DNR

No grouse season in 2024

Published by kjpasson on Tue, 08/06/2024 - 4:15pm

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced that although the spring population survey results indicate a slight increase, the sharp-tailed grouse hunting season remains closed for 2024. Permits and applications will not be available or accepted this year.

Become a DNR community scientist

Published by admin on Fri, 08/02/2024 - 4:14pm

Residents can become community scientists by participating in the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Operation Deer Watch and the Game Bird Brood Survey.

These surveys are designed to measure the reproductive status of deer and game birds by establishing ratios of adults to juveniles (e.g., fawn-to-doe ratios).

This data helps indicate the productivity of Wisconsin’s deer and game bird populations. The data from these surveys, along with harvest information, provide DNR scientists with the key elements needed to make management decisions for these species.

Cats gone wild latest concern from DNR

Published by admin on Mon, 05/06/2024 - 10:30am

That friendly, fluffy pet cat found in 26% of all American households poses a real problem to songbirds, small mammals and other wildlife when that feline is allowed to roam, according to several wildlife agencies.

Wandering domestic cats are responsible for the extinction of several mammals, reptiles and at least 33 bird species globally, according to The Wildlife Society. One United States Department of Agriculture publication states that roaming cats may be the second-leading cause for bird extinction worldwide.

General inland fishing season opens May 4

Published by admin on Wed, 04/24/2024 - 1:01pm

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds anglers the 2024-25 general inland fishing season will open May 4.

Fisheries biologists expect anglers to find success on opening day. No matter where anglers decide to fish, all Wisconsin residents and nonresidents over the age of 16 are required to purchase a fishing license. Anglers can buy licenses through Go Wild, the DNR’s license portal, or from a license agent.

DNR announces drawdown for Navarino Wildlife Area

Published by admin on Wed, 04/24/2024 - 12:57pm

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced it will conduct a full drawdown on two flowages at Navarino Wildlife Area: Hanson Flowage and 80 Acre Flowage.

The drawdowns will begin this spring, and water levels will be lowered slowly until full drawdown is achieved in mid-May.

The drop in water levels is necessary to prepare the sites for upcoming construction and repairs scheduled for the summer of 2024. The project will involve rebuilding the top, side slopes and spillways of the dikes at both locations.

DNR seeking volunteers for stream monitoring

Published by admin on Tue, 03/05/2024 - 11:25am

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking volunteers to help monitor streams and rivers in several river basins located in central and northeastern Wisconsin, specifically the Lower Fox, Upper Fox and Wolf River and Northeast Lakeshore basins.

Sampling is essential for monitoring water quality improvements, assessing implementation activities and evaluating long-term land use changes.

Ice shanty removal dates announced

Published by admin on Wed, 02/21/2024 - 11:42am

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds anglers that ice shanty removal deadlines are approaching.

Permanent ice shanties, or those not removed daily, must be removed from all state waters by specific dates. Although mild winter conditions may have hindered the ability to fish from ice shanties on some waterbodies, anglers who were able to get a shanty out on the ice are reminded to remove them by the following dates:

• Wisconsin-Iowa boundary waters; the deadline was Feb. 20.

• Wisconsin-Minnesota boundary waters on or before March 1.

Updated fish consumption guidelines issued

Published by admin on Tue, 02/13/2024 - 5:30pm

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), announced the online publication of the 2024-2026 Choose Wisely booklet, which outlines guidelines for safe fish consumption.

Fish are full of important nutrients like omega-3s and are a great source of lean protein; however, they may also contain pollutants from their environment and the food they consume that can cause health risks for humans.

Submissions sought for Great Waters Photo Contest and Writing Project

Published by admin on Tue, 02/13/2024 - 5:26pm

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is accepting entries for the 16th annual Great Waters Photo Contest and Writing Project through April 1. The top photographs and writing submissions will be featured in the DNR’s Office of Great Waters next calendar.

The photo contest and writing project highlight how people connect with and value the Great Lakes and Mississippi River, inspiring greater care for these vast yet vulnerable resources.

DNR warden ordered to be reinstated

Published by admin on Fri, 02/02/2024 - 4:45pm

Andrew Dryja, of Suring, was a conservation warden in Langlade County for 19 years before the Department of Natural Resources fired him in 2018 for three work rule violations, including transporting his children in an agency vehicle.

Dryja contended he was wrongfully terminated and contested his dismissal before the Wisconsin Employee Relations Commission, in Oconto County Circuit Court and, finally, before the District IV Court of Appeals.

Meanwhile, he was hired as a deputy by the Oconto County Sheriff’s Office.