Hartman Harrier

Summer 2009 Vol. 14 Issue 1A Publication of the Friends of Hartman Creek State Park

Hartman Hartman HarrierHarrier

INSIDEBergum in Academy - P3Naturalist Schedule - P3Nature Quiz - P4Consequences - P6Photo Contest - P7Crane Count - P9Wetland Gems - P10Friendly People - P11Nature Artist - P12Bluebird Monitors - P13What’s New? - P14Campground map - P17Fund Projects - P19

FIREWOOD ALERT! Firewood restrictions remain in effect at Hartman Creek. due to the destructive Emerald Ash Borer (above). See page 8.

Beauty found outside own

back doorBy Megan Bousley

A few days ago I sat down on the couch with a bag of chocolate covered pretzels and popped in the new movie Australia (starring Hugh Jackman). The opening shots were filled with the vast terrain of the Outback. I was blown away by the simplistic beauty of the land, and that made me think.

I began to think about what makes Wisconsin so beautiful. What about Wisconsin knocks my socks off? I thought about all the places I’ve had the privilege of visiting, from the beaches at Normandy, to the temperate rainforest of the Pacific Northwest, and I began to realize how I had beauty right outside my door. I just had to stop and recognize it.

Maybe the most vivid memory I have about the beauty of Wisconsin is when I went fishing with Grandpa last year. Now, I’m more of a hunter than a fisher, and when we go out on Dad’s motorboat we’re usually on a crowded lake and I’m more into boy watching and tanning.

What’s special about fishing with Grandpa is that he knows where to go. He knows where the people won’t be and where it will be quiet. This day was no different. He found a lake that was completely void of people. We pushed the canoe into the water and paddled our way down the small creek and into the lake.

Honestly, it was more like a giant pond. But what struck me about this lake was how clear it was. There wasn’t a single spot there that I couldn’t see down to the bottom. In places the water was almost an aqua color. It was rare for me to see a lake that clear.

Grandpa dropped anchor in the middle and immediately started casting. I definitely consider Grandpa an excellent fisherman. Me? Not so much. I have this irrational fear of worms and such creatures, making baiting a wee bit difficult. Grandpa would just roll his eyes and motion for my hook.

Grandpa and I wouldn’t talk much, each fiercely concentrating on our line, but there was never a silent moment. The constant trill of songbirds, frogs and the occasional glub glub of water made sure of that. I would sometimes get bored watching my bobber bob on the surface

of the water, so I’d pull my line in and just take in my surroundings.

“Meg, look,” he softly said, pointing up at the sky. I looked, shielding the sun with my hand. A hawk silently glided through the air, its wings glinting in the late afternoon sunlight. I watched it in amazement, wondering what it would be like to see everything from that high up.

That’s when I really started to look and see everything. I saw the skimmers on the surface of the water, darting around. I saw a nearby bird sing its song. So much was going on that I couldn’t take it all in at one time. I closed my eyes, and just

listened. It was at that exact moment, around 4:30 in the afternoon, that I experienced the true beauty of nature for the very first time.

As the ending credits of the movie appeared on the screen, and tears slid down my face from the heart wrenching plot of the story, I realized that yes, Australia is beautiful, and the Pacific

Northwest is beautiful, but you don’t need to travel miles upon miles to experience the beauty of nature. I have every intention of traveling the world, and seeing and experiencing new places and things, all of which I’m sure will be beautiful. But, always with me will be the images of home, and the appreciation of the beauty right out my back door.

A young fisherman hauls in a bluegill at Mid Lake in Hartman Creek State Park. Photo by Rick Patzke

Park beauty

EMERGENCY INFORMATIONEMERGENCY INFORMATIONPARK OFFICE (715-258-2372): In the event of an emergency, contact park

staff or the Campground Host. If neither are available, call 911.ILLNESS or INJURY

•AMBULANCE–911 Waupaca•FIRE–911 Waupaca•HOSPITAL– 715/258-1040 — Riverside Medical Center. Doctors and

hospital facilities are located in Waupaca, six miles east of the park via State Hwy. 54 to US Hwy. 10 to Churchill St. exit (22N/54E). Look for the blue hospital signs.

•WAUPACA CO. SHERIFF–911 WaupacaDISTURBANCE: Report disturbances at the park offi ce, to Campground

Hosts, or to any park staff . If staff are not available, please call the Waupaca County Sheriff at 715/258-4466. Be sure to write down any pertinent informa-tion such as campsite number, auto license number, make and model of car, and physical description, etc.

WEATHER WARNINGS: The park staff will attempt to warn visitors of National Weather Service Storm Warnings. When possible, rangers will drive slowly through campsites and picnic areas with their emergency siren and lights activated to warn of impending storms.

PUBLIC TELEPHONES: A public pay phone is located outside the park offi ce building.

Summer 2009 Hartman Harrier

Hartman HarrierThe Hartman Harrier is published twice annually by the Friends of Hart-man Creek. Its purpose is to increase interest in Hartman Creek State Park, Waupaca, Wisconsin, and to acquaint those interested with news and issues concerning the park.

Executive Editor: Rick PatzkeContributing Writers: Sue Eiler Murnell Olsen Ed Parnell

Advertising Sales: Arpad & Sue Eiler Murnell & Gerry Olsen Rosemary Salzman Merle Lang Julie ZolondekDesign Assistant: Trixie LaRue

Address all correspondence to:Friends of Hartman Creek Hartman Creek State Park

N2480 Hartman Creek RoadWaupaca, WI 54981

Membership information can be ob-tained by calling (715) 258-2372.

E-mail the FriendsSeveral members of the Friends of

Hartman Creek Board of Directors wel-come your email correspondence.

Contact them as follows:Sue Eiler, President [email protected]

Robert & Karen Mand, Friends [email protected]

Jerry & Murnell Olsen, Directors [email protected]

Rick Patzke, Director [email protected]

RoseMary Salzman, Director [email protected]

General [email protected]

ParkPackspack a lot of fun

Mobility impaired facilities availableHartman Creek has picnic areas and

campsites that have received minor modifi cations and additions to improve

them for mobility im-paired visitors.

Site #47 in the family campground has a wheelchair symbol mounted on the campsite post.

One of the picnic tables there has its top raised and extended along with one other regular picnic table at the site. This site is accessible to toilet facilities (with a separate shower/rest room designed for wheelchairs) on a hard-surfaced route. Electrical hookup is also available at Site #47. All toilet facilities in the picnic areas and campgrounds have wide doors and a wide stall with handrails.

At 18-acre Allen Lake, there is a spe-cially designed fi shing pier for mobility impaired users. Benches and seated an-gler stations are on the pier.

Also, there are several paved trails that run between picnic areas, the family campground and the beach area. Special tables and parking areas are established in the picnic areas.

Hopefully, these modifi cations are a step in the right direction toward our overall goal, which is to give everyone an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Wisconsin outdoors.

Vehicle admission fees detailedA Wisconsin State Park Vehicle Admission Sticker must be purchased for all ve-

hicles entering the park. (Campers pay an additional overnight fee.) Visitors are permitted to drive through all parks without a park admission sticker

provided they do not stop for any reason. It is not the intent of this policy to allow park users to avoid buying a park sticker. If you park your vehicle (even if you remain in the vehicle), a sticker is required.

Current admission sticker fees are (according to license plates on the vehicle):Park vehicle admission rates Resident NonresidentNote: Fees are subject to change.

Annual (valid for the calendar year) $25 $35

2nd annual (for same household) $12.50 $17.50

Daily $ 7 $10

Senior citizen annual* $10 NA *65 & over

Senior citizen daily* $3 NA1-hour $5 $5

Trail passes (annual) $20 $20 -for off -road bike, horse trail and X-C ski use

Trail pass (daily) $4 $4

Note: Trail passes are required for persons 16 years of age and older. Sticker fees are subject to change.

Take Smokey Bear camping!

The “Take Smokey Bear Camping” program is off ered at Hartman Creek State Park, and gives young campers the opportunity to check out Smokey Bear for an overnight visit.

Smokey travels in his backpack along with a copy of the True Story of Smokey Bear comic book, notebook diary and fi re safety materials. Parents are encouraged to read the story to the children. Fire safety can be discussed and practiced at the same time.

A notebook diary lets the children share their experiences that they had with Smokey while he was visiting. Smokey is returned to the park offi ce the next day, and another young camper is given the opportunity to check him out.

ParkPacks are a great way to explore our state parks, trails and forests with your family, friends or classmates. They will get you hiking, investigating and thinking about Wisconsin’s natural resources and your role in using them wisely.

Who are they for?ParkPacks are for middle school children in families, youth groups, or school

classes. If you have younger brothers or sisters, you can include them in most of the activities—they will just need some extra help from you!

What’s in the pack?ParkPacks contain everything you need to do the activities except paper and

some things you probably have around your campsite or car.

How do you pick what to do?There are more things in ParkPacks

than you will have time to do! Use the list of activities on the yellow card titled “Forests Forever” and the supplemental information sheet to help you pick ac-tivities that sound good to you.

Brought to you by. . . ParkPacks were produced under a

1998-99 grant from the Wisconsin Environmental Education Board. Production would not have been possible without the assistance of the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin Inc. and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. This ParkPack was written and designed by Beth Mittermaier.

Clear Water Harbor

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“The Harbor”

11/2-Hour Scenic Narrated Public Boat ToursDeparting Daily (summer) at 11:30, 1:00, 2:30, and 4:00

MOO’S Dairy Bar & PlaygroundFor all your favorite summertime ice cream treats, featuring Chocolate Shoppe ice cream.

Sunday Champagne Brunch Cruise (June 21 to Aug. 16 & Labor Day) (RESERVATIONS REQUIRED)

PRIVATE CHARTERS AVAILABLE

CLEAR WATER HARBORN2757 Cty Hwy QQ • Waupaca, WI 54981

Boat info: 715-258-2866 • Restaurant: 715-258-9912

On stage in the Harbor or on our floating stage. For a complete entertainment schedule,

visit our website:www.clearwaterharbor.com

Live Entertainment!

Waterfront Restaurant & BarChain O’Lakes Public Boat Cruises and Private Charters

MOO’s Dairy Bar


Park naturalist scheduleJune 2009Saturday 6/13 8 p.m. Feathers, Leaves, Petals and Ice.Oak ridge/Ice Age Discovery Hike Sunday June 14th, 10-11 a.m. Snapshot or Photograph: things to think about

before you click the shutter (some basic tips to help beginners take better photos) Location: Allen Lake fishing dock ( Hellestad House if rain)

Saturday 6/27 10 a.m. Naturalist KnapsackSunday 6-28 10 a.m. Laurel Geyer painting demonstration

July 2009July Tuesdays: 1-4 Hellestad House open house

Saturday July 4th 10-11 a.m. Snapshot or Photograph: things to think about before you click the shutter (some basic tips to help beginners take better photos)

Location: Allen Lake fishing dock ( Hellestad House if rain)Saturday 7/11 10 a.m. Discovery HikeSaturday 7/25 Sunset Universe in the ParkSunday 7/26 10 a.m. Laurel Geyer painting demonstration

August 2009Augusts: 1-4 p.m. Hellestad House open house Saturday 8/15 10 a.m. Naturalist KnapsackSaturday 8/15 Sunset Universe in the ParkSaturday 8/22 9 p.m. Stars in Your EyesSunday 8/23 10 a.m. Laurel Geyer painting demonstration

An Outreach Program of the Department of Astronomy, University of Wisconsin-Madison

By Prof. Eric M. Wilcots, Program Director

We are now entering the seventh year of “Universe in the Park,” the extremely popular outreach program of the Department of Astronomy at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. Two “Universe in the Park” programs will be held at the Hartman Creek State Park Amphitheater this summer—July 25 and Aug. 15, starting at sunset.

“UitP” is predicated on a very simple idea: that the best environment in which to introduce the general public to astronomy is outside under dark skies. For the past five years we have taken “UitP” to state parks throughout Wisconsin during the summer camping season, giving talks and slide shows, answering questions, and letting the general public view astronomical objects through one of the UitP telescopes.

A typical “UitP” session begins just after sunset with a 20-30 minute talk and slide show about astronomy. While the particular topic is left up to the speaker, we usually present a broad overview of astronomy or recent astronomical news such as the discovery of new solar systems and the latest results from the Hubble Space Telescope.

At the conclusion of the talk, when the sky is dark, we set up one of the two moderate aperture (8”-10”) telescopes and provide the park visitors the opportunity to view whatever astronomical objects are available. Most of the question and answer period takes place around the telescope. “UitP” sessions run as long as there are people interested in looking through the telescope, and the parks typically close before the interest has been sated.

How Can I Schedule a UitP Session?UitP is naturally suited for those parks that normally host evening programs, but

any state park can schedule a UitP visit. Bear in mind that the best viewing is from an open area with clear views of the southern sky. We schedule UitP visits based on requests and the availability of UitP volunteers to lead the sessions. To schedule a UitP visit, please contact Prof. Eric Wilcots at 608-262-2364 or [email protected]. The UitP schedule will be posted on the Internet at www.astro.wisc.edu/outreach.

We do ask that parks in the northern part of the state try to coordinate UitP visits with each other so that we can visit two or more parks in one trip. We are open to scheduling UitP sessions on any day of the week, though we prefer weekends for visiting the more distant parks. As always, we will schedule as many UitP sessions as possible. We are also interested in extending the UitP season into the fall when the skies get darker earlier (and the mosquito population is somewhat reduced!).

Please contact Prof. Wilcots if you have questions or wish to schedule a Universe in the Park visit. We look forward to hearing from you!

“Universe in the Park” is supported by the National Science Foundation through grant #AST-9875008.

“Universe in the Park” offered by UW Astronomy DepartmentBergum in Leadership Academy

Hartman Creek State Park Superintendent Michael Bergum has been selected as one of three Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) employees of the five regions to attend a Leadership Academy within the department. Participants meet six times per year for three days each time. Some of the topics discussed to date include discovering strengths and areas of improvement as a leader, learning about DNR history, strategy, philosophy and values, and decision making from the secretary’s level to the every day decisions made in the field.

In addition, learning about change and how to best implement change in difficult situations and times are stressed. Additional topics include Coaching vs. Supervising and Leadership vs. Management.

Each participant must create a project, and Mike opted to do a carbon footprint of the park. It has developed into more of an investigation of energy savings techniques.

A recent energy audit conducted created a list of recommendations, some of them quite easy to implement. A combination of motion and sound detectors installed in all shower building and pit toilets will replace lights on timers. Compact florescent bulbs will replace incandescents. The 66-gallon water heater servicing three sinks in the office building will be replaced with an on-demand heater. There are even plans for a solar-powered group camp water pump to replace the hand pump. Long term, the park is on a list for an electric car.

All of these projects require additional funding outside the park’s current allocation. With an increased focus on “green” alternatives, the park is hopeful many of these projects will receive funding soon.

The biggest benefit Mike has acquired attending the Leadership Academy to date has been an increased awareness of his personal leadership style and how to continually improve.

The Leadership Academy will end on June 18th with a formal recognition of all participants’ achievements.

Watchful parents keep a lookout over these Canadian Goose goslings in a park wetland. Photo by Rick Patzke


1) c 2) c 3) b 4) a, b, c, d, e, f, i 5) c 6) d 7) a 8) a 9) b 10) a 11) a 12) a, b

The majestic eagle: High fl yers and a national symbolMultiple choice nature quiz

By Sue Eiler

Eagles are becoming more common throughout Wisconsin along our lakes and rivers. Hartman Creek State Park has yet to be chosen as a nest site by a pair, though both the city of Waupaca and the Chain O’Lakes have. All winter, both immature and adult eagles were spotted hunting in the park’s open water.

Pairs begin egg laying in early April, with a 40-day incubation period of the two eggs by both adults. The first born has the best chance of survival, but severe weather and predation by raccoons and great horned owls take a toll. Only 50 percent survive the first year. Both parents tend to the chicks, bringing fish and tearing off chunks for the young to eat. If all goes well, they start flying and feeding themselves sometime in July, when many of us are outside enjoying summer activities.

Immature eagles are dark brown, gaining some spattering of white on their tail and head in their third or fourth year. Full white feathers appear at ages four to five, as does the shift from brown beak and eyes to yellow. Immatures are described as short-distance migrants as opposed to their elders, who might go as far south as Kentucky, Missouri and Nebraska. Many choose to overwinter along the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers, where annual eagle spotting events occur.

Officially declared our national symbol in 1782, eagles have long held a special honor throughout history. Legend has it that the Aztecs so revered eagles that when one landed on a cactus, the capital city Tenochtitlan was built upon that spot. Native Americans continue to use eagle feathers for religious purposes.

Gratefully, populations of these majestic birds have rebounded. Still, it is still an “Ah-Ha” moment to spot one. Check the sky and trees for eagles as you enjoy the park, but first, test your knowledge of eagles. More than one answer may be correct.

1) In the early 1700s, U.S. eagle populations ranged from 300,000-500,000. By the early 1960s, there were only 500 pairs left. Now, Wisconsin has: a. 600 pairs b. 800 pairs c. 1,000 pairs d. 1,500 pairs

2) With a wingspan of 6 feet, a hooked beak and talons capable of 1,000 pounds of pressure per square inch, eagles are built to be superb hunters. They are capable of swimming and wading, though the water weighs them down considerably for flight. Not every attempt is successful; in fact, it averages: a. 1 out of 10 times b. 1 out of 8 times c. 1 out of 4 times d. 1 out of 2 times

3) Eagles can fly to an altitude of 10,000 feet and soar for hours by using wind currents and updrafts. They dive for prey and can reach speeds of: a. 50 mph b. 100 mph c. 150 mph d. 200 mph

4) Their primary food is fish, but also includes: a. ducks b. muskrats c. snakes d. rabbits e. smaller birds f. dead deer g. corn h. salt along roads i. rodents

5) They can fly with prey as heavy as: a. 4 lbs b. 6 lbs c. 8 lbs d. 10 lbs6) Females are one-third larger than males and weigh: a. 8 lbs b. 10 lbs c. 12 lbs

d. 14 lbs7) Now calculate how much males weigh. Is it: a. 9 lbs b. 5 lbs c 8 lbs d. 11 lbs 8) Three-quarters of all eagle nests in Wisconsin are in: a. huge oak trees b. huge

pine trees c. huge cottonwood trees d. huge dead-topped pine trees9) It can take eagles nesting for the first time as many as six weeks to complete

a nest. Nests are constructed of large sticks and other vegetation. The average nest size is: a. 3’ diameter, 1’ deep b. 4’ diameter, 3’ deep c. 4’ diameter, 4’ deep d. 5’ diameter, 4’ deep

10) Each year additional material is added to the nest, with some record nest sizes at: a. 10’ wide, 20’ high b. 7’ wide, 30’ high c. 8’ wide, 25’ high d. 9’ wide, 35’ high

11) All this nesting material creates a large platform for the young to perch, but the actual nest where the eggs are laid is the size of a: a. robin nest b. duck nest c. goose nest d. crane nest

12) Eagle eye is an appropriate term. It is said that eagles can spot a rabbit from one to one and half miles away. Humans have 200,000 light sensitive cells per square inch compared to an eagle’s 1 million. A human retina has one funnel shaped fovea where vision is sharpest, while eagles have two. In addition to this, eagles have: a. eyes that see five colors, whereas human eyes see three basic colors b. eyes very large in comparison to their head size c. excellent night vision, allowing them to hunt pre-dawn when many animals are about d. eyes with a polarizing ability, allowing them to spot fish below the surface of the water.

Answers are below.

Majestic eagle quiz answers

Hartman Creek State Park is a wildlife refuge, and no animals are hunted (with the exception of deer during the regular deer gun season and late bow season) or trapped. Also, all plant life is protected except for wild edibles (edible fruits such as apples, blueberries, blackberries, asparagus, wild mushrooms), which may be taken from the park. Please don’t pick the fl owers or other plants—leave them for someone else to enjoy.

This park is a wildlife refuge

Adopt-A-Trail sponsors soughtDo you enjoy hiking through our beautiful park and notice a bit of litter or areas

that could use a little trimming? Then, the Adopt-A-Trail program is your opportunity to combine the joy of hiking with contributing to the welfare and maintenance of the park trails.

Individuals or groups may adopt a trail or segment of a trail by volunteering and, as representatives of the Department of Natural Resources, Adopt-A-Trail sponsors collect litter, properly dispose of recyclable materials, perform minor trail maintenance such as trimming back briars or small trees, and report to the property manager any major or hazardous trail obstructions. All volunteers must supply their own tools, but trash bags will be provided.

Sponsors are asked to survey their trail segment at least three times per year, from May through October, but more often is fine. There are many segment choices, averaging about a mile. There is even a paved, accessible trail that could be adopted by someone with special needs.

If you are interested in adopting a trail, stop at the park office, complete the Adopt-A-Trail application and select your preferred trail segment. A poster in the park office will list all Adopt-a-Trail sponsors.

Turner’s Fresh MarketThe Best of Fresh

Seasonal Produce (sweet corn from July 4th)

A stone’s throw from the park!Left on Hwy 54

1/2 mile west of Hartman Creek Road

Chain bpCONVENIENCESELLING BEER SOON!

ATM, AIR/VAC, PROPANE, FIREWOOD, ICE, ICE CREAM, GROCERIES

FRESH COFFEEFRESH BAKED DAILY:

Cookies, Muffins, Donuts

Located on the corner of Hwy. Q & QQ and the interchange of State Hwy. 22 ~ in King ~

715-258-5153

OPEN EVERY DAY AT 5:30 A.M.

Denise Maiman

& gifts

N2740 Cty Tk QQWaupaca, WI 54981 (715) 256-5435

11


WDNR offers fishing equipment for loan

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has fishing equipment for loan at several DNR offices and state parks and facilities participating in this program. There is no charge to borrow the equipment, which is typically used by groups.

Check out the fishing equipment contacts page at www.dnr.wi.gov for information on who to contact to find out exactly what kind of gear is available near you.

While special lures and fresh bait are not provided, we generally have the following basic equipment at most sites:

* Many closed face fishing rods and reels * A few open face rods and reels * Casting plugs * Bobbers * Hooks, lines and sinkersIn addition to fishing equipment, we also have Angler Education Kits

featuring fish flash cards, fish printing materials, knot-tying practice equipment and Backyard Bass (a casting game). Many (but not all) sites have this equipment for loan in addition to rods and reels. Several sites also have Fish Packs.

Keep in MindBefore you plan a fishing trip around loaner equipment, make sure you

keep some of the following things in mind: * Request the equipment at least one month in advance. Equipment is

available on a first come, first served basis. * You may borrow equipment for up to one week, unless demand is low

in your area. Ask the contact in your area if an extension is possible. * In some cases, certified DNR Angler Education Instructors may arrange

with the DNR contact to have the equipment sent via DNR mail to the DNR service center or field station nearest them.

* Make proper handling and care of equipment part of your angler or fishing education program.

* If the equipment was damaged, return all the parts with a note explaning what happened.

The most popular time for borrowing the equipment is also the busiest time for our field staff - spring and early summer. Please help them out by returning the equipment clean and in good working order. If something breaks -- which sometimes happens -- fix it if you can, or bring the problem to our staff’s attention so the next group will have functional equipment. Your help with maintenance frees up our field staff for stocking fish and working on habitat projects.

Fishing gear at park offi ceHartman Creek State Park features two fishing tackle loaner programs. One, called

the Tackle Loaner Program, is for school groups and Junior Angler Instructors only. This program consists of two large plastic tubs filled with lures, bobbers, sinkers, hooks, and several fishing poles.

The second program is for park visitors, and is called the Family Tackle Loaner Program. This program also features two small plastic tubs fill with lures, bobbers, sinkers, hooks and poles.

There is a checkout sheet for each program at the front desk in the park office. All equipment must be returned to the park office before closing the same day.

State park and forest camping feesCamping fees in Wisconsin State Parks and Forests have been updated this season

with one fl at rate structure for the entire year at some properties, including Hartman Creek State Park. This is in contrast with the previous rate structure incorporating day of the week, season, view, etc. Below is the new fl at rate fee structure. The complete list of fees, including for properties not using the fl at rate, can be found on the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources web site, www.wiparks.net.

State Parks, Southern Forests, Recreation Areas and TrailsCamping fees Per site per nightWI resident $15Nonresident $17Extra charge for electricity $5

Reservation fees Per reservationReservation fee $10Reservation fee cancellation $5Fee for changing reservation site or dates $8

There’s an additional $5 surcharge for anyone who fails to pay the fee before using a campsite if there’s a self-registration station available.

Camping reservations can be made on the Internet at wisconsinstateparks.re-serveamerica.com. The link can also be found at www.dnr.wi.gov.

Camping fee waiversAll reservation and family and outdoor group camping fees are waived for non-

profi t organizations whose primary purpose is improving the mental or physical health of people with disabilities. To be eligible for a waiver, the group must submit a Camping Fee Waiver Request (available on WDNR Internet site) to:

Camping Program ManagerP.O. Box 7921Madison, WI 53707-7921The group must apply before arriving at the property and must have a camping

reservation. Memorial Day through Labor Day, waivers are available only Sunday through Thursday nights. Groups are encouraged to use group sites. Family sites have a limit of six people per site. Site assignment will depend upon availability.

Unattended fi res a hazard for allBy Lynne and Carice Koch

The results of unattended fires and the carelessness of campers often lead to headaches for the hosts. Imagine walking into a campsite where the camping unit has moved out, and the campfire flames are flaming out several feet above the ring. What are the hosts who come to clean the site to do?

They quickly assess the situation and may: call a ranger to witness it and take a picture of it, then douse it with the water they carry in the cart, pull it apart as much as they can to let it cool, inventory the contents other than wood that have been placed in the pit, and eventually make another trip back to the site, hopefully before the next camper moves in and says “YUK”!

Trying to burn up the last of the wood, breakfast items, and containers, newspapers, or cardboard does not make the next people coming in very happy campers. We have dumpsters marked for cardboard, newspapers, cans, bottles and other disposables, which, if properly put in the right ones, will not cause a citation to reach you at home.

Some careless campers have even set a dumpster on fire. Aerosol cans that one may think are empty may not be and can explode! We have all seen pictures on TV that show horrible wild fires burning everything in its path. With the layers of dead pine needles and leaves underfoot in our campground, let us all be more careful in keeping our fires to a campfire level, and not a bonfire risking all our lives. All it takes is a gust of wind to fan it into a monster.

You’ll have a ball!

Expires 2009Friends of Hartman Creek 2009

1 FREE ROUND OF MINI GOLF

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715-258-8737

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By Sue Eiler

I think most of us have good intentions, but sometimes struggle in our choices. It’s scary to know that 50 percent of the time we’re just going to be wrong. I tell my husband that I fail many times per day. He doesn’t believe me, bless him, but it’s true. Sometimes I multitask, and that’s just an accident waiting to happen. But other times I plan carefully, and the outcome is very wide of the mark, and the consequences very much unanticipated and unintended.

Case in point: we had a phoebe that wanted to nest in the worst way on our house. I love phoebes. To me, they announce spring. Somewhere I vaguely remember that it brings good luck to have a bird nest somewhere on your house. So, it was with interest and trepidation that I watched as the female selected as her spot our garage spotlight and motion detector right next to the most used door on our house. She worked quickly, bringing bits of mud, plants and moss, and formed a perfectly symmetrical depression for the upcoming eggs. All was well. We avoided the passage door to the garage, and didn’t open the garage door either for fear of disturbing the incubating female. Each day as I washed my dishes, I watched her sitting on the nest. It was harmony.

One afternoon I went off to the park, driving our pickup with the intent of pulling garlic mustard. It was late in the season and the pulled plants had to be hauled out, or they would continue their cycle and go to seed. A sudden storm blew up and caught me out in the woods. I was wet but it was warm. I loaded up all the plants until the bed was full, and then started driving down Rural Road to my garden to off load the pile.

About half way to Rural, a tree blown down blocked the road. There was no way around it, so I turned around. At that point I had to decide whether to go all the way around to another road to get to my garden or just go home. I was wet and decided the pile could wait until the next day to be unloaded. When I got home I smelled something. It was hard to place, but it was distinctly the smell of something burning. Remember that the light the nest was on was a motion detector. The storm has knocked out our power and when it was restored, the light came on and stayed on. That was enough to get the nest to the burning point. I quickly knocked the smoldering nest to the ground and doused it with the hose. I shudder to think what would have happened had I not been stopped by the downed tree or taken a detour.

The poor phoebes tried to rebuild, but I was too skittish. I put rolled up chicken wire on top of the light fixture to prevent them from building a nest. I’ll miss them, but I can’t take a chance of something like that happening again.

In the list of good ideas gone wrong, a Friends member relates a story of intrigue and mishap. Kally, an agile and very observant springer spaniel, is a beloved member of an active and busy household. No doubt those watchful canine eyes took in many daily details, but who knows the level of comprehension. We might now have a clue.

One night, the family of five settled in to enjoy pizza, leaving the cardboard box and its remaining contents upon the flat top stove. All were in the living room when the youngest went back into the kitchen to get some more pizza. The cry of fire alerted all to rush into the kitchen, whereupon it was discovered the pizza box was on fire. Quick thinking and reflexes resulted in the box being tossed outside into the snow.

What was the mysterious source of fire? Spontaneous combustion? Extra spicy toppings? Careful examination worthy of Sherlock Holmes produced the culprit. While the family ate in the next room, Kally seized the moment. Paws on the stove depressed and turned the handle, firing up the burner beneath where the box was perched. No doubt the family has gained respect for her abilities and will limit her kitchen privileges.

And finally, in the annals of retired fire chief and Friends volunteer Pete Ugorek, comes this story. An optical store asked for a fire investigation because of an unusual

burn pattern on the back of a chair. The evidence was odd, however. A straight burnt line appeared on the chair’s backside. Who or what could have caused such a thing? Everything was fine when the store closed the night before. It was a puzzle and Pete took it upon himself to find out.

This being the month of June, the sun set very late, but was still pretty strong. At a precise time, as the sun set, it hit a special convex mirror, the magnifying type, used by eyeglass patrons when trying on frames. The reflection from the mirror created a pinpoint spot of intense sunlight on the back of the chair. As the sun moved lower in the sky, a diagonal band traced across the back of the chair in the exact location of the previous burn line. Hard to believe, but the sunset was the cause. Pete was pleased with his discovery and the store covered all the mirrors with a cloth each night.

May your intentions be honorable, your heart true and may luck be with you when you, too, are the victim of unintended consequences.

WHO, ME?Sparky the firedog. Photo by Raven Patzke

Good intentions sometimes net unintended consequences

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By Darrin Mann

There are almost four miles of completed singletrack trail now at Hartman Creek State Park. Over 900 volunteer hours have made this possible. The construction began in 2006 with the assistance of the International Mountain Biking Association and the park’s approval. The trail building process is demanding, and the only tools used are the ones propelled by human strength. In order to accelerate the construction process, we simply need more volunteers.

In attempt to recruit you, Mid-life Cycle and Cronies Trail Building Crew have partnered up to give a bike away. Every six hours of your volunteer time earns you an entry to win a SURLY Karate Monkey mountain bike with 29” rims, and a singlespeed drive train. The Karate Monkey is a very unique bike and retails for over $1,100.

Cronies Trail Crew meets every Thursday at 3:30 p.m. (or when you can get there). Also, if Thursdays don’t agree with your work week, we will be providing working opportunities on scheduled Sundays from 1-4 p.m. A blog has been generated in order to better explain our agenda, www.croniestrailbuilding.blogspot.com. Please note: we ask that all volunteers pre-register with us so we can have the needed tools on site and ready.

You are only asked to bring a bike to ride to the development site, gloves and safety glasses if you desire, and nutrition to keep you fueled.

The singletrack use at Hartman Creek is becoming increasingly popular. We encourage volunteers to reflect its popularity. Please call me, Darrin Mann, with any questions you may have at (715) 256-0031.

Photo ReleaseI, ______________________, give permission to use any recognizable person’s

photo in the Friends of Hartman Creek State Park photo contest. By signing this release, I authorize the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the Friends of Hartman Creek State Park to use my photo(s) in publications and displays

My signature on this document releases that I authorize no other permission than what is stated in this document.

________________________________________

Signature of Model or Guardian (if under 18 years of age)

Date __________________

Detach this release and mail to Hartman Creek State Park with your photos.

Rules 1. Photos must be taken in the boundaries of Hartman Creek State Park no earlier than January 1, 2007. 2. A maximum of two photos per category will be allowed with a total of 6 photos per entry per person. 3. Both film and digital photos must be printed on 4x6” paper in black and white, sepia, or color. Negatives or digital files must be available upon request. Do not frame or mount photos. 4. If the subjects in the photo are recognizable, a photo release will be required per individual (see photo release below). 5. Please label the back of each photo with your name, address, phone number, email address (if available), and category. 6. Photos will not be returned to photographer unless otherwise requested in writing. 7. Photos may be used by the Department of Natural Resources, Hartman Creek State Park, and the Friends of Hartman Creek State Park for publications and displays. 8. The Hartman Creek State Park photo contest is open to all park visitors who are not Board members of the Friends of Hartman Creek State Park, judges, and park employees. 9. Photos must be sent to:

The photo contest deadline is July 31, 2009.

Once the contest ends, the winning photographers will be notified. The winning photos will be displayed in the local papers, the park office, and the Hellestad House.

PHOTO CONTESTSponsored by the Friends of Hartman Creek

Prizes: A first, second and third place prize will be awarded for each category. The prizes are as follows:

1st $352nd $253rd $15

Categories:

Wildlife• Scenery• Recreation•

Friends of Hartman Creek State ParkRe: Photo ContestN2480 Hartman Creek RoadWaupaca, WI 54981

Cronies trail-building crewin need of assistance

And providing wheeled incentive!

Darrin Mann (front) and his father, Richard, are among the Cronies volunteers maintaining the new single-track trail in Hartman Creek. Photo by Rick Patzke

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Be sure to inspect for gypsy mothsTwenty counties in eastern Wisconsin (Waupaca County included) are under a

quarantine, meaning that it is illegal to carry items out of the area if they harbor gypsy moths.

We can’t inspect every moving truck, van, car or camper, so we’re depending on you to check over the wood or lawn furniture you take to your cottage up north, the RV you drive south for the winter, or anything else that might carry egg masses, pupae or caterpillars. Be a good neighbor–inspect! For more information, call 1-800-642-MOTH.

BiologyThe gypsy moth has four life stages: egg, larva, pupa and adult. The caterpillars,

also called larva, emerge from egg masses in the spring and feed on leaves for fi ve to six weeks. The time of emergence varies among regions.

Caterpillars pupate in midsummer. Adult moths emerge from the pupal cases, reproduce, and die.

Males use their antennae to detect the scent of females, which cannot fl y. Each female lays 600 to 1,000 eggs in a single mass and covers them with hairs. Egg masses may be laid on the bark of trees, on logs, or on a variety of human objects. They are in the egg stage from late summer until the following spring.

Tree HostsDuring outbreaks, caterpillars cause damage by eating leaves. Defoliation

stresses trees, killing them directly or increasing their susceptibility to other pests and environmental stresses that can kill them. Their favorite trees are oak, aspen, willow, apple, basswood, birch, tamarack, mountain ash, and hawthorn. They also eat maple, walnut, chestnut, hickory, elm, beech, cottonwood, and cherry. They do not eat balsam fi r, locust, cedar, tulip poplar, catalpa, sycamore, and most species of ash. Adult moths do not feed.

HistoryGypsy moths are native to Europe, Asia and North Africa. The gypsy moth was

brought to North America by an entrepreneur in Massachusetts in an attempt to breed a hardy silk worm. Some caterpillars escaped in 1868. By 1991 they had defoli-ated 13 million acres of trees along the East Coast.

The fi rst gypsy moths found in the Midwest were in Michigan in the 1970s. The main means of spread is by inadvertent human transport of egg masses and pupae. Please help stop the spread and damage of the gypsy moth!

Rent a teepee campsite!Fees:$35-$37/night (+ $10 reservation fee, if reserved ahead of time)Teepee season:1st Friday in May through September 30th

Experience the unique opportunity of camping in an authentic reproduction of a Native American plains teepee. The canvas teepee is 16 feet in diameter and supported by wooden lodge poles that are 25 feet in length. The fl oor is a wooden platform, so we suggest you bring pads or air mattresses to sleep on. Please also realize that the teepee is not 100% weather/water proof!

The teepee campsite (#102) is a joint project between Hartman Creek State Park and the Friends of Hartman Creek (a nonprofi t support group dedicated to promoting a greater appreciation of the park).

The cost to stay in the teepee is $35/night for residents and $37/night for non-residents.

Group size limitsFamily—Parents with their dependent children and not more than 2 guests.Non-family—Maximum of six people.Juveniles—Maximum of 10, including children and at least one adult leader.Teepee etiquetteTo the early Native American, the teepee was more than just a home; it was

a temple as well. The fl oor of the teepee represented the earth on which we live, the walls the sky, and the poles the trails from the earth to the spirit world above.

We ask that you honor this tradition by following a few commons sense rules:

Fires are only permitted in the fi re ring that is provided on the site. NO fuels, fl ames or equipment such as stoves, gas lantern, heaters or candles are allowed inside of the teepee. Cooking or smoking inside the teepee is prohibited.

Pets are NOT allowed in the teepee.Insect Repellent can damage the teepee. Please DO NOT spray repellent inside or near the teepee.

Emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire, is an exotic beetle that was discovered in southeastern Michigan near Detroit in the summer of 2002. The adult beetles nibble on ash foliage but cause little damage. The larvae (the immature stage) feed on the inner bark of ash trees, disrupting the tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients.

Emerald ash borer probably arrived in the United States on solid wood packing material carried in cargo ships or airplanes originating in its native Asia. Emerald ash borer is also established in Windsor, Ontario, was found in Ohio in 2003, northern Indiana in 2004, and northern Illinois in 2006. Since its discovery, EAB has:

• Killed more than 20 million ash trees in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. Most of the devastation is in southeastern Michigan.

• Caused regulatory agencies and the USDA to enforce quarantines (Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Maryland) and fines to prevent potentially infested ash trees, logs or firewood from moving out of areas where EAB occurs.

• Cost municipalities, property owners, nursery operators and forest products industries tens of millions of dollars.

It is estimated that one-third of all trees in Wisconsin's urban areas are ash. If you are a resident of Wisconsin and suspect that you have EAB in your ash trees, call 1-800-462-2803.

More information about the Emerald ash borer and the threat it poses can be found at www.emeraldashborer.info.

The culprit: Emerald Ash Borer larvae

Firewood restrictions in effectAny firewood brought into the park must originate from within

Wisconsin, and within 50 miles of the park. This is to try to prevent the movement of infance forest insects (Emerald Ash Borer) and diseases. You are required to inform the park staff if firewood you are bringing in has come from outside of the 50-mile range. All firewood coming from outside of this range, and all out-of-state firewood, will be confiscated as a preventive measure.

Waupaca County Natural Resources FoundationThe Waupaca County Natural Resources Foundation exists to continue a proud

tradition of wise land use, and to help preserve the scenic grandeur well into the future. This nonprofi t organization aims to partner with a variety of interested organizations and clubs to continue to develop recreational facilities, protect and preserve land uses, raise awareness for environmental concerns, and generally enhance the living conditions of county residents. For further information, contact: Waupaca County Parks, Courthouse—811 Harding St., Waupaca, WI 54981; (715) 258-6243, [email protected].

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By Sue Eiler

One of the largest citizen-based inventories in the United States was recently held on Saturday, April 18. In 1976 the Midwest Crane Count was initiated to monitor and observe the remarkable comeback of 25 pairs in the 1930s to a population of over 13,000 we have today. Each year, the count involves over 3,000 volunteer participants that spread over 100 counties in five states. Volunteers are given an official ICF Crane Count Data Sheet and training in advance.

Site 98 is a new one in Waupaca County created by volunteer Phil Peterson. Pat Fisher, founder of the Feather, a wildlife rehabilitation center near New London, is county coordinator of about 30 sites. Phil stood upon the bridge spanning the channel of Knight and Manomin Lakes. From there he carefully noted the time each crane was sighted, whether it was walking, flying or dancing. Sometimes only a call can be heard. If so, again, the time is noted, number of cranes, type of call such as unison, guard or other type. In addition, the topography is recorded such as wetland, dry field or waterway.

At 5:32 a.m. Phil heard his first crane uttering a guard call from a wetland south of his position. The calls continued to come within minutes of one another, all guard calls. At 6:06 a.m. he spotted a sleeping crane within 100 yards of his position wake up, call and fly across Knight Lake. At 7:18 a.m. he spotted a crane flying across the lake, his last crane entry for the two-hour segment. In total, he recorded nine calls and two sightings.

However, an observer does not exist in a vacuum while participating in the count. The panoply of nature unfolds at that hour and Phil was at its center. Spring peepers and chorus frogs provided a subtle backdrop for the red-winged blackbirds that began their calls. Mallards began quacking at 5:31 a.m. and swam by at 5:51 a.m. A Canada goose, turkey, mourning dove, robin, crow and blue jay greeted the morning. To the west came the low resonant call of the great horned owl. From the southeast a woodpecker began drumming, its version of a territorial call.

Then, from the southwest at 6:00 a.m., a loon called four separate times. Loons don’t normally nest here, but will occasionally. Perhaps this one was just resting on its journey north. And then, at 6:14 a.m. two mink emerged from the abandoned beaver dam right below Phil’s feet. All was not calm in their world, as their vocalizations did not appear to be friendly.

A thin slice of nature has now been recorded. What a treat it is to be a silent witness. What a gift Phil has given us to volunteer and record this information. And, what treasures we live amongst, ready to supply our senses with an abundance of sensory pleasures.

Are you interested in becoming involved in the crane count? Volunteers are supplied with training and supporting information, such as the following:

How do I identify female vs. male sandhill cranes?Just by looking at Sandhill Cranes, there is no definitive way to tell gender, as

females and males look alike. Males tend be slightly larger than females, but that is not a consistent guideline. When cranes are paired, they share incubation and parenting duties. They also make a unison call, in which each bird has a part. For every one note of the male, the female makes two notes. The female tends to keep her head in a horizontal position, while the male’s takes on a vertical posture.

Will a pair give a unison call in flight?Not usually. Cranes make “flight calls” that allow the birds to locate their mates

while flying. Because a flight call is often answered by the other member of the pair, and because the calls are often repeated, they could be mistaken for unison calls, but are more like guard calls. Some of the ICF staff, who have watched cranes a great deal, have heard cranes unison call in flight only a few times.

Can cranes swim?Yes. All cranes can swim, but adults avoid swimming unless necessary (they have

no webbed feet to speak of, which makes swimming awkward and difficult). The chicks must swim to follow their long-legged parents through deeper wetlands, but they wade more and swim less as their legs get longer.

How can I tell the age of a crane?In the field, there is no definitive way to age a crane more specifically than juvenile

vs. adult. Juveniles do not begin to develop visible red patches until they are about a year old. From hatching until that point, juveniles are readily identifiable by the absence of the red patch on the head. Wild cranes may live to be 20-30 years of age. Even in captivity, it is nearly impossible to age cranes without detailed records.

Should I be concerned about turkey hunting taking place on Count Day?It is best to be aware that often the Count coincides with turkey hunting season.

Staying on public right-of-way and wearing visible clothing are two ways to improve safety. Turkey hunters tend to sit very still and imitate the calls of turkeys. As a result, it is not a good idea to imitate turkey calls, or attempt to locate a calling turkey. If

Midwest Crane Count involves many people

Sandhill Cranes can be seen and heard often at Hartman Creek. Photo by Rick Patzke

you do intend on proceeding onto private property, it is necessary for you to contact landowners. This would also be a great time to ask if there will be hunters afield, as they will probably be aware of it. It is best to follow the landowner’s wishes and stay off if so told. It is most important to stay safe!

Should I tally only the cranes I see, or the ones I hear too?

There are a lot of times that cranes are more easily heard than seen, so, with care, try to tally both cranes seen and heard. Write down the direction from which you hear the crane(s), so that you do not record the same crane(s) multiple times if they are heard again later. If many cranes are calling together, it is difficult to say exactly how many there are. Do your best to estimate the amount.

How do I create a new site?Talk to your county coordinator if you

would like to establish a new site. Perhaps you have cranes nesting on your land, or know of an area where you would like to count. Your coordinator can check to see if the area is already covered by a site.

A Quick Crane Identification PrimerField Marks: In Flight: Neck stretched out straight

in front, with legs trailing straight behind. Wings have rapid upstroke and slower downstroke. Herons fly with necks folded back into an “S” shape; geese, swans, etc. do not have long trailing legs.

Sandhill Crane Description: Tall, about four and a half feet in height. Red patch on top of head, whitish cheek patch. Overall grey or brown in color. Rusty brown color a result of cranes painting themselves with mud, staining their feathers for camouflage.

Whooping Crane Description: Tall, about five feet in height. Red patch on forehead, with a black mustache. Body in full white, except for the black wing tips that may only be seen during flight or while the wings are stretched.

Cranes make additional calls, such as guard (warning) calls, flight calls, contact calls, etc. for a variety of communicative purposes.

Cranes roost in shallow water and fly to uplands, like agricultural fields, during the day to feed. Cranes are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant materials, invertebrates, and the occasional small vertebrate.

Cranes build their nests in shallow wetland areas. The nest consists of a heap of vegetation gathered from the surrounding area, creating a moat of water around the nest platform.

Two eggs are often laid in the nest, and incubated for approximately one month.Often times only one chick survives.

For more detailed information regarding cranes, please visit http://www.cranecount.org

Crane Count InformationDate: See ICF’s website (address below) or ask your County Coordinator which

Saturday in April the Crane Count is scheduled for.Time: 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m., Central Daylight Time.If possible, please limit the number of counters per site to four or less to reduce

disturbance to the cranes.Fill out Data Sheet (one per site) with the following information:Tally of cranes seen or heard, both individuals and number of pairs (see “Unison

Call” below), as well as other data requested, recording all on the Data Sheet.Record Whooping Crane and Banded Crane sightings on the back of the Data

Sheet.Number of Cranes: Count the total number of cranes seen. Count each crane

only once. If large numbers of cranes are present, estimate minimum amount.Unison Call: Unison calls are made by breeding pairs – the male (one note) and

female (two notes for each one of the male’s) each have a unique part of this call, done in tandem. For the Count, cranes are only considered pairs if they are unison calling.

Please return completed Data Sheet to your County Coordinator, even if you do not see or hear any cranes! The absence of cranes is just as important as their presence.

Make sure all address information is filled in completely and legibly (please print). Without this information you cannot be sent the results later in the year!

Stay on public rights of way unless you have permission from private landowners.

Be aware – Crane Count sometimes coincides with Turkey Hunting Season. Please be courteous and respectful of others making use of these areas.

It is recommended that you visit your site previous to Count Day.

For more information contact: International Crane Foundation, E-11376 Shady Lane Road, Baraboo WI 53913(608) 356-9462 [email protected]


Poll shows Wisconsin residents support wetlands protection

A recent statewide poll confirmed what many wetland enthusiasts already know: Wisconsin residents support protecting our state’s remaining wetlands, but don’t know much about the most threatened wetland types. For example, the October 2008 Badger poll found that 84% of Wisconsin residents were concerned about the destruction of Wisconsin’s remaining wetlands, with more than half reporting they were “quite” or “extremely” concerned.

`In other good news for wetlands, 99% of the 538 respondents recognized wetlands as providing wildlife habitat, and at least 80% recognized that wetlands filter runoff, store floodwaters, and provide habitat for fish and recreational opportunities for communities. The poll also found that more than 50% of Wisconsin citizens are “quite” or “extremely” supportive of giving citizens a tax break if they protect

or restore wetlands on their private property. An additional 35% said they were “somewhat” supportive.

On the downside, 75.3% of respondents believed that cattails were required for a parcel of land to be considered a wetland under state definition, and more than 50% thought that ducks and open water need also be present. These results highlight the need for education efforts, like our Wetland Gems program, to make Wisconsinites aware of the wide diversity of wetland types in this state.

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) commissioned the wetland questions on the 2008 Badger Poll. These questions will be repeated in the 2009 poll, and WDNR will compare responses as part of efforts to evaluate the effectiveness of outreach about the state’s lesser understood wetland types. The results of the 2008 poll will also help WWA to focus and advance many of our outreach, education and advocacy efforts.

More information about the wetland questions from the 2008 Badger Poll can be found at: www.news.wisc.edu/releases/14941.

Reprinted with permission from Wisconsin Wetlands: 2009 volume 1, quarterly newsletter of Wisconsin Wetlands Association (www.wisconisnwetlands.org).

Wetland Gems Program launchedSites near Hartman Creek State Park recognized

Four wetlands located near Hartman Creek State Park (HCSP) – Hortonville Bog, Wolf River Bottoms, Spoehr’s Marsh and Dewey Marsh – were recently recognized as among the 100 Wetland Gems. Wisconsin Wetlands Association (WWA) announced the designations in May in celebration of American Wetlands Month.

The Wetland Gems were announced as part of a new outreach program to spread the message about the value of these and other state wetland treasures. WWA is pleased to have the support of the Friends of HCSP and hopes you take advantage of visiting and caring for all wetlands, including Wetland Gems.

In the geological sense, a gem is a high-quality representative of the vast natural mineral riches found in the earth. In the figurative sense, a gem is any highly valued, treasured object. WWA uses the designation Wetland Gems for sites that serve as high quality representatives of the wetland riches found on Wisconsin’s landscapes

– marshes, swamps, bogs, fens and more. These sites, which historically made up nearly a quarter of Wisconsin’s landscape, are critically important from a biodiversity perspective, and also provide valuable ecological services as well as recreational and educational opportunities.

WWA’s list of Wetland Gems includes 93 sites selected for their ecological value that are distributed throughout the state and include examples of all Wisconsin

Please. . . don’t forget about us in winter! When snow covers the ground, Hartman Creek State Park off ers ap-proximately nine miles of wonderful cross country ski trails, now groomed both for diagonal skiing and skate skiing enthusiasts. Call ahead for trail conditions.

For you non-skiers, we have a one-mile-plus winter hiking trail above Mid and Hartman Lakes, plus the Deer Path Trail, which leashed pets are allowed on. Snowshoeing is also allowed on these hiking trails.

Ice fi shing is also another favorite past-time dur-ing the winter season. (Please remember that all of the lakes within the park are spring-fed, and use caution when checking the ice conditions.)

A 3-mile snowmobile trail also runs through the park, connecting with the Wau-paca County trail system.

This season, the family campground and group campground will be closed De-cember 1 through April 1.

Hartman Creek has a heated shelter building by Hartman Lake that will be open to all from December 1 to March 1, seven days a week. No reservations will be needed; just come on in and warm up. Reservations will, however, be taken for the time period March 1 - November 30 at a cost of $80/day. A wood stove provides heat to ward off the chill of winter. Electricity and pit toilets are also available there.

Normally in mid-January or early February, an annual candlelight cross-country ski/hike is held at Hartman Creek, with part of the ski trails lit by candles. Check with us later in the season for the 2010 date. This event is a great opportunity to break up the winter doldrums and view the park on a moonlit night.

Plenty of winter fun here

wetland community types. Seven additional sites called Workhorse Wetland Gems illustrate the seven functional values of wetlands. Spoehr’s Marsh was selected as a Workhorse Wetland Gem because, as a productive walleye nursery for Lake Winnebago, it exemplifies the valuable fishery habitat wetlands can provide.

WWA created the Wetland Gems list because the misunderstanding and undervaluation of wetlands continues to be a key obstacle to wetland protection, conservation and restoration efforts. A large portion of the state’s remaining wetland acres have been altered and degraded, which only heightens the value of the high-quality wetland treasures that remain.

Through its programs, WWA hopes to increase understanding of and appreciation for these precious resources. WWA and the Friends of HCSP share the vision that the citizens of Wisconsin will someday value all wetlands as natural treasures and reverse the ongoing loss of wetland acres.

Visit www.wisconsinwetlands.org for more information about the Wetland Gems program, including a list of and information about all 100 Wetland Gems.

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Delicious Kids MenuCome in a fill out a Doodle Sheet!

Monte CriscoHam, Swiss & Honey Mustard

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Clockwise, from top: The volunteer "swamp creatures" take a break after a hard day's work; Phil Peterson gets into the bushes; a dynamic duo applies fresh stain to picnic tables at the beach.

Volunteers prove Wisconsinites are friendly peopleBy Sue Eiler

Travel books report that we Wisconsinites are either really friendly or kind of cold. I would like to think the former. Meet someone while hiking or boating and most likely there will be an exchange of some form of greeting. Have a vehicular incident and count on a car or two stopping. It is true we are a reticent breed, but here it’s considered good social manners not to disgorge personal details until after the first beer.

The Volunteer Day held Saturday, May 2nd at Hartman Creek State Park confirmed my theory of local friendliness. Thirty or so cheerful people gathered on a sunny morning, eager to offer their services, gratis, just for the joy of giving. Luthien Niland, State Outreach Coordinator of the Wisconsin State Park System, organized the event, complete with food, water bottles and special T-shirts for winners of a park trivia contest.

The group was divided up for three tasks: painting picnic tables, staining new bench/picnic tables for the Hartman Lake Shelter building, and grubbing out Japanese barberry in Pope Lake State Natural Area. There are no bad views in the park, so painting or staining at the beach was an immersion in nature. Only, nature was a bit brisk that day. Meteorologists should study the wind flow at the beach. We who try to keep candles lit for the candlelight ski event gave up years ago; we use lanterns. Even on a quiet night there is wind at the beach. So, the hardy painters/stainers got buffeted, blown and chilled. Lunch break found them making a few runs for more clothing. All persevered and as a result, 28 picnic tables and 580 pieces of bench material were completed. Well done!

Group three descended into the peaceful serenity of the wetlands bordering Pope Lake as a great crested flycatcher and sand hill cranes called. Butch Siegel provided a tutorial on proper and safe use of tools as the workers grabbed grub hoes, brush cutters and two weed wrenches. Peppering the mostly brown landscape were pale green tightly curled ferns, resembling fiddleheads. A single vibrant green skunk cabbage leaf stood sentry next to each aromatic blossom tucked into purple sheathes. A wood frog with its distinctive black mask blended perfectly with last year’s brown maple leaf carpet and hopped away from approaching feet.

The breezes were gentle and soon the warming sunshine and physical exertion resulted in red maples sprouting flannel shirts and fleece outerwear. At day’s end hundreds of green barberry bushes lay with yellow roots up to the sky. White T-shirts sported new shades of swamp brown, straight backs canted slightly groundward, and footsteps lost their jaunty bounce, but smiles and satisfaction adorned the faces.

May 2nd is proof positive we are a friendly people, willing to give a hand when needed and able to handle a bit of dirt and wind in the process. Thanks to everyone for his or her invaluable gift of service.

Friends of HC support wetlandsThe Friends of Hartman Creek are members of the Wisconsin Wetlands Associa-

tion, and we also have our own program geared toward preservation of wetlands. For instance, Friends members and directors raise and release beetles as part of a biological program to control purple loose strife. The Friends are also active in pulling and spraying garlic mustard to eradicate this invasive species from the park.


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Onaway Adventure Camp teaches teamwork

In 1997 Bob and Christine Faulks donated a well-built, worn down little log cabin to Hartman Creek State Park. The Friends scrambled to get financing, log specialists and volunteer labor to restore it for public use.

By October of 1999, the log cabin was gleaming with fresh pine ceilings, floors, new windows and lantern-like lighting. Some diligent digging resulted in the discovery of the original builder, his family, and a treasure trove of history.

The Hellestad House has been used to educate school groups each spring on the life story of the family that journeyed so far to become citizens of our community. For several days each summer, Friends member Murnell Olsen opens the doors to welcome visitors where they can see the Hellestad family heirlooms along with changing displays of animal and plant life in the park.

We’d like to open the doors more often, and to do that, we need volunteers. Those interested need not have experience in public speaking or in interpreting historical structures. We will train you and hours are flexible.

Would you help share this wonderful piece of history with our visitors? If interested please stop at the park to obtain an application or contact the park at 258-2372.

Volunteers needed to help keep

Hellestad House doors open

Boys & Girls Brigade participants take a break in front of the Hellestad House.

Onaway Adventure Camp (OAC) is a weeklong tent camping experience for boys and girls in grades 5-9. OAC uses nature as a backdrop for learning, practicing, and living the Four-fold way of life (growing mentally, physically, socially, and spiritually), while incorporating useful outdoor skills.

Leave- No-Trace principles are taught and enforced. Campers are taught teamwork in a spirit of “we all succeed as a team; it’s not about being first.” We focus on the journey, not the destination.

The week begins at Camp Onaway, but by Sunday, camp is set up at Hartman Creek State Park. Each day, campers experience several rotations including road and trail biking, trail and wilderness hiking, river canoeing, service projects at Hartman Creek, and other fun outdoor activities.

Campers help prepare meals on Brigade’s camp stoves and sleep each night in top-of-the-line tents. The Brigade provides bikes, canoes, and other equipment (such as backpacks) needed for rotations.

Onaway Adventure Camp is staffed by dedicated adult volunteer leaders and includes a registered nurse and certified lifeguard as well as a camp manager, director, and numerous volunteer leaders. The leaders are highly experienced outdoor adventure enthusiasts with a passion for sharing their skills with future generations.

Picnic tables and grills are provided at Allen Lake, Hartman Lake near the amphitheater, and at Whispering Pines. Picnicking and grilling are also allowed in a designated area near the beach if you bring your own grill. Each picnic area has drinkable water available.

There are three shelter buildings available for rental—an “open” shelter, which was donated to the park, located at the Allen Lake Picnic Area (rents for $45/day); an open shelter at the beach concession stand ($45/day), and an enclosed shelter at Hartman Lake Picnic Area ($80/day). Picnic tables, water, grills, and electricity are either nearby or at the shelters. Rental forms are at the park offi ce. There are also two mini shelters (one picnic table size) at the Hartman Lake beach area.

A beautiful new concession stand was built at Hartman Lake in 2007 through the hard work and devotion of the Friends of Hartman Creek.

The Allen Lake picnic area also features a pet picnic area, where animals are welcome as long as they remain on a leash at all times.

The designated swimming area at Hartman Lake has a 300-foot-long sand beach and swim area. There is no life guard on duty. To keep the beach and nearby picnic area enjoyable for everyone, pets are prohibited.

Wade and swim only in specifi ed swimming areas to make sure your fun in the water remains safe. Don’t dive or jump from bridges, dams, high banks or into water of unknown depths. Also, don’t swim alone or at night in unfamiliar places. And be sure to closely watch small children near the water.

Where to picnic, swim and play at Hartman Creeek State Park

Friends of Wisconsin State ParksThe Friends of Hartman Creek are also members of a larger statewide parks and

trails support group, the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks. Check out all this group has to offer at www.fwsp.org.

Laurel Geyer is passionate about nature and her paintings reflect that... moon rises, full moons, sunsets, sunrises, garden turtles, great blue herons, the aqua waters of the Chain O’Lakes in summer or tropical waters in the winter.

“Paintings are a way to bring the beauty of nature right inside the home,” said Geyer. “I can capture the warmth and relaxation of a summer day on the lake or in the garden and have it with me all winter long.”

Geyer recently had one of her watercolor paintings chosen for the cover of an upcoming book on the Chain O’Lakes. She has a gallery in her home, Laurel’s Originals, and takes her Tiny Turtle Traveling Gallery with her to art shows, art parties and even has a small version that fits in her kayak as she paints and paddles on the Chain!

Join her for a Plein Aire (painting on location) demonstration at the Allen Lake fishing pier on Sunday mornings, June 28, July 26 and August 23 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Rain location will be inside the Hellestad House.

Artist brings nature home


By Brad Sherman

This will be our second season of monitoring bluebirds at and around Hartman Creek State Park. The route, which we do on either on a Friday or Saturday morning, takes about an hour and half if I go by car and three hours by bike.

We retired to Waupaca from Madison about six years ago. I am a retired athletic trainer, educator and for the last 10 years of my career, I administered the Sports Medicine program at University Hospital. Jean is an avid antique collector and crafts person. We have three children and one grandson. They all live in the Madison area.

Jean’s family has a long history in the area and her grandfather built several cottages on Stratton Lake, one of which she and her two brothers and sister now own. I began my career teaching at the high school level in Wild Rose, where I met Jean. So the area feels very much like home.

The following is a recap of a Hartman Harrier interview with Brad Sherman on the topic of bluebirds and bluebird monitoring.

Could you please give me an idea of the monitoring of park bluebirds? Beginning in mid- to late April and going through the first part of August, I monitor

34 boxes, of which 19 are in the park. Once a week I check the boxes and report on the activity that is occurring in the box. I will forward the final season report for the entire Audubon Trail that Dr. Hall has established.

How early in the spring do you start checking on the nest boxes? Do you clean them out, too? Have you found mice in there?

Mid- to late April we start checking nest boxes. The boxes are cleaned in the fall and we have not found any mice.

About when do you first spot males and females? Have you ever witnessed them hauling in material for the nest? What types of materials do they transport?

In mid-March we begin to see both females and males at several boxes in the park. We haven’t seen them taking material in. They use small sticks, grass, and pine needles.

How often does your checking disturb the incubation? Do you have any techniques to calm them or avoid disturbance, like time of day, clothing, movements, sound, etc.? Bluebirds are gentle, but have they ever tried to drive you off or defend the nest?

The checking does not seem to disturb the incubation. We cover the box opening with our hand before opening the box. Occasionally we have to chase a female off the nest to count eggs. They are not as gentle as you think and will attack you, but not like tree swallows will. They are very aggressive with other birds that try to use the boxes.

Shermans dedicated to bluebirds monitoring

Have you seen the young fledge? Can you describe how well they fly? What were your feelings and thoughts?

Yes, we’ve seen the young fledge and they fly very well.

Have you observed the parents feeding the young? What insects were they catching?

No.

Do you have any numbers of eggs, young fledged, etc? This past summer 25 of the boxes I monitored had nests and each box fledged

an average of 6.26 songbirds (Eastern bluebirds, Tree Swallows and House wrens). A total of 18 of the boxes had two nests during the summer.

Do you have any stories of predation? There are several potential predators, including other birds, raccoons and snakes.

I had a least three boxes where nests were destroyed with eggs in them. It was difficult to determine who the culprit was!

How do the tree swallows impact the bluebirds? Are there any other birds bothering the bluebirds?

The tree swallows and house wrens are in a constant battle for the boxes. A funny story with one of my boxes on West Road was that a pair of bluebirds built a nest on top of a tree swallow nest within a few days of the tree swallows fledging.

Do you have any stories of weather related incidences? No, other than I try to avoid getting wet!

Have you met some people while monitoring the nest boxes, and if so, did you share any information with them?

We have had several people look into the boxes to see both eggs and nestlings while we were monitoring. We give them as much information as possible.

Could you describe why you are a nest box monitor? What feeling does the activity evoke?

We heard Dr. Hall speak at a program you put on in the park a year ago last fall. The idea of monitoring and being a part of this wonderful project really appealed to me. It is a great experience and a wonderful feeling of being a part of the natural cycle of the fascinating creatures and all the other creatures they interact with.

Please add anything else about this experience that comes to mind. This past May I went to check a box on Rural Road that was in some deep, tall

grass. Just before I got to the box, I almost stepped on a small fawn. We scared the heck out of each other.

Park concession open near beachPark visitors have the option of renting recreational equipment and purchasing

basic camping staples and related items at a concession operated near the beach at Hartman Lake. The concession building and an attached shelter were projects of the Friends of Hartman Creek.

Concessionaire Dennis “Dino” Tlachac of Stevens Point plans to also continue to maintain a small concession near Allen Lake. Tlachac has the canoe, kayak and paddle boat rentals at the beach site, while keeping bike rentals at the Allen Lake building. Other merchandise, camping staples, food and treats will be stocked as needed at each site.

The concessions are generally open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with days and hours subject to adjustment based upon traffic and weather.

The concession building and shelter at the beach at Hartman Lake was built through the eff orts of the Friends of Hartman Creek State Park, aided by a state Stewardship Grant.

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Brad and Jean Sherman are in their second season monitoring bluebird boxes in the Hartman Creek State Park area.


Timber HarvestAt the November meeting of the Friends of Hartman Creek State Park, Lucas

Schmidt, DNR Forester/Ranger for Waupaca County, presented to the group the intricacies and considerations for a successful timber sale in the campground. He introduced himself by explaining his duties that include fire control, private lands assistance, public lands management, and managing forest law administration.

He began by asking, “What do we hope to accomplish with this timber sale?” The objectives were very clear: provide for recreational safety, screen to prevent disease, insects and oak wilt, build in hazard tree removal, encourage growth of seed trees, and provide for more recreational access.

Marking trees required an eye toward removing the plantation feel while providing for health and vigor in the remaining trees. There were many sale concerns: safety, aesthetics, felling hazards, electrical, all improvements plus riparian zones. There are costs to the park such as moving all the picnic tables, flagging campfire rings, fencing and campsite posts.

The campground sale was divided into three sections to accommodate the variety of trees, and access for processing logs and slash (left over treetops and branches). A Ponzi, logging equipment worth $1 million dollars, was selected to minimize impact on the landscape. All timber plus stumps were marked, but some had two colors, blue and black. Black means there is a high probability of steel or iron in the tree, decreasing value.

An order of removal list ranked the first concern as hazard trees (dead, dying or failure, liable to fall and hit something). High-risk trees, those likely to become a hazard within 10 years, were next in line. Trees that hamper camper access for parking were removed, though some were purposely left to restrict campers to staying within the parking pad. A goal was to release crop trees by identifying those that can live 50 years on to propagate.

The red pine plantation is 68 years old and has some damaged trees. Pocket decline is killing red pine in some areas. All of these trees must be removed and there is hope the spread will be arrested. Some trees have been damaged through camper activities. “Coleman cankers” are caused by campers hanging lanterns on the trees and burning through the bark into the cadmium. Lucas suggested some solutions be considered to remedy this situation.

Anosum (a fungus) root rot is a real threat (it affects all species), so between forestry and parks, each stump will be treated with a borax product. Presently, the fungus has not been found in Waupaca County or the park, but precautions are necessary.

In total, 220 cords, 800 trees with an average diameter of 11.4” and 62-64 feet per tree, will be harvested. Proceeds from the sale go to the DNR state park general revenue fund.

In January and February a timber harvest commenced on the western portion of the Oak Ridge Trail and just south of the beach. Once again, it was time for the red pine plantation to be thinned.

By Sue Eiler

Cleaning CartThe topic of cleaning was brought up at the March Friends of Hartman Creek

State Park meeting. Part of our mission statement is to maintain the quality of the park, so that the park and its amenities will be accessible and in excellent condition for long-term use. Some people are surprised to learn that everyone on staff cleans, including the park superintendent, law enforcement rangers, office employees and, of course, maintenance workers. No one is immune from the daily duty of bathroom cleaning during the busy season and a reduced schedule off-season.

For that purpose, a request was made for a cleaning cart that would be stored at the pine shower building. Similar to those spotted at motels. The cart would hold all necessary supplies, eliminating the need to transport items from park vehicles. Tight budgets keep such purchases off the wish list, so the Friends are happy to supply the funds.

Beach RakeAnother type of daily cleaning chore is beach grooming. The old beach rake was

a home-constructed affair, made up of various bits of wire, rope, pipes and such. It had seen better days. A request was made for the Friends to purchase a new model, constructed of galvanized cold rolled strip steel woven into a type of mat. Each morning in season staff refashion the previous day’s creative constructions, revealing lost implements and family treasures. By the time the day is warmed up, beach users find a flawless stretch of sand, inviting tactile pleasure among the toes and a blank slate for castles, estuaries and all other fancies of the imagination.

Tepee RelocationThoughts of conservation are uppermost when tackling projects. Moving the

tepee and platform had been a topic at many meetings. Each season the Friends struggle with the problem of moisture staining and eventually weakening the tepee canvas. Historically, Plains Indians utilized the lightweight and portable dwelling unit. Our modern version is canvas, mildew resistant, but at a location next to a lake and under pine trees, it seldom sees the light of day or gets a dry breeze.

Knowing this would be a huge and costly project, the decision was made last fall to finally move the tepee to the western edge of the campground. There it would receive much more light and air, be visible from the campground host site and within distance to restroom facilities. A new tepee was ordered in December.

Spring found volunteers shoveling snow off the platform in order to begin the arduous task of dismantling. Screws had rusted and settled deep into the wood, pine needles encrusting their entry point. Twelve hours of labor went into coaxing aged boards from their frame, involving the use of pry bars, drills, hammers and a Sawzall. That didn’t include the base frame, still firmly bolted to 4 x 4’s and frozen to the ground.

After sore muscles healed, phase two began, this time involving heavy equipment. A new site was leveled and then multiple loads of gravel were compacted for the base and parking area. The platform base was partially dismantled and reassembled and then all the planks were reattached.

Phase three was the tepee set-up. The old tepee supplier went out of business, necessitating an order from a new company, and though it was the same size, it was slightly different. This required calm thinking, strength of purpose and tenacity. Volunteer Efforts

When you view all that has transpired, offer a bit of thanks to the volunteers that made it happen. Platform workers: Arpad Eiler, Art Robson, Rick Toneys, Phil Peterson, Mike Bergum. Tepee set-up: Jeff Law, Vic Mitchell, Frank Schwamb, Andy Stanislawski, Arpad Eiler, Steve Weideman and Mike Bergum.

The Hellestad House gets a thorough cleaning each spring. Shortly after that we welcome school groups to hear the Anne Hellestad story. Many thanks go to cleaners Lea Bousley, Jackie Stanislawski and Sue Eiler.

Shelter rental rates and amenitiesRental rates for the three shelter buildings in this park are: $45 day for both the

Allen Lake and Beach shelters, and $80 for the Hartman Lake shelter.Regulations are on the application forms.Amenities Allen Lake shelter: Capacity 40, accessibility, water nearby, electricity, non-

flush toilets, grill availableBeach shelter: Capacity 50, accessibility, no water as listed nearby, electricity,

non-flush toilet, grill availableEnclosed shelter: Capacity 50, accessibility, water, electricity, non-flush toilet,

grill available.

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Besides transmitting Lyme Disease, deer ticks are also the carriers of human granulo-cytic ehrlichiosis, an emerging disease of concern in the Upper Midwest.

Arm yourself with knowledge about the dangers of deer ticks

reduced if the tick is removed within the fi rst 24 hours. The majority of early Lyme disease cases are easily treated and cured.

To remove a tick, follow these steps:1. Using a pair of pointed precision*

tweezers, grasp the tick by the head or mouthparts right where they enter the skin. Do NOT grasp the tick by the body.

2. Without jerking, pull fi rmly and steadily directly outward. Do not twist the tick or apply petroleum jelly, a hot match, alcohol or any other irritant to the tick in an attempt to get it to back out. These methods can backfi re and even increase the chances of the tick transmitting the disease.

3. Place the tick in a vial or jar of alcohol to kill it.

4. Clean the bite wound with disin-fectant.

5. Mark your calendar when a tick is taken off your body. This information will be useful to your doctor.

*Keep in mind that certain types of fi ne-pointed tweezers, especially those

that are etched, or rasped, at the tips may not be eff ective in removing nymphal deer ticks. Choose non-rasped, fi ne-pointed tweezers whose tips align tightly when pressed fi rmly together.

A CDC publication, “Lyme Disease: A Public Information Guide,” is normally available at the Hartman Creek State Park offi ce or by contacting: Dept. of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Div. Of Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases, P.O. Box 2087, Ft. Collins, CO 80522-2087 or by calling 970/221-6400.

The above information provided by the following sources: “Lyme Disease: A Public Information Guide” (Center for Disease Control & Prevention); and University of Illinois, M. Roberto Corti-nas, D.V.M.

A tick identifi cation card pro-vided by the Gunderson Clinic of LaCrosse, Wis., is available at the park offi ce.

Hartman Creek State Park is located in beautiful Central Wisconsin. We are fortunate to have the magnifi cent Chain O’Lakes nearby and the rolling terrain of the Ice Age Trail (a hiker’s paradise) run through the park.

Along with this splendor, however, are some natural predators that pose threats to campers and park users when enjoying the outdoors – deer ticks. Deer ticks can carry Lyme Disease, a very serious infec-tion which can cause arthritis, nervous system problems (numbness, pain, nerve paralysis, and meningitis).

Deer ticks normally feed on the white-footed mice, white-tailed deer, other mammals and birds. Ticks in the nymph stage (see above) are the main source for transmitting Lyme disease bacteria to humans.

A 2004 study by the University of Illinois found that of 121 nymphs col-lected at Hartman Creek State Park, 22 were positive for Lyme Disease (18% prevalence). Besides transmitting Lyme Disease, deer ticks are also the carriers of human granulo-cytic ehrlichiosis, an emerging disease of concern in the Up-per Midwest.So, how do you avoid tick bites?

When in tick country (grassy, brushy or woodland areas), several precautions can minimize your chances of being bit-ten by a tick. Tuck your pant legs into your socks.

Tuck your shirt into your pants. Ticks grab onto feet and legs and then climb up. This precaution will keep them on the outside of your clothes, where they can be spotted and picked off . Ticks are usually located close to the ground, so wearing high rubber boots may provide additional protection. Wear light colored clothing. Dark

ticks can most easily be spotted against a light background. Inspect your clothes for ticks often

while in tick habitat. Have a companion inspect your back.

Wear tick repellents, applied ac-cording to label directions. Application to shoes, socks, cuff s and pant legs are most eff ective against ticks. Inspect your head and body thor-

oughly when you get in from the out-doors. Have someone check your back or use a mirror. When working in tick habitat on a

regular basis, if possible, do not wear work clothing home. This will reduce the chances of bringing ticks home and exposing other family members.

Symptoms & signs of Lyme DiseaseEarly Lyme Disease (marked by one

or more of the following):Fatigue, chills and fever, headache,

muscle & joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, a characteristic circular (Bull’s eye) skin rash* (*In some persons, the bull’s eye rash never appears).

Late Lyme Disease (some symptoms may not appear until weeks, months or years after a tick bite): Arthritis, nervous system abnormalities (numbness, pain, nerve paralysis & meningitis (fever, stiff neck, and severe headache), and irregu-larities of the heart rhythm.

What to do if bitten by a tickThe American Lyme Disease Foun-

dation reports that infected ticks begin transmitting Lyme disease an average of 36 to 48 hours after attachment. Chances of contracting Lyme disease are greatly

A study completed in 2004 by the University of Illinois found that of 121 mymphs collected at Hartman Creek State Park, 22 were positive for Lyme Disease (18% prevalence).

Donations welcomeHartman Creek State Park serves as many things to many people. Any casual stroll

will reveal a number of memorial benches, rocks, a restored log cabin, amphitheater seating, a butterfly garden and even an eagle, all bearing homage to loved ones. It’s clear, it’s not just a piece of land, but a kind of oasis where memories have been created and cherished.

The Friends are honored to serve as a recipient for memorial donations, working with park staff and families to craft appropriate projects for loved ones. Our mission is:

1. To preserve the natural status of the park and enhance those areas that will educate, motivate and provide solace to users.

2. To enable indigenous wildlife to live and prosper within the limits of the park.

3. To educate the users of the park about the park by providing information, guides and appropriate learning facilities.

4. To maintain the quality of the park, so that the park and its amenities will be accessible and in excellent condition for long-term use.

Every membership, donation or income source is invested wisely, with our mission statement firmly in mind. We thank each and every one that supports our organization so that we can help maintain and enhance this lovely land that is so meaningful to so many.

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Registrations/Extensions, Switching Requests—All must be made before the offi ce closes the day prior to the last day of the permit period. Any extension is subject to availability. Campers may not switch campsites without prior approval.

Family Campground—The family campground has 100 sites, 23 of which have electricity, and 22 of which are non-reservable. All sites will accommodate tents, pop-ups, trailers and RVs. There is a limit of six individuals per campsite (or one family = parents + minor children + two guests).

• Sites are limited to one wheeled camping unit. Wheeled camping units must remain on the gravel pad.

Group Campground—The group campground has fi ve sites that can accommodate up 50 people per site. Pit-type toilets and a hand pump are located at the group area. Special regulations:

• Parking is limited to the paved area at each site.• ALL WHEELED CAMPING UNITS (POP-UPS, TRAVEL TRAILERS, & RVs) MUST

BE PARKED ON THE BLACKTOP PAVED AREA ALSO. • ALL TENTS/UNITS NEED TO STAY INSIDE THE YELLOW POSTS AT EACH

SITE. • Campfi res are permitted in designated fi re rings only.• Extra vehicles may be parked in the parking lot across from the entrance to the

group camp area, pending space availability.Reservations—Reservations are accepted for the Group Campground and

Family Campground (Sites 24-100 and #102) by calling 1-888-947-2757, or at the website www.wiparks.net.

• Reservations can be made from 2 days to 11 months in advance of your arrival. • A nonrefundable reservation fee of $10 will be charged, in addition to the regular

camping fees. You can pay with either your MasterCard or Visa. (Checks accepted, if received within seven days after reservation is made.)

• Operators will answer the toll-free number every day: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.–10 p.m.; weekends and holidays from 9 a.m.–6 p.m. (CST).

Showers—The fl ush toilet shower buildings are located by Site #82 and Site #44 in the family campground.

Electricity—There are 23 electrical sites at Hartman Creek (#65-87). There is an extra $5 fee per night/site. Generators are NOT permitted.

Fires—Fires are allowed only in designated fi re rings at each campsite. Please do not move these rings at any time. Fires must be attended to at all times or be extinguished thoroughly. Burning of household refuse is prohibited.

• When setting up your campsite, consider fi re ring location and wind direction to keep sparks from fl ammables.

• Put the fi re out before going to sleep, leaving the site , or if wind speed or direc-tion become a problem.

• Watch children very closely when they are near fi re.• Remember to build a campfi re, not a bonfi re!

Firewood/Ice—Firewood may be purchased at the park offi ce for $3/bundle, and ice for $2/bag. (Prices are subject to change.) The wood is provided by a private vendor, through the Friends of Hartman Creek. Note: Any downed wood in the park you may use at your campsite (free of charge), but you cannot cut any standing trees.

Dump Station—The dump station is located across the road from the entrance to the family campground. There are two hoses—one for rinsing and one for obtain-ing fresh drinking water.

Campground Hosts—Hosts are available at sites #23 and #844 in the family campground, usually from May–September. If you need assistance, information, or have concerns about the facilities during your stay, please contact the hosts.

Garbage/Recyclables—Dumpsters and recyclable bins are located across the road from the family campground next to the dump station. A dumpster is also available in the group campground. Campers in state parks are required by law to recycle. Campers may be fi ned for burning glass or aluminum in their fi re pit.

Extra Vehicles—Only two vehicles may be parked on a family campsite at a time. Extra vehicles must be parked in the overfl ow parking lot by the playing fi eld across the main road from the family campground.

Quiet Hours—In the family campground, the quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. All radios, TVs and musical instruments must be turned off during these hours. This will allow all of us to “hear nature.” Again, a reminder that the use of genera-tors is not allowed.

Lost & Found—A lost-and-found service is maintained at the park offi ce. Found items may be turned in and lost items reported at the offi ce. Please help us return items to their rightful owners.

Pets—PETS MAY NOT BE LEFT UNATTENDED AT ANY TIME. They must be on a leash not longer than eight feet and under control at all times. Pets are not allowed in buildings, picnic areas, marked beaches or swimming areas, or nature trails. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.

Check-out Time—Check-in and check-out time is 3 p.m. If you have a camping res-ervatio or a walk-in registration, your site may not be available until 3 p.m. that day.

Self-Registration Box—If the offi ce is not staff ed, a yellow self-registration box is provided to purchase vehicle admission stickers and trail passes. (You may also pay for camping, but please be sure to check the Campsite Availability List on the offi ce door before setting up.) A $5 assessment fee will be charged for not self-registering when the offi ce is closed.

Length of Stay—Campers may occupy a site for a maximum of 14 nights during a 21-day period.

Occupying the Site—Campers who do not check in and occupy their reserved site before 3 p.m. the day after the scheduled arrival date and all following nights for which they have registered will forfeit the site. Also, campers on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis must occupy the site on the fi rst night and all nights for which they have registered. Defi nition of “Occupy, occupied or occupying: The camping unit (tent, pop-up trailer, motor home, etc.) must be set up in a usable condition. As an example, a pop-up cannot just be parked at the site. It must be set up and able to be used.”

Violation of any state law or rules of the Department of Natural Resources by any member of the camping party or their guest is cause for revocation of the camping permit and eviction from the property.

Your guide to camping at Hartman Creek State Park

Park hours are 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.The park is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. (The park is closed to non-campers

between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. —all visitors must leave by 11 p.m.) During closed hours, campers must be in or be en route to their registered campsite.

No camping party may set up or take down a camping unit between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.

The Whispering Pines picnic area (day use only) is closed to motor vehicle traffi c earlier, however, usually between 9 and 9:30 p.m. This is due to the fact that the popular picnic area is separate from the main grounds, and because of problems associated with vehicles entering the parking lot after dark.

Group camping rates1. Regular group camping rates:Rate chart per night of occupancy — 1-20 people = $40/night 21-30 people = $60 31-40 people = $80ß 41-50 people = $100

2. Group rates for resident, non-profi t, youth* organizations: 50 cents/person/night ($10/night/minimum)*Non-profi t youth organization must meet the following criteria:• Group must consist of four or more resident youth less than 18 years of

age.• All are members of the same non-profi t youth organization.• The camping is an activity conducted by the non-profi t youth organization.• The organization shall provide proof of non-profi t status by providing a copy

of the organization’s charter.

Note: All campers regardless of age must be included in the total number. Site(s) may be assigned to best utilize the group camp area.

Caution: Poison ivy and poison sumacThere are two plants found in the park and surrounding area which could cause

you some discomfort. Poison ivy–a shiny, three-leafed, low growing vine–and poison sumac–a shrub that has several leafl ets–can both produce itchy rashes.

Poison ivy may be found in a variety of habitats in and around the park, including the campgrounds. Poison sumac, on the other hand, is a plant of low, wet areas usu-ally found in swamps and bogs. It also occurs on the undeveloped brushy shorelines of the Chain O’Lakes.

You can minimize exposure to poison ivy and poison sumac by staying in mowed areas and on designated trails. You’re encouraged to learn to identify these plants. (And usually during its growing season, there is a display in the park offi ce showing pictures of the two plants.)

Be prepared for severe weatherBe prepared—Before setting up camp, discuss with members of your party what

you will do in the event of a tornado or severe thunderstorm. The information that follows should help.

Stay tuned—The park offi ce will post severe weather watches or warnings on the contact window. When severe weather appears to be approaching, tune to local radio stations (WDUX 92.7 FM and 800 AM). Static on your AM radio means that lightning is in the area. Park rangers or campground hosts will attempt to convey storm-related warnings. Remember, a warning means that a tornado or severe thunderstorm has been sighted in your area. A watch means conditions are favor- able. Pass along warnings to your neighbors.

Stay alert—As campers, you need to be aware of risk factors and weather changes. Keep an eye on the western sky. Listen for thunder. Learn to identify threatening clouds. Prior to setting up camp, look for trees that could fall in the event of strong winds. Develop a plan of action so you know what you’ll do in the event of a severe storm. Familiarize yourself with your surroundings.

Seek available shelter—The Hartman Creek State Park staff suggests that some areas of the park are safer than others. If a tornado/severe thunderstorm approaches and you have time, leave the campground. Stay in your vehicle at the east end of the beach parking lot. If there is no time to leave, a pit toilet or shower building may provide shelter. There are no approved storm shelters in the park. Look for low depression areas in the park if a tornado is eminent. Example: South side of Allen Lake.

Remember, camping has inherent risks. Shelter and storm communications are not as readily available as in urban areas.

Be prepared!

Reminder on campsite occupancy policesCampers are reminded that there were some important changes made in 2006

to policies for camping in Wisconsin State Parks, pertaining specifi cally to occupying sites and the maximum length of stays.

Campers who do not check in and occupy their reserved site before 3 p.m. the day after the scheduled arrival date, and all following nights for which they have registered, will forfeit the site. Also, campers on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis must occupy the site on the fi rst night and all nights for which they have registered. The defi nition of “occupy, occupied or occupying” is as follows: “The camping unit (tent, pop-up trailer, motor home, etc.) must be set up in a usable condition. As an example, a pop-up cannot just be parked at the site. It must be set up and able to be used.”

Also, campers may occupy a site for a maximum of 14 nights during a 21-day period.


Hartman Creek Group Campground Family campground ratesNote: Fees are subject to change. Electricity costs $5 more per night.

•Wisconsin residents: $15/night/site $15/night/site•Non-residents: $17/night $17/night

Campers beware!

Camp robbers on the prowl nightlyCampers have been reporting more and more raccoons in the campground

stealing food and getting too close to people. The raccoons are attracted to food scraps, garbage and improperly stored food. Raccoons can become a nuisance and a threat.

They can BITE, transmit disease (to people and domestic animals), ruin your food supply and make a mess of the campground. Also, the same things that attract rac-coons may attract skunks.

To keep yourself and the raccoons safe and healthy:√ Do not encourage raccoons with tempting morsels of food left out as bait.√ Keep a tidy campsite; pick up food scraps.√ Do not leave garbage unattended, even if sealed tightly. √ Take garbage to the dumpsters daily, especially before bedtime.√ Keep food out of raccoon’s reach! Raccoons can open most food containers

and coolers, so this may mean putting food in your car overnight and when you are away from the campsite.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE YOUR CAMPGROUND CLEAN & SAFE!

Friends’ annual meetingThe annual meeting of the Friends of Hartman Creek State Park is tradition-

ally held on the fi rst Sunday of September. More details will be available at the park offi ce as the meeting nears.

Hartman Creek Family Campground (100 sites)


Safety messagesDESIGNATED AREAS: Designated use areas are those developed areas such

as trails and picnic areas, or those developed areas which are inspected and main-tained by the Department of Natural Resources and shown on the offi cial property map. All other areas are considered undesignated. These areas are not maintained or inspected by the Department. Users are encouraged to limit their activities to designated areas.

CAMPFIRES: Watch the wind direction to ensure sparks aren’t getting on fl am-mable materials. Put the fi re out if wind changes begin to cause concern.

GRILLS: Don’t remove hot materials from the fi re ring or grill. If using your own grill, place the hot coals in an available park or forest grill, fi re ring or at designated disposal sites.

SWIMMERS: Don’t swim alone, at night or in unfamiliar places. Don’t dive from bridges, high banks or into water of unknown depth. Small children should be watched closely when near the water. Wear a lifesaving device when using an inner tube, air mattress or other fl oating device. Use caution when wading in unknown waters, as water depth may change abruptly. Swim at designated beaches, where available. Lifeguards are not normally provided at Department beaches.

HIKERS: Be aware that trails may vary in diffi culty. Not all trails are surfaced. Some trails are designed for multiple use, such as hiking and off -road bicycling. Hikers and bikers will share these trails and need to use caution when encountering each other on the trail. Trail surfaces can become slippery when wet or leaf covered, and will occasionally have loose sand, gravel or exposed rocks.

FIRES: Users should not become complacent about fi re. Children should be watched very closely when in the vicinity of fi re. When setting up to use an area, become aware of the location of the fi re ring. Make sure the fi re is out, and the grill or fi re ring cool before leaving the area.

BOATS - CANOES: All crafts must be equipped with a Coast Guard approved lifesaving device for each person aboard. Wearing of these devices at all times is recommended. Don’t overload your craft. Boaters should be aware of their wake and stay well away from swimmers.

BIKERS: Roads and Park Trails - Park roads and designated bike trails follow the natural terrain, and often have steep downgrades with corners and intersections. The roads and trails are heavily traveled, so bikers should be alert for traffi c and pedestrians at all times. Expect to encounter areas of exposed rock, loose gravel or sand, or wet leaves. Bike clothing (refl ective for night riding) shoes, pant leg clips, and helmets are recommended.

Our concern — Your safety

Pets are welcome at Hartman Creek State Park, but it is the owner’s responsibility to control their pet.

1) Pets shall be kept on a leash no more than eight feet long, and under control at all times. Pets may not be left alone at a campsite.

2) Pet owners shall not allow their pets to interfere in any manner with the enjoyment of the area by other park users.

3) Pets are not permitted in picnic areas, on the beach (sand and lawn area), or in buildings. A special pet picnic area is available on the east end of the Allen Lake Parking Lot, across the road from the Hellestad House.

4) Pets may be walked on any trail, including a trail that runs through the beach or picnic area.

5) Persons bringing or allowing pets into the park are responsible for the proper removal and disposal in sanitary facilities of any waste produced by their pets.

6) Pets are not allowed on cross country ski trails during that period of the year when the trails are used for cross country skiing.

Pets welcome, but please know the rules

Park trail guideAll trails in the park are dirt trails except for the Coach Road Trail (limestone graded)

and the blacktopped trail going from the family campground to the beach.Deer Path Trail is a one-mile loop hiking trail around Allen Lake. The trail starts at

Allen Lake Picnic Area. While hiking, you will encounter several stairs, steep grades and rocky surfaces. Hikers will enjoy the view above the east end of Allen Lake, and the hike along the shore.

Upper and Lower Dike Hiking Trail is a one-mile loop hiking trail on and above an old water control structure. While hiking you will encounter two small bridges over water, and have access to the walkway over the Hartman Lake Dam. The Lower Trail is fairly level and gravel surfaced. The Lower Trail has water on both sides. The Upper Trail is wooded and has a good view of Hartman Lake.

Oak Ridge Hiking Trail is a multiple trail system totaling almost 5 miles. The hiking trail contains many interior loops if the hikers want a shorter trip. When on this wooded trail, you will encounter varying topography and rocky surfaces. The trailhead for this system is at the Allen Lake Picnic Area.

Pope Lake Hiking Trail is a one-mile loop trail through a pine plantation. The trail provides an interesting view from high above Marl and Pope Lakes. The hiker will encounter a few steep hills and sandy spots on the trail. The closest parking lot to this trail is the Beach Lot.

Windfeldt Trail is a 2-mile hike/bike trail located south of the Family Campground. The trail meanders through an open prairie and hardwood forest. The trail also runs through the High Point, a scenic knoll with a panoramic view for more then 8 miles. The surface of this trail is mowed and contains many rocks. This trail may be accessed by the Coach Road Trail or by parking in the Campground Overfl ow Lot.

Coach Road Trail is a limestone graded historic hike/bike down the path of the old stagecoach route that ran between Oshkosh and Stevens Point. This is a mile-long trail on an old roadbed. The trail is wooded, fl at and mowed.

Ice Age Hiking Trail is part of the 1,000-mile National Scenic Ice Age Hiking and Skiing Trail. This 4-mile segment of the trail contains steep grades and rocky surfaces. While hiking this trail you can enjoy the scenic view of glacial topography. The trail can be accessed from the Oakridge Hiking Trail or the Windfeldt Trail.

The Horse Trail is a 7-mile bridle trail meandering through woods, prairie and along a creek bed. A new 1-mile trail section was added in 2007 and crosses Rural Road. The trailhead is at the Horse Trail Parking Area across the road from Hartman Lake Picnic Area.

The Friends’ objectives•To preserve the natural status of the park and enhance those areas that will

educate, motivate and provide solace to users.•To enable indigenous wildlife to live and prosper within the limits of the

park.•To educate the users of the park about the park by providing information,

guides, and appropriate learning facilities.•To maintain the quality of the park, so that the park and its amenities will

be accessible and in excellent condition for long-term use.

Lyme Disease is spread through the bite of deer ticks, though not every deer tick carries the disease. These ticks, which are most active from spring through fall, have been found in the park and surrounding areas. The deer tick should not be confused with the larger wood tick, which is also in this area of Wisconsin.

Thoroughly check yourself and your pets for ticks after hiking in the park, es-pecially if you have been on an un-mowed trail or wandered off a trail. Ticks are best removed by pulling them straight out with a tweezers. See page 15 for more information on Lyme Disease. Brochures about Lyme Disease are also available in the park offi ce.

Carry in, carry out

Welcome to your state park! You’ll no-tice there are no garbage or recycling bins in day-use areas. When you visit Wisconsin state parks, forests and recreation areas, you’ll need to take your garbage and recyclables home with you.

Home away from home: The parks belong to all of us... and just like home... we need to care for them and keep them clean.

Less mess: Removal of the garbage and recycling containers eliminates the smells and mess they create. It also cuts down on the yellow jackets and other pests.

Reduce, reuse, recycle: Wisconsin state law requires us to recycle many materi-als we formerly threw away. Better yet, we can make new choices of what to bring with us. The more reusable things we pack, the less garbage we’ll create. It’s good for us and for our earth home.

Thanks for helping out by carrying out what you’ve carried in.

About Lyme disease and ticks

JOIN US!Become a Friend of Hartman Creek State Park

Membership Form

NameAddressCity State ZipTelephone ( )

Please make your check payable to:

Friends of Hartman CreekN2480 Hartman Creek Rd.

Waupaca, WI 54981

Membership Types:___ Individual $10___ Family $25___ Organization $50


10. Oak Savannah Remnant

11. Skunk Lake. Eleven-acre deep, hard water marl lake with very clear water fed by seepages and springs. Connected to Foster Lake by a navigable channel. Largemouth bass, northern pike, bluegill, perch, and pumpkinseed are present. Limited beaver population. Maximum depth: 63 feet.

12. Northern Dry-Mesic Forest Loop

13. Ancient Meltwater Channel14. Fredrick’s Farmstead Location

Stewardship Fund projects

abound in this area

Some special Hartman Creek State Park projects have been partially funded through the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund. Founded in 1989, the fund’s mission is to preserve valuable natural areas and wildlife habitat, protect water quality and fisheries, and expand opportunities for outdoor recreation. Since its inception, 500,000 acres in 71 of 72 state counties have been purchased and protected.

The 224-acre Skunk-Foster Lake State Natural Area was purchased with Stewardship funds in 2003. Just northwest of Waupaca, the site is a gem, with deep, clear kettle lakes, streams, hilly terrain and the National Ice Age Trail passing through.

There are 560 State Natural Areas in Wisconsin, and 102 of them used Stewardship funding. The state sells bonds to investors and tax revenue is used to pay back the debt. Local governments are compensated for the lands no longer on tax rolls through a program called payment in lieu of taxes (PILT).

The Stewardship Fund has also provided for projects such as boat landings, beaches and nature trails. The Friends of Hartman Creek State Park have applied for and received matching funds to restore the Hellestad House, create a horse trailer parking lot, build a new shelter building and remodel the outdoor amphitheater. The Friends applied for a grant to combat invasive species and enlarge the corridor for the federally endangered Karner blue butterfly and received $5,000 that will be matched from our funds.

1. Restoration of natural flow of stream from Grenlie Lake

2. Wrolstad Cottage Location

3. Fredrick’s Garden and Orchard

4. Grenlie Lake. Clear, hard water drained lake that derives most of its water supply from seepage. A small outlet flows into Sannes Creek. Management of the lake is for bass and panfish. A few puddle ducks utilize the area during spring and fall migrations. Beaver activity causes slight water level fluctuations. Maximum depth: 40 feet.

5. Eldoran Recessional Moraine

6. Glacial Pothole Lakes

What is a state natural area?

State Natural Areas protect outstanding examples of Wisconsin’s native landscape of natural communities, significant geological formations, and archeological sites. Wisconsin’s 418 State Natural Areas are valuable for research and educational use, the preservation of genetic and biological diversity, and for providing benchmarks for determining the impact of use on managed lands. State Natural Areas also provide some of the last refuges for rare plants and animals.

The partnership of the Wisconsin DNR, the National Park Service, and the Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation enabled the construction of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail within the Skunk/Foster Lakes State Natural Area.

Points of interest at Skunk and Foster Lakes7. Foster Lake. Seven-acre clear, hard

water wilderness lake that derives most of its water from seepage and springs. The lake is landlocked except for a channel connecting it with nearby Skunk Lake. The fishery consists of northern pike, largemouth bass and bluegills. A few puddle ducks use the lake during spring and fall migrations. Beaver and muskrats are present. Maximum depth: 16 feet.

8. Dry Kettle

9. Erratic Field

This attractive Hartman Creek State Park pin is on sale at the park office. Proceeds benefit the Friends of Hartman Creek State Park.

Water facts: #1, you can’t live without it

Water is our most precious natural resource. We can’t live without it, our ecosystems and our economy can’t survive without it, and our landscape just wouldn’t be the same without it.

Water is so important to the people of Wisconsin that 2003 was offi cially desig-nated as the “Year of Water,” celebrating and refl ect upon the vital importance of Wisconsin’s bountiful water resources - all 15,000 lakes, 32,000 miles of perennial streams, 5.3 million acres of wetlands and 1.2 quadrillion gallons of groundwater. Even though the Year of Water has come and gone, citizens of all ages still need the opportunity to learn more about the challenges facing Wisconsin’s water resources and take steps to conserve and sustain these resources for ourselves and future generations.

Mini GolfBatting CagesOPEN 10–10 DAILY

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(1Blk. from Best Western Hotel)

1 FREE Round of Mini Golfwith 1 Paid Round

With this coupon. Limit one coupon per visit.

Enjoy 18 holes of challenging adventure golf at Pioneer Falls. Group rates available for parties or family gatherings.

Mini GolfBatting Cages

Baseball Cap StoreGroups Welcome!


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Transcript of Hartman Harrier