Document douglascountywi_gov_doc_fda278b5f6

Douglas County Forest Wildlife The diversity of plant communities on the County Forest provides excellent habitat for numerous species of songbirds, waterfowl, raptors, shorebirds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and mammals. Each species or interacting group of species thrives under different conditions, ranging from recently disturbed ground to mature forests. The most common natural community types offering excellent wildlife habitat on the Forest include the boreal forest, northern hardwoods, pine barrens, grasslands, and wetlands. Each of these community types provide essential habitat for many wildlife species that call the Forest home. When timber wolves disappeared from State in the 1970’s, Douglas County served as one of the last remaining strongholds for the species. After range expansion of neighboring Minnesota packs over the course of a couple decades, timber wolves were able to naturally re-establish themselves in the County and can be found in all regions of the County Forest today. Other well-known species that can be found inhabiting the Forest include black bears, white-tailed deer, and the occasional moose that may be sighted on rare occasion. Moose sightings typically occur during the autumn breeding seasons when young males occasionally drift into Douglas County from Minnesota’s moose herd. As Wisconsin’s Clam Lake elk herd continues to expand and grow, elk sightings in Douglas County may also one day be a more common occurrence. The abundance of diverse ecosystems that comprise the County Forest also provide exceptional habitat for beaver, muskrat, raccoon, red fox, coyote, bobcat, cottontail rabbit, snowshoe hare, mink, otter, squirrel, and many species of reptiles and amphibians. Fisher are now firmly established in the Forest and pine marten sightings are on the increase. Hawks, grouse, owls, woodpeckers, warblers, and many other song birds can be found throughout the dense woodlands, meadows, and marshes. Trumpeter swans have returned to the wilds of northern Wisconsin and breeding pairs can be found in remote beaver ponds, lakes, and flowages. Once threatened, bald eagles, ospreys, and loons are now common inhabitants of the Forest and thriving. Waterfowl, including mallards, wood ducks, black ducks, ring-necked ducks, blue-winged teal, and Canadian geese can be found throughout the many wetlands, marshes, and other aquatic habitats. Wading birds such as the great blue heron and American bittern are commonly observed and sandhill cranes are occasionally sighted in open fields and sedge meadows. Visit Douglas County Forest… escape back to nature. Douglas County Forestry Department 9182 East Hughes Avenue, P.O. Box 211 Solon Springs, WI 54873 Discover the Douglas County Forest… wild and wonderful! DCF-SB-2014 Hunting Trapping Deer Hunting Whitetail deer are the most popular game species found in the Forest and the property has been a long-time premier destination for all types of deer hunters. With its active forest management program, the property offers excellent deer habitat and outstanding hunt- ing opportunities for all types of deer hunt- ers. There are virtually no areas in the Forest where deer cannot be found and different ar- eas offer a variety of habitats and hunting ex- periences. Population levels tend to periodi- cally fluctuate from one year to the next due to factors such as severe winters, predation, hunter harvests, and altered carrying capaci- ties of the land. Douglas County consistently ranks as one of the top Counties for deer har- vest totals in the northern region of the State and hunters typically experience very good annual success rates on both bucks and does. A quick check of the Wisconsin Buck and Bear Club’s records book shows that many trophy buck entries from Douglas County have been recorded over the years. Unlike many of the agricultural based habi- tats more common in the southern regions of the State, hunters should expect to encoun- ter big-woods type habitat in the County Forest. Crop fields and smaller wood lots fragmenting the landscape are replaced by large stands of timber, vast swamplands, and pine plantations offering a unique big-woods challenge. Hunters should try to locate undis- turbed areas with preferred food sources for the best hunting opportunities. Although competition and hunter density on the Forest is much lower than in many other public lands throughout the State, hunters should be aware that deer hunting remains a very popular Forest activity. Bowhunter densities during archery season are typi- cally much lower than those of firearm hunt- ers during the regular season. As with most hunting, scouting is the first step to success and hunters who are willing to put in the necessary time should be able to find areas with very little if any competition from others. Areas closer to roads and access points tend to experience higher hunter densities than those areas further away. Whether you’re an opportunistic meat hunter looking to fill the freezer or a trophy hunter looking to match wits and skills with a mature buck, you’re sure to find the type of deer hunting opportunity you’re looking for on the County Forest. Bear Hunting Black bear hunting in Douglas County is a highly sought-after experience and the County Forest has always been very popular amongst bear hunters with its vast tracts of Beaver, otter, mink, and muskrat are found in abundance throughout the aquatic habitats scattered throughout the Forest and offer water trapping enthusiasts exceptional op- portunities. Dryland trappers typically find excellent opportunities for coyotes, red fox, raccoons, fisher, and bobcat. Once a very common com- mercial activity on the For- est, wide-scale commercial trapping has grown less popular over the course of the last several decades but the popularity of smaller- scale recreational trapping continues to in- crease. In this day and age, fulltime trapping is typically only practiced by a few hardy indi- viduals who are continuing the tradition. The majority of today’s trappers are recreational trappers who do not rely on trapping as a primary source of income. Most years, com- petition should be almost non-existent and finding an area of the Forest to trap without encountering other trappers should be rela- public land offering houndhunters and bait sitters ample opportunities to pursue bear. Bear hunters from all over the State and be- yond who are lucky enough to draw a Class A bear harvest permit or holders of Class B assist licenses travel to Douglas County ev- ery fall to experience some of the best bear hunting the State has to offer. With its large, contiguous blocks of public land and out- standing habitat, the Forest holds a thriving bear population and offers excellent hunt- ing opportunities. Bear hunters in Douglas County typically experience some of the highest success rates in the State and many record book bears have been harvested over the years. Currently, Douglas County ranks in the top 5 counties Statewide for trophy qual- ity and overall harvest. Most bears harvested average 175 pounds and 5 feet in length al- though every year 500+ pound specimens are taken. Access points in the Forest open to public motor vehicle use tend to experience the greatest bear hunting activities while those that are closed to motorized uses tend to see less. The Forest also serves as a very popular des- tination for houndhunters to train their dogs during the open training season. With some of the largest, contiguous blocks of pub- lic land found anywhere in the State, dog trainers can easily find areas that minimize the chances of private property conflicts. All houndhunters and dog trainers are reminded to use good judgment and to always respect private property rights. Remember, your ac- tions will affect how others view your sport. Wolf Hunting With its vast tracts of wild, remote lands, Douglas County has long been known as ex- cellent wolf country. 2012 was the beginning of a new era for wolves in Wisconsin after the species was de-listed from the Federal Endan- gered Species Act by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. With management of the wolf be- ing returned to the State and a burgeoning population, a public wolf hunting season was established by lawmakers for the fall of 2012. As many as 20 to 25 packs call Douglas Coun- ty home and wolves can be found through- out the entire County Forest occupying a wide range of habitats providing excellent hunting opportunities. After taking the top rank in the State for total harvest in 2012 (12) and 2nd for 2013 (24), Douglas County has become a well-known and very popular travel destination for hunters from all over the State and beyond looking for that very rare opportunity to harvest a wolf. Successful permit applicants have ample opportunities for calling, baiting, spot and stalk, trapping, or hunting with hounds. Most adult wolves har- tively easy. Trapping activity fluctuates with the fur market and increases during years when fur prices are up. Like most species, furbearer populations fluctuate from year to year but abundant populations provid- ing excellent trapping opportunities are the norm throughout much of the property on most years. Trapping is great way to experience a traditional lifestyle, hone your wood- manship skills, and acquire a greater sense of apprecia- tion for the unique history and heritage that helped found the region. All trappers must be sure to comply with all State of Wisconsin trapping regulations when trapping in the County Forest. For additional trapping and furbearer management information, please visit http://dnr.wi.gov or contact the WDNR Wildlife Biologist at WDNR Brule Ranger Station, 6250 South Ranger Road, Brule WI 54820 or (715) 372-4866. vested average 70 pounds for females and 80 pounds for males, but each year there have been a few 90+ pound males taken. Juveniles and yearlings will weigh 40 to 60 pounds on average. The majority display the typical mottled gray color pattern but black wolves are locally common in some areas. Blond and white wolves are the least common color phase but can still be found in the area. Hunt- ers and trappers should plan on dedicating some time to scout for travel patterns and put their field time in for their best chances at success. Ruffed Grouse Hunting With its active forest management program, the Forest provides excellent young forest habitat for ruffed grouse and offers ideal hunting conditions. Very much overlooked and not as well known, ruffed grouse hunt- ing opportunities in the Forest rivals any- where in the State and the hunting qual- ity is outstanding. Like most game species, population levels tend to fluctuate from year to year but excellent grouse hunting is the norm throughout much of the property on most years. Bird densities will vary across the Forest with birds being scarce in some habi- tats and plentiful in others. Dedicated hunt- ers who are willing to put in some time can typically find plenty of excellent hunting op- portunities with undisturbed birds and very low competition from other hunters. Hunters should look for young to intermediate aged aspen and alder stands along lowland for- est edges and near forest openings for the best hunting opportunities. Roads and trails closed to motorized uses are also key areas hunters should target. The Forest offers 3 designated special grouse management areas (GMA’s) totaling 28,000 acres that are enrolled in the Ruffed Grouse Society’s Special Management Area Pro- gram. These areas include the Spruce River GMA, Poplar River GMA, and the Empire Grade GMA. Each of these areas has specific management goals and objectives targeted towards grouse habitat improvement and hunter opportunity. Please see the map for locations of these GMA’s. The Forest also contains good populations of woodcock and grouse hunters can typically expect to encounter some of these birds in young aged aspen, thick hazel brush, open al- der and willow thickets, and forest openings. Wild Turkey Hunting Restoration of the wild turkey to Douglas County in 2004 has been a phenomenal suc- cess and populations continue to grow. Birds can now be found in many different regions of the County Forest and their range contin- ues to expand offering a new and exciting hunting opportunity. Wild turkeys are very adaptable and typically occupy a wide vari- ety of habitats found throughout the Forest, ranging from open grass savannahs to brushy young forests. These big-woods habitats are much different than the traditional agricul- tural habitats more common in the central and southern regions of the State. Hunters accustomed to turkey hunting along crop fields and small wood lots will have to adjust their tactics accordingly as the birds are far less exposed in high visibility areas such as fields. The most popular time to turkey hunt is dur- ing the spring where fall deer and small game hunters have an additional spring hunting opportunity to test their hunting skills with a wary gobbler. Hunters should try to locate undisturbed birds that will readily respond to a call or thoroughly scout travel patterns for the best hunting opportunities. Turkey population levels tend to fluctuate from year to year and factors such as severe winters, poor spring nesting conditions, and predation can have dramatic effects from one year to the next. Population densities will also vary across the Forest with the best habitats having lots of edge and offering suitable feeding areas and adequate roosting sites. Waterfowl Hunting Whether you enjoy hunting ducks or geese, from a boat or shore, waterfowl hunters can find many excellent hunting locations scat- tered throughout the Forest. Douglas County frequently ranks among the top 5 counties for waterfowl harvest in the State. Habitats range from large open bodies of water, such as the St. Croix Flowage and the St. Louis River, to small beaver ponds and remote marshes. Geese and ducks typically reside in the area until freeze-up while they feed in preparation for the long migration south. During some years an early cold snap or other weather factors can push birds south prema- turely. Hunters can expect opportunities for both resident and migratory birds with the best hunting typically encountered during peak phases of the migration. Primarily made up of the Mississippi flyway and to a lesser extent the Atlantic flyway, the region is traversed by numerous migra- tory routes that at times, can offer tremen- dous hunting opportunities for many differ- ent species ranging from teal, mallards, and wood ducks to goldeneyes, bluebills, and redheads, to name only a few. Hunters should try to locate undisturbed birds or a preferred food source such as wild rice beds for the best hunting opportunities. Habitats more common of southern Wiscon- sin and prairies west of the Mississippi River such as wide open marshes and agricultural pothole lakes are not common in the Forest. More common are wide spots in rivers, bea- ver flowages, and marshy bays and edges of lakes. Some years, waterfowlers can ex- perience fantastic early season puddle duck hunting with decoying or jump shooting. Other years, hunters can find excellent late season diver duck hunting on larger bodies of water. With the northern location of the Forest, waterfowl hunting is typically very weather dependent from one year to the next, but if timed right, can offer a tremen- dous experience. Predator Hunting Although not one of the more popular types of hunting activities and very much over- looked, excellent predator hunting can also be found in the County Forest. Coyote and red fox are the typical predator species pur- sued but bobcat are also hunted and are becoming more popular every year, espe- cially amongst houndhunters. Predators can be found in all regions of the property and typically occupy a very wide range of habitat types offering ample opportunities for call- ing, spot and stalk, or hunting with hounds. Competition from other hunters is almost non-existent and with abundant populations of many desirable species, predator hunting is a great way to get out outside during the winter months when most hunting seasons are closed and enjoy the County Forest. Like other game species, population levels of predator species tend to fluctuate from year to year and diseases such as mange and dis- temper can have dramatic effects on num- bers. Experienced hunters who are willing to put in some time typically encounter lots of action and high success rates on desirable species. Predator hunters should note that timber wolves are also found in the Forest and can easily be mistaken for coyotes. Other Small Game Hunting Other small game hunting opportunities found in the County Forest include cottontail rabbit, snowshoe hare, squirrel, sharptailed grouse, crow, and mourning dove. Each of these species can be found in the Forest and hunters should start by looking for any partic- ular species in their respective habitat types. For additional hunting and wildlife management information, please visit http://dnr.wi.gov or contact the WDNR Wildlife Biologist at WDNR Brule Ranger Station, 6250 South Ranger Road, Brule WI 54820 or (715) 372-4866. The County Forest awaits your next hunting adventure! Exceptional hunting opportunities for all types of hunters! Hunting has long been a time-honored tradition in Douglas County and for good reason. The County is home to the Douglas County Forest, the largest and one of the finest County Forests in the State of Wisconsin. Desired game species can be found in abundance throughout the property and ideal hunting opportunities abound. The Forest is open to public hunting with the exception of a very few areas in and or around developed features. Few places can rival the variety and quality of hunting opportunities that the Forest has to offer. From wildlife unique to the northern regions of the State like black bear, fisher, and sharp-tailed grouse, to wild turkeys and whitetail deer that are common throughout all of the Midwest, the County Forest offers truly exceptional hunting opportunities for all types of hunters. With over 278,000 acres, any hunter can find ample room to roam and take advantage of any one of the tremendous hunting experiences that the Forest has to offer. All hunters must be sure to comply with all State of Wisconsin hunting regulations when hunting in the County Forest. The County Forest has a long and storied tradition of trapping that can be traced all the way back to when the area was first settled. Many local Douglas County communities were originally founded as trading posts where furs were bartered or sold. Populations of traditional furbearers are plentiful throughout the County Forest and trappers should not have to look very far to find excellent trapping opportunities for a variety of species. Camping County Forest Developed Campgrounds The Forest offers three developed camp- grounds each offering unique amenities and attractions; Lucius Woods County Park, Gordon Dam County Park, and Mooney Dam County Park. These campgrounds are open annually during the summer months from two Fridays before Memorial Day to one week after Labor Day. Each is located on a large body of water and all three offer excellent sportfishing opportunities for a variety of species. For additional information on each camp- ground, including additional publications containing detailed information, please visit www.douglascountywi.org/forestry or contact the Forestry Department. County Forest Dispersed Camping The Forest also offers a primitive wilderness type camping experience that is available year-round in most general regions of the property. Recreational Use - Special Camp- ing Permits are required and are available from the Forestry Department for a fee. The Forest does not have any designated wilder- ness camping areas and all food, supplies, other necessities, garbage, and waste carried- in must be carried-out. This type of camping permit is very popular amongst hunters dur- ing the fall hunting seasons, especially during the firearms deer season. For additional information on primi- tive camping, including to obtain a Special Camping Permit, please contact the Forestry Department. Other Douglas County Public Campgrounds Amnicon Falls State Park 4279 South County Highway U South Range, WI 54874 (715) 398-3000 Brule River State Forest 6250 South Ranger Road Brule, WI 54820 (715) 372-4866 Pattison State Park 6294 South State Highway 35 Superior, WI 54880 (715) 399-3111 Comprised of a mixture of land ownerships be- tween the WDNR and the County, the 4,000 acre Douglas County Wildlife Area, commonly called the “Bird Sanctuary”, is open to a full range of traditional outdoor recreational uses. The en- tire property, excluding the 20 acre developed recreational area, is managed by the WDNR and open to public hunting, fishing, and trapping. Historically well known for its sharp-tailed grouse hunting, the property also offers excellent hunt- ing opportunities for wild turkey, deer, predators, and other small game species. Managed by the County, the developed recreational area offers clubhouse and horse facilities available to the public on a rental fee basis. Other popular prop- erty activities include horseback riding, wildlife viewing, nature photography, picnicking, hiking, and field bird dog trials. For further information on the Douglas County Wildlife Area (excluding the County recreational facilities), please contact the WDNR Douglas County Wildlife Area Property Manager at WDNR Brule Ranger Station, 6250 South Ranger Road, Brule WI 54820 or (715) 372-4866. For further information on the Developed Recreational Area in the Douglas County Wild- life Area, including additional publications containing detailed property maps, rental policies and rules and regulations, please visit www.douglascountywi.org/forestry or contact the Forestry Department. Fishing Whether you stand on the bank of a small hidden lake, wade the shal- low rippling water of a class one trout stream, or cast a line from the bow of your boat into a back bay of a flowage, anglers can find almost endless fishing opportunities scat- tered throughout the Forest. Available species range from warmwater species such as pan- fish and muskellunge to coldwater species such as trout and salmon. Waterbody access opportuni- ties from remote walk-in sites to modern, improved boat launch facilities can be found. The most commonly pursued sportfish in- clude bluegills, crappies, perch, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike, mus- kellunge, brook trout, and brown trout. Most lakes and rivers are more well known for certain spe- cies opportunities than others and anglers can be sure they’ll find ample opportunities for the spe- cies they are most interested in somewhere in the Forest. Anglers pursuing bass, walleye, pike, and muskie can find many waters that offer excellent action for these species in both quantity and qual- ity. Fly fishing enthusiasts can find trout willing to take a fly or stream- er on many of the small streams and creeks that flow throughout the property. Bluegills, crappies, and other panfish are also read- ily available in many ponds, lakes, and flowages. During the winter months, ice fishing is a very popu- lar activity and the fishing can be just as good as other times of the year, sometimes better. With so many different types of fishing opportunities throughout the property and variety of species available, it’s virtually impossible to mention all of them here. Whether you enjoy floating a worm under a bobber or burning a crankbait along a deep weed line, the Forest offers anglers of all ages incredible fishing opportunities. Suffice to say, the County Forest is an anglers Memories that last a lifetime start with a fishing rod, and with 41 lakes and 150 miles of rivers and streams contained within its boundaries, the County Forest offers a wide variety of fishery resources for anglers of all ages to enjoy. There are few places that have been blessed with as many fishing opportunities as Douglas County. Firewood Advisory Firewood may contain non-native insects and plant diseases. Bringing firewood into Douglas County from other areas may accidentally spread pest insects and diseases that threaten the health of the County Forest. Visitors should use firewood that was gathered within the County or purchased from a local vendor. Do not leave firewood in a park or in the Forest, do not transport locally purchased firewood out of the County – BURN IT! DON’T MOVE FIREWOOD PERIOD! Emerald Ash Borer Douglas County is currently under Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) and Unit- ed States Department of Agriculture (USDA) quarantine for Em- erald Ash Borer (EAB). All firewood use, collection, and trans- port is highly regulated. For additional information on the quarantine, including firewood rules and regulations, please contact DATCP at [PHONE REDACTED] and/or the USDA-APHIS at [PHONE REDACTED]. Douglas County Streams STREAM INFORMATION SPECIES Class Start Miles End Miles Total Miles Brook Brown Rainbow Amnicon River, Little III 0 6.5 6.5 n Amnicon River, Little II 6.5 13.8 7.2 Anderson Creek I 0 7.6 7.6 Angel Creek I 0 1.0 1.0 Arnold Creek I 0 3.7 3.7 n Bacon Creek I 0 3.8 3.8 n Balsam Creek, Big III 0 3.2 3.2 Balsam Creek, Big II 3.2 19.6 16.4 Balsam Creek, Big I 19.7 22.3 2.6 Balsam Creek, Little I 0 0.5 0.5 Balsam Creek, Little I 0 4.6 4.6 n Balsam Creek, Unnamed Trib to I 0 1.5 1.5 Balsam Creek, Unnamed Trib to (23-47-15) I 0 4.3 4.3 Beaver Creek II 0 2.9 2.9 x Beebe Creek I 0 4.3 4.3 n n Bergen Creek III 1.0 4.2 3.3 x Bergen Creek II 4.2 7.4 3.1 x Black River III 0 7.4 7.4 x Black River III 7.4 31.1 23.7 x Blueberry Creek I 0 4.5 4.5 n, a n, a Blueberry Creek Tributary (17-47-10) I 0 2.1 2.1 n, a Bois Brule River I 0 45.0 45.0 n, a n, a Bois Brule River, East Fork I 0 1.2 1.2 n, a n, a Bois Brule River, Little I 0 3.2 3.2 n, a n, a Bois Brule River, Trib (11-47-10) I 2.5 4.1 1.6 n, a Bois Brule River, Trib (22-47-10) I 0 4.0 4.0 Bois Brule River, Trib (2-47-10) I 0 0.4 0.4 Bois Brule River, Trib (34-47-10) I 0 0.7 0.7 Bois Brule River, Unnamed Trib to I 0 1.2 1.2 Bois Brule River, Unnamed Trib to I 0 1.3 1.3 Bois Brule River, Unnamed Trib to (11-47-10) I 0 2.5 2.5 Bois Brule River, West Fork I 0 2.0 2.0 n, a n, a Boyles Brook II 0 3.2 3.2 Buckety Creek II 0 3.1 3.1 Buckety Creek III 3.1 6.4 3.3 Buckley Creek II 0 6.5 6.5 Casey Creek I 0 5.0 5.0 n, a n, a Catlin Creek III 0 0.4 0.4 Catlin Creek I 0.4 4.0 3.5 Copper Creek II 7.2 9.6 2.4 Copper Creek, Unnamed Trib to I 0 1.4 1.4 Cranberry Creek I 0 1.4 1.4 Cranberry Creek I 0 6.0 6.0 Cranberry Spring I Eau Claire River III 3.0 16.0 12.9 x Empire Creek I 0 4.7 4.7 Jerseth Creek I 0 1.5 1.5 n Leo Creek II 0 2.5 2.5 n Leo Creek III 2.5 6.8 4.3 Miller Creek II 3.5 6.5 3.0 Mud Creek II 0 4.0 4.0 Mud Creek II 0 4.0 4.0 Nebagamon Creek I 0 1.6 1.6 n, a n, a Nebagamon Creek II 1.6 5.2 3.6 n, a n, a Ounce River III 0 12.0 12.0 n Ounce River III 12.0 25.1 13.0 Ox Creek, Lower II 1.1 2.8 1.7 Ox Creek, Lower III 2.8 4.4 1.6 Ox Creek, Upper II 0.3 6.4 6.1 x Park Creek III 0 0.5 0.5 n Park Creek II 0.6 3.6 3.0 Park Creek Pond III Percival Creek I 0 1.6 1.6 n, a n, a Douglas County Lakes LAKE INFORMATION SPECIES OF FISH Lake Type Acres Max Depth Mean Depth Public Access Lake Map Exotic Species Muskie N. Pike Walleye LM Bass SM Bass Panfish Trout Alexander SE 51 8 5 BR X P P P Amnicon DG 426 31 10 BF X C P P C Anderson SE 6 23 10 R X C Apple SE 6 11 T X Arrowhead (Beglinger) SE 11 47 P C P Bass (43-12-10) SE 128 27 12 W X P P C C Bass (45-11-32) SE 53 9 6 BR X C P C C Bear (Tozer) DG 47 15 8 BR X C P P C Beaupre Springs SP 2 5 T P Beauregard SE 93 20 11 BR X P P P C Bennett SE 30 17 C Bergen Creek Springs SP 7 6 T X P Big SP 41 7 W P C Bird Sanctuary SE 10 8 T Black DG 80 4 3 NW X P P Black Fox SE 36 5 P Blue Springs SP 1 4 NW P Bluegill SE 21 77 X P P P P Bond SE 292 67 30 BR X P P C P P Boot SE 16 2 Breitzman SE 13 21 12 BR X C P C Buckley Spring SP 4 10 NW P Buffalo SE 42 33 C C C Catherine SE 72 11 X P P Cedar Island Ponds SP 27 15 A Chain, Lower SE 98 11 5 BR X C P P Chain, Upper SE 77 5 3 X Cheney SE 20 18 7 X C C Clear SE 36 39 X P P C C Clyde SE 49 11 X C P Coffee SE 11 31 X P C Cranberry DG 172 19 11 BR X E C P C C Cranberry Creek Flowage DG 346 6 Cranberry Spring SP 1 12 NW C Cream SE 5 17 C Crooked SE 32 9 T X C C Crotty SE 52 16 W X C SE 288 22 11 BR X C P P P C Deer (43-13-11) SE 19 19 P Deer (46-11-2) SE 49 6 Deer (46-13-10) SE 5 28 X A Deer Print SE 20 7 X Dowling DG 154 13 7 BR X C C P P Eau Claire Flowage DG 56 22 8 R X C P P P P Eau Claire, Lower DG 802 41 22 BR X P C C P P C Ellison SE 110 18 13 X P P P Ferguson DG 10 7 Flamang SE 7 17 P P Flat SE 58 6 3 T X Frahm DG 83 Gander SE 54 27 11 X P P P Gilbert SE 8 6 T X Glacier (Round) (43-13-12) SE 36 76 28 X P C Goose SE 38 5 T Grover SE 7 8 4 T X C Harriet SE 17 18 X C C Haugen (Pagan) SE 27 25 W X P C High Life SE 20 6 X Hoodoo SE 32 13 P C P Hopkins SE 15 17 C C Horseshoe (Tank) SE 4 45 X P P C Horseshoe Springs SP 6 4 P Interfalls (Manitou) DG 27 13 7 T X P P C P Island SE 46 17 8 X P P C C Jack Pine SE 15 12 X C P heaven. All anglers must be sure to comply with all State of Wisconsin fishing regulations when fishing in the County Forest. For additional fishing and fish- eries management information, please visit http://dnr.wi.gov or contact the WDNR Fisheries Biolo- gist at WDNR Brule Ranger Station, 6250 South Ranger Road, Brule WI 54820 or (715) 372-4866. Douglas County Wildlife Area Douglas County Fish Stocking by Species Tree Stand Safety Before You Climb — Tree stand accidents are the leading cause of injury to Wisconsin deer hunters. One in three people who hunt from an elevated stand will have a fall resulting in a serious injury during their lifetime. Most accidents occur when climbing up or down the tree or getting into or out of stands. Safety First! Remember you are responsible for your own safety. Fishing, hunting, trapping, and other outdoor activi- ties have inherent risks and you may encounter a variety of unexpected and/or dangerous conditions. It is your responsibility to be informed and take necessary precautions. • Always tell a dependable person where you will be going, who you will be going with, and when you will be returning. Map your whereabouts and leave a note at camp, home, or in your vehicle so that you can be found. • Avoid outings alone. If you go alone, be extra careful and only go to familiar areas. • Dress properly and be prepared for the worst possible weather conditions. Protect against hypothermia. • During open hunting seasons, always wear enough blaze orange to be highly visible to others. • Be sure to check the weather forecast before venturing out. • Check gear and equipment before and after each outing, and maintain it properly. • Stay calm if you get lost. Panic is your great- est enemy. If you do get lost and cannot eas- ily find your way out, the best thing is to just stay put and let others find you. • Always carry a whistle, flashlight, compass, map, and fully charged cellular phone with you. Consider also carrying a first aid kit and survival kit with other essential items and a Global Positioning System (GPS) unit. Hunt Smart. Hunt Safe. • Read the manufacturer’s instructions for proper care and use of your stand, including factory recommended practices and procedures for installation. Commercial tree stand manufac- turers are held to strict quality control and safety standards, be very wary of any self-made stands, they can be very un- safe. • Carefully inspect your stand for wear, rust, metal fatigue, cracks, loose or missing nuts or bolts, and any signs of rot or deterioration before use. Be sure to thoroughly check all at- tachment straps, cables and/or chains. • Choose only straight, healthy, living trees that fit within the size limits recommended by the manufacturer for use with your stand. Do not use a tree that is rotten or has dead limbs. • Always use a hoist line to pull up your gear and unloaded gun or bow to your stand. Never climb with anything in your hands or on your back. Before descending, lower all equip- ment to the ground using the hoist line. • Always wear a safety harness when you are in your stand. Older models of safety belts offer some protection, but newer safety harness systems offer more complete protection. • Don’t use a tree stand if you’re overly tired, sick, or on strong medications. Don’t fall asleep within in a stand, stay alert at all times. Be sure to come home from the hunt! Douglas County — Deer Management Unit Map* Douglas County — Turkey Management Zone Map* Douglas County — Bear Management Zone Map* Douglas County — Wolf Management Zone Map* Douglas County — Deer Harvest Record Douglas County — Antlered Deer Harvest Record Douglas County — Bear Harvest Record 0 50 100 150 200 [PHONE REDACTED] 1976 1979 1982 1985 1988 1991 1994 1997 2000 2003 2006 2009 2012 Total Bear Harvest CLOSED The bear harvest in Douglas County consistently ranks as one of the highest in the State. 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Juvenile Bird Harvest Adult Bird Harvest Douglas County is Wolf Country Know the differences between a gray wolf and a coyote and be sure of your target. SAFETY FIRST. Douglas County — Wild Turkey Spring Season Harvest Record 2006 was the first year Douglas County was included in the wild turkey hunting season Accurate data prior to 1971 is not available. The limited draw permit system was implemented in 1986, prior to 1986 permits could be purchased over the counter. Registration became mandatory in 1956. Registration became mandatory in 1956. Douglas County — Wolf Harvest Graph 0 10 20 30 2012 2013 Male Harvest Female Harvest *Douglas County hunting unit and zone maps were current at the time of printing only. Hunt- ers should be sure to double check this information against maps available in the most current hunting regulations available at http:// dnr.wi.gov or by contacting your local WDNR office. Be sure to come home from the hunt! ---PAGE BREAK--- Map Information One of the best tools to have in your arsenal when planning any outdoor adventure is a good map. With the use of today’s advanced GPS and mapping programs, you can find just about any type of mapping system that fits your needs. Plat Books Douglas County Plat Books showing land own- ership maps are an excellent reference for find- ing lands open to public use and in helping to locate private landowner information. Copies of the most current Douglas County Plat book are available at the Douglas County Clerk’s Office (715) 395-1341, Douglas County Planning and Zoning Office (715) 395-1380, the Forestry Department Office (715) 378-2219, and at vari- ous businesses located throughout the County. Topographical Maps Traditional paper 7.5- minute quadrangle USGS topographical maps are available at some private businesses in the area that sell maps and other USGS products, online at the USGS Store, through other online retail- ers. Note that the traditional paper maps are becoming more and more difficult to obtain as they are being replaced by a new genera- tion of digital topographic maps produced by the USGS called US Topo. These new genera- tion topo maps are available online at the USGS Store. Users can also access and print USGS topo images on Douglas County’s online mapping website at Maps & Aerial Imagery Douglas County maintains an online mapping website at http://douglas- for County specific informa- tion where users can cre- ate their own maps, query data, and review aerial imagery. Data is continu- ously updated through- out the year so users can be assured they are ac- cessing the most current information available. In addition to the mapping website, popular online software applications such as Google Earth, Google Maps, Microsoft Virtual Earth, and other similar programs allow users to view aerial imagery, maps, terrain features, and more. For those users that are interested in even more specialized maps, the Forestry Department also offers custom map creation for a fee. For further information on the Douglas County Online Mapping Website please contact Douglas County Department of Land Records at 1313 Belknap Street, Superior, WI 54880 or (715) 395-1380. For further information on custom map cre- ation, please contact the Forestry Department. Douglas County Shooting Ranges Firearm Ranges Aurora Ouisconsin Outdoor Club AOOC Range 5691 East Tri Lakes Road South Range, WI 54874 (715) 398-6952 www.aooclub.com Outdoor rifle, shotgun, pistol, and archery range. Private membership. Douglas County Fish & Game League George Constance, Sr. Memorial Rifle Range 4751 East County Highway Z South Range, WI 54874 (715) 395-5691 Outdoor rifle, shotgun, pistol, and archery range. Open to the public. Shooting stations have concrete benches and shingled roofs. Target distances of 10, 15, 25, 50, 100, 200 and 300 yards. Eau Claire Lakes Conserva- tion Club (Bayfield County) 5303 Rifle Range Road Barnes, WI 54873 (715) 795-2560 Outdoor rifle, shotgun, pistol, and archery range. Open to the public. Fort Douglas Sporting Clays Range 4870 East County Highway Z South Range, WI 54874 (218) 590-1405 Outdoor shotgun range. Open to the public. Hawthorne Trap & Wildlife Club 7140 South Gun Club Lane South Range, WI 54874 (715) 399-8133 www.hawthornetrapclub.org Outdoor shotgun range. Open to the public. Minong Shooting and Trap Range (Washburn County) Taylor Lake Road Minong, WI 54859 [PHONE REDACTED] Outdoor rifle, shotgun, and pistol range. Open to the public. Superior Trap & Gun Club 5642 South Highway 35 Superior, WI 54880 (715) 399-8223 www.superiortrapclub.com Outdoor shotgun range. Open to the public. Town of Gordon Northwoods Rifle Range 10133 East County Highway Y Gordon, WI 54838 (715) 376-2693 www.gordonwi.us.com Outdoor rifle, shotgun, and pistol range. Open to the public. Shooting stations have wooden benches and a metal roof. Target distances of 25, 50, 100, 200, and 300 yards. Archery Ranges Aurora Ouisconsin Outdoor Club AOOC Range 5691 East Tri Lakes Road South Range, WI 54874 (715) 398-6952 www.aooclub.com Outdoor archery range. Private membership. Custom Archery & Outdoors 1230 Poplar Avenue Entrance Superior, WI 54880 (715) 399-9900 www.customarcheryoutdoors.com Indoor archery range. Open to the public. 16-lane shooting range. Douglas County Fish & Game League Archery Range City of Superior Municipal Forest Billings Drive & 42nd Street Superior, WI 54880 (715) 394-6140 Outdoor archery range. Open to the public. The course has a total of 39 shots at 14 different targets. Douglas County Fish & Game League George Constance, Sr. Memorial Rifle Range 4751 East County Highway Z South Range, WI 54874 (715) 395-5691 Outdoor archery range. Open to the public. Offers archery targets. Eau Claire Lakes Conserva- tion Club (Bayfield County) 5303 Rifle Range Road Barnes, WI 54873 (715) 795-2560 Outdoor archery range. Open to the public. Offers an elevated platform to shoot from. Solon Springs Bowhunter’s Association 8707 East Baldwin Avenue Solon Springs, WI 54873 (715) 919-0171 Outdoor archery range. Private membership. Hosts annual shoots open to the public. Douglas County Sportsman’s Clubs These groups are comprised of devoted sportsmen and sportswomen who are interested in ensuring the protection and management of the County’s fish and wildlife resources and promoting the outdoor sporting heritage. Please contact each group for membership information. Douglas County Fish & Game League P.O. Box 101 Superior, WI 54880 (715) 205-2634 Brule River Sportsmen’s Club PO Box 100 Brule, WI 54820 (715) 374-3404 www.bruleriversportsmensclub.com Where to Stay During Your Visit Dairyland Area Hillside Inn 33595 State Highway 35 Danbury, WI 54830 (715) 244-3731 Gordon Area Adventureland Campground 7440 East County Highway Y Gordon, WI 54838 (715) 376-4528 Charlie Brown’s Campground 8360 East Flowage Lane Gordon, WI 54838 (715) 376-4422 Clearwater Resort 33 South Resort Road Gordon, WI 54838 (715) 376-2382 Enchanted Inn 1025 South Shore Road Gordon, WI 54838 (715) 795-2566 Etiennes Resort 8181 East County Highway Y Gordon, WI 54838 (715) 376-2368 Forest Point Resort & Golf Course 13702 Beach Road Gordon, WI 54838 (715) 376-2322 North Shore Resort 8394 East Flowage Lane Gordon, WI 54838 (715) 376-4200 Ron Tuverson Resort 8352 East Flowage Lane Gordon, WI 54838 (715) 376-2331 Sunny Point Resort 13943 South Resort Road Gordon, WI 54838 (715) 376-2777 Lake Nebagamon & Brule Areas Brule River Motel & Campground 13844 US Highway 2 Brule, WI 54820 (715) 372-4815 Lumbermen’s Inn 7770 US Highway 2 Iron River, WI 54847 (715) 372-4515 Sleepy Hollow Motel 7811 East US Highway 2 Amnicon, WI 54874 (715) 398-6989 The Brule River Classics 6008 South State Highway 27 Brule, WI 54820 (715) 372-8153 Wasko’s Campground Plus 8441 County Road South Lake Nebagamon, WI 54849 (715) 374-3514 Village Inn 11732 East County Highway B Lake Nebagamon, WI 54849 (715) 374-2673 Minong Area Becherer’s Resort Becherer Drive Minong, WI 54859 (715) 466-4375 Wild River Trail Inn 740 Adams Street Minong, WI 54859 (715) 466-2384 Solon Springs Area Soft Pines Resort 9925 East County Highway A Solon Springs, WI 54873 (715) 378-2725 St. Croix Inn Solon Springs 11390 South 5th Street Solon Springs, WI 54873 (715) 378-4444 Swansons Motel & Campground 11829 US Business 53 Solon Springs, WI 54873 (715) 378-2215 Superior Area The City of Superior offers many lodging options from rustic campgrounds to luxury hotels. Contact the Superior- Douglas County Chamber of Commerce for further information toll free at (800) 942-5313 or visit www.superiorchamber.org Wascott Area Circle Pines Bar/Grill & Motel 16025 South Lake Road Wascott, WI 54890 (715) 466-4004 Lake Resort 15993 South Lake Road Wascott, WI 54890 (715) 466-2805 Golden Chipmunk Resort 16095 South Chipmunk Hollow Road Wascott, WI 54890 (715) 466-4095 Red Lake Resort 10428 East Red Lake Drive Wascott, WI 54890 (715) 466-2550 Seaman’s Resort 16666 South Flowage Road Wascott, WI 54890 (715) 466-2858 View Point Lodge 16640 South Flowage Road Wascott, WI 54890 (715) 466-2447 Getting the Lead Out! Why is lead a problem? Lead is a toxic substance that is particularly harmful to children younger than 6 and pregnant women. It is also toxic to fish and wildlife at very low levels of exposure. Lead Information for Hunters Recent lead fragmentation studies on big game animals harvested with lead bullets have discovered that small lead fragments often travel much further than previously thought from main wound chan- nels. These small fragments are often left behind in muscle tissue and end up in packaged meat that is planned for human consumption. Studies have shown that all types and brands of lead bullets frag- ment, some more than others. To date, no acute illnesses have been linked to consumption of lead particles in hunter-harvested meat but lead has been proven to harm human bodies and brains at levels that cause no noticeable Before you go into the field this fall, consider the extensive information available on this subject at http://dnr.wi.gov. Use the information to make your own decision about the ammunition you choose to shoot. For further information on lead and its exposure risks to wildlife and human health, including lead product alternatives, please visit http://dnr.wi.gov or contact your local WDNR office. This photo compares two different .270 caliber bullets that have been discharged and retrieved. Notice how the non-lead bullet shown on the right upon impact has mushroomed out, but remained in one piece. The lead bullets on the left however, disinte- grated into hundreds of lead fragments. This map is for reference purposes only and is not guaranteed to be without error. It is not intended to be used for the legal determination of land ownership. Please contact the Douglas County Clerk’s Office at (715) 395-1341, Douglas County Planning and Zoning Office (715) 395-1380, or the Forestry Department to purchase a copy of the most current Douglas County Plat Book. County Forest Rules & Regulations State Rules & Regulations County Forest Wildlife Management Hunters Code of Conduct Leaving a Good Impression… Remember the County Forest is public land and is open to public hunting. When you hunt on the County Forest you are sharing the Forest with many other hunters and you have a responsibility to conduct yourself in an ethical and courteous manner. During your visit… Please remember that you are sharing the Forest with many plants, animals, and other users. Improve your outdoor experience and the experience of others by always showing respect for the environment, the game being pursued, and other forest users. CARE: Care about how you act by being considerate of other hunters and Forest resources. Always portray good hunting ethics. CAUTION: Use caution in the use of all firearms, vehicles, and recreational equipment. Practice safety first, always. Tread on the Forest and all of its resources. COURTESY: Be polite when talking with others. Respect other hunters, the areas they are hunting, and the legal hunting methods they are using. Be courteous by controlling your be- havior and being aware of how your actions may affect others. Be sensitive to the experiences of other hunters. Practice the Golden Rule and treat others how you would want to be treated yourself. CLEANLINESS: Keep your hunting area clean and teach your children the importance of keeping the Forest clean. Pick up litter no matter who left it behind. Always strive to leave the property better than you found it for those who follow. COOPERATION: Observe the letter and spirit of all regula- tions and rules established to help conserve fish and wildlife, preserve forest resources, and protect the experiences of all users. Work cooperatively with others to make everyone’s hunt- ing experience more enjoyable. CONSERVATION: Promote legal, fair chase and ethical hunt- ing standards. Conserve and protect the Forest and all its fish and wildlife resources and help those whose job it is to guard and wisely manage these resources. Take responsibility to report all violations. COMMON SENSE: Apply common sense and good judgment to every situation you encounter, by doing so you will make the hunting experience better for yourself and all others. Don’t be the problem… be a part of the solution. Hunting is more than a northwoods tradition. It’s part of our heritage. It’s part of our families. It’s part of our future. Do your part to keep it that way. Responsible behavior is ethical behavior… spread the word! Wildlife management on the County Forest is accomplished by the use of sound manage- ment methods that facilitate the creation of desirable habitats across the landscape. Com- mercial timber harvests serve as the primary management method utilized and most im- portant tool for wildlife habitat improvement throughout the property. Harvesting practices are carefully planned and performed under close supervision of County Forest managers to ensure sustainable management of timber resources and desired long-term management goals are achieved. Long before an area is har- vested, forest managers consider many vari- ables such as vegetative types, current habitat conditions, desired future conditions, location, timing, harvest area size and shape, cutting requirements, and post-sale treatment. Many of these variables are altered or modified on a harvest-by-harvest basis to better improve wildlife habitat and successfully achieve indi- vidual harvest objectives. Other habitat devel- opment and maintenance practices that are performed on the Forest with the assistance of WDNR wildlife grant funding include: • Wildlife opening development and maintenance (4 year mowing interval). • Aspen, jack pine, and oak maintenance and management. • Access management (motorized and non-motorized). • Rare species management (endangered, threatened, and of special concern). • Non-game species management. • Pine barrens restoration. • Flowage and wetland management and protection. • Road and landing rehabilitation and reclamation. • Public education and outreach. • Wildlife population surveys and inventory. • Acquisition of lands containing critical wildlife habitat. Timber harvesting… a critical tool in wildlife management. Motor Vehicle-Killed Wildlife Vehicle-killed deer, bear, and wild turkey that want to be kept must be registered with a free car-killed tag available from the responding law enforcement officer, the WDNR, or specific game registrations stations. For vehicle-killed fisher, otter, or bobcat, please contact the WDNR Wildlife Biologist at WDNR Brule Ranger Station (715) 372-4866 or a local WDNR Conservation Warden to determine whether the animal can legally be removed and possessed. Vehicle-killed small game may be kept without contacting the WDNR or law enforcement officer if… the season is open for the particular species and the person who is interested in possessing the animal has the appropriate current license for that species. Federal law prohibits possession of migratory birds such as eagles, hawks, owls, songbirds, and other migratory bird species without a federal permit. For further information on vehicle-killed wild- life, please contact the WDNR Wildlife Biologist at WDNR Brule Ranger Station, 6250 South Ranger Road, Brule WI 54820 or (715) 372-4866. Know the regulations regarding vehicle- killed wildlife! RESPECT PRIVATE PROPERTY Under current law, private land does not have to be posted in the State of Wisconsin. You need prior permission from the landowner to enter upon all private lands, including forest lands, grass lands, wetlands, and farm lands, except lands open to public hunting and fishing through the Managed Forest Law (MFL) or Forest Crop Law (FCL) pro- grams (see the MFL & CFL Programs section). Hunt- ing, fishing, or trapping on private lands without landowner permission is illegal, making it an act of trespass under §943.13 of the Wisconsin Statutes. MFL & CFL Programs Privately owned lands enrolled under the WDNR’s Managed Forest Law (MFL) or Forest Crop Law (FCL) programs may be open to public uses, including hunting and fishing. To obtain a listing of open MFL or FCL properties by County, please visit http://dnr. wi.gov or contact your local WDNR office. Prior to using such properties, users are asked to check with their local WDNR office to learn more about property use rules and regulations. Waterway Access Under current law, it is illegal to enter a body of water unless a person enters from the water, from a point of public access on the body of water, or from land adjacent to the body of water with riparian landowner permission. In general, once you enter a body of water, the sur- face area of water for that body of water is open to public use. A good test to remember is the “keep your feet wet” test. As long as you can keep your feet wet in a specific location, that water and the substrate directly beneath it is open to public use (including boat use). However, use of any exposed shore area (where you cannot keep your feet wet) for that body of water is regulated as follows: RIVERS, STREAMS, AND CREEKS You may not use any exposed shore area of a river, stream, or creek without the permission of the riparian land- owner unless it is immediately necessary to exit the waterway to bypass an obstruction (i.e. downed trees, rocks, deep water, etc.) via the shortest and most direct route available. Using the exposed shore area for any other reason or purpose is illegal. LAKES, FLOWAGES, AND IMPOUNDMENTS You may not use any exposed shore area of a lake or impoundment without the permission of the riparian landowner with no exceptions. Using motorized vehicles while hunting on the Douglas County Forest is a privilege, and the responsibility is yours to maintain the high quality and beauty of your hunting area. Here are some guidelines and tips to remember while out on the hunt. How You Can Reduce Motorized Ve- hicle Impacts During Hunting Season: • Know the motorized vehicle use regulations before you go hunting. Respect road and area closures. • Stay on existing roads or trails. Do not contrib- ute to resource damage, habitat destruction and user conflict by operating cross-country or creating new travelways for others to follow. • Avoid the use of motorized vehicles in wet areas or during wet conditions. Even when roads and trails may be open for motorized vehicle use, motorized vehicles can still cause considerable damage which can lead to fu- ture closures. • Don’t widen roads and trails by forcing your vehicle out and around obstacles. • Limit motorized vehicle use in and around other hunters’ hunting locations. Be consider- ate and respectful of other hunters’ desires for quiet and minimal disruption. • When operating a motorized vehicle on an open road, to increase your chances of hunt- ing success and cause less disturbance to oth- er hunters around you, access your hunting area before shooting hours and then return midday or after hunting hours. Hunting & Motorized Vehicles Remember using motorized vehicles for the purpose of hunting is a privilege! Minimize Motorized Use Conflict While Hunting The Choice is Yours! Motorized access on the Forest is regulated by the County Forest Access Management Plan. The Plan classifies the property into 3 motorized use designations; high, moderate, and low. Each area has its own set of estab- lished conditions, objectives and open road density goals used for managing access. The low motorized areas have the least amount of motorized access opportunities and the high motorized areas have the greatest. By reviewing the classification system map, all types of hunters should be able to locate those areas that offer the type of access op- portunities they are seeking. Hunters can minimize their chances for an undesirable experience or potential user conflict, by con- centrating their hunting efforts in the area that best fits the type of experience they are seeking. For further information on access man- agement in the County Forest, includ- ing obtaining additional publications on the Access Management Plan, please visit www.douglascountywi.org/forestry or contact the Forestry Department. Three Area Classification System Map All Wisconsin State laws (including fish and game laws) apply to County Forest lands. WDNR Licensing All persons wishing to fish, hunt, or trap on County Forest lands are required by law to purchase the re- spective State license(s). Licenses can be purchased year round throughout the State at many businesses and WDNR offices. A complete listing of all license sales locations can be found by visiting the WDNR website at http://dnr.wi.gov or by contacting your local WDNR office. Online license sales are also avail- able to both residents and non-residents by visiting http://dnr.wi.gov Hunter Education To meet the WDNR hunter education requirement, anyone born after January 1, 1973 must have com- pleted a hunter education course and be able to provide the certificate prior to purchasing a hunting license. Hunter education courses are most often of- fered mid-spring to early-summer and late-summer to early-fall. A schedule of current planned courses can be found by visiting the WDNR website at http://dnr.wi.gov After successful completion of the course, young per- sons are eligible to hunt without supervision begin- ning at age 14 and eligible to hunt with supervision at age 12. The Mentored Hunting Program is also available for youths 10 and older to safely experience hunting in a highly controlled manner. For further information on youth hunting regulations and the Mentored Hunting Program, contact your local WDNR office or visit http://dnr.wi.gov Trapper Education All first-time trappers must complete the Wiscon- sin Trapper education course prior to purchasing a trapping license. The course is offered in a class- room setting with hands-on experience or as a cor- respondence course for students unable to attend a regular course. A schedule of current planned courses and further information on the correspondence course can be found by visiting the WDNR website at http://dnr.wi.gov. Note: Wisconsin residents who purchased a trapping license prior to May 1992 or who are actively engaged in farming are exempt from the trapper education re- quirements. For further information on trapping and trapper education, contact your local WDNR office or visit http://dnr.wi.gov Fishing, Hunting, & Trapping Regulations Individuals planning to fish, hunt, or trap on County Forest lands should always be sure to obtain a current copy of the respective WDNR regulations. Regulation booklets are updated annually and printed copies are typically available throughout the State at many busi- nesses and WDNR offices. Booklets can also be found by visiting the WDNR website at http://dnr.wi.gov Deer & Bear Registration Stations Registration station locations can be found by con- tacting WDNR offices or by visiting the WDNR website at http://dnr.wi.gov. Starting in 2015, hunters may have additional electronic registration options by phone or internet. Watch for updates and further in- formation in the annual hunting regulations and on the WDNR website. WDNR Offices & Stations Local Douglas County WDNR offices and ranger sta- tions are located at the following locations. Be sure to call ahead for hours and offered services. For a com- plete listing of all WDNR service centers, offices, and ranger stations located throughout the State, please visit http://dnr.wi.gov WDNR Brule River State Forest 6250 South Ranger Road • Brule, WI 54820 (715) 372-4866 WDNR Pattison State Park 6294 South State Road 35 • Superior, WI 54880 (715) 399-3111 WDNR Gordon Ranger Station County Highway Y • Gordon, WI 54838 (715) 376-2299 WDNR Northern Region Satellite Center 1701 North 4th Street • Superior, WI 54880 (715) 392-7988 Closest WDNR Service Centers WDNR Northern Region Service Center 2501 Golf Course Road Ashland, WI 54806 (715) 685-2900 WDNR Northern Region Service Center 810 West Maple Street Spooner, WI 54801 (715) 635-4105 For further information on any Wisconsin State laws (including fish and game laws), please visit http://dnr.wi.gov, www.legis.state.wi.us or contact your local WDNR office. Reporting Violations At times, careless and inconsiderate individuals perform illegal acts that can result in damage to Forest resources, threaten public safety, and disrupt the recreational experiences of others. These behaviors deprive law-abiding users of experiences and opportunities and can jeopardize future privileges for all who use the Forest. Diligent citizens reporting illegal activities have increased the effec- tiveness of law enforcement’s ability to catch violators. With your help we can do much more if we all work together and target these viola- tors. If you see or learn about any illegal or suspicious activity, please be sure to report it. Penalties If you are found to be in violation of County Ordinance, 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, restitution for any damages you cause may be pursued by civil action in circuit court. If you are found to be in violation of State law (including game and fish laws), your personal property may be seized, you can face consid- erable fines, significant jail time, and you could lose years of hunting and fishing privileges in Wisconsin and many other States. ALL VIOLATIONS CAN BE REPORTED ANONYMOUSLY. Violations 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] To make a report, users are encouraged to use the violation reporting form available online at www.douglascountywi.org/forestry or by con- tacting the Forestry Department. For all violations requiring immediate attention call (715) 394-4432. State violations (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 ([PHONE REDACTED]) • Texting [space] followed by the tip to TIP-411 (847-411) • Emailing a report to [EMAIL REDACTED] Report all violations. Take responsibility. Make the call. Remember, your privilege to hunt and fish depends on you! Please be familiar with the following Forest rules and regulations: Motorized Vehicle Use • Foot travel is permitted on all roads, trails, and areas of the Forest. • All vehicles that cannot be officially licensed or registered by the State of Wisconsin as a highway or recreational vehicle (including dune buggies, golf carts, go karts, amphibi- ous vehicles, etc.) are currently prohibited in all areas of the Forest. Contact the Forestry Department for off-highway rid- ing opportunities on the Straight Arrows OHM Trail. • It is prohibited to operate any unregistered or unlicensed motor vehicle, highway ve- hicle, off-highway vehicle, ATV, UTV, OHM, or snowmobile which can be officially licensed or registered by the State of Wisconsin as a legal highway or recreational vehicle. • Motorized travel on any permanently, tem- porarily, or seasonally closed road or trail is prohibited. Motorized Vehicle Use — Responsibility or Regulation It’s up to you! What does this mean for the typical hunter on the Douglas County Forest? It’s simple. If mo- tor vehicle users (highway vehicle, ATV, UTV, snowmobile, etc.) are irresponsible with the use of their vehicles or machines, then there will be increasing pressure on the County to further restrict motor vehicle use. Already there are many people, including other hunt- ers, who would like to see more road closures and even a total prohibition on some types of motor vehicle use. Nobody likes regulations, especially more re- strictive regulations; but if irresponsible motor vehicle use continues to cause unacceptable impacts to forest resources and user experi- ences, then further regulations will become necessary. All hunters using motor vehicles are asked to recognize the impacts their ac- tivity can cause and voluntarily take steps to reduce those impacts. Please see the “Hunting and Motorized Vehicles” section for ways you can reduce your impact. • Cross-country motorized travel is prohibited for any purpose. • It is prohibited to remove, alter, damage, ma- nipulate, modify, or otherwise circumvent any sign, gate, rock, berm, or other device placed by the County. • It is prohibited to post, install, construct, place, or relocate any sign, gate, rock, berm, or other blockage device or otherwise modi- fy the intended use designation of any road, trail, or area. • It is prohibited to construct, alter, re-route, or otherwise change existing roads or trails. The use of illegally established, located or constructed trails is prohibited. • It is prohibited to block in any manner a road or trail which obstructs access by others. • Cross-country equestrian (horses) or moun- tain bike travel is prohibited for any purpose. • Equestrian (horses), mountain bike, dogsled, cross-country ski, skijoring, and snowshoe travel are permitted on all roads and trails unless a specific road or trail is otherwise designated or posted closed to a particular use. Tree Stand Use • It is prohibited to use a tree stand that is not one of the following portable styles: hang- on style, self-climbing style, or ladder-stand style. • It is prohibited to use a tree stand, tree climbing aid, or other device that is driven or screwed into a tree and/or penetrates the bark of a tree in such a fashion as to cause damage. • It is prohibited to cut live trees to install a tree stand, create a shooting lane, or for any other related purpose. • It is prohibited to use a tree stand that does not have the owner’s name and primary resi- dence address (city and State) or WDNR cus- tomer identification number clearly labeled and visible from the ground. • It is prohibited to use a tree stand that is larg- er than 36” x 52” measured at the base. • Tree stands must be taken down and re- moved from County Forest property during the period of February 1st to March 31st and June 1st to August 31st annually. Ground Blind Use • Blinds constructed of manmade materials and those constructed of natural materials are permitted for use. • It is prohibited to use a blind, support mechanism, or other device that is driven or screwed into a tree and/or penetrates the bark of a tree in such a fashion as to cause damage. • It is prohibited to cut live trees to install a blind, create a shooting lane, or for any other related purpose. • It is prohibited to use a blind that does not have the owner’s name and primary residence address (city and State) or WDNR customer identification number clearly la- beled and visible from the outside. • It is prohibited to use a blind that is larger than 7’ x 7’ measured at the base. • Blinds constructed of manmade materi- als must be removed from County Forest property during the period of February 1st to March 31st and June 1st to August 31st annually. • Blinds constructed of natural materials with manmade components must have all man- made components removed from County Forest property during the period of Feb- ruary 1st to March 31st and June 1st to August 31st annually. Trail Camera Use • Trail/game cameras are permitted for use on County Forest property. • It is prohibited to use a trail camera or asso- ciated component that is driven or screwed into a tree and/or penetrates the bark of a tree in such a fashion as to cause damage. • It is prohibited to cut live trees to install a trail camera, create a photo window, or for any other related purpose. Food Plots • It is prohibited to cultivate, disc, or plant any seed, crop or food plot on County For- est property. For further information on these and other County Forest rules and regulations, please visit www.douglascountywi.org/forestry or contact the Forestry Department. Personal Property Notice Any personal property (including tree stands, ground blinds, trail cameras, etc.) used or left unattended in any area of the Forest is done so at the sole discretion of the owner/individual and the County as- sumes no responsibility or liability for loss, damage, theft, or disappearance of such property. Illegal Property Notice Any personal property (including tree stands, ground blinds, trail cameras, etc.) found in violation of County Ordinance or otherwise appears to have been aban- doned may be confiscated and/or removed and disposed of by law enforcement officials. ADDITIONAL FOREST RULES Camping All persons (including hunters, trappers, and anglers) wishing to camp in the Forest are required to obtain a Recreational Use — Special Camping Permit from the For- estry Department (see the County Forest Dispersed Camping section). Activities Requiring Permits By law, all persons wishing to cut, harvest, collect, gather, or remove any of the follow- ing products or items from County Forest property are required to obtain a permit authorizing the collection in a specific area: • Firewood • Christmas Tree • Fir Boughs • Pine/Spruce Cones • Any Other Miscellaneous Products of Plant Origin • Any Mineral (sand, gravel, rock) • Archaeological Artifact or Historical Article Permits may be obtained by contacting the Forestry Department. These rules and regulations apply only to Douglas County Forest lands. Individuals are asked to contact appropri- ate land owners for rules and regulations on all lands under other public ownerships. Please see the “For More Information” sec- tion towards the end of the brochure for further land owner contact information. This section is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as a complete listing of all Forest rules and regulations. Rules and regulations contained in this section were current at the time of printing only. If you would like specific information on the most current regulations and laws, see Douglas County Land Recreation Ordinance #7.2 available at www.douglascountywi.org or by contacting the Forestry Department or for Wisconsin state laws go to www.legis.state.wi.us EMERGENCY INFORMATION Dial 911 for emergencies Emergency Services For Emergencies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dial 911 Douglas County Sheriff’s Department. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (715) 394-4432 Wisconsin State Patrol (District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (715) 635-2141 To Report a Forest Fire. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dial 911 To Report a Hazardous Substance Spill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (800) 943-0003 To Report a Hunting or Fishing Violation. . . . . . . . . . . . . (800) 847-9367 or cell #367. Poison Control Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (608) 262-3702 or (800) 222-1222 Non-Emergency Services WDNR General Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (888) 936-7463 Douglas County Forestry Department. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (715) 378-2219 Douglas County Dept of Public Health. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (715) 395-1404 Emergency Weather Awareness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (800) 943-0003 Road Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 511 or (800) 762-3947 Medical Facilities Medical facilities are located in Superior, WI; Hayward, WI; Spooner, WI; and Duluth, MN. Cellular phone service many be limited in some areas of the County. For further information about the Douglas County Forest including hunting, fishing, and trapping opportunities please visit www.douglascountywi.org/forestry or contact the Forestry Department at: 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: [EMAIL REDACTED] Discover the Douglas County Forest… where the hunting, fishing, and trapping possibilities are endless! FOR ADDITIONAL COPIES OF THIS BROCHURE, please contact the Douglas County Forestry Department. Select photos courtesy of Catherine Khalar. Publication DCF-SB-2014 © 2014, Douglas County Forestry Department. All rights reserved. Much of the information in this brochure applies only to the Douglas County Forest. Individuals are asked to contact appropriate land owners for land-use and recreation opportunities on all lands under other ownerships. STAY CONNECTED WITH DOUGLAS COUNTY FORESTRY USE YOUR SMART PHONE TO SCAN THIS QR CODE State of Wisconsin DNR General Information (888) 936-7463 State of Wisconsin DNR Brule River State Forest (715) 372-4866 City of Superior Parks and Recreation Department (Municipal Forest) (715) 395-7270 Douglas County Wildlife Area (Bird Sanctuary) (715) 372-4866 National Park Service (715) 483-2274 Bayfield County Forestry Department (715) 373-6114 Burnett County Forestry Department (715) 349-2157 Sawyer County Forestry Department (715) 634-4839 Washburn County Forestry Department (715) 635-4490 The Forestland Group, LLC – Heartwood Forestland Fund VII (former Plum Creek Timber Company lands) (906) 288-3380 Lyme St. Croix Forest Company (former Wausau-Mosinee Paper lands) (715) 699-1401 DCF-SB-2014 FSC logo Douglas County, Wisconsin With an abundance of wildlife, vast tracts of rural public land, extensive wildlands, and a rich sporting heritage that dates back centuries, Douglas County has long been well known for its exceptional hunting, trapping, and fishing opportunities. At over 278,000 acres, the Douglas County Forest is a premier destination to enjoy any one of these great Wisconsin sporting traditions. Whether you’re interested in upland birds, sportfish, or big game like deer and bear, the Douglas County Forestry Department welcomes you to visit the wild and rugged Douglas County Forest and experience a true sportsman’s paradise. Poaching Poaching continues to be a grow- ing problem throughout the State. Every year poachers take some of Wisconsin’s biggest and best game specimens. If you see or merely sus- pect any unusual or illegal activities, please call the confidential WDNR tip hotline toll free at 1-800-TIP-WDNR ([PHONE REDACTED]) or #367 from your cell phone with as much information as possible. Don’t attempt to intervene or confront anyone. For more information on poaching and what you can do to help, please visit http://dnr.wi.gov Nuisance Wildlife If you have questions or are experiencing problems with nuisance bears, wolves, or migratory birds, please contact U.S. Department of Agriculture, Wildlife Services at (715) 369-5221 or toll free 1-[PHONE REDACTED] (toll free number only works when calling from within Wisconsin). For all other species, please contact your local WDNR wildlife management staff at (715) 372-4866 or visit http://dnr.wi.gov and search “nuisance wildlife”. Local WDNR staff will provide advice and technical assistance over the phone to help you legally solve your nuisance wildlife problems. If you are unable to solve your own nuisance problem, please contact a local pest or animal control specialist. Many private nuisance pest or animal control specialists are listed in local yellow pages or can be searched online under “Pest Control Services.” Living with Bears Douglas County is bear country. Bear activity near homes, cabins, and other residences are almost always related to food sources. Remove the food and bears will most likely leave the area. Other hints or tips: • NEVER FEED A BEAR! Intentional feeding will create a bear that is habituated to humans, and may be- come a possible nuisance to you and other people in the area. The bear will not forget the feeding experi- ence, and will tend to get more demanding with time. • DO NOT SHOOT BEARS! It is illegal to shoot bears, even with shotgun pellets! Pellets penetrate the skin and become permanently lodged in the bear causing potential lead issues. • Consider taking bird feeders down at the end of winter (mid-April) when bears emerge from their winter dens. • During spring and summer, bring pet food and bird feeders inside at night. • If you see a bear during the day, take the bird feeder down and discontinue all feeding for at least two weeks. • Make bird feeders inaccessible by hanging them at least 10 feet off the ground, and 5 feet away from tree trunks. • Keep your garbage cans closed, and indoors if possible. • Occasionally clean out your garbage cans with ammonia to make them less attractive to bears. • Clean up and put away outdoor grills after you are done using them for the day. Illegal Dumping is a Crime If you observe an act of illegal dumping in the Forest, please call the Douglas County Sheriff’s Department at (715) 394-4432 or the Forestry Department at (715) 378-2219. Help stop illegal dumping. If you see it, REPORT IT! Illegal Marijuana Grows Part of a national trend in recent years, illegal marijuana growing operations are becoming more and more of a serious problem on the Douglas County Forest and other rural public lands throughout the State. If you encounter a suspicious area leave it the way you found it and record an accurate location. Once out of the area call the Douglas County Sheriff’s Department at (715) 394-4432 or the confidential WDNR tip hotline toll free at 1-800-TIP-WDNR ([PHONE REDACTED]) or #367 from your cell phone or 1-800-NAB-DRUG ([PHONE REDACTED]). For further information on how to recognize a marijuana grow, including plant identification, and additional information on how to report it please visit http://dnr.wi.gov or call (715) 394-4432. Take part in protecting Wisconsin’s Resources… report all illegal activities!