Document douglascountywi_gov_doc_e260d85673

DOUGLAS COUNTY OUTDOOR RECREATION PLAN 2009-2013 Prepared by: ---PAGE BREAK--- DOUGLAS COUNTY OUTDOOR RECREATION PLAN DOUGLAS COUNTY, WISCONSIN 2009-2013 Forest, Parks & Recreation Committee Mark Liebaert, Chair Robert Browne, Vice Chair Carol Johnson John Robinson James O’Brien David Conley Daniel Corbin Douglas County Forestry Department Jon Harris, Director Mark Schroeder, Resource and Recreation Manager ---PAGE BREAK--- TABLE OF CONTENTS I. INTRODUCTION………………… II. The Population Regional Recreation Areas Geography Climate III. EXISTING RECREATION ACTIVITIES AND RESOURCES Camping Picnicking Swimming Hiking Boating Canoeing Golfing Downhill Skiing Cross-Country Target Shooting, Rifle, Paintball, and Archery Ranges Trail Corridors ATV Trails Snowmobile Trails Horseback Public Hunting Scenic Roads and Sight-Seeing Lake Superior ---PAGE BREAK--- Summary of Existing Lake Superior and St. Louis Bay Access Sites in Douglas County..........17 Unique Resources and Historical Sites Boise Brule River Brule River State Forest St. Croix Flowage Douglas County Forest Natural Areas RECOMMENDATIONS Class 1 Recreation Areas Mooney Dam Park Gordon Dam Park Lucius Woods County Park Douglas County Wildlife Area (Bird Class 2 Recreation Areas Anna-Gene County Park Lake Minnesuing County Park and Lake Minnesuing Boat Landing Park Creek Pond Youth Fishing Area Long Lake County Park Bass Lake County Park Lyman Lake Boat Access North Flowage Boat Park and Recreation Areas Activity and Facility LIST OF MAPS Douglas County Publicly Managed Park & Recreation Sites ---PAGE BREAK--- 1 I. INTRODUCTION Douglas County continues to experience significant increases in outdoor recreation activity. With this increase is a significant demand on the county’s natural resources. Since tourism and recreation constitute the states and Douglas County’s fastest growing industry bringing in millions of dollars annually, future growth, development, and maintenance of outdoor recreation facilities must be considered. The purpose of this plan is to investigate Douglas County’s existing outdoor recreation resources and anticipate future demands by developing recommendations for county administered outdoor recreation facilities. The objectives below are intended as guides for the county as it relates to outdoor recreation facilities. Objectives: • Develop a countywide park and recreation system that will provide opportunities for all citizens. • Maintain quality outdoor recreation areas while protecting Douglas County’s natural and scenic resources. • Promote and improve aesthetic and environmental values and access to the county’s resources through acquisition, easements, and other legislation and to encourage ongoing outdoor educational programs. • Identify and preserve sites having scientific, historic, architectural, or archeological significance. • Consider this plan a program for development of year-round recreational facilities. • Encourage the efforts of municipalities to provide “community” recreation facilities such as ball fields, playgrounds, tennis courts, and other recreational interests, which will complement the county’s facilities. • Encourage controlled private development of quality recreational areas. • Provide for barrier free access to public recreation facilities. • Continue to develop a coordinated countywide recreational trail system. ---PAGE BREAK--- 2 II. BACKGROUND Douglas County, the fourth largest county in Wisconsin in land area, (1,342 sq. mi.), lies in the far northwest corner of the state. Most of the communities in the county are within a half-hour’s drive from Superior, the county seat and international seaport. The Superior- Duluth harbors ranks second in the nation in tonnage. Industry, agriculture, recreation, and forestry are the major sources of income for Douglas County residents. The Region Recreational resources of the surrounding region play an important role in Douglas County’s outdoor recreation program. These regional attractions, many of which are of national significance, draw a great number of tourists and area residents. Douglas County’s proximity to Duluth and northeast Minnesota reflects a tremendous diversity of natural and manmade recreational resources. When planning for and developing recreation facilities in Douglas County, the impact of visitors from the Duluth metropolitan area must be considered. In the spring and summer, Douglas County’s recreation areas receive substantial use from Minnesota residents. Population Douglas County is comprised of 1 city, 5 incorporated villages, and 16 towns. The 2007 Douglas County population was 44,096, an increase of 1.9 percent since 2000. The Wisconsin Department of Administration has projected a population increase to 47,063 by 2030 for Douglas County. The following table shows population estimates out to the year 2015 and a map of the county. ---PAGE BREAK--- 3 Towns 2000 Census 2010 Estimates 2015 Projections Amnicon 1,074 1,196 1,259 Bennett 622 696 734 Brule 591 658 693 Cloverland 247 244 243 Dairyland 186 177 172 Gordon 645 756 813 Hawthorne 1,045 1,115 1,152 Highland 245 299 327 Lakeside 609 651 673 Maple 649 671 683 Oakland 1,144 1,292 1,369 Parkland 1,240 1,198 1,178 Solon Springs 807 966 1,048 Summit 1,042 1,084 1,107 Superior 2,058 2,260 2,366 Wascott 714 860 935 Villages Lake Nebagamon 1,015 1,109 1,159 Oliver 358 443 486 Poplar 552 570 580 Solon Springs 576 580 583 Superior village 500 558 587 City Superior 27,368 27,351 27,385 County Total Douglas County 43,287 44,734 45,532 ---PAGE BREAK--- 4 Regional Recreation Areas The Superior-Duluth area has a vast amount of open space along with its proximity to the 31,820 square mile Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world. The Douglas County mainland shore bordering Lake Superior contains approximately one hundred three miles of shoreline. The shoreline is very irregular with many large bays, inlets, and peninsulas. Sport fishing, including both ice and open water, are activities available on Lake Superior and many of the inland lakes. Other popular recreational activities pursued along the lake include swimming, sailing, pleasure boating, and kayaking. The St. Croix National Scenic Riverway also has a significant regional impact. The purpose behind this area is to preserve it in a near primitive condition and to protect and make it accessible for public outdoor recreational use. The portion of the St. Croix River from the Gordon Dam south in Douglas County lies within the National Scenic Riverway and is managed by the “General Management Plan”. Bayfield County, to the east of Douglas, also has many recreational resources. The Chequamegon National Forest, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, and Namekagon River, a portion of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway are resources of national significance. The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore provides unique recreation opportunities for visitors in the region. Since it was set aside for preservation and public recreation in 1970, it has been a popular place for people throughout the United States to visit. Camping, fishing, picnicking, boat docking facilities, trail systems, and interpretive areas are all part of the Islands’ opportunities. Forest Lands Over three quarters of the land area of Douglas County is forested. Large blocks of these forested areas are in a single ownership class, either county forest land or land controlled by paper companies. Douglas County has 272,795 acres of forest land currently certificated under the standards of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, and the Forest Stewardship Council. Independent, third-party certification means management of the county forests meets strict standards for Douglas County ecological, social and economic sustainability. Following is a chart which breaks down the forest land located in Douglas County into separate species of tree. ---PAGE BREAK--- 5 Forest Acres Aspen 163,153 Mixed deciduous/coniferous 116,948 Mixed/other broad-leaved deciduous 95,778 Jack Pine 40,621 Red Pine 19,529 Maple 14,374 Mixed/other coniferous 10,689 Red Oak 7,264 Northern Pin Oak 1,500 Oak 128 Forested Wetlands Coniferous 29,829 Broad-leaved deciduous 26,552 Mixed deciduous/coniferous 7,546 BRULE RIVER STATE FOREST ST. LOUIS RIVER STREAM BANK AREA DOUGLAS COUNTY WILDLIFE AREA PATTISON STATE PARK BRULE RIVER STATE FOREST AMNICON FALLS STATE PARK BRULE RIVER STATE FOREST Town of Cloverland City of Superior Town of Lakeside Village of Oliver Village of Superior Town of Oakland Town of Parkland Town of Superior Town of Amnicon Village of Poplar Town of Maple Town of Brule Village of Lake Nebagamon Town of Hawthorne Town of Bennett Town of Highland Town of Summit Village of Solon Springs Town of Solon Springs Town of Gordon Town of Wascott Town of Dairyland 2 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 Miles County Forests State Fish Management Areas State Forest State Parks State Wildlife Managment Areas National scenic riverway Publicly Managed Lands Source: All data extracted from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources' GIS data library. Original source scale varies. Publicly Managed Lands N E W S Source: WISCLAND Data Coverage-WDNR ---PAGE BREAK--- 6 ---PAGE BREAK--- 7 The Douglas County Forest is over 272,000 acres in size, making it the largest county forest in Wisconsin. Eighty percent of the county forest is commercial forest land with the remaining 20 percent being brush prairies, lakes, rivers, dams, flowages, and marsh wetlands. Large aspen blocks are being managed for wildlife such as deer, ruffed grouse, and woodcock, as well as other associated upland non-game species. In addition, several scientific and benchmark areas have been established throughout Douglas County where unusual or rare resource features are being observed, studied, and protects. Regional ski areas include Mt. Ashwabay near Bayfield, Spirit Mountain in Duluth, and Mount du Lac south of Superior. History A brief description of historical recreational use would indicate activity dating from Native American settlements, particularly along the St. Croix and Brule River systems, to the development of fishing and hunting camps in the early 1900’s. An example of early recreation use in Douglas County is reflected with the inception of Lucius Woods Park at Solon Springs. The former Omaha Railroad originally owned a major portion of the site occupied by Lucius Woods Park. A group from Eau Claire purchased the property from the railroad and they operated a hunting and fishing retreat until Nick Lucius and three other parties purchased the site in 1891. Several years later, Nick Lucius and P.E. Waterbury bought the other two out. During the Lucius- Waterbury partnership, ten cabins were constructed on the property and tourists moved their families and baggage up to Solon Springs by train to stay for several weeks or the entire summer. In 1945, Mr. Lucius bought out Mr. Waterbury and continued to operate the park for day-use and camping. In 1950, Mr. Lucius sold the park to the State of Wisconsin for use as a State Park. In 1990, the State deeded the park to Douglas County. The park was officially named Lucius Woods County Park in recognition of Mr. Lucius for his efforts in conserving the virgin growth woods, which has resulted in the beautiful park setting of today. The Superior escarpment or Douglas Copper Range is probably the most noticeable geologic feature in Douglas County. It extends east west across the county from the Bayfield County line to Foxboro and in some places it rises 350 to 400 feet above the lowlands. It is not a continuous bedrock range but is divided into three main ridges by the streams that cross it. These streams have cut deep gorges and have many rapids and falls where they drop from the hard rock of the escarpment to the soft clays and sandstone of the lowland. Geography The landscape of Douglas County varies greatly from north to south. The Lake Superior lowland, which adjoins Lake Superior, consists of a clay plain about 10 to 20 miles wide and slopes gently from the Superior escarpment to the lake. Short, swift streams flowing north into Lake Superior have cut deep V-shaped valleys below the plain. During the glacial period, the Lake Superior lowland was submerged under glacial Lake Superior and red clay was deposited on the old lake bed. ---PAGE BREAK--- 8 Pattison State Park, 11 miles south of Superior, includes two such falls. Big Manitou Falls on the Black River, the highest waterfall in Wisconsin with a 165-foot drop, is located on the cataract of the Superior escarpment. Little Manitou Falls, a second waterfall having a 30-foot vertical drop, is located about one mile upstream from Big Manitou Falls. Climate Douglas County has a humid, continental type of climate. This means that the county has long, cold winters with rather short, moderately warm summers. However, this climate is modified somewhat by the tempering influence of Lake Superior and by local variations in topography. Lake Superior acts as a large storage basin for heat (or cold) and thus tends to increase the number of frost- free days along the lake, but it also acts as a coolant in the summer. Consequently, the extreme northern part of the county adjoining Lake Superior has longer growing seasons, cooler summers, and more precipitation than is found in the southern part of the county. The 140 to 160 day growing season along the lake is as long as the growing season in the extreme southern counties of Wisconsin. The county’s annual precipitation averages more than the state’s average (32.1 inches). III. EXISTING RECREATION ACTIVITIES AND RESOURCES Approximately 350 miles of multiple-use recreational trails are located throughout Douglas County. The Forestry Department oversees the development and maintenance of approximately three hundred miles of snowmobile and seasonal ATV trails, ten miles of cross-country ski trails, and numerous nature hiking tails. Five abandoned railroad corridors have been converted to multiple-use recreational trails connecting with main corridors from other counties and states. Aside from the traditional functions, the trails are also used for snowshoeing, dog sledding, horseback riding, hiking, and nature and wildlife viewing. The following information describes recreational activities and some of the natural resources that are available in Douglas County. Camping Douglas County operates and maintains excellent public camping facilities at Mooney Dam, Gordon Dam, and Lucius Woods. State operated campgrounds exist in the Brule River State Forest, Amnicon Falls State Park, and Pattison State Park. Picnicking There are numerous picnic areas throughout the county. They are primarily located adjacent to swimming facilities, bodies of water or within developed parks, and recreation areas. Almost all designated picnic areas have restrooms, tables, and grills. ---PAGE BREAK--- 9 Swimming Douglas County lakes provide excellent sandy bottom and clear water swimming opportunities. Located throughout the county are both developed and undeveloped outdoor swimming facilities. Lake Minnesuing County Park County Swimming Areas: Bass Lake County Park Gordon Dam County Park Lucius Woods County Park Anna-Gene County Park Long Lake County Park Hiking Hiking possibilities are abundant throughout Douglas County’s vast and scenic forested areas, public lands, and county forest land. The North Country Trail through Douglas County provides excellent hiking opportunities. Nature trails are available in Douglas County. Most are provided within state parks and forests, including Amnicon, Pattison, and the Brule River State Forest. Additionally, the City of Superior provides trails in the city and within the Superior Municipal Forest. The Douglas County Wildlife Area, more commonly known as the Bird Sanctuary, has a hunter-walking trail system. Hiking trails are listed as follows: Brule - St. Croix Portage Trail At one time, the Mississippi-Lake Superior waterway was a common route of travel by the Native Americans, explorers, and fur traders. In traversing the 1.9 miles from Lake St. Croix to the Brule River, or vice versa, these early travelers were forced to carry their canoes and baggage over this divide. It is still an interesting hike. A marker designates the trail where it crosses CTH This trail is on the Wisconsin list of historic places. Brule - St. Croix Lake Trail This 26-mile trail, beginning at St. Croix Lake and ending at the State Fish Hatchery, is groomed for snowmobiling and provides an excellent hiking opportunity during warm months. State Swimming Areas: Pattison State Park (Interfalls Lake) City of Superior Swimming Areas: Barkers Island Village Swimming Areas: Lake Nebagamon- Community Beach ---PAGE BREAK--- 10 North Country Trail The North Country National Scenic Trail is a premier footpath that one day will stretch more than 4,000 miles to link outstanding scenic, natural, recreational, historic, and cultural areas across seven northern states, New York, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Dakota. Approximately sixty-seven miles will travel east to west through a large portion of Douglas County. The North Country Trail connects with the Brule - St. Croix Portage, which was used long ago by early explorers to reach the Brule River and Lake St. Croix or the St. Croix River. The trail will turn north at the Gordon Dam, proceed to Pattison State Park, and on to Jay Cooke State Park in Minnesota. Potential exists for the following historically significant trails: Empire Grade Trail The Empire Grade was a logging railroad. The original survey of the road was made in the fall of 1898 followed by the cutting through of the right-of-way a few months later. The 27 miles of main line track was graded, bridges built, and 40 lb. steel rail laid the following summer - from Dedham on the Great Northern Railway south to the log landing on the St. Croix, about one mile upstream from the Coppermine Dam. This landing is shown on old maps as Sauntry or Sauntry Landing. This work (building the grades) was all done by hand—no horses used--the final laying of ties and rail was done with locomotive and cars. The road was officially opened December 15, 1899 and incorporated as the St. Croix & Duluth Railway. (Some maps show it as the Duluth & St. Croix). This was the property of the Empire Lumber Co. of Winona, Minnesota. Old Stagecoach Trail Segments of this old trail, which ran from Superior to Spooner in the late 1800’s, still exist near the Moose River and Pikes Peak on county forest lands. Boating There are 11 natural lakes and impoundments over 200 acres in size in Douglas County that offer suitable surface water conditions to the pleasure boater. The total water area of these lakes amounts to 5,861 acres or 26 percent of the surface waters. All of these lakes lie within easy driving distance of the Superior area. For this reason, most of these lakes are heavily developed and receive moderate to heavy boating pressure. In 2007, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources had 8,157 public and municipal boats registered in Douglas County. Of the 11 mentioned lakes, Amnicon, Lower Eau Claire, Lyman, Minnesuing, Nebagamon, St. Croix Flowage, and Upper St. Croix Lakes are probably the most important boating waters within the county. Public access is available to all these waters. ---PAGE BREAK--- 11 Canoeing Canoeing is a popular sport in Douglas County. Canoe streams, as described in Canoeing The Wild Rivers, Northwest Wisconsin Canoe Trails, Inc., include the famous Bois Brule River, St. Croix River, Eau Claire River, Moose River, Black River, Nemadji River, Totogatic River, and Lower Ox Creek River. Bois Brule River Water Trail This river, famous for its trout fishing, beautiful scenery, and many exciting rapids, is one of the most enjoyable canoe trails in Wisconsin. The 44-mile long river rises east of Solon Springs near St. Croix Lake and flows in a general east and north direction into Lake Superior. For its entire length, the river is within the boundaries of the Brule River State Forest. Canoe trips usually start from Stone’s Bridge (CTH with take out at STH 2. The Copper Range Campground is located 1.5 miles south of Johnson’s Bridge (CTH The lower river trip below STH 2 is a full and adventuresome day’s trip to the mouth of the river. There is a great deal of privately owned land along the Brule River, but there are developed and primitive camping facilities at several locations. Outboard motors are prohibited on the Brule River by local ordinance except at the mouth. The Bois Brule River is also discussed in the Unique Resources Section. St. Croix River Trail In Douglas County, this trail runs from Gordon Dam to the county line. It is part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway System. This provides some of the best whitewater canoeing on the St. Croix. There is a developed canoe landing with parking, restrooms, and camping at the Gordon Dam County Park maintained by the Douglas County Forestry Department. Future signage and map development may occur in coordination and consultation with organizations sponsoring development activities along the waterway. Eau Claire River Trail The most commonly traveled portion of the river is from Lower Eau Claire Lake to the Eau Claire River Flowage. Shorelines are quite wild most of the way. The trip should be made during medium or medium-high water levels or shallows will be encountered. Future signage and map development may occur in coordination and consultation with organizations sponsoring development activities along the waterway. Lower Ox Creek This little stream offers a short canoe trip in a wilderness setting. Bald eagles, deer, ducks, and other wildlife are commonly seen. Medium or higher water levels are necessary. ---PAGE BREAK--- 12 Moose River This trail is subject to water conditions and flows into the St. Croix below Gordon Dam. Medium or higher water levels are necessary. Black River The Black River flows into the Nemadji and may be difficult to navigate subject to trees and water levels. Trout streams number 59 and comprise about two hundred thirty-three miles of streams. Streams are classified I, II, or III with the majority being Class I. There are 111.1 miles of class I trout streams, 55.8 miles of class II, and 66.3 in class III in Douglas County. Nemadji River The majority of this river in Wisconsin is canoeable with little gradient along its entire length. Fishing Douglas County has 154 named and 277 unnamed lakes totaling 14,113 acres. Fishing resources are abundant, especially in the southern part of the county. Some of these lakes include Amnicon, Whitefish, Minnesuing, Nebagamon, St. Croix, and the Gordon Flowage. Popular game fish include walleye, bass, musky, pan fish, and northern pike. Largemouth bass are the most abundant game fish species in the county and northern pike rank second. Lakes lying within the Amnicon River watershed are known for their muskies. Class I streams have high quality trout waters that have sufficient natural reproduction to sustain populations of wild trout at or near carry capacity. Consequently, streams in Class I require no stocking of hatchery trout. These streams or stream sections are often small and may contain small or slow-growing trout, especially in the headwaters. Class II Streams may have some natural reproduction, but not enough to utilize available food and space. Therefore, stocking is required to maintain a desirable sport fishery. Class II streams have good survival and carryover of adult trout, often producing some fish larger than average size. Class III waters are marginal trout habitat with no natural reproduction occurring. They require annual stocking of trout to provide trout fishing. Generally, there is no carryover of trout from one year to the next. Ten of the streams have more than one classification. Good trout waters exist within the watersheds of the Bois Brule River with brook trout as the main species. The waters of Lake Superior adjoining Douglas County contain walleye and fishing in the St. Louis River has become popular particularly in the spring and early summer. This is largely because of warmer water temperatures and a general lack of high quality spawning streams and offshore shoal areas near the west end of the lake. The most commonly creeled fish species of these waters are ---PAGE BREAK--- 13 lake trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, silver (coho) salmon, northern pike, walleye, and smallmouth bass. Seasonal seining of smelt is also a popular springtime recreational pursuit. Golfing Several excellent golf courses are located throughout Douglas County providing recreational opportunities to the amateur and experienced golfers. The following is a list of golf course in Douglas County. Forest Point GC - 9 holes Pattison Park GC - 9 holes Bottens Green Acres - 9 holes Norwood GC - 9 holes Poplar GC - 9 holes Fire Hill GC - 9 holes Hidden Greens N GC - 18 holes Nemadji GC - 36 holes Downhill Skiing Mont du Lac, located on STH 23, is the only ski area in Douglas County offering skiing, snow-boarding, and tubing. It has seven runs, with the longest being 2,400 feet and is accessible by chair lift and tow rope. At approximately 80 acres in size, it is accessible via STH 23. Outside Douglas County, Spirit Mountain in Duluth, Minnesota, also provides downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing facilities. Cross-Country Skiing Three Douglas County area cross-country ski trails are described below: • The Douglas County Forest is the largest county forest in Wisconsin, with 272,795 acres. These lands are managed for multiple uses to provide a variety of recreational opportunities, including cross-country skiing, as well as to provide timber for production. There are excellent viewing and photographic opportunities along the 10 plus miles of groomed ski trails overlooking the scenic St. Croix River and pine forests. There are three shelters available along the trail for rest stops. Douglas County Forest • The Superior Forest Ski Trails are located near the City of Superior, Wisconsin, with over 28 kilometers of groomed, beginner to advanced trails, part of which are designated for skate skiing. Use of the trail system is on a fee-based system. City of Superior Municipal Forest Ski Trails ---PAGE BREAK--- 14 • The Brule River Ski Trails are located approximately ¼ mile west of the Brule River on STH 2. There are approximately 6 miles of groomed ski trail for both track and skate-skiing. An additional 15 miles of undesignated trail is also open to all users. Target Shooting and Rifle, Paintball, and Archery Ranges A number of facilities are located throughout Douglas County that provide target, trap, rifle shooting, archery, and paintball experiences. Brule River Forest Ski Trails • Ambridge Gun Club, sign on CTH in Parkland Township • Aurora Ouisconsin Outdoors Club in Oakland Township • Douglas County Rifle Club, Inc., near CTH Parkland • George Constance Sr. Memorial Rifle Range on STH 2, near Superior • Fort Douglas Shooting Center in Parkland Township • Hall’s Trap Club, trap shooting facility on CTH Town of Superior, including two lighted trap houses • Hawthorne Trap and Wildlife Club, just off CTH • Superior Firepower, paintball range in the Town of Superior • Superior Municipal Archery Range, City of Superior • Superior Trap and Gun Club, Town of Superior near STH 35 Trail Corridors Recreational trails and trail opportunities are abundant in Douglas County. Trail use ranges from motorized to non-motorized with extensive use on public lands primarily in the Douglas County Forest. Major trail corridors include the Tri County Corridor Trail, Gandy Dancer Trail, the Wild Rivers Trail, Saunders Grade Trail, and numerous other interconnection routes which function primarily as snowmobile trails. ATV Trails In 2007, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources had 4,769 public and municipal ATV’s registered in Douglas County. Douglas County forest lands provide 295.8 miles of winter-use only trails. The Douglas County Forest, Parks, and Recreation Committee with the Forestry Department is actively striving to develop year-round ATV trails and to create through-county links and trail loops but is limited by geographical and environmental concerns. Vegetation, soils, and water resources can tolerate some use but overuse causes damage. Repeated passes by wheeled vehicles can kill vegetation and lead to soil erosion. Operating vehicles in ---PAGE BREAK--- 15 streams, rivers, or lakes lowers water quality, damages stream banks, and disrupts aquatic vegetation. Therefore, to minimize damage, all users are required to operate their vehicles in such a manner to avoid damage to vegetation, soils, or water resources. In addition to the 295.8 miles of Douglas County winter-use only ATV trails, the Tri County Trail Corridor and Brule River Forest have ATV routes available. Development of summer ATV trails has been increasing over the past five years. As of 2002, 82.4 miles of summer ATV trails were available throughout various locations. Snowmobile Trails Douglas County provides hundreds of miles of snowmobile trails. In 2007, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources had 2,099 public and municipal snowmobiles registered in Douglas County. Over 300 miles of state funded trails, club trails, and Brule River State Forest Trails contribute to the countywide network of excellent groomed trails. In addition to the 300 miles of the Douglas County trail system, the Tri County Corridor is available for snowmobile use. The Tri-County Corridor Trail is a year-round, multi-use recreational trail. It consists of over 60 miles of trail, paralleling portions of STH 2, stretching from Superior to Ashland. The corridor is a major connecting route to all other trails in Douglas, Bayfield, and Ashland Counties and passes through many rural communities. The Tri-County Corridor is under the jurisdiction of and maintained by the Tri-County Corridor Commission. The Wild Rivers Trail is a 96-mile multi-use recreational trail traveling along the abandoned Soo Line railroad grade. The trail meanders through Barron, Douglas, and Washburn Counties and passes through numerous charming and unique northland communities. The route was originally established by the railroad to connect the growing ports of Duluth and Superior to the rest of the state and nation. The Gandy Dancer State Trail is a county-operated 98-mile multi-use trail that crosses the Wisconsin/Minnesota border twice on its way from St. Croix Falls to Superior. A highlight is the 520-foot bridge over the scenic St. Croix River near Danbury. The Brule State Forest Trail is 26 miles of snowmobile trail from the Town of Brule to the upper St. Croix Lake, traversing the Brule River Portage Trail that was historically used by the Native Americans and the early settlers as a passage from Lake Superior to the Mississippi River. Horseback Riding Town roads, public land roads, and old logging trails offer numerous trail opportunities in Douglas County. Bridle trails are located near Lake Nebagamon on CTH The Brule State Park has no developed horse trails. However, horseback riding is allowed on all ---PAGE BREAK--- 16 undeveloped areas of the state forest. Persons can ride on the entire length of the Tri-County Corridor, 8.4 miles of the Saunders Trail, 17.6 miles of the Gandy Dancer Trail, and all of the Wild Rivers Trail in Douglas County. Trails exist in the Bird Sanctuary with trailhead stables and corrals located at the clubhouse. This area has the potential to be developed as a major horseback trail facility. Public Lands Over 37 percent of the land surface area of Douglas County is in public ownership which includes county, state (WDNR), and federal (Park Service). Hunting Over 400,000 acres are open to public hunting and trapping in Douglas County with approximately 65 percent of this being county forest land. Game species include deer, squirrels, rabbits, turkey, grouse, woodcock, bear, and waterfowl. In addition to the extensive public land holdings, private forest cropland, mainly industrial forest ownership, is also open for hunting. Extensive recreation trail development provides access to many of these hunting areas. Scenic Roads and Sightseeing Douglas County has many scenic roads. Paved and gravel roadways and many miles of improved forest roads that provide for enjoyable travel through very beautiful northwoods country. Lake Superior Douglas County boundaries encompass a portion of Lake Superior. The mainland shore bordering Lake Superior is approximately one hundred three miles in length or about 17 percent of Wisconsin’s Lake Superior shore. The Superior harbor and St. Louis River basin provide the only shelter area for recreational boating along the Douglas County shore. In addition, there are other boat launching ---PAGE BREAK--- 17 ramps at the mouths of the Amnicon, Middle, and Bois Brule Rivers providing small boat access to the lake. Also, boat access is available in Oliver for the St. Louis River and in the City of Superior. The climate and weather is favorable for recreational activities during the months of May through October. Popular recreational activities along the Lake Superior shore include fishing, kayaking, hunting, camping, hiking, and scenic pursuits. Swimming in Lake Superior is hampered by extremely cold water. Water sport activities, such as sailing and pleasure boating, are steadily increasing and now make up over 50 percent of the boating activity on the lake. Summary of Existing Lake Superior and St. Louis Bay Access Sites in Douglas County Public access to Lake Superior takes many forms, whether walking or drive-up. The “Lake Superior Public Access Study” identifies all known access points and inventories features of each location. Partially Developed Sites Partially developed sites include those sites that provide some but not all of the minimum small boat access design standards. Sajec Landing - Douglas County & Village of Oliver Facilities: Concrete launch ramp with dock, parking area and trash barrel. This is a major boat access to the upper St. Louis River on the Wisconsin side. Access: One lane gravel road ¼ mile from CTH Development Constraints: Parking limited due to available space. Ownership: State of Wisconsin. McClures Landing - Superior Facilities: Winter Access Only. No restrooms. Access: Adjacent to Billings Drive in the City of Superior. Ownership: City of Superior Billings Park - City of Superior Facilities: Small parking area at the base of a step narrow access road with a good ramp. Located in Billings Park. Access: Adjacent to Billings Drive. Development Constraints: Development limited due to space. Ownership: City of Superior. ---PAGE BREAK--- 18 Amnicon River - Douglas County Facilities: A concrete ramp and parking provide a protected small boat access to Lake Superior on the Amnicon River. The main parking area is located approximately 150 yards up a steep road from a small turnaround with parking at the ramp. Access: Three miles from STH 13 on gravel road. Development Constraints: Limited space at ramp will confine expansion to upper parking area. Ownership: Douglas County. Arrowhead Bridge - City of Superior Facilities: Located at the old bridge site. Facilities include double ramp and dock, paved parking launch area, lighting, restrooms, day-use picnicking and fishing pier. Access: On Billings Drive - City of Superior. Development Constraints: Limited space for expansion of parking. Ownership: City of Superior. User Fees: Boat launch fee. Developed Sites Developed sites are accesses that meet minimum design standards. Barkers Island - City of Superior Facilities: Paved parking area, ramp and dock, fish cleaning facilities with area lighting. Restroom facilities are available. Access: On Barkers Island in City of Superior. Development Constraints: Limited amount of space available. Ownership: City of Superior. User Fees: Boat launch fee. Loons Foot Landing - City of Superior Facilities: Restrooms, fish cleaning facilities, large paved parking area (+50 units), double ramp and docks. Access: Adjacent to STH 2. Development Constraints: Limited to existing space. Ownership: City of Superior. User Fee: Boat launch fee. ---PAGE BREAK--- 19 Historical Sites Unique Resources The following is a list of known historical sites within Douglas County.  S.S. Meteor  Fairlawn Mansion and Museum  Burlington Ore Docks  Evergreen Park Sanitarium (Middle River Health Care Facility)  Brule River  “Historical Marker”, Wisconsin Point  Overlook Park - Chief Kabamabe Bois Brule River The Bois Brule River is Wisconsin’s most famous and scenic trout stream. It is also noted for canoeing and its scenery. Spring fed and bordered predominantly by a northern coniferous forest, the Brule flows in the former channel of a larger river, which once flowed in the opposite direction and drained the waters of the melting ice of glacial Lake Duluth. The receding glacier created Lake Superior and carved the valley now occupied by the Brule. Instead of flowing southward out of Lake Superior, the Brule now flows northward into it. The Bois Brule River is 44 miles in length with 325.3 surface acres. From its headwater fork to Lake Superior, the river falls a total of 420 feet. The characteristics of the upper and lower sections of the Brule River are strikingly different and are divided by the Copper Range, near Copper Range Campground. The upper 26 miles of the river has a drop of only 92 feet, an average fall of 3 feet per mile. The lower 18 miles of the river from the start of the Copper Range to Lake Superior has a fall of 328 feet, for an average drop of 17 feet per mile. The upper river, from its source to the Cedar Island area, flows through a broad, flat wilderness bog valley rich in springs. The recreational value of the Bois Brule River valley was recognized and its immediate watershed was set aside as a state forest in 1907. Today, the boundary of the Brule River State Forest encompasses the entire stream and approximately 50,000 gross acres within the boundary; the state currently owns approximately 41,000 acres. Approximately 25.1 miles of the river’s frontage are now in public ownership. ---PAGE BREAK--- 20 At the mouth of the Bois Brule River where it empties into Lake Superior is a beautiful sandy beach, a limited use boat landing, restroom facilities, and parking area. Public access to the Bois Brule River is available at nine public road crossings and seven walking trails from public hunting and fishing parking lots along the river. Private development on the river is light but concentrated south of STH 2. Brule River State Forest Annually, over 120,000 people visit the Brule River State Forest. The Forest was created in 1907 with a gift of 4,300 acres for forestry purposes. The Brule River State Forest received a big 100th birthday gift in 2007- close to 6,000 acres. The land acquisition was due to a collaboration of the Conservation Fund and Wausau Paper Mills, Warren Knowles-Gaylord Nelson Stewardship Fund, a total of 5,889.13 acres of property were added to the Brule River State Forest, bringing the total property size to almost 47,000 acres. This was an important acquisition because the land will now be left undeveloped for public use without the possibility of becoming fragmented in the future The goals adopted by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for future management of the Brule River State Forest are to protect, perpetuate, and restore the unique natural character of the Brule River and its adjoining state forest lands. In 2003, the WDNR approved an updated master plan for the forest. This state forest is part of a bigger picture that includes the regional landscape, communities and many diverse interests statewide. To balance human needs with the ecological integrity of the forest, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources must prepare an updated forest master plan. This master plan will address both the use and management of forest lands and will reflect the Brule Forest’s unique character and its relationship to the regional landscape, providing ecological, economic, social, and cultural benefits for present and future generations. Other benefits provided by the state forest include: timber harvesting, public hunting and fishing, beautiful scenery, snowmobiling, hiking, canoeing, camping, picnicking, and sightseeing. The Brule Ranger Station, located 1.25 miles south of STH 2 on the east bank of the Brule River, is the forest headquarters. The Brule Fish Hatchery is also located within the forest west of STH 27 about one mile south of Brule. The Brule River State Forest offers exceptional recreational opportunities, including wildlife viewing, five State Natural Areas, a 16-mile stretch of the North Country National Scenic Trail, eight miles of frontage on Lake Superior, the Bois Brule State Fish Hatchery, and much more. There are two campgrounds within the forest. The Bois Brule Campground, with 23 primitive sites, is located on the Brule River, one mile south of STH 2 on the road to the Brule Ranger Station. The Copper Range Campground, with 17 primitive sites, is near the river four miles north of Brule on CTH ---PAGE BREAK--- 21 St. Croix Flowage The St. Croix Flowage is located on the St. Croix River west of Gordon, sometimes called Gordon Lake. The flowage was constructed in 1936-37 as a WPA project. Mean depth of the flowage is 6.5 feet. The shoreline of the St. Croix Flowage is relatively undeveloped due partly to the low and swampy nature of the shore, abundant aquatic vegetation and the county owns much of the lakeshore. The area is considered an outstanding waterfowl and furbearer producer. The fishery is composed of northern pike, largemouth bass, and pan fish. Douglas County has a developed access located on the north shore. A total of 23.5 miles of the flowage’s 29.1 miles of shoreline is county owned. There is also excellent access at the Gordon Dam Park on the west end of the flowage. Douglas County Forest A total of 272,795 acres of county owned land is entered under the County Forest Law within Douglas County. Eighty percent of the county forest is classed as commercial forest, while the remaining 20 percent is classified as non-forest area, such as water, marsh, and right-of-ways. These large tracts of publicly owned forest lands provide unlimited opportunities for a wide variety of outdoor recreation activities. Hiking, picnicking, hunting, snowmobiling, cross- country skiing, snowshoeing, berry picking, camping, and sightseeing are available. The Douglas County Comprehensive Land Use Plan 2006-2020 was approved by the Douglas County Board of Supervisors. The mission of the plan is to “The primary responsibility of the Douglas County Forest Department is to, on behalf of Douglas County residents, provide stewardship to forest resources, develop and maintain recreational opportunities, and serve as an informational resource to the public. County Forest resources should be protected from natural catastrophes such as fire, insect and disease outbreaks, and human threats such as encroachment, over-utilization, environmental degradation, and excessive development. Although managed for environmental needs such as the protection of watersheds and rare plant and animal communities and the maintenance of plant and animal diversity, these same resources also must provide for societal needs, including recreational opportunities and production of raw materials for wood-using industries. Management must balance local needs with broader state, national, and global concerns by integrating sound forestry, practices related to, wildlife, fisheries, endangered resources, water quality, soil, and recreation.” County forest resources are recognized as an asset of the people and should be protected from natural catastrophes such as wildfire, insect, and disease outbreak and from the impacts of human threats such as encroachment, over-utilization, environmental degradation, and excessive development. While managing for environmental needs such as air, water, soils, endangered resources, and biological diversity, these same resources must be managed for sociological needs which include provisions for recreational opportunities and the production of raw materials for wood-using industries. Forest managers must balance local needs with broader ---PAGE BREAK--- 22 concerns through integration of resource management practices. Integrated management will provide this variety of products and amenities for the future while sustaining, protecting, and enhancing the county forest resources. Natural Areas About 5,000 acres of nearly pristine northern forests, pine barrens, wildlife flowages, wetlands, and bogs in Douglas County have been permanently preserved as State Natural Areas. The areas were designated through work done by the County’s Forestry Department and the State Department of Natural Resources. The designated natural areas include: • Belden Swamp is a huge wetland straddling the divide between two major watersheds. It forms the headwaters of the Spruce River, which flows south into the Mississippi River watershed; and the Black River, which flows north into the Lake Superior drainage basin. The wetland complex contains the largest remaining undisturbed open bog in Wisconsin. The large size, isolated location, and roadless aspect provide excellent habitat for the resident pack of timber wolves. Also present are four rare species: LeConte’s sparrow, yellow-bellied flycatcher, northern harrier, and the Jutta Arctic butterfly. • Located on end moraine, Black Lake Bog contains a vast, inaccessible, undisturbed wetland complex of bog lake, open bog, and northern wet forest, a community poorly represented in the younger drift-west zone. The bog and Black Lake form the headwaters of the Black River. Wildlife found on the tract includes waterfowl, great blue heron, beaver, and short-eared owl, which may nest in the bog. The area is also within the territory of a pack of timber wolves. • The Bois-Brule River is an outstanding south-shore stream of Lake Superior, flowing north in the former south-flowing outlet of Glacial Lake Duluth. Numerous small springs and several large spring ponds occur upstream and of the natural area. Bird life is exceptionally varied. Such uncommon species as olive-sided flycatcher, golden-crowned kinglet, Lincoln’s sparrow, saw-shet owl, and black-backed woodpecker nest here regularly. • Buckley Creek and Barrens contains extensive pine/oak barrens with surrounding wetlands including northern sedge meadow, northern wet forest, alder thicket, streams, and spring pond. Both the barrens and wetlands are structurally diverse and rich in species. Numerous butterfly species can be found here including four rare Wisconsin species: the dusted skipper, cobweb skipper, Henry’s elfin, and Gorgone checkerspot. Birds include the clay-colored sparrow, brown thrasher, field sparrow, Brewer’s blackbird, Nashville warbler, and the Connecticut warbler, a species of special concern. Osprey and bald eagle have also been found here. ---PAGE BREAK--- 23 • The Cranberry Creek Dam is located approximately 10 miles northwest of Solon Springs and is situated on Cranberry Creek. This dam serves to enhance wildlife opportunities in its sparsely populated area; and forms a 70 acre impoundment. • Located at the confluence of the Pokegama and St. Louis Rivers near Lake Superior, Dwight’s Point and Pokegama Wetlands feature boreal forest, emergent marsh, and wet clay flats supporting shrub swamp and wet meadow. The natural area borders the St. Louis River estuary, which dissects the uplands into a series of narrow, steep-sided ridges, the largest of which is Dwight’s Point. Resident birds include many species associated with mature conifer forests, such as Blackburnian, black-throated green, Cape May, and pine warblers. Rare plants found here include the threatened sweet colt’s-foot, endangered clustered bur-reed, and small yellow water crowfoot. • Erickson Creek Forest and Wetlands harbors a rich combination of natural communities with a diverse composition of species. Erickson Creek forms the western boundary of the natural area before joining the Amnicon River on its journey to Lake Superior. Eighteen rare species have been identified in the natural area, including several birds, butterflies, and plants. This is the only known location in the state for the titania fritillary. • Located approximately 8 miles west of Solon Springs on a tributary of the Moose Branch River sits Jackson Box Dam. This dam serves a 45 acre impoundment; and enhances wildlife opportunities in its sparsely populated area. • Nemadji River Floodplain Forest, along the banks of the Nemadji River, supports a type of forest unusual in composition and perhaps unique in the state. Floodplain forests are very rare along rivers flowing north into Lake Superior, most being located along major rivers emptying into the Mississippi or Lake Michigan. Resident birds include the common raven, Nashville warbler, northern waterthrush, ovenbird, red-eyed vireo, hermit, and wood thrush, and rose breasted grosbeak. Nemadji River Floodplain Forest is owned by Douglas County as a County Forest Special Use Area. • Located approximately 3 miles southeast of Solon Springs, on a feeder to Lower Ox Lake, is Olson Meadows Dam. This dam serves to enhance wildlife opportunities, and forms a 15 acre impoundment. • Stateline Dam sits on the West Branch of the Hay Creek in the Town of Dairyland. This dam serves to enhance wildlife opportunities in its sparsely populated area. This dam impounds approximately 50 acres and serves to enhance the wildlife opportunities of the area. • Situated on the rolling glacial outwash sand plain that extends from Burnett to Bayfield Counties, Solon Springs Sharptail Barrens features a large pine barrens with widely scattered clumps of jack pine, Hill’s oaks, bur oak grubs, and occasional red ---PAGE BREAK--- 24 pine. Maintained by fire, the barrens are one of the best sharp-tailed grouse habitats in Wisconsin. Bird life is dominated by species, which require extensive open landscapes including the rare sharp-tailed grouse, upland sandpiper warbler, and Tennessee warbler. • The Upper Brule River, a reach of the Bois-Brule River, meanders sluggishly through a bog surrounded by a wide zone of alders. Bird life is very diverse, with records for several species of concern: yellow-bellied flycatcher, evening grosbeak, gray jay, Connecticut warbler, and black-backed woodpecker. The zebra clubtail, an uncommon dragonfly, cruises this stretch of the river. The greatest threat to the area is the winter concentrations of deer, which have limited tree and shrub reproduction since the 1940s. State natural areas dedicate sites offering prime examples of native plant and animal communities that have largely escaped the influence of human settlement. These places are often the last refuges for rare and endangered plants and animals. Official dedication as a State natural area permanently protects the parcels for scientific research, teaching of conservation biology and preservation of their natural values for future generations. The Wisconsin’s State Natural Area Program is the oldest of this kind in the nation having begun in 1951. IV. RECOMMENDATIONS Class I Recreation Areas Douglas County administers and maintains four major recreational areas, Mooney Dam Park, Gordon Flowage Park, Lucius Woods County Park, and the Douglas County Wildlife Area (Bird Sanctuary). These facilities are classified as Class I areas as set forth by Douglas County Ordinance. All of these facilities receive heavy annual use and provide the backbone to the Douglas County recreation areas. General recommendations for these facilities include an overall program of landscaping, erosion control, maintenance of heavy traffic areas, upgrading of facilities, and shoreland restoration. Recommendations also address providing for accessibility in accordance with the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) for handicap access. Following are Douglas County Class I park descriptions and recommendations. ---PAGE BREAK--- 25 Mooney Dam County Park Mooney Dam Park is approximately 38 acres in size and located 11 miles east of Gordon on CTH on Lower Eau Claire Lake. Administration and maintenance of the park consists of general supervision and camper registration handled by one seasonal lead worker and one seasonal helper. They split their time with Gordon Dam Park. In 2008, a new dock was installed at Mooney Dam County Park. Existing Facilities: • Hiking • Restrooms/Changing Rooms • Picnic Tables & Grills • Playground • Paved Boat Launch • Swimming • Primitive Campsites RECOMMENDATIONS COST ESTIMATES Provide landscaping measures with vehicle barriers (large rocks) at the northwest corner of the park. $2,000 - $,3000 Provide erosion control measures including rip-rap along the river bank adjacent to the camp sites. $2,000 - $5,000 Provide campsite improvements to include gravel pads, better delineated campsites, picnic tables and benches, and in-ground grills. $2,300 per site Provide reforestation measures. $1,000 - $4,000 Improve service road. $5,000 - $15,000 Replace restroom with pre-cast concrete toilet with handicapped accessibility. $15,000 - $25,000 Consolidate signage to key location(s) within park. $2,000 - $3,500 ---PAGE BREAK--- 26 Gordon Dam County Park Gordon Dam Park is 80 acres in size and located on the St. Croix Flowage approximately seven miles west of Gordon and STH 53 on CTH There are 33 campsites, 15 picnic sites and an improved boating facility, swimming beach, and trails. Grills, a picnic shelter, outdoor toilets, and a parking area are also located in the park. There is an overnight camping fee. A dumping station for RV vehicles exists within one mile of the park. The park is for day visitors, overnight camping, starting point for trips, fishing, boating, picnicking, nature walks, swimming, site seeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Administration and maintenance of the park consists of general supervision and camper registration handled by one seasonal lead worker and one seasonal helper. They split their time with Mooney Dam Park. Existing Facilities: • Hiking • Restrooms/Changing Rooms • Picnic Tables & Grills • Playground • Paved Boat Launch • Swimming RECOMMENDATIONS COST ESTIMATES Develop RV pull through campsites with electrical hook-ups. $5,000 - $10,000 Make restrooms handicapped accessible by removing barrier (3-4” at door(s) entrance). $1,000 - $2,000 Construct timber steps, retaining walls, or landscape in all areas where erosion is occurring, particularly from lake side campsites to water. $3,000 - $8,000 Campsite renovation should include gravel camp parking pads, delineated camp sites, and area wide landscaping. $1,000 - $2,000 Apply reforestation measures. $1,000 - $5,000 Apply erosion control measures and repair to earthen dike. $5,000 - $10,000 Construct information board to concentrate signage to one location. $2,000 - $3,500 Repair or replace black top service road to boat landing. $10,000 - $20,000 Construct secure tool shed/maintenance building. $8,000 - $15,000 Explore additional play equipment. $10,000 - $25,000 ---PAGE BREAK--- 27 Lucius Woods County Park Lucius Woods is a 41-acre park located in the Village of Solon Springs on Business Hwy 53. One of the most unique stands of virgin pine in Wisconsin had been preserved in Lucius Woods prior to a severe windstorm. Many of the large trees were uprooted and toppled altering the park’s character particularly along the St. Croix Lake shoreline. The park contains an excellent beach for swimming; camping and picnicking sites, some handicap accessible, hiking trails through the pine forest, and a carry-in for canoes. Boating, water-skiing, fishing, and snowmobiling are also available activities on St. Croix Lake. The Lucius Woods Performing Arts Center is located in the park and is home to a variety of summer performances. One seasonal lead worker and two seasonal helpers, who are at Lucius Woods 95 percent of the time, handle administration. Existing Facilities • Swimming • Fishing & Fish Cleaning Bldg. • Multi-use Trail • Restrooms • Picnic Sites with Grills • Camping • ADA Accessible Sites • Playground • Dock • Paved Boat Launch • Snowmobile Trail Access • Canoe & Boat Landing RECOMMENDATIONS COST ESTIMATES Continue landscaping with seeding and mulching through-out park and new tree planting. $1,000 - $5,000 Continue erosion control measures. $1,000 - $7,000 Construct new hard surface access to park near village hall. $10,000 - $15,000 Improve lighting along walking paths. $5,000 - $20,000 Continue reforestation practices. $1,000 - $5,000 Condense signage to key locations in Park. $2,000 - $3,500 Improve existing and/or add new drinking water well. $5,000 - $15,000 2003-2008 IMPROVEMENTS COMPLETED Provide additional picnic tables, including ADA accessible tables and in-grounds grills. Update nature trail. Replace/refurbish upper bathroom/shower building. ---PAGE BREAK--- 28 Bird Sanctuary Wildlife Area The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources manages a total of 4,197 acres in the Towns of Gordon and Solon Springs for sharp tailed grouse within the Douglas County Wildlife Area. Within the area, the WDNR owns approximately 1,000 acres and leases from Douglas County approximately 3,197 acres. The area is located three miles north of Gordon, five miles from Solon Springs and one-half mile west of STH 53 on CTH The area was formerly a glacial lakebed. A system of trails runs throughout the area. Grouse winter in the Gordon Bog, which is a lower, protected area east of STH 53 along the river. The Douglas County Sharp Tailed Grouse Area is classified as a Wisconsin State Scientific Area. National dog field trial championships take place here. A facility known as the “Bird Sanctuary Clubhouse” is located in this area and is used for field trials and has kennels, stables, and horse corrals available for rent through the Douglas County Forestry Department. Existing Facilities • Wildlife Viewing • Clubhouse • Multi-use Trail • Restrooms • Picnicking • Wild Flower Observation • Berry Picking • Bird Watching 2003-2008 IMPROVEMENTS COMPLETED Repair clubhouse interior and exterior including the siding and building access. RECOMMENDATIONS COST ESTIMATES Construct new horse stables, corrals, dog kennels, and well. $10,000 - $50,000 Upgrade and expand trail network. $5,000 - $10,000 Unisex pre-cast concrete toilet by stables. $15,000 - $25,000 Continue Upgrades to Club House. $3,000 - $8,000 Explore additional parking/RV parking areas. $3,000 - $10,000 Provide reforestation measures. $1,000 - $5,000 Apply erosion control techniques. $1,000 - $7,000 Continue to landscape Park. $1,000 - $5,000 Condense signage to key location in Park. $1,000 - $3,5000 ---PAGE BREAK--- 29 Anna-Gene County Park This day-use area at Lyman Lake is 256 acres in size and located in the Town of Oakland. The picnic area has 11 picnic tables and grills and a children’s playground. The paved entrance road is lined with large rocks and leads to a paved and designated 64-car parking lot. Camping is not allowed in the park. A system of trails is located in the wooded area from the parking lot to the lake and a boat ramp is located outside the entrance gate. A dock exists at the boat landing. Three seasonal helpers handle maintenance. Class II Recreation Areas Several Class 2 recreation areas are maintained by Douglas County. Class 2 recreation areas are different than Class 1 recreation areas in that Class 2 areas are “day-use-only” and do not allow overnight camping. Following are Douglas County Class II park descriptions and recommendations Existing Facilities: • Hiking • Restrooms • Changing Rooms • Picnic Tables • Grills • Playground • Paved Boat Launch • Swimming RECOMMENDATIONS COST ESTIMATES Provide on-going landscape improvements. $1,000 - $5,000 Improve information signage at one location. $2,000 - $3,500 Replace existing playground equipment. $10,000 - $25,000 Continue park maintenance of structures and road infrastructure $2,000 - $15,000 Provide parking lot maintenance to asphalt, clean and fill cracks and limited pavement repair. $3,000 - $10,000 Continue erosion control measures. $1,000 - $7,000 Construct hard surfaced handicapped access to restrooms. $1,000 - $4,000 Develop reforestation/tree planting plan for the park. $1,000 - $5,000 2003-2008 IMPROVEMENTS COMPLETED Add new picnic tables and grills to the picnic area to include two handicap accessible picnic tables. Demolish old restrooms and construct new restrooms. ---PAGE BREAK--- 30 Lake Minnesuing County Park and Boat Landing This swimming and picnic day-use area is approximately 30 acres in size and located in the Town of Bennett on the north side of Lake Minnesuing. There is a 100 foot sandy beach and restrooms across old CTH The boat landing area on Lake Minnesuing is approximately 18 acres in size and is located in the Town of Hawthorne. It is located off CTH approximately ¼ mile west of Lake Minnesuing County Park. In 2008, a new dock was installed at Lake Minnesuing County Park. RECOMMENDATIONS COST ESTIMATES General landscaping is needed; the beach and swimming area should be landscaped and the beach area defined with a timber retaining wall. $3,000 - $8,000 Removal of Old CTH P pavement and base and landscape, with the exploration of rain garden measures. $4,000 - $9,000 Construct a hard surface ramp ADA accessible from the parking area to picnic area, restrooms and beach. $3,000 - $8,000 Improve erosion issues in park, especially near swimming area. $1,000 - $7,000 Consolidate signage to key location(s) within park. Place “park here” signs and restroom location directional sign. $2,000 - $3,500 Install playground equipment. $10,000 - $25,000 Provide reforestation measures. $1,000 - $5,000 Install structural devices to prohibit vehicles from leaving designated parking area. $1,000 - $8,000 Improve surfaces and width of radius road. Construct an oversized concrete pad of 6-8 feet at the boat ramp. $10,000 - $15,000 Existing Facilities: • Fishing • Swimming • Picnic Tables & Grills • Restrooms • Garbage Receptacles • Water Pump ---PAGE BREAK--- 31 Park Creek Pond Youth Fishing Area The Park Creek Pond Youth Fishing Area is an 11-acre pond located just west of Business 53 adjacent to the Douglas County Forestry Department in the Village of Solon Springs. The area is designated as a child’s fishing area. Children under the age of 14 can use this facility. This is a cooperative effort between the County, Village, Town of Solon Springs and Wisconsin DNR. Brook trout are the only existing species in the pond. It is stocked as needed. Benches and picnic tables adjacent to the county forestry building on the north side of the pond are available. Douglas County will consider water quality during project implementation. RECOMMENDATIONS COST ESTIMATES Place large rock rip-rap at fishing access below parking lot. $2,000 - $6,000 Improve fishing access below parking lot by constructing hard surface platform with railing. $4,000 - $10,000 Weed control program for pond. $4,500 Control erosion by improving or replacing retaining walls. $6,000 - $15,000 Remove blighted buildings. $5,000 - $12,000 Provide reforestation measures. $1,000 - $5,000 Consolidate signage to key location(s) within park. $2,000 - $3,500 Improve landscaping. $1,000 - $5,000 2003-2008 IMPROVEMENTS COMPLETED Hire professional engineering services to inspect water control structure. Existing Facilities: • Youth Fishing • Picnic Tables • Restrooms nearby • Garbage Receptacles • Benches ---PAGE BREAK--- 32 Long Lake County Park Long Lake County Park is three acres in size and is a day-use area located in the Town of Solon Springs. Existing Facilities: • Fishing • Restrooms • Picnic Tables & Grills • Swimming RECOMMENDATIONS COST ESTIMATES Landscape park with top soil, seed, and mulch. $2,000 - $4,000 Apply erosion control techniques $1,000 - $7,000 Provide reforestation measures. $1,000 - $5,000 Gravel parking lot and access road. $1,500 - $3,500 Develop landscaping measures. $3,000 - $8,000 Consolidate signage to key location(s) within park. $2,000 - $3,500 ---PAGE BREAK--- 33 Bass Lake County Park Bass Lake County Park is approximately two acres in size and is a day-use area located in the Town of Solon Springs Existing Facilities: • Fishing • Restrooms Rooms • Picnic Tables & Grills • Swimming RECOMMENDATIONS COST ESTIMATES Continue maintenance of gravel access road. $500 - $3,000 Develop landscaping measures $2,000 - $3,000 Apply erosion control techniques. $1,000 - $7,000 Provide reforestation measures. $1,000 - $5,000 Consolidate signage to key location(s) within park. $2,000 - $3,500 ---PAGE BREAK--- 34 Lyman Lake Boat Landing Lyman Lake Boat Landing is located in the Town of Oakland and has no facilities. In 2008, a new dock was installed at Lyman Lake Boat Landing. RECOMMENDATIONS COST ESTIMATES Continue maintenance/grading to gravel access ramp and parking area. $500 - $2,000 Provide landscaping within the park. $2,000 - $3,000 Continue making erosion control measures. $1,000 - $7,000 Develop a informational kiosk to consolidate signage to a key location within park $2,000 - $3,500 Provide reforestation measures. $200 - $500 ---PAGE BREAK--- 35 North Flowage Boat Landing North Flowage Boat Landing is located in the Town of Gordon and is approximately two acres in size. At the boat landing, facilities include a concrete boat landing with dock, restrooms (vault), ADA parking, trap rock parking lot, and gravel road. Existing Facilities: • Concrete Boat Landing • Restrooms RECOMMENDATIONS COST ESTIMATES Fix source hole at end of pad. $1,000 - $2,000 Repair/replace concrete boat pad to make it longer. $10,000 - $15,000 Continue erosion control measures and landscaping. $1,000 - $7,000 Develop a reforestation plan. $200 - $500 ---PAGE BREAK--- 36 County Parks Recreation Areas Anna- Gene Lucious Woods Gordon Dam Mooney Dam Lake Minnesuing Long Lake Bass Lake Park Creek Pond The Bird Sanctuary Forestry Dept. CC Ski Trails Activities Fishing X X X X X Multi-use Trail X X X Hiking X X X Swimming X X X X X X CC Skiing X Facilities Restrooms X X X X X X X Handicapped Acc. X X X Parking X X X X X X X X Camping X X Fee Camping X X Picnic Shelter X X X Picnic Tables X X X X X X X X Grills X X X X X X X Drinking Water X X X X Benches X X X X Garbage X X X X X X X X Playground X X X Boating Paved Launch X X X Unpaved Launch Dock X X X-at launch Park and Recreation Areas Activity and Facility Table ---PAGE BREAK--- 37