We need your help! Sign up to help DNR staff search for elk calves this spring
In anticipation of searching for elk calves this spring, the Department of Natural Resources is seeking the help of any interested volunteers. The primary goals of radio collaring elk calves during these searches are to monitor survival, population growth, and birth rates.
Because the Jackson County elk herd is still relatively small in number, calf searches will not occur every day. However, due to the uncertainty of when calves will be born, we would like to schedule volunteers daily from May 15 to June 23, 2017 (including weekends). Volunteers will be “on call” for their scheduled days and will be given as much notice as possible (we anticipate notifying volunteers by phone the afternoon prior to the search).
Interested volunteers should be aware that calf searches can occur in rough and/or wet terrain, in all weather conditions, and during a time of year with a plethora of biting insects. As such, volunteers should bring appropriate clothing (rain gear, bug nets, long sleeve shirts, gloves, boots) in addition to a camera, food/drinks, etc. Bug spray should not be used on these days. We currently anticipate volunteers meeting at the Black River Falls DNR office (910 Hwy 54E, Black River Falls, WI 54615) at 7 a.m. each morning. Please note that the location and time may be adjusted and volunteers will be notified as such when contacted.
Volunteers can sign up for as many or as few days as they prefer - it is very important that we have full crews. If you sign up, please show up! Due to the uncertainty of when searches will take place, signing up for more days will increase the likelihood of being called for a search. A final schedule will be emailed to all interested volunteers prior to May 15, 2017.
If you are interested, please send the following information to Steve Meurett atsteven.meurett@wisconsin.gov or by phone at 715-284-1468:
- Name
- Phone
- Location where you will be traveling from
- Days you are available
Thank you!