Serving the Greater Northwoods  

 Oneida - Vilas - Florence - Forest

District Dialogue

February 5, 2016

On Thursday, February 4, Governor Scott Walker signed Assembly Bill 372 into law.  Assembly Bill 372 relates to membership of the board of commissioners of public inland lake protection and rehabilitation districts.  I authored this legislation when this issue was brought to my attention by a lake district board in Oneida County.   

Lake district boards are five member bodies that are responsible for enacting boating ordinances and water safety patrols. Lake district board membership was debated earlier this session under Assembly Bill 47 (now 2015 Wisconsin Act 25). 2015 Act 25 made minor changes to the appointment process for one of the positions on lake district boards. Additionally, Act 25 directed the local governing body to appoint a resident of the lake district to serve as a commissioner on the lake district board.

After this legislation was enacted, it became evident that Act 25 had the unintended consequence of blocking certain individuals who were previously able to serve on lake district boards from continuing their service. Specifically, if an individual was a member of the local governing body, but not a resident of the lake district, the provisions of Act 25 made them ineligible for a lake district board appointment.

Assembly Bill 372 was a simple fix which allows a resident of the Lake District or a member of the local governing body to serve on a lake district board.

This morning, Representative Czaja (R-Irma), Representative Mursau (R-Crivitz), Senator Tom Tiffany (R-Hazelhurst) and I met with local school district superintendents in Elcho to discuss the Rural Wisconsin Initiative and other issues rural schools are facing.  This meeting was organized by Florence County School District superintendent, Ben Niehaus. 

The goal of the Rural Wisconsin Initiative is to retain and attract the younger generation to Wisconsin’s smaller, rural communities.  Below are the proposals that are included in the Rural Wisconsin Initiative. 

The Rural Wisconsin Initiative Agenda includes the following seven legislative proposals:

· Increase funding for broadband expansion grants
· Attract teachers with incentive of student loan repayment programs
· Establishment of S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) curriculum grants
· Increase funding for apprenticeship grants
· Increase funding for apprenticeship tuition reimbursement programs 
· Attract out-of-state graduates ready to enter the workforce
· Expand funding for the Wisconsin Rural Physician Residency Assistance Program

The Rural Wisconsin Initiative package of bills was heard in the Assembly Committee on Mining and Rural Development on Thursday, February 4.  All seven bills received strong support during the hearing.

To follow the progress and provide input for the Rural Wisconsin Initiative, please view our website.  The website provides information on the Rural Wisconsin Agenda, participating legislators and press releases. Lastly, the website provides access to the Rural Wisconsin Initiative Facebook Page and Twitter.

I would like to thank Ben Niehaus for organizing this meeting. A special thank you to all the superintendents in the 34th Assembly District for making the trip to Elcho.  Great discussion.

This session, Senator Tiffany and I drafted a bill to continue the fight against Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) in northern Wisconsin and statewide.  Assembly Bill 598 will continue Wisconsin’s commitment and progress to eliminating and treating AIS on Wisconsin waterways. For years, AIS has proven to be a significant problem for local businesses and tourism economies. Under current law, $2 million dollars in grant funds are distributed annually from the Department of Natural Resources to local governments and lake associations. Although these efforts have combated AIS and in some cases eradicated the invasive species, there is still more work to be done.

Assembly Bill 598 includes the following aspects:

· Acknowledges early detection aquatic plant and AIS surveys and watercraft inspections as core lake protection activities 
· Encourages the department to streamline the ability for lake associations and lake districts who are managing AIS under an approved DNR plan to be reimbursed for annual monitoring and prevention activities
· Acknowledges the role of counties providing technical assistance to AIS grant recipients and encourages the department to streamline their ability to be reimbursed for that work. 

This legislation expands the lake management network to included watercraft inspections and lake surveys to be eligible for grant funding. For example, known AIS transporters are “dirty boats” entering a lake on a boat launch. Volunteers will check boats and other watercraft for AIS while leaving and entering lakes. Providing funding for these activities will help prevent the spread of AIS into un-impacted Wisconsin waterways. Additionally, including grants for lake surveys under the lake monitoring network will allow local governments and lake associations to locate and treat effected areas of the lake quickly and efficiently.

Other provisions of the bill include streamlining the DNR grant process to allow local units of government and the DNR to quickly treat identified AIS. Moving quickly to contain an AIS outbreak has proven successful in many local projects around Wisconsin.

Assembly Bill 598 received a public hearing and an executive session this week.  It received bipartisan support in the Assembly Committee on the Environment and Forestry. 

On Wednesday, February 3, the Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA) held a legislative day in Madison to meet with legislators.  WEDA is a 420+ member organization whose primary objective is to increase the effectiveness of individuals involved in the practice of economic development in Wisconsin by encouraging cooperation, exchange of information and promotion of professional skills.  It was great to speak with folks from Langlade, Marinette, and Forest counties about economic development. Thank you for making the trip to Madison!
  

Left to Right: Josh Jameson - Forest County, Angela Close - Langlade County, Mary Rajek, Redevelopment Resources LLC and Rep. Swearingen

This past week saw snowfall, rain, sleet and the onset of colder temperatures across much of the state. The heaviest bands of snow were across west central and northwestern Wisconsin, with some spots receiving 8 to 10 inches. Lesser amounts of 4 to 6 inches fell across much of the rest of central and northern Wisconsin, while the south and southeast received mostly rain and sleet and some light snow.

Many more counties have now opened snowmobile trails, with the exception of the far southern and southeast counties, according to the Wisconsin Department of Tourism's Snow Conditions Report (exit DNR). Park and forest staff have been busy grooming ski trails and ski conditions are now good to excellent in many areas. Harrington Beach State Park has cancelled a candlelight ski scheduled for this Saturday due to icy conditions, but there will still be the best opportunity for candlelight skiing of the year this weekend with 11 other properties holding events. Search the DNR website for "candlelight" for details.

Ice conditions have changed with the recent snow and rain and slush is hampering travel on northern lakes. Ice depths across the state remain extremely variable from county to county and lake to lake. Please continue to use caution and approach local bait shops, anglers and others in your area to get the most up to date information before venturing out.
Anglers statewide took advantage of this past weekend's sun and warmth, though the bite in many areas was reluctant. Those fishing northern Lake Michigan had some luck for whitefish, walleye and pike, though catch rates for the latter were slow. Lack of water clarity seems to have hindered the perch bite in some areas, while those fishing the Northwoods area lakes are having better luck with panfish, but little success with walleye. Sturgeon spearing is fast approaching and spearers out scouting are advised to use caution on Lake Winnebago. Ice conditions overall are good, but certain areas still have thinner ice.

As we move later into winter, many species will begin breeding, gathering food and moving in earnest. If the snow on the horizon is a little too blinding, keep your eye to the ground enjoy learning who, or what else has tread the trail before you. The recent powder and cooler temperatures have given way to excellent tracking conditions. Watch for sightings or signs of deer, fox, mink, and more in woods or prairie. Otter slides were common site on several of the larger kettle lakes at the Chippewa Moraine. If you're looking for a challenge, smaller mammals like mice and voles are also up and about, attracting the attention of the now white-coated weasel, whose pale ermine fur keeps it insulated and under the radar.

Woodpeckers, finches and more are becoming more common at the feeder. Owls are calling as their mating season gets underway and while it may be hard to "think spring" with the recent snowfall, migrant Canada geese are already beginning to return at Horicon Marsh.

Northern Region

Flambeau River State Forest - This is proving to be a very exciting week for winter sports enthusiasts! Weather conditions will be changing radically. Snow is in the forecast and we already received 8 + inches last night with more to come. This accumulation will be great for the Flambeau Hills Cross Country Ski Trail. The staff is gearing up for extra work preparing the trail post storm. The Candlelight Ski is Saturday and we are PUMPED! More on that further down in the report. The Ski Trail is being packed today, rolled on Friday(more snow in forecast) and groomed on Saturday a.m. very early. The snowmobile trails will also be groomed and ready to go. The Georgetown area connector Trail 85 on Corridor 12, right at the Sawyer County line, is reopened though caution must be used. The snowshoe trails at Slough Gundy (Little Falls loop=1.1km, Slough Gundy segment=0.5km) and the Lake of the Pines Trail (Nature trail loop=1.2km, Lakeside Nature trail=0.6km, and the Maple Trail=0.9) are going to be FUN! Don't forget, if you are prepared with a compass and old map you could venture out on the Old Oxbo Ski Trail. It is not signed or groomed. It was mowed this summer and some folks have been using it, but it will be a real challenge now that we have some snow depth. Total snow depth in the woods is about 10 to 12 inches. If you decide to try the Old Oxbo Ski Trail use the parking lot off of Snuss Blvd and walk across Hwy 70. "Don't forget that compass." Fishing on the Flambeau River State Forest has been slow. Connors Lake, Lake of the Pines, Mason and Evergreen are being ice fished and folks seem to have fun regardless. The Flambeau River still has some open spots so it is treacherous and very risky to be out on it. Be smart and be safe! Because of last weeks' higher temperatures there was a crust of ice on the landscape. This week with the new snow depth it will make it a bit tougher for some of the wildlife to get around and to get at its food source. This will take more energy on the part of the animal. However, it is February and days are getting longer and temperatures will be warming in March. So physically wildlife is still in good condition. We are still observing turkey, weasel, rabbit and deer sign and also some of their predators. The elk have been crossing the river and have been foraging in many of the wildlife openings and old logging sites on or near the State Forest. It amazes me how birds, mammals and other critters survive the winter months. Logging on the Forest is continuing in a forward motion. Two more logging operations have started this last week. Time is of great importance as once the landscape starts thawing and spring sets in, logging is finished till the land is dry enough or frozen conditions arrive next winter. Join us for our 24th Annual Candlelight Ski at the Flambeau River State Forest. The event will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Saturday the 6th of February 2016, at the Flambeau Hills Trail Head. A 1.8 km loop of trail will be groomed tracked and lit with over 600 candles. The trail is for skiers or hikers and winds through the heart of the forest. The trail is wide enough for diagonal striders and skate skiers. Hiking and snowshoeing are also permitted during this event. Picnic tables and a large barbecue grill will be available near the trail head for persons who wish to cook their food. Hot dogs, chili & spiced tea will be provided. The Forest Staff add to the goodies with snacks and desserts. Large warming fires will also be built and maintained throughout the night. Starting at 5 p.m. that Saturday all day-use fees at the trail head will be waived. - Diane Stowell, visitor services associate

Woodruff DNR Service Center area

Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest - Escanaba and Madeline cross-country ski trails were leveled and tracked on Feb. 3 and are in very good condition. The McNaughton skate loop was leveled and groomed. All other loops leveled and tracked. All Raven Trail loops were tracked. There is finally enough snow to cover under the heavy pines. - Tony Martinez, forestry facilities worker

Antigo DNR Service Center area

Langlade County - The Antigo Area received 5 -7 inches of new snow in Tuesday's storm. Ski trails will be in very good condition, but snowmobile trails will remain fair to good. Deer are faring well this winter with milder temps and shallower snow depths.- Eric J. Borchert, wildlife technician, Antigo
 

The Rhinelander School District will hold a binding referendum on February 16, 2016.  In an effort to keep the residents and taxpayers of the Rhinelander School District informed, please follow the link below for more information.  The website will update periodically to include the newest information.  The link will help inform residents on all aspects of the referendum this spring.

Rhinelander School District Referendum

Recently the School District of Rhinelander released dates for community presentations to inform the public about the upcoming referendum.  Please see the dates below.

- February 10th, 10:00 a.m. at the YMCA of the Northwoods (Multi-Purpose Room)

A full listing of community presentations can be found on the School District of Rhinelander website. 
 

Upcoming Community Events

Please click the following links for upcoming community events!

11th Annual Labatt Blue USA Adult Pond Hockey Championships: February 5-7, Eagle River

Indoor Farmers Market At The YMCA: February 6 & 13, Rhinelander

Chili Ski-In: February 6, Florence

Conover - Volunteer Fire & Rescue 7th Annual Ice Fishing Classic: February 6, Conover

Soups On! Hosted by the Boulder Junction Lions Club: February 6, Boulder Junction

Roadhouse 139 Annual Ice Fishing Derby on Long Lake: February 6, Long Lake

Northwoods United Way 11th Annual Fishing Jamboree: February 6, Minocqua

Land O'Lakes - Three Bear Dog Sled Races: February 6, Land O' Lakes

Phelps School Winter Carnival: February 6, Phelps

Locals learn to ski for free: February 7, Minocqua

Sno Skeeters Breakfast at the Pea Patch: February 7, Manitowish Waters

Three Lakes Tavern League Poker Run: February 12-13, Three Lakes

FREE Open Skate Under the Lights: February 12, Manitowish Waters

19th Annual Great Backyard Bird Count: February 12, Manitowish Waters

Minocqua Winter Farmers Market: February 12, Minocqua

ArtStart 5th Anniversary Gala Event: February 12, Rhinelander

Rhinelander Lion’s Club Fisheree & Winter Festival: February 13-14, Rhinelander

Winter Rendezvous: February 13, Manitowish Waters

15th Annual Northern Exposure Ice Fishing Tournament: February 13, Phelps

Northwoods Blizzard Blast: February 13, Conover

Great Northern Jerk Off: February 13, Conover

Radar Run on Spirit Lake: February 13, Three Lakes

Cupid Shuffle Shopping & Raffle: February 13, Three Lakes

Lion's Club Ice Fishing Derby: February 13, Three Lakes

Leff's 5th Annual Fishing Derby: February 13, Florence

Trail Side Brat Fry: February 13, Phelps

Ride with the Champs: February 13, St. Germain

Cross Country Cruisers Valentine's Fest: February 14, Arbor Vitae

Winman Windigo Snowshoe Race: February 14, Winchester

Sno-Bunnies Raffle Drawing: February 14, Presque Isle

WinMan Windigo Snowshoe Stomp.: February 14, Presque Isle

WinMan Windigo 5K/10K Snowshoe Stomp: February 14, Manitowish Waters

Boulder Junction Snowmobile Club Breakfast: February 14, Boulder Junction

Northern Lights Snowmobile Club Weenie Roast: February 14, Three Lakes

Minocqua Forest Riders Spaghetti Dinner: February 17, Minocqua

8th Annual Frozen Tozen Ice Fishing Tournament: February 20, Boulder Junction

Ice Fishing Derby: February 20, Phelps

Conover - Lions Club Winter Frolic: February 20, Conover

Please contact me at Rep.Swearingen@legis.wi.gov if you would like to UNSUBSCRIBE from my E-Updates

Office of Representative Rob Swearingen

Room 123 West

PO Box 8953, Madison WI 53708

Office: 608-266-7141

Toll Free: 888-534-0034