2022 Wild Rice Harvest Update #8
Closed Waters for 2022 Season
The following date-regulated waters will be closed for wild rice harvest:
- Burnett County
- Mud Lake - Town of Oakland
- Douglas County
- Mulligan Lake
- Forest County
- Wabikon Lake
- Oneida County
- Spur Lake
- Vilas County
- Allequash Lake
- Irving Lake
- Little Rice Lake
- Nixon Lake
- West Plum Lake
- Washburn County
- Spring Lake (Minong Township)
Please note: All other lakes that have opened and those that are not date-regulated may be harvested as long as the wild rice is ripe. More information about wild rice and waters that contain wild rice can be found on the Wild Rice Harvesting page.
Wild rice is an annual aquatic grass that produces a seed that is a delicious and nutritious source of food for wildlife and people. The seed matures in August and September with the ripe seed dropping into the sediment unless harvested by humans or wildlife. Seeds on a single stalk reach maturity over a 10-14 day period, with the highest seeds maturing first.
Habitat requirements for wild rice are fairly specific; wild rice grows best in gently flowing waters with a mucky or organic bottom and in areas with relatively stable water levels during the growing season, with a water depth between six inches and three feet. Often, these areas are near the inlet or outlet of a lake.
Learn more about the cultural and ecological importance of wild rice, along with the rules and regulations for harvesting.