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Douglas County Forestry Department 9182 East Hughes Ave., PO Box 211 Solon Springs, WI 54873 Douglas County Wildlife Area Get back in touch with nature and discover its hidden beauty. Developed Recreational Property Property Location The property is located in both the Town of Gordon and the Town of Solon Springs westerly adjacent to Highway 53 with County Highway M running through the center for approximately 3 miles. Sections 11, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, & 24, Township 44 North – Range 12 West, Town of Gordon & Town of Solon Springs, Douglas County, Wisconsin. Property Size 4,005 acres (994 acres of State of Wisconsin ownership and 3,011 acres of Douglas County Forest land) Property Address 13028 South Bird Road, Gordon, Wisconsin 54838. Getting There Located 1¼ miles west of Highway 53 at the County Highway M turn off in the Town of Gordon. Take County Highway M west for 6/10ths of a mile, turn right (north) on Bird Road and take it for 6/10ths of a mile until you see the clubhouse driveway entrance on the right (north) side of the road. Nearest Municipality: Town of Gordon and Village of Solon Springs Location SE¼ of the NW¼ Section 14, Township 44 North – Range 12 West, Town of Gordon, Douglas County, Wisconsin Longitude: 91° 50' 2.2483" W Latitude: 46° 17' 44.9737" N Driving distance from regional metropolitan areas: Chicago, IL – 430 miles Des Moines, IA – 390 miles Duluth, MN – 42 miles Eau Claire, WI – 115 miles Milwaukee, WI – 355 miles Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN – 150 miles Wausau, WI – 200 miles Area Size 20 acres (approximate). Area Hours The developed recreation area is open to the public daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., 365 days a year. Persons renting the facilities are excluded from these hours. All other general areas of the property are open to the public 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Safety First Remember you are responsible for your own safety. Outdoor recreation activities have in- herent risks and you may encounter a variety of unexpected and/or dangerous conditions. It is your responsibility to be informed and take necessary precautions. Please report any safety hazards to the County Forestry Department (715) 378-2219. Minimize Your Impact To help make everyone’s Wildlife Area visit safe and enjoyable, as well as protect the prop- erty and its natural beauty, please observe all rules and regulations. Protect future enjoy- ment of the area by leaving it better than you found it. Your behavior and the actions you take affect others. Help maintain a family friendly atmosphere for all property visitors. Reporting Violations At times, careless and inconsiderate individuals perform acts that can result in damage to property resources, threaten public safety, and disrupt experiences of others. These be- haviors deprive law-abiding users of experiences and opportunities and can jeopardize future property use privileges for all users. Diligent users reporting illegal activities has increased the effectiveness of law enforce- ment’s ability to protect property resources and user experiences. With your help, we can best protect resources and user experiences by targeting those individuals who have no regard for the law. STAY CONNECTED WITH DOUGLAS COUNTY FORESTRY USE YOUR SMART PHONE TO SCAN THIS QR CODE Safety is everyone’s responsibility. TURN IN VIOLATORS: (715) 394-4432 DCF-WMA-2011 This guide is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as a complete listing of all related Wildlife Area information. Information, including rules and regulations contained in this brochure were current at the time of printing only. To be sure this is the most current brochure version available, please visit www.douglascountywi.org or contact the Forestry Department. New versions may or may not be printed annually. Violations observed in the Wildlife Area (including violations of fish and game laws) can be reported 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by: • Calling the WDNR Violation Hotline at (800) TIP-WDNR (847-9367) • Texting [space] followed by the tip to TIP411 (847411) All violations can be reported anonymously. Penalties If you are found to be in violation of County Ordinance in the Developed Recreational Area (horse area & clubhouse), you can face civil penalty. Civil citations start at $150 and range up to $500. Fines for second or subsequent violations may be increased. In addition, resti- tution for any damages you cause may be pursued by civil action in circuit court. The County holds the authority to immediately revoke use privileges of any indi- vidual from the Developed Recreational Area on a temporary or permanent basis if deemed appropriate and/or necessary. If you are found to be in violation of State Law anywhere on the property, you could be cited accordingly. “Bird Sanctuary” Pine Barrens…northwest Wisconsin as it once was. Douglas County Sheriff’s Department (715) 394-4432 Douglas County Forestry Department (715) 378-2219 You are at the Developed Recreational Area of the Bird Sanctuary, Fire #13028 South Bird Road, Gordon, Wisconsin 54838. Medical facilities are located in Superior - WI, Hayward - WI, and Spooner - WI. Cellular phone service may not be guaranteed. The nearest public pay phones are located 6 miles away in the Village of Solon Springs on the north side of Main Street at Ole’s Country Foods Grocery Market and 4½ miles away in the town of Gordon on the south side of County Highway Y just east of Highway 53 across from the gas station. EMERGENCY INFORMATION Dial 911for emergencies Douglas County Forestry Department 9182 East Hughes Avenue, P.O. Box 211 • Solon Springs, WI 54873 Phone (715) 378-2219 • Fax (715) 378-2807 [EMAIL REDACTED] The information in this brochure applies only to the Douglas County Wildlife Area. Individuals are asked to contact appropriate land owners for land-use and outdoor recreation policies on all lands under other public ownerships. State of Wisconsin DNR General Information 936-7463 City of Superior Parks and Recreation Department 395-7270 National Park 483-2274 Printer will drop in FSC label here. Have feedback? Contact us. The Forestry Department is committed to making the Developed Recreational Area of the property a safe, fun, and pleasurable experience for all who use it. It's through the valuable information provided by patrons, residents and visitors alike, that property offerings continue to grow, change and improve. If you would like to offer any comments and/or suggestions on ways we can make the horse area or the clubhouse better or how much you enjoyed your visit, please contact us (see below for contact information). Feedback regarding the general Wildlife Area property can be directed to the WDNR Douglas County Wildlife Area Property Manager at WDNR Brule Ranger Station, 6250 South Ranger Road, Brule, WI 54820 or (715) 372-8539. Join us in our mission. The Forestry Department offers competitive seasonal employment opportunities in the care and maintenance of the property. Job applications are typically due by the end of March annually. Please contact the Forestry Department for further information. If working outdoors and being part of a high-spirited and enthusiastic team sounds attractive to you… then you just might be who we are looking for! Donations. In addition to annual budget funding for the cost of daily operations and special projects, monetary donations are graciously accepted and also provide important financial support for the property. Visitors can give cash or check gifts by mailing to the Forestry Department. Funds will be used for visitor services and safety, education programs, and horse area and clubhouse projects. Thank you for any interest in supporting your County Recreational Area! FOR ADDITIONAL COPIES OF THIS BROCHURE, please contact the Douglas County Forestry Department. Photos courtesy of Katherine Khalar. © 2011, Douglas County Forestry Department. All rights reserved. PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER DCF-WMA-2011 For more information about the Developed Recreational Area (horse area and clubhouse) of the Douglas County Wildlife Area or the Douglas County Forest please visit www.douglascountywi.org/forestry or contact the Forestry Department at: For more information on the Douglas County Wildlife Area (excluding the developed Recreational Area), please contact the WDNR Douglas County Wildlife Area Property Manager at WDNR Brule Ranger Station, 6250 South Ranger Road, Brule, WI 54820 or (715) 372-8539. For more information on the Friends of the Bird Sanctuary, Inc., please visit www.fotbs.org or call (715) 376-4743 or (715) 378-2265. The following information pertains only to the Developed Recreational Area of the property. The Developed Recreational Area is under the direct management authority of the County and is defined as the approximate 20 acre parcel where the horse area (stables, corral, kennels) and the clubhouse are located, including all immediately adjacent land (see map). Facilities & Activities Rental Rates • $50.00 per day regardless of number of people. • $2.00 per day for each dog on the property (utilizing the horse area). • $3.00 per day for each horse on the property (utilizing the horse area). NOTE: Rental rates are subject to change. You can find up- to-date information by visiting www.douglascountywi.org or contacting the Forestry Department. Rental Term • The daily rental time period is from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. Any use of the area within this time period, regardless of how little or how much, would require rental for that specific day. To Reserve a Rental Advanced reservations for the general public for any given calendar year are accepted beginning January 2nd of that year. Rental fees are due at the time of placing the reservation. Reservations can be made by contacting the Forestry Department at (715) 378-2219, sending an email to [EMAIL REDACTED], or visiting the Department’s office. Once paid, no reservation refunds will be issued. Special Rolling Reservations Annual preference for rentals after Labor Day through the end of October is reserved for Field Dog Trials. Preference for rentals at all other times of the year is reserved for horse user groups and educational events hosted by the Friends of the Bird Sanctuary. Preference is granted by allowing these groups to place advanced reservations for the following calendar year beginning November 30th of the prior year. Contact the Forestry Department for further information. HORSE AREA Horse Area offerings include… • Horse Stables. • Horse Corral. • Dog Kennels. • Open Picnic Shelter. • Restrooms (vault toilets). • Non-Potable Water Source (not approved for human drinking). • Fire Ring (limited firewood supplied). • Camping Opportunity. • Wildlife Area Access. The following are NOT available… • No horse feed. • No water or sewer hookups. • No electrical service. • No sanitary dump station. • No showers or flush toilets. • No garbage dumpster. • No tent or camper pads. • No paved or concrete parking aprons. Horse Area Complete with stables, corral and dog kennels, the horse area is located on the north side of Bird Road just to the east of the clubhouse. Be sure to look for signs along Bird Road indicating the driveway. The facilities can accommodate up to approximately 50 horses and there’s kennel room for up to 10 dogs. Area rental includes access to the stables, corral, dog kennels, open picnic shelter, restroom with vault toilets, picnic tables, fire ring, benches, garbage receptacles, and the opportunity to camp in the immediate area. Rentals include all offered NOTICE: Town and County Highway public roadways within the Wildlife Area property boundary fall under their respective jurisdictions regarding the use of ATV’s, UTV’s, OHM’s, snowmobiles, and other motor vehicles. Users should check with the appropriate roadway authority for further information and permitted motorized uses. Horse Area & Clubhouse Facilities The following facilities are available to the general public annually, from two Fridays before Memorial Day to Labor Day. Neither the horse area OR the clubhouse can be reserved or rented on its own, all rentals include BOTH areas. Both areas are rented together as a single package. No separate rental available. close lids). Remember, feeding wildlife is strongly discouraged and harassing wildlife is illegal! Sanitation Littering or disposing of garbage anywhere other than in the designated receptacles located in and around the facility areas is prohibited. Both the horse area and the clubhouse are provided its own garbage cans and on-site trash collection is provided daily during the rental season. Please keep garbage picked up. Discarding garbage or waste that was generated outside of the facility areas is prohibited. There is NO dump station for trailers and other recreational vehicles. Stored sewage and wastewater (black and gray) must be removed from the area and should be properly disposed of at a designated facility. There are NO showers or laundry facilities provided. Portable showers are permitted. One restroom with vault toilets and no running water is available at the horse area and another is available at the clubhouse. Both restroom facilities are handicapped accessible and are open during the rental season. Treasure the area – don’t trash it! Recycling 1 recycling station is provided to properly dispose of metal, glass, and paper products. Please be sure to keep all non-recyclables out of the containers. An active recycling program is one of the ways Douglas County is working towards encouraging residents and visitors to recycle where they live, work and play. All visitors to the property are encouraged to recycle. Recycle today for a better tomorrow. Motor vehicles and bicycles Be sure to keep all motorized vehicles, and trailers on designated travel/parking areas. Operating a motor vehicle off designated travel areas is prohibited! Remember to SLOW DOWN for safety. ATVs, UTVs, Dirt Bikes, and Other Similar Vehicles Operation of any off-highway vehicle, including all-terrain vehicles (ATV), utility-terrain vehicles (UTV), motor bikes (dirt bike), mopeds, mini-bikes, motorized scooters, specialized four-wheel drive units, tractors, dune buggies, go-carts, golf carts, and Visitors Visitors (non-renters) are welcome in the areas daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Use of the horse area or the clubhouse facilities without a rental is prohibited. Quiet hours and noise Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. daily. Creating excessive noise, causing a disturbance, or use of any device including but not limited to radios, televisions, generators, etc. that can be heard from a distance of more than 20 feet is prohibited during this time frame.. Fires Fires are only allowed in the metal fire rings or grills provided or in a self provided container specifically designed to contain a fire. Keep campfires small and burn only wood and clean paper. Gas and propane camp stoves and grills are permitted. Never leave fires or coals unattended. Fires must be extinguished completely before leaving the area or retiring for the evening. Firewood is available in the park during the summer months for a fee (see “Firewood” section). Firewood Cutting live or dead standing trees is prohibited. You are allowed to gather wood in the immediate area that is "DEAD AND DOWN" for your fire; however, available dead and down wood is typically scarce. You should consider purchasing locally harvested firewood (see the Firewood Advisory). Several local businesses sell bundled campfire wood in the region. Help keep pests out. Don't bring firewood in! Water One well handpump is available for water at the horse area and another at the clubhouse. The water at the horse area is non-potable (non-approved for drinking) while the water at the clubhouse is potable (approved for drinking). Food storage and wildlife DO NOT attract wildlife! Keep a clean area. This is Bear Country! Deer, squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, and skunks are also year-round Wildlife Area residents. Store your food, pet food, horse feed, cooking utensils, and scented items (toiletries, insect repellent, etc.) in your hard-sided vehicle or in a secure food storage container. These items should remain stored when not in use. Keep garbage picked up and disposed of in the designated receptacles (be sure to securely other similar vehicle types is PROHIBITED. Designated Summer ATV trails and ATV road routes are available nearby. However ATV’s CANNOT be operated in the Developed Recreational Area, they can be temporarily stored on the property but MUST BE transported from the property with a trailer or other method. ATV use is prohibited. Horses Horses are permitted in the Developed Recreational Area. Be sure to keep all horses on designated trails and within designated horse areas. Please muck out all horse waste from the stable area before the term of your rental ends. Waste can be gathered outside of the stables and will be removed by a property attendant. Alcoholic beverages Alcoholic beverages are permitted within the Developed Recreational Area. Public intoxication, underage drinking and/or disorderly conduct will not be tolerated. Keep alcohol away from minors. Fireworks and firearms The use or possession of fireworks is prohibited in the Developed Recreational Area. The use or possession of any non-cased (outside of vehicle) or loaded firearm, including rifle, shotgun, pistol, BB gun, pellet gun, air gun, CO2 gun, paintball gun, slingshot, or nocked bow and arrow, crossbow, or spear gun is prohibited. Hunting and trapping Hunting and trapping activities are prohibited in the Developed Recreational Area. Within the horse area and clubhouse area it is prohibited to… • litter. • transport any garbage or trash that was not produced on the property to the property and dispose of it. • damage or deface any feature, facility, or property. • post any sign, advertisement, or other informational media. • engage in any activity which is prohibited by sign or notice. • locate or operate a non-registered or non- licensed vehicle or trailer. • be in the area during closed hours (excluding persons renting the facilities). • not clean up after a pet. • harass or kill any wildlife or allow a pet to do the same. • cut or mar any plants or trees. • excavate or trench soil resources. • construct or establish a trail or pathway. Please observe all property rules and regulations. Additional Developed Recreational Area Rules & Regulations Firewood Advisory Firewood may contain non-native insects and plant diseases. Firewood may contain non-native insects and plant diseases. Bringing firewood into the area from other regions may accidentally spread pest insects and diseases that threaten Wildlife Area resources and the health of our forests. Visitors should use firewood purchased in the area that was harvested locally. Do not leave firewood for the next group and do not transport it out of the area – BURN IT! Why is not moving firewood important? moth, emerald ash borer and oak wilt are examples of invasive species and diseases that have killed millions of trees in Wisconsin and nearby states. Others, such as Asian longhorned beetle and sirex woodwasp, also pose threats to the health of Wisconsin’s trees and forests. It is illegal to bring firewood from out of State into Douglas County Recreational Areas and if it’s from a quarantined area, you could also be violating a Federal law. DON’T MOVE FIREWOOD General Property Rules & Regulations Management of the property is under the direct authority of the WDNR (excluding the Developed Recreational Area), including all leased County owned lands. All WDNR State Wildlife Area rules and regulations apply. County ordinances may or may not apply. The following is a brief summary of some of the more common rules and regulations affecting the property (as provided by the WDNR): I The property is open to public hunting, trapping, and fishing in accordance with State regulations. I The property is open to Dog Trials by permit issued by the WDNR. I Dog training is allowed between August 1st and December 31st annually in the designated dog training area located in the southwest portion of the property (see map). I It is prohibited to operate any ATV, UTV, or snowmobile on the property. I Riders on horse back and those on horse drawn vehicles may travel on the “Dog Trial and Horse Trail” trail network as posted with signs designating permitted horse travel. I Legally licensed Highway Vehicles may operate on developed roads or trails that have no restrictive sign, gate, or berm installed. Report all violations to 1-800-TIP-WDNR (1-[PHONE REDACTED]). Rules & Regulations The following rules and regulations pertain only to the 20 acre Developed Recreational Area (corral, stables, kennels, and clubhouse). For all other general areas of the property (3,985 acres), including leased County owned lands, WDNR State Wildlife Area rules and regulations apply (see the “General Property Rules & Regulations” section). Douglas County appreciates your cooperation and compliance with all property regulations. These regulations promote a friendly family atmosphere that is enjoyable for you and other visitors. Visitors who do not comply may be subject to appropriate civil citations and/or a loss of property use privileges. Remember… use of the area is a privilege! ATV use is PROHIBITED You MAY NOT operate an ATV or any other off-highway vehicle in either the developed recreational area (clubhouse and horse area) or in the general Wildlife Area property at any time for any purpose. See the “ATV’s, UTV’s, Dirt Bikes, & Other Similar Vehicles” section for further information. Pets Pets are permitted in the Developed Recreational Area. When outside of a vehicle or camping unit, all pets must be on leashes (field trial dogs are excluded). Please clean up all pet waste and deposit into designated garbage receptacles. Store pet food in vehicle or camping unit when not in use. Pick up after your pet. Access for people with disabilities If you need an accommodation to participate in Developed Recreational Area activities due to a disability, please contact the Forestry Depart- ment before you plan to visit. amenities in the immediate area, single amenities CANNOT be rented separately on an individual basis. The maximum number of people, horses, or dogs is not limited per rental. CLUBHOUSE Clubhouse offerings include… • Enclosed Clubhouse Structure. • Lights & Electrical Service (inside). • Large Fireplace. • Separate Restroom Structure (vault toilets). • Potable Water Pump (approved for human drinking). • Outside Fire Ring (limited firewood supplied). • Camping Opportunity. • Wildlife Area Access. The following are NOT available… • No heat. • No water or sewer hookups. • No sanitary dump station. • No showers or flush toilets. • No garbage dumpster. • No tent or camper pads. Clubhouse Constructed of rustic half-log siding with a large stone fireplace and flagstone porch, the clubhouse is located on the north side of Bird Road just to the west of the horse area driveway. It can hold up to 75 people and offers plenty of space to host a family gathering, wedding, picnic, reunion, educational program, or other special event come rain or shine. The facility includes a refrigerator/freezer, microwave, gas stove, tables, chairs, sink (no running water), separate restroom with vault toilets, picnic tables (outside), grill (outside), water pump (outside), fire ring (outside), garbage receptacles, and the opportunity to camp in the immediate area. The maximum number of people is not limited per rental. The Friends of the Bird Sanctuary is a non-profit corporation that was formed in 2003 when an interested group of people recognized the rare ecological significance of the property and wanted to get more involved. This group of volunteers works in close collaboration with the WDNR and Douglas County Forestry Department to assist in protecting and preserving the property. The group’s mission is to connect people with the property, to increase community involvement, and to help protect and preserve the Wildlife Area’s priceless legacy. The group annually conducts fundraisers and public education programs on a variety of ecological and historical topics and offers other scheduled outreach activities throughout the year. Many of these programs and activities are held on the property at the clubhouse facility. For more information, including how to become a member and a current schedule of free program events and other activities all available to the general public, please visit their website at www.fotbs.org or call (715) 376-4743 or (715) 378-2265. Educational Opportunities w w w. f o t b s . o r g For further information or a complete listing of all Douglas County Wildlife Area rules and regulations, please contact the WDNR Douglas County Wildlife Area Property Manager at WDNR Brule Ranger Station, 6250 South Ranger Road, Brule, WI 54820 or (715) 372-8539. Violations observed in the Developed Recreational Area (horse area & clubhouse) can be reported 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by: • Calling the Douglas County Sheriff’s Department at (715) 394-4432 • Calling the Douglas County Forestry Department at (715) 378-2219 • Emailing a report to [EMAIL REDACTED] • Visiting the Forestry Department office headquarters at 9182 East Hughes Avenue, Solon Springs, WI 54873. All violations can be reported anonymously. ---PAGE BREAK--- Looking for a unique place to experience the outdoors and get back in touch with nature? The Douglas County Forestry Department welcomes you to visit the Douglas County Wildlife Area located in the heart of the Douglas County Forest on the rolling glacial outwash sand plain extending from Burnett to Bayfield counties. More commonly referred to as the Bird Sanctuary, this area is the ideal retreat to escape to and enjoy mother nature in all her splendor. Experience the scenic vistas of the open barrens landscape while hiking the North Country National Scenic Hiking Trail. Feel the gentle breeze of a spring day upon your skin and the warm rays of the sun upon your face while exploring the on horseback. Disappear into the peaceful solitude of the land and let the calming silence and natural beauty of the Pine Barrens relax you. Host a family gathering, wedding, picnic outing, reunion or other special event in the Developed Recreational Area. Observe nationally recognized championship field bird dog trials during the fall months. Come to a place where you’ll experience a rare and vibrant ecosystem and have a glimpse into an historical landscape of the past. The Douglas County Wildlife Area is awaiting your visit! A Natural Legacy — Douglas County Forest provides a natural legacy of outdoor activities and recreation. It is an important part of the Forestry Department’s efforts to promote and pass on a strong conservation ethic to the generations of today and tomorrow. These efforts help ensure that the best of Douglas County’s natural resources will be sustainably managed and available for future generations to enjoy. During your visit… Please remember that you are sharing the property with many plants, animals, and other people. Please thoroughly review the information contained in this brochure to help enhance your enjoyment of the Wildlife Area and to further assist with the preservation and protection of the property. During pre-settlement times much of Northwestern Wisconsin was covered in widely scattered clumps of jack pine, oak brush, and the occasional red pine mixed with open grasses and brush. This habitat type is known as Pine Barrens and it was his- torically maintained through a naturally occurring fire regime. Frequent repeated burnings impeded natural succession towards forested community types and maintained areas in more open, early suc- cessional conditions. The Pine Barrens of northwestern Wis- consin are about 12 to 15 miles wide and 125 miles long, extending from the Sterling Barrens in Polk County in the southwest to the Bayfield peninsula in Bayfield County to the northeast. The region is characterized by sandy soil and many fire-dependent plants, relying on fire to eliminate or control competing vegetation. Human intervention has all but elimi- nated the wildfires that once maintained these Pine Barrens. In the absence of fire, natural plant succession, combined with an intensive tree-planting program turned nearly all of Wisconsin’s northwestern Pine Barrens into forest. Today less than one percent of the origi- nal Pine Barrens remain in Wisconsin. Described as some- thing between a forest and prairie ecosystem, the Pine Barrens provide some of the most biologi- cally diverse and unique habitats found in the region. Populations of many barrens species reached all-time highs during the early 1900’s when timber harvesting, land clearing for agriculture, and many fires roared across the landscape and expanded the habitat. From the 1920’s to the 1950’s, these grassy brushlands with scattered young trees continued to provided ideal habitat for the multitude of species that recognized dog competitions have been and still are held annually on the property. In 1947, the Wisconsin Conservation Commission officially established the “Douglas County Grouse Management Area” on the property for the purpose of research and experimental work on sharp- tailed grouse, prairie chickens, and bobwhite quail. In 1948, the State of Wisconsin became involved in protecting and managing the property by signing a 50-year lease and agreement with Douglas County for 2,480 acres. Fieldwork began at this time when 120 acres were experimentally burned and 20 acres of buckwheat food patches were planted. Clearing of the vegetation began in 1949 when 70 acres of jack pine, aspen, and willow were cut by hand. The property slowly grew in size as the State was able to acquire additional lands and expand the area. Development progressed slowly but steadily over the course of the next decade as land clearing and burning techniques were improved. In 1961, the Douglas County Civil Defense Committee fulfilled State plans calling for a civil defense control center located outside of high damage risk areas in the event of an emergency when they used the developed recreation area and property as their control center, training site, and auxiliary law enforcement headquarters until 1963. In 1968, the 240 acre Solon Springs Sharptail Barrens was designated as a State Natural Area (SNA). The Wisconsin Depart- ment of Natural Resources (WDNR) State Natural Area program is devoted to the pro- tection of biological communities, rare species, and other significant natural fea- tures native to the state for the purpose of scientific research, environmental educa- tion and, most importantly, for the preservation of Wisconsin’s biological diver- sity for current and future generations. The Solon Springs Sharptail Barrens SNA is located on County owned lands on the north- ern end of the property (see map). A new lease agreement between the State and the County was negotiated in 2003. In 2005, the County further protected and pre- served the leased County owned lands compromising the property by enrolling the land into “Special Use” County Forest designa- tion for the primary purpose of providing critical wildlife habitat. Today, the property has expanded to approximately 4,005 acres, 994 acres of State ownership and 3,011 acres of leased County lands. The area now comprises more than 10 percent of all the remaining Pine Barrens habitat found Statewide. The entire property is designated as a State Wildlife Area and is managed by the WDNR in partnership with Douglas County. Prescribed burning continues to be the pri- mary management method utilized to develop and maintain the Pine Barrens habitat on the property. Burning activities are highly coordinated operations performed by wild- land fire professionals typically completed in either the spring or fall of the year when con- ditions are favorable. The property is broken up into subsections or blocks and each block has its own burn schedule that annually rotates from one block to another. Overall, the property has a 10 year burn plan where each block is scheduled for burning in about 8 year frequency intervals. Without the burning the area would slowly convert to a forested ecosystem and the open stages of Pine Barrens habitat would be lost to natural succession. Burning and other vegetative man- agement efforts strive to obtain a mixture of grass/brush savannah inter- spersed with tickets of young aspen and jack pine, and scattered larger trees. When people hear the word “barrens”, they often picture a piece of undesirable, unproductive land, but this is far from true. A transitional ecosystem or eco- tone between forest and prairie, Pine Barrens are an ideal habitat for many unique plants and birds, including sharp-tailed grouse. While sharp-tailed grouse are a primary focus species, many other plants and animals require or use the property to meet their life cycle requirements. The assemblage of grasses, brushy patches, openings, and stands of young aspen and jack pine provides excellent habitat for a multitude of wildlife species commonly referred to as “barrens species”. The property is one of the best habitats in the State for many of these species and is extremely rich in terms of ecosystem diversity. Shrubs present are sweet fern, blue- berry, dewberry, New Jersey tea, hazelnut, willow, wild rose, chokecherry, and bear- berry. Groundlayer plant species include big and little blue-stem, prairie alumroot, puccoon, Canada mayflower, wormwood, asters, and goldenrods. Bird life is domi- nated by species, which require extensive open landscapes including the sharp- tailed grouse (Tympanuchus phasianella), upland sandpiper (Bartramia longicauda), grasshopper sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum), Connecticut warbler (Oporornis agilis), and Tennessee warbler (Vermivora peregrina). Other birds include mourning dove, eastern towhee, Brewer's blackbird, wild turkey, vesper sparrow, and field sparrow. Today, people visit and use the prop- erty for a number of reasons. Hiking along the North Country Trail through the sandy, shrub-filled region is a popular summer activity, and in the spring visitors can reserve time in a WDNR viewing blind to watch male sharp-tailed grouse dance to attract females. Yet many who visit the sanctuary simply want to experi- ence the unique beauty and solitude of the Pine Barrens landscape. were found there. By the 1940’s, the steady loss of barrens habitat was becoming more and more apparent with the absence of fire as the once open landscapes gave way to natural forest succession, tree planting, declining agriculture, and human intervention in the form of wildfire suppression. This reduction in habitat continued over the course of the next several decades as productive forestry became more of a land management prior- ity and the public gained a better understanding of wildfire prevention and suppression. Pine Barrens once covered an estimated 2.3 million acres of Wisconsin lands and were found in four regions of the state. Today less than 1 percent remains. During the economic struggles of the 1930’s, the Works Project Administration (WPA) provided jobs on public projects and it was the labor of the WPA that helped establish what is today known as the Devel- oped Recreational Area of the Wildlife Area. The log clubhouse constructed during this time still stands on the property today and is enjoyed by many who use it. In 1935, Douglas County offi- cially established the “Bird Sanctuary” and the “Bird Sanctuary and Clubhouse” was formally dedicated. The beginnings of the Wildlife Area can be traced back to 1925 when the Northern States Amateur Field Trail Association (NSAFTA) conducted its first sport dog trial on the property. NSAFTA’s first U.S. Chicken Championship Dog Trial was held in 1937. When this trial began, prairie chickens, which were fre- quently called “chickens” were plentiful on the property, hence the term chicken in the name refers to prairie chickens which are no longer present in the area. Since this first championship trail in 1937, many nationally Leaving a Good Impression The following are seven simple things, but they can go a long way toward making the Wildlife Area enjoyable and safe for all of those who use it. They will protect property resources and improve experiences for all visitors. Following these simple guidelines called the 7C’s will reduce the need for more stringent regulations and help retain a fun, family friendly atmosphere for everybody. Please be considerate of other users. Responsible behavior is ethical behavior…help spread the word! CARE Care about how you use the area and be considerate of others on the property. CAUTION Use caution in the use of all recreational equipment. Handle fire, inflammable fuels and other chemicals so as not to endanger yourself or others. COURTESY Practice politeness to enhance the experiences of users. Respect the privacy of others, control your children, control your horse, leash and pick up after your pets. Never be so sensitive to others as you are while visiting the property. CLEANLINESS Be clean in your property use habits and teach your chil- dren the importance of the same. Pick up litter no matter who left it and be proud of the area you leave behind. COOPERATION Observe the letter and spirit of Wildlife Area regulations and the rules established to protect everyone’s enjoyment of the property. Work cooperatively with others to make the property better for everyone. CONSERVATION Protect property resources from damage and help those whose job it is to guard and wisely manage the area. Leave a better property for those who follow. COMMON SENSE Apply common sense and good judgment to every situation, by doing so you will make your Wildlife Area experience better for yourself and all others. Frequently Asked Questions Description & History Pine Barrens… born and maintained by fire. Wildlife Observation Over 200 wildlife species have been documented using the Douglas County Wildlife Area (DCWA), providing tremendous wildlife observation opportunities for people that visit the area. Mornings and evenings during the spring and fall are typically the best time to catch a glimpse of active wildlife. One of the most well known and popular wildlife species people come to see is sharp-tailed grouse. One of the original reasons for the protection of the DCWA was to establish a region where sharp-tailed grouse could flourish, and the area is one of the last remaining and best sharp-tailed grouse habitats found in Wisconsin. Each spring, numerous dance recitals occur throughout the property when male sharp-tailed grouse dance and employ vocalizations and other techniques to attract a mate. Normally, you would have to be a savvy woodsperson to spot these secretive birds. But in the spring both sexes congregate at communal breeding areas known as leks or dancing grounds where males seek to attract females. Visitors can view the mating dances from an observation blind. The observation blind is available on a daily basis from April 10th through May 8th from one hour before sunrise up to two hours after sunrise. Advance registration is required for use of the blind. Blind reservations are handled by the Friends of the Bird Sanctuary group. Please visit their website at www.fotbs.org for further reservation information. will be the longest continuous hiking trail in the Unites States linking communities from New York to North Dakota, traversing seven states in-between. Wisconsin has the highest percentage of completed trail and Douglas County contains several premier segments. Regardless of your experience level or physical conditioning, something for everyone can be found along the North Country Trail. For trail maps and additional information, please visit www.nps.gov or or contact: National Park Service, North Country Trail, 700 Rayovac Drive, Suite 100 Madison, WI 53711 or (608) 441-5610. North Country Trail Association, 229 East Main Street, Lowell, MI 49331 or (866) 445-3628. In addition to the North Country Trail, the property also contains several other primitive roads and trails that provide additional hiking opportunities. The varied terrain and approximately 15 miles of designated horse trails that can be accessed directly from the corral and stable area make it optimal for many types of riding, from open grassy flats to brushy topography. Once mounted in the saddle, there’s more time to be attentive to the environment around you and to soak in the beautiful scenery. You’ll be better placed to catch a glimpse of active wildlife and can listen more closely to the songs of native birds. With the additional opportunity of renting and utilizing modern corral and stable facilities on the property to make your visit more enjoyable, the Wildlife Area offers horse enthusiasts many opportunities for exploration and adventure on horseback. For further information on the horse trails in the Douglas County Wildlife Area, including maps and rules and regulations, please contact the WDNR Douglas County Wildlife Area Property Manager at WDNR Brule Ranger Station, 6250 South Ranger Road, Brule, WI 54820 or (715) 372-8539. For further information on the Developed Recreational Area in the Douglas County Wildlife Area, including rental policies and rules and regulations, please see the “Horse Area & Clubhouse Facilities” section, visit www.douglascountywi.org, or contact the Forestry Department. Leks can attract from as few as two to six male birds to as many as four dozen. The primary courtship display by the male sharp-tail consists of a period of activity – foot stomping, clicking, tail rattling, with numerous intricate vocalizations, followed by a period of relaxation. The birds will come close to the blind, sometimes even landing on it as they watch the competition. For additional information or to reserve a viewing session, please visit www.fotbs.org or contact the Friends of the Bird Sanctuary group at (715) 376-4743 or (715) 378-2265. Please remember to enjoy wildlife from a distance. While some critters are more elusive, others have become accustomed to human activity. Most commonly, you can expect to see squirrels, chipmunks, and birds that frequent the developed recreational area looking for easy handouts. Users are reminded to not feed wildlife and keep garbage picked up and disposed of properly. Trails for Hiking Using you legs and feet is one of the best ways to get out and explore the Wildlife Area and experience all it has to offer. The North Country National Scenic Hiking Trail meanders its way through the property for approximately 5 miles and offers hikers a wonderful opportunity to experience first hand the open Pine Barrens landscape. Trail access points are located off Bird Sanctuary Road, County Highway M, Stuckey Road, and Prairie Trail County Forest Road. A main trailhead is located off Bird Road and a primitive campsite is available along the trail approximately ¾ miles south of County Highway M at Rovers Lake. More to See and Do Unique Douglas County attractions include: Fairlawn Mansion, Fairlawn Gardens, S.S. Meteor Maritime Museum, A World of Accordions Museum and Harrington ARTS Center, Douglas County Historical Society, Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center, Gordon-Wascott Historical Museum & Depot, Solon Springs Historical Museum, Barker’s Island Marina, Osaugie Waterfront Trail, Lucius Woods Performing Arts Center, Superior Speedway, Head of the Lakes Fairgrounds, Superior/Duluth twinports area, several golf courses, numerous restaurants and taverns, and many businesses offering a multitude of shopping opportunities. Unique Duluth, Minnesota attractions include: Canal Park, Aerial Lift Bridge, Art in the Alley, Duluth Art Institute, Duluth Entertainment Convention Center, Duluth Playhouse Theater, Glensheen Mansion, Great Lake Aquarium, Lakewalk, Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center, Lake Superior Zoo, Leaf Erickson Park, Proctor Speedway, North Shore Scenic Drive, Scenic Railroad, Park Point, Tweed Museum of Art, SS William A. Irvin Museum, and the Vista Fleet. Nearby Douglas County Park campgrounds include: Lucius Woods County Park, Gordon Dam County Park, and Mooney Dam County Park. Nearby day-use Douglas County Parks include: Bass Lake County Park, Long Lake County Park, Anna Gene County Park, Lake Minnesuing County Park, and Park Creek Pond County Park. Other nearby parks and recreational areas include: Pattison State Park, Amnicon Falls State Park, Bois Brule River, Brule River State Forest & State Fish Hatchery, City of Superior Parks, and the Douglas County Forest. Contact the Superior-Douglas County Chamber of Commerce for further information at (715) 394-7716 or tollfree at (800) 942-5313 or visit www.superiorchamber.org. Douglas County communities include:Towns of Amnicon, Bennett, Brule, Cloverland, Dairyland, Gordon, Hawthorne, Highland, Lakeside, Maple, Oakland, Parkland, Solon Springs, Summit, Superior, and Wascott; Villages of Lake Nebagamon, Oliver, Poplar, Solon Springs, and Superior; and the City of Superior. Driving distance to other communities in the area: LEGEND Directions to the blind are provided once a reservation is made. The blind holds up to three people. Users are asked to record their observations (number of birds, other wildlife, etc.) on a clipboard provided in the blind. Rain or high winds will discourage the birds from visiting the leks. Dress warmly as early mornings in late April can be quite cool. Field Dog Trials If you’re a hunter who enjoys to bird hunt with the use of dogs, bird dog field trials are a great way to enjoy some off- season action. A field trial is a competitive event at which hunting dogs compete against one another for placements and points towards a championship or are evaluated against a written standard. Each fall the Wildlife Area hosts numerous field trails that typically showcase the skills of upland pointing dogs or flushing dogs. These trails are usually organized by kennel clubs or other sport dog organizations and each showcase different dog breeds and abilities. Field trials are generally considered more competitive than hunt tests in that success at a field trial requires a higher level of training than success at a hunt test. The trail continues beyond the property boundaries to the north and south for many miles offering additional opportunities for experiencing varied terrain, scenic vistas and peaceful solitude. Located 3 miles to the north of the property, the trail enters Lucius Woods County Park where hikers can enjoy an old growth forest ecosystem along with many park amenities. Located over 2 miles to the south of the Wildlife Area, the trail traverses through a lowland wetland type ecosystem not far from the shoreline of St. Croix Flowage. When completed, the 4,600 mile trail birds have been released so they can demonstrate their ability to find birds, point and retrieve downed birds. The birds are captive farm raised birds that are transported to the property and released for the events by the event organizers. No native wild birds are targeted. Whether you’re a seasoned sport dog breeder or somebody who has never observed a well trained hunting dog perform, field trails at the Wildlife Area are a fascinating and exciting way to watch practical demonstrations of a dog’s ability to perform in the field, for which it was bred. Dog training is allowed in the Wildlife Area between August 1st and December 31st annually in the designated dog training area located in the southwest portion of the property (see map). Field trails are authorized by permit only issued by the WDNR. For further information on field dog trials in the Douglas County Wildlife Area or to request a permit application, please contact the WDNR Douglas County Wildlife Area Property Manager at WDNR Brule Ranger Station, 6250 South Ranger Road, Brule, WI 54820 or (715) 372-8539. Horseback Riding Looking for a great place to ride your horse? The steady hoof beat of a sure footed riding companion and the solitude of the barrens landscape is very popular among horse enthusiasts. Horseback riding allows you really appreciate the property and all it has to offer in a unique fashion. Field trials come in various grades including Open, Amateur, Sanctioned and Non-Sanctioned. An Open field trial permits entry from any handler or trainer while an Amateur trial only permits non- professional handlers/trainers. Sanctioned trials are ones that are held under the control of a national kennel club or organization, while non-sanctioned trials can be organized by a local club. The annual pointing or flushing trials hosted by the Wildlife Area are typically Sanctioned Amateur trials and involve pairs of dogs (braces) that run a course on which game Barnes, WI – 25 miles Danbury, WI – 44 miles Gordon, WI – 5 miles Hayward, WI – 36 miles Hinckley, MN – 72 miles Minong, WI – 15 miles Solon Springs, WI – 6 miles Spooner, WI – 35 miles Superior, WI – 38 miles Wascott, WI – 9 miles Q What are the rental fees for the clubhouse and how can I reserve it in advance? A As of 2011, $50.00 per day. The rental includes both the clubhouse AND the horse area, these facilities CANNOT be rented or reserved individually. Advanced reservations for any given calendar year are accepted beginning January 2nd of that year and can be made by contacting the Forestry Department at (715) 378-2219, sending an email to forestry@ douglascountywi.org, or visiting the Department’s office. Preferred reservations through a special rolling reservation process are available to all field dog trial groups for field trials, horse user groups, and the Friends of the Bird Sanctuary user group for educational events. See the “Special Rolling Reservations” section or contact the Forestry Department for further information. Q Our group has the clubhouse and horse area rented for a Saturday in July. What time do we have to be done using and out of the area? A The daily rental time period is from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. Therefore, your group would have to be done using and be out of the facility by 11:59 p.m. on the Saturday you have reserved it. Q What appliances and other amenities are included with the clubhouse rental? A A refrigerator/freezer, microwave, gas stove, tables, chairs, sink (no running water), separate restroom with vault toilets, picnic tables (outside), grill (outside), drinking water pump (outside), fire ring (outside), and garbage receptacles. Q Our organization has rented the clubhouse and horse area and we plan on having a lot of people attend our event. Do we have to remove our garbage when we leave? A No. The Department offers a garbage pick-up service and seasonal property attendants will empty the garbage receptacles during/after your rental. Q My family and I have the clubhouse reserved for a day in August. What’s the process for us to pick-up the entry keys and return them? A If possible, you can pick keys up the day before your rental during normal business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Forestry Department office headquarters located at 9182 East Hughes Avenue, Solon Springs, WI 54873 and drop them back off the day after at the same location. Alternative arrangements can be made but any such requests should be directed to Department staff well in advance of your reservation date. Q Our dog group is holding a field trial in the Wildlife Area and have reserved the clubhouse for a weekend in October. The forecast calls for some chilly temperatures, does the clubhouse have any heat? A The clubhouse does offer a fireplace but it is not very effective in efficiently heating the building. Although it will provide some heat, it should not be relied upon to comfortably heat the entire building. Q We have reserved the clubhouse and horse area for a weekend and are planning on bringing our ATV’s with us during our stay. Can we operate our ATV’s around the clubhouse and horse area and in the Wildlife Area? A No. Operation of any off-highway vehicle (including ATV’s, UTV’s, snowmobiles, dirt bikes, mopeds, mini-bikes, motorized scooters, tractors, dune buggies, go-carts, golf carts, and other similar types of vehicles) is prohibited in the developed recreational area (clubhouse and horse area) and also throughout the entire Wildlife Area property at any time for any purpose. You could store your ATV’s in the clubhouse and horse area on trailers or in truck beds but they cannot be operated. You would have to transport them out of the area to the Summer ATV Trail system via trailer or other method. Q My friends and I are not interested in renting the horse area but we would still like to ride our horses on the horse trails in the Wildlife Area, can we do this? A Yes. The horse trails are open to horse use throughout the year, but you would not be able to park vehicles and trailers in the horse area or use any of the facilities without a rental. You would have to park alongside one of the roads accessing the property or in one of the parking areas. Q Our dog group is thinking of renting the clubhouse and horse area for a weekend in September. Many of our members travel with large pull behind camper trailers that they would like to bring and stay in for the weekend. Can they do this and what services do you offer for these types of camping devices? A Yes. Camper trailers can be transported and parked at both the clubhouse and horse area with a corresponding rental. However no electric service, sewer hookups or water hookups are available. A non-potable water pump (not approved for human drinking) is available in the horse area and a potable water pump (approved for human drinking) is available at the clubhouse. No dump station for black or gray water is available. All sewage and wastewater (black and gray) must be removed from the area and properly disposed of at a designated facility. Q What types of permitted motorized trail uses are permitted in the Wildlife Area? A Designated Dog Trial and Horse Trails are only open to horse travel, horse drawn vehicle travel or foot travel, all other types of use is prohibited. Legally licensed highway vehicles may operate on developed roads or trails that have no restrictive sign, gate, or berm installed. Operation of any off-highway vehicle (including ATV’s, UTV’s, snowmobiles, dirt bikes, mopeds, mini-bikes, motorized scooters, tractors, dune buggies, go-carts, golf carts, and other similar types of vehicles) is prohibited at any time for any purpose. All cross-country travel by horse or any motorized means is prohibited (cross-country horse travel by active participants in a field dog trial are excluded). All bicycle and mountain bike use is prohibited except where authorized and designated by bicycle use signs. Contact the WDNR Property manager (715) 372-8539 for further information. Q Due to the openness and rolling terrain of the Wildlife Area, the area is very attractive for cross-country snowmobile riding during the winter. Can I do this activity? A No. It is prohibited to operate a snowmobile anywhere on the property for any purpose. Contact the WDNR Property manager (715) 372-8539 for further information. Q I am an avid hunter and would like to hunt small game and big game in the Wildlife Area this fall. Can I do this? A Yes. The entire property (excluding the clubhouse and horse area) is open to public hunting, trapping, and fishing. Please be sure to comply with all State of Wisconsin game laws and regulations. Contact the WDNR Property manager (715) 372-8539 for further information. Q I was hunting in the Wildlife Area and flushed some game birds that must have been previously released by a dog trial (birds that do not naturally occur on the property such as quail, chukars, pheasants, etc.). Is it legal for me to harvest any of these birds? A All game bird species found on the property are managed in accordance with State law. For protected species: all State licensing, season structure, and bag limit regulations apply. For non-protected species: all State licensing regulations apply. Contact the WDNR Property manager (715) 372-8539 for further information. Q Why does the WDNR burn off sections of the property and does this hurt any of the wildlife in the area? A Prescribed fire is the only management tool available to property managers to mimic historical fire regimes and promote the Pine Barrens landscape. Many of the plant species found on the property have evolved to rely on fire to propagate themselves. Without fire, the entire Pine Barrens ecosystem would be eventually lost and the species relying on this type of habitat would slowly disappear as well. Burning is carefully planned around daily weather conditions by professional WDNR fire staff and typically conducted during the spring and fall seasons, the same times of year when historical natural fires occurred. Timing of the burns in the spring is typically planned for prior to the active bird nesting season or shortly thereafter allowing females to re-nest elsewhere in the event their nests are damaged. During active burns, wildlife quickly recognizes the potential hazard and will flee the immediate area to avoid injury. In as little as a week after a burn, succulent new plant growth attracts many wildlife species as a preferred food source and quickly turns the black landscape back to a vibrant green in color. Contact the WDNR Property manager (715) 372-8539 for further information on prescribed burning in the Wildlife Area. Keep Wildlife Healthy & Wild. Please Don’t Feed Them! While forests are beautiful, Pine Barrens have a unique beauty all their own. Douglas County FOREST The Wildlife Area is located in the heart of the County Forest and is bordered by 1,000’s of additional acres of County Forest lands open to the public. At over 278,000 acres, the Douglas County Forest is the largest and one of the finest County Forests in the State of Wisconsin. With hundreds of miles of well-groomed recreational trails, over 100 pristine lakes to fish, swim, and boat, and vast acreages of wild forest land open to all sorts of outdoor recreational experiences, it’s no surprise that the County Forest is one of the true gems of Douglas County. Big woods, clean water, and spectacular wildlife… adventure starts here!