A dedication of a tract of land west of Rhinelander highlights a mutual interest to improve the habitat for popular hunting birds grouse and woodcock.
The Wisconsin DNR, the Ruffed Grouse Society and the American Woodcock Society have partnered to improve the management of the Woodboro Lakes Wildlife Area.
DNR biologist Jeremy Holtz says the property about 12 miles west of Rhinelander. He describes where the birds like to live....
".....woodcock and ruffed grouse are considered early successional species so they do really well in aspen and alder habitats. They like a combination of aspen forest of different ages, old log landings, fields or other kinds of openings that they can use for feeding and raising their young...."
Holtz says the property timber harvests, especially in aspen stands, will be designed to continue forest diversity.
Holtz says woodland less than 50 years old have been their prime habitat and is why populations have been declining....
"...which is why their species have been in decline over the last half-century or so because it's getting harder to find that kind of habitat. The Woodboro Lakes Wildlife Area is pretty unique in that aspect because it's heavily managed for aspen and oak which is great for ruffed grouse, woodcock, deer, bear, turkey and others....."
Holtz says they will be hosting a dedication of Woodboro Lakes Wildlife Area on November 2 at 4:30 p.m. He says after some discussion, brats and refreshments will be served. He says they will have a maps for the public to see what the property has to offer along with short hikes.
Holtz says the property will be managed for multiple uses.
