Posted on

– DNR Outdoor Report –

– DNR Outdoor Report –

Wisconsin state parks and trails will remain open to the public, but, in light of COVID-19 (coronavirus), the DNR continues to receive the most up-to-date information and will adjust operations as conditions change. Staff continues to monitor on-the-ground circumstances each day, to determine if park closures become necessary.

Recent guidance from the Department of Health Services (DHS) instructs canceling or postponing gatherings of 10 people or more, to help protect Wisconsinites, visitors and staff from the spread of COVID-19, particularly those who are most vulnerable to infection and severe disease.

However, the DNR recognizes that spending time outdoors benefits physical and mental health, which is why parks remain open for the time being.

With that, a few far northern counties still have snow up to a foot or more, but all snowmobile and most ski trails are now closed for the season.

Lake conditions are continually changing and with warmer weather in the forecast, ice safety is critical. As an alternative, early trout fishing season is open and current early spring weather conditions are favorable for pursuing trout.

There has been an increase in baby animal sightings, including fox, raccoon and squirrel kits.

There has been an influx of songbirds with the warming weather, including red-winged blackbirds, ruby and goldencrowned kinglets, eastern bluebirds, eastern phoebes and summer resident turkey vultures.

Skunk cabbage is emerging out of the marsh and wetland areas.

For updates on event cancellations and building closures at DNR properties, visit the DNR website.

This is a rapidly evolving situation. For specific information regarding the COVID-19, the public is asked to frequently monitor the DHS website for updates.

743

LATEST NEWS