and funding through application for grants. Joe has also provided leadership in helping to create a better understanding of the leadership roles within FVTU in order to improve the likelihood of recruiting new leadership. Joe’s commitment to community goes beyond TU. His parish in Appleton is the recipient of countless hours of volunteer service ranging from their fish pond to bible study to chauffeuring parishioners and mentoring young people. MIKE STAGGS (LEFT) RECEIVES THE RESOURCE AWARD OF MERIT Silver Trout Award for Chapter Merit: Fox Valley TU Gold Trout Award: Heidi Oberstadt Following a period with leadership gaps, the Fox Valley Chapter’s board Heidi Oberstadt’s influence on Trout Unlimited has been truly transfor- of directors recruited new leadership and filled the top board positions, reig- mative — not just at the local level, but at the state level, and nationally. niting interest across a broad front of traditional chapter activities. At the local level, she has diversified chapter membership as she has in- The revamped board of directors fine-tuned its Cabin Fever Day fundrais- fused the Frank Hornberg Chapter with renewed enthusiasm. At the state er and increased revenues from the event. This funding supported the DNR level she serves as our Women’s Initiative Chair. She has been instrumental Wild Rose Habitat Team on stream improvements in the Central Region. in developing and holding Stream Girls events in collaboration with the Girl Meanwhile, the chapter provided volunteer labor to support habitat work co- Scouts of America. Heidi also is a very important part of our WITU Youth

HEIDI OBERSTADT RECEIVES GOLD TROUT AWARD FROM LINN BECK TOM LAGER ACCEPTS FVTU’S SILVER TROUT AWARD Spring 2016 Wisconsin Trout Page 23 ordinated by the Central Wisconsin Chapter and the DNR. Other efforts within the Fox Valley Chapter are focused on new member recruitment and retention, and recruitment of women. The chapter has supported the Wisconsin TU Youth Fishing Camp and the Stream Girls events. For more than 35 years, community outreach to disabled citizens continues to be an annual tradition.

Joan & Lee Wulff Award for Outstanding Conservation Leadership: Scot Stewart Scot received his bachelor of science degree in fisheries biology from the University of Minnesota and his masters degree in fisheries management from Ohio State University. He joined the Wisconsin DNR in 1982, beginning his career as fish manager for St. Croix and Pierce counties. There he lead restoration efforts on some of the premier trout streams in the state, including the Kinnickinnic, Rush and Trimbelle rivers. In 1987, Scot moved to Madison as Area Fish Manager for counties in that area. Significant contributions were his leadership of the Black Earth Creek Priority Watershed Project and the Madison Lakes Bio Manipulation project with major increases in the walleye and northern pike populations in the Madison area lakes. From 1996-2008 Scot served as Regional Fisheries Expert and South Cen- tral Regional Supervisor. Groundbreaking efforts included work to create and build a sustainable musky population in area lakes and also the Token SUE REINECKE RECIEVES THE ROBERT HUNT RESOURCE PROFESSIONAL Creek project, which restored this watershed to a trout stream after a dam AWARD FROM COUNCIL CHAIR LINN BECK. failure and reclamation effort. Techniques used have been recognized nationally. In 2009, Scot became the Southern District Supervisor, responsible for all fisheries management activities for southern Wisconsin. His team has posi- tively impacted stream and lake restorations. He served as the DNR’s lead for the state’s musky and trout committees. Scot led the effort to revamp trout fishing regulations for the state. Techniques such as angler surveys, town hall meetings and task force efforts paved the way and extended fishing opportunities by about 40 percent. Throughout his career, he has been a major contributor to the growth and vibrancy of the Southern Chapter of TU. Scot recently retired, which should give him plenty of time to pursue his many outdoor passions, from hunting, trapping, chasing muskies and big game to flyfishing, fly tying and living up to his status as a self-admitted “trout bum.”

DAVE SEIBEL RECEIVES THE ROBERT HUNT RESOURCE PROFESSIONAL AWARD FROM LINN BECK. data and more. As a result, Dave helped mobilize and inform our members. His efforts were important in the greater grass-roots effort to pressure those in power to remove these uniquely special trout waters. Thanks to these efforts, these waters will most likely be taken off the potential sales list. With help from allies like Dave, Wisconsin TU will continue to advocate for the protection of Wisconsin's spring ponds.

Certificate of Appreciation: Bob Swanson Bob joined the Wisconsin Clear Waters Chapter board during a significant turnover of chapter leaders. Even with minimal exposure to chapter leadership and management, he stepped up to accept the chapter president position. Bob did an outstanding job during a critical period in the chapter’s development. He overcame a significant learning curve and left his legacy in several strategic areas of the chapter’s new business model and initiated post- SCOT STEWART RECEIVED THE HUNT RESOURCE PROFESSIONAL AWARD project stream maintenance, wild trout transfers and board member recruit- ments. The wild trout transfer was a project Bob collaborated on with a DNR Robert Hunt Resource Professional Award: Sue Reinecke fisheries biologist who was seeking funding to transfer wild brook and brown Sue has been managing trout habitat work for the U.S. Forest Service on trout from high-density areas to low-density areas of the same streams. This the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest for many years. She is the profes- project became tremendously successful and will be an annual effort for the sional that pioneered the use of TU-hired labor to get more habitat work ac- foreseeable future. complished. Her use of seasonally-hired habitat workers became the model for the habitat crews TU is now hiring in the northern and central areas of Wisconsin. Sue continues to use seasonal crews on the forest, and the 2016 season will again see her using a combination of Forest Service and TU funding to put two crews on the forest to improve trout habitat. This is a great example of an agency partnering with TU to accomplish good things for trout. Sue’s partnership with the Council’s northeast region and the Wild Rivers Chapter has been ongoing for many years, and together the two organizations have completed a tremendous amount of habitat work. Wisconsin TU looks forward to the continued partnership with Sue on the coldwater streams in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.

Robert Hunt Resource Professional Award: Dave Seibel As a result of the last Wisconsin bi-annual budget, the DNR was ordered to make available for sale 10,000 acres of land. The properties needed to go through a review process before being considered. Land that was considered of ecological importance was to be dismissed. So when Trout Unlimited found out several parcels bordered some of the spring ponds in Langlade County, the largest collection of natural spring ponds in the world, were on the chopping block, the gloves came off. In the scramble to collect time-sensitive information, TU found an ally in DNR fisheries biologist Dave Seibel of the Antigo office. Dave visited with multiple chapters, including Green Bay TU and Fox BOB SWANSON RECEIVED A CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION FROM THE Valley TU, in an effort to share what makes these waters so special, including history and ecology, the status of the land sale process, who to contact, trout STATE COUNCIL. HERE MIKE SHANLEY ACCEPTS THE AWARD ON BOB’S BEHALF. Page 24 Wisconsin Trout Spring 2016

JOHN GRIBB RECIEVES THE MOST UNSUNG VALUABLE TROUTER AWARD JEFF BUTLER RECEIVES A CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION FROM COUNCIL CHAIR LINN BECK. Certificate of Appreciation: Jeff Butler Most Unsung Valuable Trouter Award: John Gribb Jeff works for the National Park Service (NPS), as an Aquatic Education John is deserving of the Council’s recognition and gratitude for this award Specialist for the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, out of the Trego Office. for more reasons that we can reasonably list, but here are a couple. For years He is an active member of the Wild Rivers Chapter of TU and The Name- John has passionately and quietly committed to actively engaging diverse kagon River Partnership (NRP). Jeff's contributions to angler and aquatic populations to the sport and our chapter. He has contributed immeasurably education and especially the involvement of veteran’s groups on the River- to two of our chapter’s most noteworthy and celebrated programs. First is way, make him a worthy candidate for TU recognition. Project Green Teen, which puts at-risk high school youth on trout streams. Jeff is exceptionally worthy of the award for many reasons, including the Second is the Wisconsin Women’s Fly-fishing Clinics. Both of these events development and implementation of angler education on the Namekagon feature a component where participants are mentored by TU volunteers. and St. Croix rivers. Jeff continues to use adaptive management to develop John, as long-time “Chief of the Mentors,” would tirelessly cajole and recruit and implement such nationally known programs as: “Hey Ranger, fish on!”; fishing mentors from SWTU and other TU chapters to get involved. “Match the Hatch”; “Design a Fish”; “Adopt a Stream-River Rats”; and Additionally, John took on the responsibility of gently harassing his fishing “Tenkara/Cane-pole - It’s fun and you can do it !” pals to contribute flies to these programs, copious and copious amounts of Jeff’s work in involving veterans and veterans groups on the Namekagon flies. And he contributed his own flies, too, which set a pretty high bar in and St. Croix rivers is even more noteworthy. He has planned, organized and quality and quantity. For several years John produced an innovative fly at supervised countless fishing trips, campouts and educational programs. The PGT that was the “lights out” fly for the week, fished by participants and rest of society is just now starting to catch on to how healing and therapeutic guides alike. such outdoor experiences can be for veterans, and other trauma victims. Jeff John will never sing his own praises, or toot his own horn. He just quietly has been doing it, pretty much on his own, for years. goes about his business, being the example of the ideal chapter member who gives tirelessly of himself, in all facets of our work. And the fact that he would Most Unsung Valuable Trouter Award: Mike Stapleton grumble about our nominating him for this award makes it even more special, and solidifies his unquestioned “unsung” status. After a lifetime of volunteering and serving as a leader for several Wiscon- sin chapters, Aldo Leopold Chapter Vice President Mike Stapleton hopes to finish out his “TU career” with this chapter. Not only has he proven himself Reel Partners Award: Jennifer Giegerich, Erin O’Brien, & as a diehard workday volunteer, a committed board member and now vice Helen Sarakinos president, he has also organized the chapter’s popular fly tying classes in re- As we know, political winds shift from year to year and administration to cent years. administration. The result is that each year new bills are introduced in Wis- It’s no surprise how well he’s done running Aldo’s fly tying classes, consid- consin’s Legislature which impact coldwater streams, groundwater and other ering that he organized the Central Wisconsin Chapter’s annual fly fishing issues that concern Wisconsin Trout Unlimited. school when he was a member in that chapter. He also served as a board The difficulty which accompanies reading and reacting to proposed legis- member and chapter president for the Central Chapter several decades ago. lation, often with little notice, cannot be overstated. Analyzing bills, research- Mike has been a member of several chapters, but his TU efforts skyrock- ing statutory changes, determining their impact, and attempting to work with eted at the Central Wisconsin Chapter, where he quickly went from active legislators to address concerns are often overwhelming. The process often in- member to a solid leader. A few years later he was living in the Aldo Leopold volves finding partners, traveling to Madison, meeting with legislators, seek- Chapter area and he started attending Aldo workdays. He’s now vice presi- ing to have amendments introduced, or working to actively support or oppose dent. That, of course, is not an uncommon story among TU leaders. bills. None of this is done without personal sacrifices, and all of this has last- In more recent years, Mike has added the unofficial title of legislative spe- ing consequences. cialist to his TU resume, first volunteering as CWTU’s legislative specialist As a volunteer nonprofit organization, Wisconsin Trout Unlimited has no and now serving the same role for the Aldo Leopold Chapter as well as the paid legislative staff. It has no professional lobbyists. We are, as is also the State Council. After working for 32 years as a zoning administrator for Mar- case in every other facet of our work, purely volunteer driven. quette and Columbia counties, Mike learned some of the ins and outs of the As such, we depend significantly on the help of our conservation partners. legislative process. About seven years ago he realized his experience could be Those partners aid us in spotting incoming bills which may impact coldwater, put to use in TU. groundwater, and other issues which concern Wisconsin Trout Unlimited. Those partners help us find coalitions, provide assistance communicating our voice to legislators, and aid us in informing other conservation and sporting groups where we stand.

MIKE STAPLETON RECIEVES THE MOST UNSUNG VALUABLE TROUTER AWARD FROM COUNCIL CHAIR LINN BECK. JENNIFER GIEGERICH RECEIVED A “REEL” PARTNERS AWARD Spring 2016 Wisconsin Trout Page 25

ST CROIX RECEIVES CORPORATE SPONSOR AWARD Bill Heart presents the Corporate Sponsor Award to Jeff Belanger at the St. Croix headquarters in Park Falls. ERIN O’BRIEN RECEIVES A “REEL” PARTNER AWARD During the past several years, no three have served as better partners than Jennifer Giegerich of the Wisconsin League of Conservation Voters, Erin O’Brien of the Wisconsin Wetlands Association and Helen Sarakinos of the River Alliance of Wisconsin. Wisconsin TU is exceptionally proud to honor Jennifer, Erin and Helen, and offers its profound thanks for their work, sacrifice and passion defending Wisconsin’s resources.

Corporate Sponsor Award: St. Croix Rod Company Wisconsin has numerous companies that produce fishing-related mer- chandise, but one of the most supportive of TU during the last 25 years is the St. Croix Rod Company of Park Falls. These folks produce quality fishing rods for a variety of angling, but the innovation seen in their wide range of fly rods makes them a strong Ameri- can contender in the market. You have probably seen their extensive display of products at one of the many trout-related events across the state. St. Croix, under the leadership of Paul and Jeff Schluter, has carried on the company’s 65-year legacy of rod building which grew under their father, Gordon. They’ve maintained a strong research and development staff to keep moving their products forward, and continue to employ scores of people in the Park Falls area to make most of their rods locally. Trout stamp Council selling contests stamps, prints Once again the DNR will be return to DNR managing and producing the Wis- HELEN SARAKINOS RECEIVED A “REEL” PARTNER AWARD, WHICH WAS The Fisheries Management Bu- consin Inland and Great Lakes ACCEPTED ON HER BEHALF BY DENNY CANEFF. reau is excited to bring back the in- Trout prints and stamps. When the land trout stamp and Great Lakes DNR stopped this program several salmon and trout stamp contests. years ago, the Council took the pro- The inland trout stamp contest was gram over. But we are excited that Volunteers sought for first conducted in 1978, and the the DNR has agreed to take over Great Lakes salmon and trout con- this important program. test was first conducted in 1982. In Wisconsin Trout Unlimited has outdoor youth expo 2010, the contests were discontin- decided to liquidate our inventory ued by the Department of Natural of prints and stamps, as we have ac- The Midwest Outdoor Heritage home and ask their parents to take Resources (DNR). Since that time, cumulated more than a hundred Education Expo will be held them fishing so that they can catch a Wisconsin Trout Unlimited has con- prints and stamps from the four Wednesday, May 18 and Thursday, fish on the fly they made. Most of tinued the inland trout stamp con- years that the process was in our May 19 at the MacKenzie Center them do not have a fly rod or have test in a scaled-down approach. hands. We would like to reduce this near Poynette. Every year this event parents that do, and that is why we For the first year back, the rules inventory and make them available gets bigger with more and more ac- show them how to fly fish with a and guidelines are similar as in past to our chapters and chapter mem- tivities for the kids. Trout Unlimited spinning rod. This is more than just years. The DNR is considering sev- bers at a much-reduced rate. has been active in this event since tying a fly. It is creating an opportu- eral changes to the rules and contest We have prints and extra stamps the beginning and last year we nity for the kids and their parents or process. This year, the minimum from 2012-2015. Quantities for helped 800 of the more than 2,000 grandparents to fish together. age requirement of the contestants some of the years are limited, so get kids attending tie their first fly. This I would like to see this expand is 18 years. The DNR plans to hold your orders in early. year we could see close to 3,000 stu- and maybe provide an opportunity youth contests for the 2018 stamps. We are asking $25 for a print and dents and chaperones attend. for the kids to identify aquatic in- New this year will be online voting stamp, and $2 for just the stamp. We We have them tie a bluegill fly sects, or see a display of our beauti- to narrow down the top 10 pieces of are hoping that this will enable the and show them how to use a spin- ful trout streams and the work we artwork and a display of the top chapters to procure some of the ning bubble to cast the fly with a do to make them better. Maybe we three pieces of artwork at the Wis- prints for their fundraising events. spinning rod to catch panfish. We could help them tie knots, or have consin State Fair in August. We expect many will go to those want them to catch a fish on some- them try their hand at casting a fly The artwork for both stamps members who collect them. thing they made themselves and get rod. We had to give this up the last must be submitted by July 1, 2016. We would like to recognize and them hooked on fishing. I often re- couple years because we barely had Online voting will take place in July. thank Darrell Tolliver and Tim Wa- fer to this as “planting the seed” enough volunteers to do the fly ty- The top 10 entries will move to a fi- ters (Wolf River Chapter) for help- and creating an interest in fishing, ing. If you have some ideas that I nal round, judged by trout, salmon ing to keep this tradition alive. and the rest will follow. By the rest I haven’t thought about yet, let me and wildlife art experts. The top Darrell took on the task of produc- mean learning to respect and enjoy know. three pieces will go on display at the ing the new stamp and print, and nature and our great outdoors and Without TU volunteers none of Wisconsin State Fair from August 4 then making them available to the the wonderful coldwater streams of this is possible. I would like to thank through August 14, 2016. chapters and individuals, while Tim Wisconsin. all of those that have helped in the Specific contest rules and re- took on the responsibility of collect- Our biggest limitation is volun- past, who see the benefits and come quirements are located at ing the funds for these and then teers. This is a great opportunity for back year after year to help. If you DNR.wi.gov. Search for Trout shipping them out. us to reach fourth, fifth, and sixth can help or want to know more, Stamp Contest. For more informa- For availability and to order your graders and not only help them tie a please give me a call at 920-579- tion contact Joanna Griffin, DNR prints please contact Tim Waters by fly but talk with them about going 3858. You can make a difference! trout coordinator, at Joanna.Grif- e-mail at [email protected]. fishing with their parents, grandpar- —Bob Haase, Education Chair [email protected] or 608-264- com. ents or friends. They take that fly 8953. Page 26 Wisconsin Trout Spring 2016

By Nate Coward not the only tool needed, PHW opened a path I was comfortable A testament to Project Over the years, I have drifted traveling in my journey back to civil- from the person I am and the pas- ian life. In completing the program, Healing Waters sions that define me. This has left a I learned how to flyfish, but more feeling of emptiness in its wake, and importantly, I learned how to cap- as I grow older, I realize a large ture the therapeutic qualities of this piece of my heart can only be found sport. I also rekindled my lost pas- in the wilds of America. Life, how- sion for the outdoors. In short, I ever, has had a way of steering my found myself once again. path farther and farther from my Mike Burda, my mentor with passions, away from this piece of my PHW, extended an invitation to at- heart. tend a guided fishing trip soon after Starting this past summer, I set graduation. Professional guide Jim out to recover this lost passion and Bartelt, one of the premier fly-fish- this piece of my heart. I made it my ing guides in Wisconsin, would personal goal to get out into the guide us on a trip to the Big Green wilds and explore the way I did as a River in southwest Wisconsin in younger man. search of brown trout. It was an While investigating the opportu- amazing trip filled with all kinds of nities to participate outdoors, I new knowledge, and capped with stumbled across the website of Proj- the capture of not only my first ect Healing Waters, which is a free, trout ever, but my first six trout ev- six-week program that teaches vet- er! erans how to flyfish, a skill and sport Mike and the instructors of that I have not had the opportunity PHW have restored my faith in the to explore in my life. My decision to good of man, a struggle that over- get involved with them would prove whelmed me at times in the past. to be one of the most valuable deci- The lessons from PHW were so life sions of my adult life. This state- changing for me that I am currently ment, albeit melodramatic, is working to start a chapter of PHW nonetheless true. I got involved with at the Tomah VA hospital. I hope them expecting to learn how to fly- that I will be able to show others the fish, but I never considered the benefit of this program in healing healing capabilities that are alluded and give to others what has so gen- to in the very title of this teaching erously been given to me. Jim Bartelt organization. I thank Mike, Jim, and all of the My struggle to acclimate to civil- instructors from PHW for their time VET FINDS THERAPY IN FLY FISHING VIA PROJECT HEALING WATERS ian life after service left me strug- and dedication. Without them I may Nate Coward, left, with his mentor, Mike Burda, fly-fishing on the Big Green gling and wanting. The tools to still be adrift. Thank every last one River in southwest Wisconsin. thrive were amiss in my life. Though of you so very much. Clear Waters Chapter tackles stream maintenance A cooperative effort to improve longevity of restored streams. By Al Noll, Clear Waters Chapter President Approximately 15 years ago I was reinitiated to trout fishing when my daughter married into a “trouting family.” This quickly evolved into fly fishing for trout. I began my fishing on a recently restored stream which was used for grazing cattle. The vegetation was like a golf course. I began fishing western streams as part of family trips, took a few guided adventures and began to find better local streams. Finally, I went all in and began going to Wisconsin Clear Waters Chapter meetings and activities. And I continued fishing my favorite pasture stream. Unfortunately, as the cattle had been moved out of the pasture the willows began invading the stream bank. When I reached my tenth year of fishing this stream I found I had it all to myself. Unfortunately, it was becoming impossible to fish. Other streams were also beginning to be noticeably laden with undesirable vegetation. As I became more involved in TU and fishing, this pattern of deteriorat- ing recently restored streams became evident. Chapter leaders discussed our concerns with other TU people and DNR staff. In 2015 we contracted with the DNR to begin the process of removing undesirable vegetation, trees and overhead obstacles. With the assistance of the DNR fisheries crew, streams were selected to begin maintenance projects. The investment in these streams is significant and the benefit of these restoration investments is reduced if we allow undesirable growth. Chapter members and DNR staff have identified local streams needing CLEAR WATERS TU TEACHING THE CONCEPT OF GIVING BACK attention. Given these targets, the DNR has recommended treatment pro- A benefit of the volunteer model of stream treatment is the chance for cesses and provided a cost estimate for maintenance treatment. The chapter members to meet each other and enjoying the hospitality that comes with then selected the locations and made a financial commitment to support working on a multi-organization project. Volunteers also learn the features of a maintenance with the DNR’s specialized mowing equipment, chainsaws and trout stream and the negative impact of invasive vegetation. knowledge of streambank clearing methods. This year we will mow and cut woody plants with chain saws on four to grally involved in improving local fishing opportunities. It also allows for five stretches of various streams, which will then be treated by the DNR, with periodic improvements that do not require extensive mechanized equipment financial support from our chapter. A priority in this plan was doing the work beyond chain saws. Efforts can include treating streams before brush grows near the population centers of Chippewa and Eau Claire counties. to a point where heavy equipment is needed. Wisconsin Senior Fisheries Biologists Marty Engel and Joseph Gerbyshak We will join the DNR for a work day with labor provided by chapter vol- provided a paper on “Benefits Statement: Stream Corridor Maintenance.” unteers. This work requires hand tools and small power tools. Volunteers can This accompanied their proposal to provide maintenance services to select safely cut brush, weeds and provide cutting of brush and terminating undesir- streams in the Eau Claire area. It was agreed that the Wisconsin Clear Wa- able foliage. Qualified DNR and NCRS staff are also able to apply herbi- ters Chapter would provide approximately $4,000 to the DNR for the mech- cides to treat the vegetation. We plan to clear brush in a small section of a anized work on the contracted streams. stream on a Saturday in April. The DNR has a critical role in the maintenance process. Their ability to A benefit of the volunteer model of stream treatment is the chance for provide specialized equipment to cut trees and brush or mow grasses on members to meet each other and enjoying the hospitality that comes with stream edges is critical. This points to the value of contracting by TU chap- working on a multi-organization project. Volunteers also learn the features ters. The DNR also provides a five-year plan for maintenance on the streams of a trout stream and the negative impact of invasive vegetation. in the plan. Selected streams include stretches of Elk Creek, Hay Creek and Maintenance activities are generally scheduled and performed on an as- McCann Creek in Eau Claire and Chippewa Counties. needed basis, and the DNR fisheries staff have been able to predict the fre- Beyond the obvious physical improvement that is visually noticeable, oth- quency and type of maintenance a stream needs. This allows for a calendar er improvements can result from maintenance. This includes treatment of in- of future maintenance needs, whether provided by DNR staff and equip- vasive plants, such as wild parsnip, box elder and alder. Symptoms that ment or volunteers from TU and Conservation organizations. maintenance activities can minimize include stream warming and the nega- Basic and periodic stream maintenance activities can maintain the im- tive aspects of silt deposits. Lastly, it protects the restoration work. provement on a restored trout stream. This process can use the unique ca- Maintenance projects also provide an opportunity for member involve- pacities of the DNR and local TU chapters in maintaining the course of the ment via work days and other activities, allowing members to become inte- stream and controlling invasive and other plants in the stream bed. Spring 2016 Wisconsin Trout Page 27 Driftless Rambler With Duke Welter TUDARE Communications Director Best burgers in the Driftless Area? Duke knows. Best burger joints Well, you might ask, how’s your Closer to home, I’ve been col- early season fishing been? Sadly, I’d lecting sites to visit across the re- have to report that I went oh-fer gion. As you may know, I seldom both January and February. A cold, ask anyone where he or she fishes, flu, bronchitis, laryngitis and anoth- but instead ask them about their fa- er cold knocked me so far down that vorite breakfast joint or beer-and-a- I didn’t even rig up a line during burger joint. Often, you will find it those two months. close to some dandy trout water. My jealousy would have been I’ve often observed that if we are rampant had all my friends been considering two similar streams for catching trout right and left, but for- restoration, the one that gets done tunately their reports were of some first is closer to the nearest beer- success and lots of satisfaction just and-a-burger joint. Such joints are being out. I can live with that. our focus today. But March has been better, with is first-rate, with a cold local brew. Jack’s burger is seared and black- Well, first, for a survey like this, You may find your molars rattling ened and served with blue cheese, trout caught, trout lost and mostly we need to set some standards. My trout spooked. But it was better with the trains that fly by every 20 which was a standard in my child- start in this endeavor started in 1967 minutes on average, but it’s a great hood home because it covered up than that. Redtail hawks and eagles in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, during hunt over the valleys. Bluebirds are burger and a colorful establishment. the taste of burnt toast, a staple. Try Spring Break. A local night club had Not far southeast, the greater it with the homemade chips or, if back and singing as they establish a back window, opened just before territory in the meadows, and yes- metropolitan area of Praag, about your stomach can handle it, the noon, where succulent balls of good 15 miles east of Alma, is home to homemade pork rinds. terday we saw a small brown bat cir- burger were grilled, flattened, cling over the stream. Bucknuckles Bar, another biker A final temptation is Pete’s Ham- spiced and served on an excellent joint with outrageously creative ru- burgers, an April-September land- I wondered what brought it out bun. We’d line up and grab enough at mid-day. Maybe just out of hiber- ral chic décor and great food. The mark in Prairie du Chien. Since to take down to the beach next top of the list is a Scotch Highlander 1909, the family of Peter Gokey has nation? But I think the answer came door, watch the scenery, and in the when I brushed from my cheek a beef burger that could be your only sold burgers there all summer. A re- evening take in a concert like the meal of the day, and a memorable gional magazine recently named medium black stonefly. This time of Beach Boys at a local auditorium. (I year they succeed the little black one. Pete’s as one of the best in the state. missed the opening act, some bunch Spring time in El Paso may It’s worth a try. snowflies. Their egg-laying looks calling themselves “Buffalo Spring- like a quivering half-globe of grey sound like an old Marty Robbins Jumping across the big river, field” or something like that.) song, but it means good fishing on word is that in northeast Iowa you upon the water, certainly like a My own list starts outside Chip- strobe light for attracting the trout the Rush River, and near its banks should try the 20-ounce Gunder- pewa Falls, where the Albertville you’ll head downstairs into the base- burger at the Irish Shanty in when they get going. Tavern serves the T-Hurst burger, a In anticipation of spring, I am ment El Paso Tavern. The burgers, Gunder, while the Rock Cedar half-pounder with onions, smoked and the weekend breakfasts, are Ranch burger at La Rana Bistro in planning some camping around the ham and Swiss cheese, and where Driftless Area this year. You may good solid bar food. Take off your Decorah sets a standard. And in on Good Friday you can get home- studded wading boots, warns the Lanesboro, Minnesota another see “Stubby,” the converted Nash made Hooterville fries to accompa- camper owned by Jim Dworshack sign on the door. burger wagon, Spud Boy Lunch, op- ny it. I’d stop there for a religious In Chaseburg, the only building erates seasonally. Personally, I am and brought back here from Cali- observance on that day, in advance fornia. left on the old valley floor is the planning to get there for the home- of an afternoon of fishing, and greet Hideaway. They had so many floods made corned beef hash. But be sure Jim says it’s a 1952 Nash Ambas- some of my former colleagues com- sador engine, transmission and there in the early 20th century that to try the burger, which the locals ing out to drink away the afternoon. they moved the town to the hillside call “sensational.” In this region, front end, coupled with a well-built The Lawyer Hatch, I called it as I camper. His extended family of above, leaving foundations under 10 where “Not half bad” constitutes went out the door to fish. feet of deposited soil The pictures high praise, that must mean some- eight took it to a national Nash con- Further south in Maiden Rock is vention in New York state in 2013. on the wall of the Hideaway depict thing. Ole’s Bar & Grill, which serves a lot those early days of flooding. And of bikers. The bacon cheeseburger LEGISLATION, from page 1 AB 874/SB 239 – High-capacity wells Wisconsin has thousands of what are called “lowhead” and other types of dams. Thousands of these structures impact trout streams, or waters which These bills were intended to allow high-capacity well permit holders to lead to trout streams. Allowing the unpermitted and unregulated disturbance move, rebuild, repair and transfer high-capacity wells without review by the of sediment could have profound impacts on spawning fish, and fish in gener- DNR. In effect, these bills would provide permit holders with perpetual per- al. Likewise, deepening impoundments could cause them to have greater im- mits, not subject to further review, regardless of changing circumstances, sci- pacts on water temperatures, possibly increasing them and harming ence or water levels. coldwater stream health. Finally, unregulated dredging could release toxins Wisconsin TU engaged significantly in opposition to these bills. Quite or other accumulated harmful materials into downstream waters. simply, Wisconsin TU believes that all high-capacity well permits should be For those reasons and others, Wisconsin TU actively engaged on this bill periodically reviewed, such as every 10 years. The simple fact is that our sci- at the committee level, and urged that it simply not be advanced out of com- ence progresses. Permits issued 20 years ago are based on antiquated sci- mittee. The bill did not advance, and was not moved out of committee. ence, just as permits issued today will be based on science which is outmoded in another 10 years. It makes sense to use the best available science to understand how high-capacity wells are interacting with one another, and how they AB 640/SB 493 – Aquaculture are impacting ground and surface water. That can only be accomplished AB 640 and SB 493 were bills aimed at making changes to regulations re- through periodic review. garding aquaculture facilities in Wisconsin. Wisconsin TU very actively en- Likewise, having periodic review of high-capacity well permits will ensure gaged on these bills and was able to work with the sponsors and authors to that all users, from agriculture to lake property owners to businesses to mu- have two amendments passed. Those amendments addressed several of our nicipal water systems to sportsmen, will have certainty, such that each of the concerns. billions of dollars of economies that such groups support can continue to First, the amendments ensure that changes made regarding water diver- benefit our state, its jobs and its people. sions applied only to existing facilities, and existing diversions (such that the To that end, Wisconsin TU and its members were incredibly active con- changes were not prospective, but only for already-licensed facilities). tacting legislatures, testifying at hearings and sending emails in opposition to Second, the amendments ensured that a portion of the bill which would these bills. Unfortunately, versions of both bills did pass in both houses. have redefined aquaculture as agriculture, such that aquaculture facilities Because the bills are not the same, however, reconciliation is required be- would have been available to receive state-paid cost sharing on best-manage- fore the bill could become law. As of today’s date, the assembly has indicated ment mitigation practices, was removed. that it will not return to session. If they don’t return and take up the senate’s Third, the amendments made clear that grading along stream banks version of the bill for concurrence, it would not become law. Wisconsin TU would only be allowed when necessary to maintain existing, already-permit- hopes the assembly will not return for further action this session. ted aquaculture facilities. All of these amendments were accepted by the bill’s sponsors and authors, and Wisconsin TU thanks them for working with Conclusion us regarding this bill. Ultimately, SB 493 did not pass the senate this session. As such, this bill I have seen the incredible efforts that our Legislative Committee has put will not become law, but it is likely to return in another form next session. forth in the past eight months, and those efforts are simply awe-inspiring. The WITU Legislative Committee will once again do its best to protect Likewise, the efforts of our members, and their repeated responses to our Wisconsin TU’s interests, and to ensure that we are able to achieve the great- calls for action, are equally inspiring. Wisconsin TU, and I personally, cannot est protections for our coldwater streams as possible. We thank all of our thank our supporters enough for their work. Thank you for all that you do members who actively engaged on this issue. for Wisconsin TU. Page 28 Wisconsin Trout Spring 2016 Spring 2016 Friends of Wisconsin TU Update By Doug Brown needed attention this summer. The 2016 fundraising appeal letter will be ]The 2015 Friends of Wisconsin TU campaign mailed soon, so please consider making a generous ended with a total of more than $17,000, yet anoth- donation. This program is heavily used by all of our er excellent year for this program. We can’t thank TU chapters and your financial commitment goes our donors enough for their generosity. Recent right back into our coldwater resources. grants have been awarded for such projects as a I want to thank Michelle McCarthy for helping joint commitment by Wild Rivers, Green Bay and with printing. Also, thank you to my daughter Marinette chapters to support a DNR LTE crew to Brooke for helping address all the envelopes with work on streams in northeast Wisconsin. labels and stamps. These two help make my life The Nohr Chapter is doing habitat work on easier. 3,000 feet of Pompey Pillar Creek and 5,000 feet on I hope you all have a wonderful spring and get FRIENDS GRANTS SUPPORT HABITAT CREWS the Blue River. out and enjoy the bounty of our healthy trout Chapter funds, along with Friends grants, support SEWTU is working on a project in Richland streams, many of which have benefited directly LTE crews like these. County, as the Little Willow will get some much- from the Friends of Wisconsin TU program.

Providing habitat improvement grants since 1991.

The latest projects are... $2,000 to the Northwoods Chapter for habitat crews in 2015 $2,000 to Wild Rivers for White River in Ashland County in 2015 $2,000 to Marinette and $1,500 to Wolf River for NE $2,000 to Wisconsin River Val- Region work in 2015 ley for Prairie River Project in Lincoln County in 2015

$2,000 to the Kiap-TU-Wish Chapter for the Upper Kinni in 2014 $2,000 to Green Bay Chapter for a habitat crew 2015

$2,000 to Wis. Clearwaters Chapter for Waumandee Creek in 2015

$2,000 to Aldo Leopold and $2,000 to Harry & Laura Nohr $2,000 to Southeast for Bear Chapter for Pompey Pillar, 2016 Cr., Sauk Co., 2015

Here are our Jim & Billie March LaCrosseWI Donald Wehouse Kaukauna WI Austin McGuan Green Bay WI Doug Wadsworth MadisonWI Friends of Wisconsin TU Dan McGuire Madison WI Don Wagner GillettWI Edwin Barnes MiddletonWI Cris Meyer Middleton WI Stephen Wilke MarinetteWI Charles Barnhill MadisonWI John Murphy East Troy WI Donald M. Williams Fort AtkinsonWI Jim Bayorgeon AppletonWI William Nielsen Eau Claire WI Paul Williams Madison WI Sen. Janet Bewley Mason WI Herb Oechler Wauwatosa WI Dan Wisniewski MiddletonWI Blaine Biederman Madison WI Cheryl and Winston Ostrow De PereWI Nancy and Roland Woodruff OshkoshWI John and Susan Bleimehl VeronaWI Richard Pfiffner AmherstWI Robert Wyman Beaver Dam WI Stephen Born MadisonWI Randall Rake Helena MT Frederic Young RoscoeIL Allon Bostwik Port Washington WI Ron Rellatz MertonWI Dean Ziemendorf Elcho WI Jerry Bristol Ellsworth WI Bob Retko Cedarburg WI Casey Calkins BrookfieldWI Glenn Ringwall New Berlin WI TROUT UNLIMITED CHAPTERS Lynn Christiansen MiddletonWI Thomas Rogers Princeton WI Aldo Leopold Rick Christopherson NorwalkWI Dan Rorabeck HudsonWI Antigo Andrew Cook II Sister BayWI Michael Sandretto Neenah WI Coulee Region Terry Cummings RhinelanderWI Jeff and Mary Schmoeger Cottage GroveWI Kiap-TU-Wish Bruce Davidson WauwatosaWI James Schommer Lodi WI Lakeshore Leonard Debee Menomonie WI James School KaukaunaWI Marinette County Pete Dramm Manitowoc WI Delmar Schwaller Winneconne WI Wisconsin Clearwaters Richard Duplessie Eau Claire WI Jim and Marie Seder New Berlin WI Ed Eggers Genoa IL Robert Selk MadisonWI John Ewen NeenahWI John Shillinglaw MadisonWI Jim Flesch Fox Point, WI Brent Sittlow HudsonWI Scott Geboy Fox Point WI Robert Smith Milwaukee WI Dan Geddes Appleton WI Arthur Sonneland, M.D. DePere WI John Gribb Mount Horeb WI Michael Staggs PoynetteWI Gordon Grieshaber Mineral Point WI Gary Stoychoff Green BayWI Dean Hagness CusterWI Michael Stupich WatertownWI Jon Hanson Madison WI Rick Szymialis Waupaca WI Henry Haugley Sun Prairie WI Robert Tabbert Lac du FlambeauWI Ashton Hawk Columbus OH Herbert Trask Milwaukee WI Stephen Hawk Madison WI Dennis and Becky Vanden Bloomen Eau Claire WI William Heart Ashland WI Charles Velie James Milwaukee WI Brian Hegge Rhinelander WI GregVodak StoughtonWI Mark Heifner Appleton WI Ken Voight Sugar Grove IL Walter Heil Jr De PereWI Bob Hellyer Boulder JunctionWI Charles Hodulik Madison WI Holtz Lime, Gravel & Excavating Loganville WI Yes, I want to join the “Friends” of Wisconsin TU. Phyliss Hunt WaupacaWI Enclosed is my check, payable to Wisconsin Trout Unlimited. Jeff Jackson Oconto FallsWI Thomas Janssen AppletonWI MAIL TO: Friends of Wisconsin TU Paul Jones Wausau WI % Doug Brown Charles Jorgenson Oconomowoc WI R4800 Timber Lane Frank Kearney III Neenah WI Ringle, WI 54471 Daniel and Sheree Kehoe Madison WI Lane Kistler MilwaukeeWI Barb and Joe Kruse LaCrosse WI Name Paul Kruse Green Bay WI Rick Lindroth Madison WI Tim Logeman Wausau WI Address Tom Lukas Manitowoc WI Douglas MacFarland DousmanWI City, State Zip Phone # Anna Magnin MarshfieldWI