The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is calling for public commentary on their North Central Forest Draft Regional Master Plan and accompanying Environmental Analysis. According to a statement obtained by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the proposal aims to define future resource management and dictate the extent and variety of public usage and development across DNR-managed lands within the North Central Forest Ecological Landscape. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources open-armed invitation extends to varied formats, inclusive of in-person meetings.
Boasting a vast territory, the North Central Forest spans 9,500 square miles across northern Wisconsin, dipping its toes into 20 counties. With an impressive property portfolio under its wing, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources manages a variety of outdoor arenas including fishery areas, state forests, and a plethora of trails. Nature enthusiasts who frequent these lands immerse themselves in activities like snowmobiling and camping, assured by the promise of maintained habitats for their flora and fauna counterparts by the guiding hands of Chapter NR 44, Wisconsin Administrative Code.
The master plan lays out big goals, including upgrades to state and national trails and protections for wetlands and seasonal ponds. A new Brook Trout Reserves Program aims to care for cold-water trout streams. Forests will also be carefully managed to support wildlife, clean water, and local jobs. One idea being considered is creating a new area at Grandfather Falls, possibly called the Grandfather Falls State Ice Age Trail Area, as reported by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
For the vocal public, its chance to echo throughout Wisconsin's natural chamber is presented via an online public input form available on the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources North Central Forest Regional Master Plan webpage. Those preferring the tangibility of ink and paper can download a form to be sent through the cogs of the U.S. Mail or across the digital waves via email. Input can be directed to Erin Rieser, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Property Planning Section Manager, by the closing date of December 7.
The plan's stage will transfer to the physical realm in scheduled in-person meetings where the public can assimilate information, engage with Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources staff, and pen their thoughts. Meanwhile, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources promises to funnel public input, post-comment period, into the plan's revisions before the Wisconsin Natural Resources Board gets their evaluative mitts on the proposed master plan.
