DNR Outdoor Report update, April 2, 2015
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Outdoor Report Summary
Complete Outdoor Report (Reports from conservation wardens, wildlife and fisheries staff and property managers from around the state)
Weather
Last week's snow has melted, leaving muddy trails and drying, wildfire-ready conditions in its wake. Please make sure that any camping fires are completely put out before leaving your favorite park. Ice is almost entirely gone from most lakes in Southern Wisconsin. While sections are still found on many area lakes in the North, with recent warmer weather, the ice has slimmed and softened significantly, while open water spots are expanding in size.
Fishing
This past Saturday kicked off yet another opener on the lower Brule River. Fisherman from far and wide came to the river to try their hand at hooking trout. In the Northern counties, many anglers were stepping off the ice and waiting for warmer weather to go along with the open-water season, as the start of this week saw the retreat of recent cool temperatures and windy conditions.
Wildfires
Over the last week, 64 wildfires burned 144 acres in DNR protection areas. Debris burning was the leading cause (28 fires). Some of these fires were previously burned brush/leaf piles that reignited when the wind blew away the ash, revealing still smoldering embers that were able to then ignite the surrounding dry vegetation. If you have burned anything on the ground or in a barrel lately, please check the area again to make sure that no embers remain. People are often surprised to learn that embers can smolder for days or even weeks.
Archived under: Previous Outdoor Reports
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Outdoor Report editor: Paul Holtan, DNR Office of Communications, Madison 608-267-7517 or paul.holtan@wisconsin.gov