Wyalusing Bluff Report

Thursday, March 26th, 2014,

2014-03-27T10:56:00.001-05:00

FROM THE BLUFFS

OF WYALUSING

Wyalusing State Park

13081 State Park Lane

Bagley, WI 53801

Phone: 608-996-2261

www.wyalusing.org

DATE: Thursday, March 26th, 2014,

TRAIL CONDITIONS/WEATHER FORECAST: North facing slopes remain snow covered at this time. Rain and warmer temperatures should hopefully wipeout the snow cover that remains. Friday’s forecast calls for sunny with a high near 42 degrees and a low dipping down near 26 degrees. Saturday should be mostly sunny with a high reaching 48 and a low just above freezing. Sunday is expected to be mostly sunny with a high near 61 degrees. This sounds like the perfect forecast for that first spring outing or camping trip of 2014. Trails will more than likely be soft and muddy as the frost comes out of the ground. The roads to Henneger Point and the Passenger Pigeon Monument remain closed due to snow cover, but it shouldn’t be long now.

BIRD FEEDERS at the Wyalusing State Park Office are not seeing much use. The “resident” raccoon makes its daily visit every afternoon, much to the enjoyment of park visitors as they watch the feeder robbing antics. A few chickadees and cardinals are still taking advantage of the sunflower seed offered. The feeders will attract spring migrants such as towhees, rose-breasted grosbeaks, and indigo buntings as the weather hopefully continues to warm. Just as the swallows return to Capistrano in the spring, the turkey vultures have returned to Wyalusing. Meadowlarks and flickers were also recently sighted. Bluebirds have been “checking out” the nest boxes in the park. If anyone is interested in cleaning out the bluebird boxes before the birds set up housekeeping and monitoring nesting success/failure, please let Bev know. Dorothy Messner had done this in the past, but she no longer lives in the area.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: Homestead Campground is closed for the season and will reopen on May 1, 2014. The reservation period is over until May 1, 2014. All sites in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground are open on a first-come first-served basis. Showers and flush toilets are closed for the season. All fountains with the exception of the winterized fountain just east of the shower/flush building are closed for the season. Campers are welcome to use their own hose to fill their tanks from this fountain. The Outdoor Group Camp is closed for the season. All reservations for campsites in Wisconsin State Parks are made through Reserve America by calling 1-888-947-2757 or online at www.wiparks.net. Reservations are accepted 11 months in advance.

Camper Note: I have had a number of phone calls the last 2 weeks from people interested in reserving sites for April. Please keep in mind that according to the Reserve America website, it may “appear” that there are no reservable sites open for any weekends in April. The reason for this is that all sites in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground are available only on a first come, first serve basis with the reservation period beginning May 1^st.

The Indoor Group Camp is also closed for the season and will reopen in April. The first group of the year will arrive on April 8^th.

The Concession Stand is closed for the season.

Save the Date: May 17 & possibly May 18:

Michelene O’Connor, an Avian Zookeeper from the Milwaukee County Zoo will be here to band hummingbirds. More on this to come as we get closer to the date. But it is tentatively scheduled for the morning of May 17^th and possibly also on May 18^th. The Wisconsin Society of Ornithology (WSO) will hold it 2014 convention in Prairie du Chien. As part of this convention, they will gather at the Passenger Pigeon Monument in the park at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 17^th for the centenary observance of the Passenger Pigeon’s extinction. According to Michelene, the hummingbird population grows each year during the migration, especially when there are many feeders in one location.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

May 17^th – Hummingbird Banding

August 9th – Smokey Bear’s Birthday Bash

Astronomy Program

The schedule for Astronomy Programs will be changing this spring. The time for all programs is 8:30 p.m. The 2014 Astronomy Scheduled is as follows:

May 24 August 9

June 14 August 30

June 28 September 13

July 12 October 11

July 26

Wednesday, March 19th, 2014,

2014-03-19T14:24:00.001-05:00

FROM THE BLUFFS

OF WYALUSING

Wyalusing State Park

13081 State Park Lane

Bagley, WI 53801

Phone: 608-996-2261

www.wyalusing.org

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Hiking trails for the most part remain snow covered. Temperatures above freezing continue to make a “dent” in the snow pack. Expected highs in the upper 40’s on Thursday and Friday will help to melt more of the snow. Ski trails are closed for this season. Once again, Turkey Hollow, Whitetail Meadow and Prairie Trail are open for hiking. The frozen waterfalls at Pictured Rock Cave (found on Sugar Maple Nature Trail) and Big Sand Cave and Little Sand Cave are popular destinations. Sugar Maple Nature Trail can be accessed near the boat landing (uphill all the way) or by parking in the park office parking lot and hiking the road to Homestead Campground and the road with sites 245-255 towards Homestead Shelter.

BIRD FEEDERS at the Wyalusing State Park Office continue to provide food for the birds and enjoyment for park staff and visitors. Chickadees, juncos, nuthatches, cardinals, blue jays, and woodpeckers are enjoying the sunflower seeds and suet. Warmer temps mean that squirrels and raccoons will venture out in search of food.

The Indoor Group Camp is also closed for the season and will reopen in April. The first group of the year will arrive on April 8^th.

The Concession Stand is closed for the season.

Save the Date: May 17 & possibly May 18:

Signs of Spring at Wyalusing State Park and in the area:

Robins, a welcome sign of spring, returned to Wyalusing State Park earlier this week. Killdeer have been seen in the area as well as Sandhill Cranes. Cardinals can be heard “whistling” every morning. Other returning migrants include: mallards, tundra swans, Canada geese, turkey vultures, Northern flickers, red-winged blackbirds, bluebirds, and a lone catbird.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

May 17^th – Hummingbird Banding

August 9th – Smokey Bear’s Birthday Bash

Astronomy Program

The schedule for Astronomy Programs will be changing this spring. The time for all programs is 8:30 p.m. The 2014 Astronomy Scheduled is as follows:

May 24 August 9

June 14 August 30

June 28 September 13

July 12 October 11

July 26

Thursday, March 13th, 2014,

2014-03-13T20:56:00.001-05:00

FROM THE BLUFFS

OF WYALUSING

Wyalusing State Park

13081 State Park Lane

Bagley, WI 53801

Phone: 608-996-2261

www.wyalusing.org

DATE: Thursday, March 13th, 2014,

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Hiking trails for the most part remain snow covered. Temperatures reached 50 degrees on Monday of this week, causing a measureable dent in the snow pack. I hope it is safe to say that ski trails are closed for this season. The frozen waterfalls at Pictured Rock Cave (found on Sugar Maple Nature Trail) and Big Sand Cave and Little Sand Cave are popular destinations for those adventurous enough to “go the distance”.

Bird Feeders at the Wyalusing State Park Office continue to provide food for the birds and enjoyment for park staff and visitors. Chickadees, juncos, nuthatches, cardinals, blue jays, and woodpeckers are enjoying the sunflower seeds and suet. Warmer temps mean that squirrels and raccoons will venture out in search of food.

The Indoor Group Camp is also closed for the season and will reopen in April.

The Concession Stand is closed for the season.

Save the Date: May 17 & possibly May 18:

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

May 17^th – Hummingbird Banding

August 9th – Smokey Bear’s Birthday Bash

Astronomy Program

The schedule for Astronomy Programs will be changing this spring. The time for all programs is 8:30 p.m. The 2014 Astronomy Scheduled is as follows:

May 24 August 9

June 14 August 30

June 28 September 13

July 12 October 11

July 26

Thursday, March 6, 2014

2014-03-07T07:31:00.001-06:00

FROM THE BLUFFS

OF WYALUSING

Wyalusing State Park

13081 State Park Lane

Bagley, WI 53801

Phone: 608-996-2261

www.wyalusing.org

DATE: Thursday, March 6, 2014,

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Hiking trails are snow covered. Wyalusing State Park received about 3 inches of snow on Saturday, March 1st and an additional 5-6 inches Tuesday night into Wednesday, March 4th and 5th. It truly is a “winter wonderland” at Wyalusing State Park. The warmer temps should encourage winter recreation enthusiasts to get outdoors and enjoy winter before it’s over. Cross country ski trails were groomed late in the day on Saturday, March 2nd. Limited staff may mean that the trails will not be groomed for this weekend. Please call the park office at 608-996-2261 for a cross country skiing update. A slight chance of drizzle or freezing rain on Friday as well as temperatures expected in the mid-30s to low 40’s on Sunday through Wednesday will also impact trail conditions. Sand Cave and Sentinel Ridge have been popular trails for snow shoe enthusiasts. The frozen waterfalls at Pictured Rock Cave (found on Sugar Maple Nature Trail) and Big Sand Cave and Little Sand Cave are popular destinations for those adventurous enough to “go the distance” in the deep snow. Access for Sugar Maple Nature Trail is best from the boat landing, but it will mean an uphill hike. Parking at the park office and hiking/snow shoeing through Homestead Campground will be an easier but definitely longer trail to Sugar Maple. Please remember, no hiking, snow shoeing or pets on groomed cross country ski trails. Parking for all cross country ski trails at Wyalusing State Park is available at the Astronomy Center, which is located just past the park office on the right side of the road. This year, skiers will be able to access the roadway to Henneger Point by crossing the road near the Astronomy Center parking lot and skiing Prairie Trail to Homestead Campground.

The south loop of Homestead Campground (sites 245-255) will connect the skier to the roadway to Henneger Point. This is an excellent trail for beginning and novice skiers. Turkey Hollow Trail is the most challenging of the trails at Wyalusing. Whitetail Meadows is an excellent trail for the novice skier, but it will not be groomed until further notice.

Bird Feeders at the Wyalusing State Park Office continue to provide food for the birds and enjoyment for park staff and visitors. Chickadees, juncos, nuthatches, cardinals, blue jays, and woodpeckers are enjoying the sunflower seeds and suet. The bird feeders are barely visible from the park office window because of the high snow banks from plowing. Deer have been raiding the feeders each night. The first squirrel of the season was spotted on Tuesday of this week. Squirrel and raccoon feeder damage has been almost non-existent because of the bitter cold temperatures. Warmer temps will mean that squirrels and raccoons will venture out in search of food.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: Homestead Campground is closed for the season and will reopen on May 1, 2014. The reservation period is over until May 1, 2014. All sites in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground are open on a first-come first-served basis. Showers and flush toilets are closed for the season. All fountains with the exception of the winterized fountain just east of the shower/flush building are closed for the season. Campers are welcome to use their own hose to fill their tanks from this fountain. The Outdoor Group Camp is closed for the season. All reservations for campsites in Wisconsin State Parks are made through Reserve America by calling 1-888-947-2757 or online at www.wiparks.net. Reservations are accepted 11 months in advance.

The Indoor Group Camp is also closed for the season and will reopen in April.

The Concession Stand is closed for the season.

Save the Date: May 17 & possibly May 18:

Michelene O’Connor, an Avian Zookeeper from the Milwaukee County Zoo will be here to band hummingbirds. More on this to come as we get closer to the date. But it is tentatively scheduled for the morning of May 17th and possibly also on May 18th. The Wisconsin Society of Ornithology (WSO) will hold it 2014 convention in Prairie du Chien. As part of this convention, they will gather at the Passenger Pigeon Monument in the park at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 17th for the centenary observance of the Passenger Pigeon’s extinction. According to Michelene, the hummingbird population grows each year during the migration, especially when there are many feeders in one location.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

May 17th – Hummingbird Banding

August 10th – Smokey Bear’s Birthday Bash

Astronomy Program

The schedule for Astronomy Programs will be changing this spring. The time for all programs is 8:30 p.m. The 2014 Astronomy Scheduled is as follows:

May 24 August 9

June 14 August 30

June 28 September 13

July 12 October 11

July 26

Friday, February 21, 2014

2014-02-21T12:19:00.001-06:00

FROM THE BLUFFS

OF WYALUSING

Wyalusing State Park

13081 State Park Lane

Bagley, WI 53801

Phone: 608-996-2261

www.wyalusing.org

DATE: Friday, February 21, 2014,

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Hiking trails are snow and ice covered. Wyalusing State Park received rain on Thursday and a thunder boom was also heard. Temperatures in the upper 30s and low 40s much of this week along with the rain yesterday and overnight temperatures in the teens have left the trails hard and icy. Due to the icy trail conditions, cross country ski trails will not be groomed until temperatures warm up. Frozen waterfalls can be found in Big Sand Cave and Little Sand Cave on Sand Cave Trail as well as in Pictured Rock Cave on Sugar Maple Nature Trail. Access for Sugar Maple Nature Trail is best from the boat landing. Parking for all cross country ski trails at Wyalusing State Park is available at the Astronomy Center, which is located just past the park office on the right side of the road. This year, skiers will be able to access the roadway to Henneger Point by crossing the road near the Astronomy Center parking lot and skiing Prairie Trail to Homestead Campground.

Bird Feeders at the Wyalusing State Park Office continue to provide food for the birds and enjoyment for park staff and visitors. Chickadees, juncos, nuthatches, cardinals, blue jays, and woodpeckers are enjoying the sunflower seeds and suet. The birds have finally found the log peanut butter feeder as of yesterday. This morning the feeders are a flurry of activity. Beautiful snowfalls on Saturday and Monday were transformed into a scene from a Christmas card with bright red cardinals perched in the trees near the office feeders. Thanks to everyone who attended the Winter Bird Feeding Program last Saturday. Kudos to Abigail who weathered the cold and wind of Saturday morning as she tried to tempt the curious chickadees to eat from her hand. She was not successful at luring them to her hand, but she enjoyed watching them from just inches away. Abigail also shared a great bird book – “Identifying and Feeding Birds” by Bill Thompson III. This will be the next bird book that I purchase as it gives tips on bird identification as well as bird feeding basics. Bird recipes and bird housing, including 10 things we can do to help nesting birds are other great resources found in this book. Thank you, Abigail for sharing this great book with me.

A Cross Country Ski Clinic – A big thank you goes to Ron Falch and Tim O’Brien for sharing your knowledge and passion with others at the ski clinic which was also held last Saturday. I am sure everyone who attended came away with some valuable tips. Good luck to Ron this weekend at the Birkebeiner.

Bald Eagle Appreciation Days in Prairie du Chien is scheduled for Friday evening, February 21st and Saturday, February 22nd. The event will be held in a number of locations this year: Country Inn & Suites (Highway 35 North), AmericInn Lodge & Suites (adjacent to the Regional Tourism Center (Hwy. 18 West), Regional Tourism Center and Hoffman Hall. Most of the activities on Saturday will be held at Hoffman Hall (turn west at Culvers – 1600 S. Wacouta Ave.) Programs include Live Hawk and Owl Programs, Live Bald Eagle Presentations, spotting scopes for outdoor eagle viewing and a life sized bald eagle nest. For more information, please contact the Prairie du Chien Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-732-1673 or visit the website at info@prairieduchien.org.

Ice Fishing Report – Ice anglers were reporting nice catches of crappies.

The Indoor Group Camp is also closed for the season and will reopen in April.

The Concession Stand is closed for the season.

Save the Date: May 17 & possibly May 18:

Michelene O’Connor, an Avian Zookeeper from the Milwaukee County Zoo will be here to band hummingbirds. More on this to come as we get closer to the date. But it is tentatively scheduled for the morning of May 17th and possibly also on May 18th. The Wisconsin Society of Ornithology (WSO) will hold it 2014 convention in Prairie du Chien. As part of this convention, they will gather at the Passenger Pigeon Monument in the park at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 17th for the centenary observance of the Passenger Pigeon’s extinction. According to Michelene, the hummingbird population grows each year during the migration, especially when there are many feeders in one location.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

Astronomy Program

The schedule for Astronomy Programs will be changing this spring. The time for all programs is 8:30 p.m. The 2014 Astronomy Scheduled is as follows:

May 24 August 9

June 14 August 30

June 28 September 13

July 12 October 11

July 26

DATE: Thursday, February 13, 2014

2014-02-13T12:49:00.001-06:00

FROM THE BLUFFS

OF WYALUSING

Wyalusing State Park

13081 State Park Lane

Bagley, WI 53801

Phone: 608-996-2261

www.wyalusing.org

DATE: Thursday, February 13, 2014

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Hiking trails are snow covered. Turkey Hollow XC Trail and Cathedral Tree Drive (roadway to Henneger Point) were groomed on Monday. We received an additional inch or two overnight. Until further notice, we will not groom Whitetail Meadows. The recent light fluffy snowfalls and gusty winds have caused deep snow drifts on Whitetail Meadows. Skiers are welcome to use Whitetail Meadows. Frozen waterfalls can be found in Big Sand Cave and Little Sand Cave on Sand Cave Trail as well as in Pictured Rock Cave on Sugar Maple Nature Trail. Access for Sugar Maple Nature Trail is best from the boat landing. Ski enthusiasts are welcome to call the park at 608-996-2261 for a more current report on Saturday and Sunday. Parking for all cross country ski trails at Wyalusing State Park is available at the Astronomy Center, which is located just past the park office on the right side of the road. This year, skiers will be able to access the roadway to Henneger Point by crossing the road near the Astronomy Center parking lot and skiing Prairie Trail to Homestead Campground.

A Bird Feeding Seminar will be held at Wyalusing State Park on Saturday, February 15th. Join wild bird enthusiast and Visitor Service Associate Bev Pozega to learn about the feeding habits of winter resident song birds. Participants will make a log peanut butter feeder to take home with them. We will also enjoy watching the birds at the feeders from the warmth of the park office. Find out which birds can eat while hanging upside down. We may try feeding the chickadees from our hands, weather permitting. Register for free door prizes including bird feeders, an upside down thistle feeder and thistle seed. This program will be appropriate for children as well as adults. The seminar will start at 10 a.m. and will be held at the park shop. A state park admission sticker is required. For more information, please call 608-996-2261.

A Cross Country Ski Clinic will also be held this Saturday, February 15th, starting at 11 a.m. at the park shop. Instructors will talk about the correct type of wax to use for weather and snow conditions, answer questions for those considering the purchase of XC ski equipment, and also discuss classical and skate-skiing. Bring your skis along and join Ron Falch and Tim O’Brien on the trails.

EAGLE WATCHING: Ritter’s Fish Market (located about 7 miles north of Prairie du Chien at the intersection of Hwy. 27 and County N which heads west towards the Mississippi.) is once again spreading fish remains on the field just north of County N. Dozens of Bald Eagles take advantage of this easy meal. Eagle watchers are encouraged to park along County Road N and to stay in their vehicles. Please note: the eagles are only there if there is food out for them. But it is well worth the 7 mile trip if the birds are in the area. Continue on County N towards the Great River Road (Highway 35) for more eagle watching opportunities along the Mississippi River.

Cassville, Wisconsin, located just 23 miles south of Wyalusing State Park is also known for eagle watching opportunities. Tall trees providing excellent perches and roosts, along with a year-round food supply from the Mississippi River, which does not freeze completely because of Lock and Dam 10 and the power generating station, make Cassville a prime Bald Eagle wintering area. Eagles winter at Cassville from mid-December to late February.

Bald Eagle Appreciation Days in Prairie du Chien is scheduled for Friday evening, February 21st and Saturday, February 22nd. The event will be held in a number of locations this year: Country Inn & Suites (Highway 35 North), Americinn Lodge & Suites (adjacent to the Regional Tourism Center (Hwy. 18 West), Regional Tourism Center and Hoffman Hall. Most of the activities on Saturday will be held at Hoffman Hall (turn west at Culvers – 1600 S. Wacouta Ave.) Programs include Live Hawk and Owl Programs, Live Bald Eagle Presentations, spotting scopes for outdoor eagle viewing and a life sized bald eagle nest. For more information, please contact the Prairie du Chien Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-732-1673 or visit the website at info@prairieduchien.org.

The Indoor Group Camp is also closed for the season and will reopen in April.

The Concession Stand is closed for the season.

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is 7.88 today. Warmer temps and good fishing reports have definitely increased the number of ice anglers at the boat landing.

Save the Date: May 17 & possibly May 18:

Michelene O’Connor, an Avian Zookeeper from the Milwaukee County Zoo will be here to band hummingbirds. More on this to come as we get closer to the date. But it is tentatively scheduled for the morning of May 17th and possibly also on May 18th. The Wisconsin Society of Ornithology (WSO) will hold it 2014 convention in Prairie du Chien. As part of this convention, they will gather at the Passenger Pigeon Monument in the park at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 17th for the centenary observance of the Passenger Pigeon’s extinction. According to Michelene, the hummingbird population grows each year during the migration, especially when there are many feeders in one location.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

February 15th

Bird Feeding Program

10:00 a.m.

Wyalusing State Park Shop

Cross Country Ski Clinic

11:00 a.m.

Wyalusing State Park Shop

Astronomy Program

The schedule for Astronomy Programs will be changing this spring. The time for all programs is 8:30 p.m. The 2014 Astronomy Scheduled is as follows:

May 24 August 9

June 14 August 30

June 28 September 13

July 12 October 11

July 26

Question of the Week: What do park employees do in the winter months when park use and visitation is low?

Answer: Chad and Lisa are busy completing paper work for upcoming park projects. Lisa has been very busy doing background checks for LTE rangers. Dave spends his days preparing equipment for the upcoming season, repairing and painting picnic tables and grooming ski trails when volunteer groomer Ron Falch is unable to do so. Maintaining roads and parking lots also keeps staff busy this year. Bev has been busy with filling campground host positions for both Wyalusing and Nelson Dewey State Park and the paperwork that goes with that, completing 2013 volunteer and donation summaries, 2013 Interpretive Report, ordering tourism brochures for upcoming season, budget, budget and more budget, weekly remittances, answering park questions via phone and email, shoveling snow at park office (seems to be never ending this year) and keeping the bird feeders filled. Soon work will begin on 2014 Wyalusing State Park Visitors (newspapers) and LTE hiring.

DATE: Friday, January 31, 2014

2014-01-31T11:49:00.001-06:00

FROM THE BLUFFS

OF WYALUSING

Wyalusing State Park

13081 State Park Lane

Bagley, WI 53801

Phone: 608-996-2261

www.wyalusing.org

DATE: Friday, January 31, 2014

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Hiking trails are snow covered. Turkey Hollow XC Trail and Cathedral Tree Drive (roadway to Henneger Point) were groomed on Monday. We did receive minor additional snowfall on Thursday of this week. Blustery winds may have caused these two trails to drift in places. Until further notice, we will not groom Whitetail Meadows. The recent light fluffy snowfalls and gusty winds have caused deep snow drifts on Whitetail Meadows. Skiers are welcome to use Whitetail Meadows. Frozen waterfalls can be found in Big Sand Cave and Little Sand Cave on Sand Cave Trail as well as in Pictured Rock Cave on Sugar Maple Nature Trail. Access for Sugar Maple Nature Trail is best from the boat landing.. Ski enthusiasts are welcome to call the park at 608-996-2261 for a more current report on Saturday and Sunday. Parking for all cross country ski trails at Wyalusing State Park is available at the Astronomy Center, which is located just past the park office on the left side of the road. This year, skiers will be able to access the roadway to Henneger Point by crossing the road near the Astronomy Center parking lot and skiing Prairie Trail to Homestead Campground.

Bald Eagle Appreciation Day in Prairie du Chien is scheduled for Saturday, February 22nd. For more information, please contact the Prairie du Chien Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-732-1673.

The Indoor Group Camp is also closed for the season and will reopen in April.

The Concession Stand is closed for the season.

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is 7.8 today. With the pro-longed bitter cold, only the bravest of ice anglers had been fishing. Recent warmer temperatures are prompting more anglers to get out on the ice. Recent anglers reported nice catches of large crappies.

Save the Date: May 17 & possibly May 18:

Michelene O’Connor, an Avian Zookeeper from the Milwaukee County Zoo will be here to band hummingbirds. More on this to come as we get closer to the date. But it is tentatively scheduled for the morning of May 17th and possibly also on May 18th. The Wisconsin Society of Ornithology (WSO) will hold it 2014 convention in Prairie du Chien. As part of this convention, they will gather at the Passenger Pigeon Monument in the park at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 17th for the centenary observance of the Passenger Pigeon’s extinction. According to Michelene, the hummingbird population grows each year during the migration, especially when there are many feeders in one location.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

February 15th

Bird Feeding Program

10:00 a.m.

Wyalusing State Park Shop

Cross Country Ski Clinic

Details and Time to be announced

Astronomy Program

The schedule for Astronomy Programs will be changing this spring. The time for all programs is 8:30 p.m. The 2014 Astronomy Scheduled is as follows:

May 24 August 9

June 14 August 30

June 28 September 13

July 12 October 11

July 26

Question of the Day: Will the groundhog see his shadow on Sunday, February, 2nd (Ground Hog Day)? Answer: It doesn’t really matter – we will still have about 6 more long weeks of winter either way.

Thursday, January 16th, 2014

2014-01-16T11:59:00.001-06:00

DATE: Thursday, January 16^th, 2014

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Hiking trails are snow covered. Turkey Hollow XC Trail and Cathedral Tree Drive (roadway to Henneger Point) were groomed yesterday. Those trails should be in good skiing condition, but may be icy in places. Currently, snow is falling with possible accumulation of .5 inches of light and fluffy snow today and an additional half an inch tonight. Winds will be blustery for the next few days which may cause trails to drift and wind chills to drop below zero for today and tomorrow. Saturday brings the next chance of snowfall with new snow accumulation of between 1-2 inches. Temperatures will soar to near 25 degrees on Saturday reaching a high of 35 on Sunday. Sand Cave Trail, Sentinel Ridge Trail and the area near Point Lookout were packed by Lisa on snowshoes last week. With little snow accumulation since, these trails should be in great hiking condition. Frozen waterfalls can be found in Big Sand Cave and Little Sand Cave on Sand Cave Trail as well as in Pictured Rock Cave on Sugar Maple Nature Trail. Access for Sugar Maple Nature Trail is best from the boat landing.. Ski enthusiasts are welcome to call the park at 608-996-2261 for a more current report on Saturday and Sunday. Parking for all cross country ski trails at Wyalusing State Park is available at the Astronomy Center, which is located just past the park office on the left side of the road. This year, skiers will be able to access the roadway to Henneger Point by crossing the road near the Astronomy Center parking lot and skiing Prairie Trail to Homestead Campground.

Bird Feeders at the Wyalusing State Park Office continue to provide food for the birds and enjoyment for park staff and visitors. . Chickadees, nuthatches, cardinals, blue jays, are enjoying the sunflower seeds and suet..

A Bird Feeding Seminar will be held at Wyalusing State Park on Saturday, February 15^th. Participants will make a peanut butter feeder and learn about the feeding habits of winter song birds. We will also enjoy watching the birds at the feeders from the warmth and comfort of the park office. We may try feeding the chickadees from our hands – weather permitting. This program will be appropriate for children as well as adults. The seminar will start at 10 a.m.

The Indoor Group Camp is also closed for the season and will reopen in April.

The Concession Stand is closed for the season.

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is 7.9 today. The number of ice anglers has increased with the rise in temperatures. Fishing has been reported as good the last few days.

Grab a Friend and take part in the Free Fishing Weekend this Saturday and Sunday, January 18^th and 19^th. No license is required if fishing in Wisconsin on this weekend. For more information, please visit dnr.wi.gov and search for “free fishing weekend”. A Wisconsin State Park sticker is required to fish at the park boat landing.

Save the Date: May 17 & possibly May 18:

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

Astronomy Program

The schedule for Astronomy Programs will be changing this spring. The time for all programs is 8:30 p.m. The 2014 Astronomy Scheduled is as follows:

May 24 August 9

June 14 August 30

June 28 September 13

July 12 October 11

July 26

Thursday, January 8, 2014

2014-01-09T11:29:00.001-06:00

DATE: Thursday, January 8, 2014

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Trails are snow covered. Because of the extreme cold, cross country ski trails have not been groomed this week. Forecast for Friday into Saturday contains rain, snow and freezing rain, with up to 3 inches of snow predicted for Friday night. High on Friday will reach into the mid 30’s. We had a number of skiers on Saturday, January 4^th before the temperatures plummeted into double digit below zero readings. At this point, it is too early to give an accurate cross country ski trail update for this weekend, because of the forecast. Ski enthusiasts are welcome to call the park at 608-996-2261 for a more current report on Saturday and Sunday. Parking for all cross country ski trails at Wyalusing State Park is available at the Astronomy Center, which is located just past the park office on the left side of the road. This year, skiers will be able to access the roadway to Henneger Point by crossing the road near the Astronomy Center parking lot and skiing Prairie Trail to Homestead Campground.

The south loop of Homestead Campground (sites 245-255) is now groomed and will connect the skier to the roadway to Henneger Point. This is an excellent trail for beginning and novice skiiers. Turkey Hollow Trail is the most challenging of the trails at Wyalusing. Whitetail Meadows is an excellent trail for the novice skiier. Please do not walk or take pets on the groomed ski trails. Snowshoe enthusiasts and hikers enjoy Sand Cave Trail and Sentinel Ridge Trail. Sentinel Ridge can be accessed from Point Lookout and follows the bluff top along the Mississippi River. Frozen waterfalls can be seen along Sand Cave Trail (Big Sand Cave and Little Sand Cave) and at Pictured Rock Cave which is found along Sugar Maple Nature Trail. Sugar Maple Nature Trail and Pictured Rock Cave are accessible by foot only as we do not maintain the road to that area in the winter. Parking is available at the park office. Sand Cave Trail, Sentinel Ridge and the Point Lookout area have been packed for hiking and snowshoeing.

Bird Feeders at the Wyalusing State Park Office were stocked in late December. Chickadees, nuthatches, cardinals, blue jays, are enjoying the sunflower seeds.

The Indoor Group Camp is also closed for the season and will reopen in April.

The Concession Stand is closed for the season.

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is 7.94 today. The below zero temperatures kept all but the bravest of ice anglers off the ice most of this past week.

Grab a Friend and take part in the Free Fishing Weekend on January 18^th and 19^th. No license is required if fishing in Wisconsin on this weekend. For more information, please visit dnr.wi.gov and search for “free fishing weekend”. A Wisconsin State Park sticker is required to fish at the park boatlanding.

Save the Date: May 17 & possibly May 18:

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

Astronomy Program

Astronomy Programs are done for the year. Programs will resume in May and will be held on the 2^nd and 4^th Saturdays of the month through October. Programs start at 8:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 12, 2013

2013-12-12T12:08:00.001-06:00

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Trails are snow covered. Wyalusing received about 2 inches of light

and fluffy snow on Tuesday. There is not enough snow for cross-country skiing or grooming the

trails.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: Homestead Campground is closed for the season and will

reopen on May 1, 2014. The reservation period is over until May 1, 2014. All sites in the

Wisconsin Ridge Campground are open on a first-come first-served basis. Showers and flush

toilets are closed for the season. All fountains with the exception of the winterized fountain

just east of the shower/flush building are closed for the season. Campers are welcome to use

their own hose to fill their tanks from this fountain. The Outdoor Group Camp is closed for

the season. All reservations for campsites in Wisconsin State Parks are made through Reserve

America by calling 1-888-947-2757 or online at www.wiparks.net. Reservations are accepted 11

months in advance.

The Indoor Group Camp is also closed for the season and will reopen in April.

The Concession Stand is closed for the season.

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is 7.8 and will remain steady for the next week or so.

Ice anglers are taking advantage of the early ice for the last 2 weeks.

Save the Date: May 17 & possibly May 18:

Michelene O’Connor, an Avian Zookeeper from the Milwaukee County Zoo will be here to

band hummingbirds. More on this to come as we get closer to the date. But it is tentatively

scheduled for the morning of May 17th

Ornithology (WSO) will hold it 2014 convention in Prairie du Chien. As part of this convention,

they will gather at the Passenger Pigeon Monument in the park at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 17th

for the centenary observance of the Passenger Pigeon’s extinction. According to Michelene, the

and possibly also on May 18th

. The Wisconsin Society of

hummingbird population grows each year during the migration, especially when there are many

feeders in one location.

Hunting at Wyalusing State Park

Hunting and trapping season in Wisconsin State Parks, including Wyalusing, opened on Friday,

November 15th

include archery deer, pheasant, turkey, grouse and small game such as rabbit and squirrel as well

as furbearer season (raccoon, fox and coyote). All hunting and trapping seasons for 2013 will

close at the end of the day on Sunday, December 15th

for deer which will remain open through the close of the archery season (January 5th

Park Access Permit is required for anyone who harvests a deer using any type of weapon,

including bow as well as during the statewide antlerless hunt from Dec. 12th

Access Permit was available in mid-August.

For those people interested in trapping in Wisconsin State Parks, trapping will be allowed from

November 15th

If you are interested in hunting in a Wisconsin State Park this fall, please call the individual

property for any rules specific to that park.

Reminder- A current Wisconsin State Park sticker is required on all vehicles entering a

Wisconsin State Park.

Park Bird Feeders have not been stocked yet, but will hopefully be filled by next week.

2014 Wisconsin State Park Stickers are on sale now. Park stickers make excellent Christmas

gifts. 2014 Annual State Park Stickers purchased now are valid through December 31st

gift that keeps on giving for the entire year.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

Astronomy Program

Astronomy Programs are done for the year. Programs will resume in May and will be held on

the 2nd

and 4th

under a new state law that went into effect in 2013. Open hunting seasons will

, with the exception of the archery season

, 2014. A

-15th

. The Park

– December 15th

. Dog proof traps are required.

. It is a

Saturdays of the month through October. Programs start at 8:30 p.m.

November 12, 2013

2013-11-12T16:42:00.001-06:00

DATE: Tuesday, November 12, 2013

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Trails should be in excellent condition.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: Homestead Campground is closed for the season and will reopen on May 1, 2014. The reservation period is over until May 1, 2014. All sites in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground are open on a first-come first-served basis. Showers and flush toilets are closed for the season. All fountains with the exception of the winterized fountain just east of the shower/flush building are closed for the season. Campers are welcome to use their own hose to fill their tanks from this fountain. Water is no longer available at the dumping station, but campers can dump using their own water to flush. The Outdoor Group Camp will stay open until the first snowfall – we do not maintain the road in the group camp for winter use. All reservations for campsites in Wisconsin State Parks are made through Reserve America by calling 1-888-947-2757 or online at www.wiparks.net. Reservations are accepted through October 31^st for Wyalusing State Park. From November 1^st through April 30, campsites are available on a walk-in, first-come, first served basis.

Wyalusing State Park had 7 sites occupied on Saturday night, November 9^th.

The Indoor Group Camp is also closed for the season and will reopen in April.

The Concession Stand is closed for the season.

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is 7.7 and will remain steady for the next week or so.

Save the Date: May 17 & possibly May 18:

Late fall has certainly arrived at Wyalusing State Park. All of the trees with the exception of the mighty oaks are bare. The tamaracks with needles of pure gold at the park entrance stand as tall sentinels welcoming park visitors. The drive into the park this morning was exceptionally beautiful - fresh snowfall, sunlight on the golden tamarack needles, and bald eagles roosting at the edge of the forest, bordered by the clear blue sky and dark green of evergreen trees. It does not get any better than this.

Hunting at Wyalusing State Park

Hunting and trapping season in Wisconsin State Parks, including Wyalusing, will open on Friday, November 15^th under a new state law that went into effect in 2013. Open hunting seasons will include archery deer, pheasant, turkey, grouse and small game such as rabbit and squirrel as well as furbearer season (raccoon, fox and coyote).

Bow hunting is allowed during the gun deer season. The archery season will close on November 22, but will reopen on November 23^rd. Blaze orange is required to bow hunt during the gun deer season. The archery season will be extended in Wisconsin State Parks through January 5, 2014. All other hunting seasons will close on December 15^th.

A Park Access Permit is required for anyone who harvests a deer using any type of weapon, including bow and muzzleloader as well as during the 9 day gun deer season and the Statewide Antlerless Season. The Park Access Permit was available in mid-August.

For those people interested in trapping in Wisconsin State Parks, trapping will be allowed from November 15^th – December 15^th. Dog proof traps are required.

If you are interested in hunting in a Wisconsin State Park this fall, please call the individual property for any rules specific to that park.

Reminder- A current Wisconsin State Park sticker is required on all vehicles entering a Wisconsin State Park.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

Astronomy Program

Astronomy Programs are done for the year. Programs will resume in May and will be held on the 2^nd and 4^th Saturdays of the month through October. Programs start at 8:30 p.m.

Nelson Dewey State Park – Cassville, Wisconsin

All campsites at Nelson Dewey are now open on a first come-first served basis. The campgrounds will close with the first measurable snowfall. Showers, flush bathrooms and water faucets are closed for the season. A winterized faucet is available near the park office and pit toilets are available in the campground and throughout the park. If the office is not staffed, please self-register for camping and stickers. Hunting will also be allowed at Nelson Dewey State Park from November 15^th – December 15^th with the bow season being extended through the end of the bow season on January 5^th. Park access permits are not required for deer hunting at Nelson Dewey State Park. Park admission stickers are required on all vehicles entering the park.

Thursday, November 7, 2013

2013-11-07T17:07:00.001-06:00

DATE: Thursday, November 7, 2013

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Trails should be in excellent condition.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: Homestead Campground is closed for the season and will reopen on May 1, 2014. The reservation period is over until May 1, 2014. All sites in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground are open on a first-come first-served basis. Showers and flush toilets are closed for the season. All fountains with the exception of the winterized fountain just east of the shower/flush building are closed for the season. Campers are welcome to use their own hose to fill their tanks from this fountain. Water is no longer available at the dumping station, but campers can dump using their own water to flush. The Outdoor Group Camp will stay open until the first snowfall – we do not maintain the road in the group camp for winter use. All reservations for campsites in Wisconsin State Parks are made through Reserve America by calling 1-888-947-2757 or online at www.wiparks.net. Reservations are accepted through October 31^st for Wyalusing State Park. From November 1^st through April 30, campsites are available on a walk-in, first-come, first served basis.

Last night, November 6^th was the first night of this camping season without a camper.

The Indoor Group Camp is also closed for the season and will reopen in April.

The Concession Stand is closed for the season.

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is 8.1 and is expected to stay at that level for a number of days.

Save the Date: May 17 & possibly May 18:

Fall Color- Peak fall color was definitely much later than normal this year. Many people commented on the lack of color on Columbus Day Weekend, which is normally peak color for this area. The oak trees certainly came into their own glory last week and many are still beautiful. My good friends and Wyalusing State Park campers George and Mary Tilley always talked about the Oaks of Wyalusing and how brilliant they are in late fall. There is still some color, and some trees still have leaves, but I think peak color was actually last weekend.

Hunting at Wyalusing State Park

Currently, there is no hunting allowed in Wyalusing State Park. Most Wisconsin State Parks, including Wyalusing, will be open for any game in season beginning November 15. The Hunting Heritage Act allows for all types of in season hunting and trapping in Wisconsin State Parks beginning November 15 and closing December 15^th. Bow hunting is allowed during the gun deer season. The archery season will close on November 22, but will reopen on November 23^rd. Blaze orange is required to bow hunt during the gun deer season. The archery season will be extended in Wisconsin State Parks through January 5, 2014. All other hunting seasons will close on December 15^th. A Park Access Permit is required for anyone who harvests a deer using any type of weapon, including bow and muzzleloader as well as during the 9 day gun deer season and the Statewide Antlerless Season. The Park Access Permit was available in mid-August.

For those people interested in trapping in Wisconsin State Parks, trapping will be allowed from November 15^th – December 15^th. Dog proof traps are required.

If you are interested in hunting in a Wisconsin State Park this fall, please call the individual property for any rules specific to that park.

Reminder- A current Wisconsin State Park sticker is required on all vehicles entering a Wisconsin State Park.

The goats are gone. The grazing goats were a great addition to Wyalusing State Park. Park visitors enjoyed seeing them as well as watching the progress they made on eliminating invasive species such as honeysuckle and garlic mustard and other brush.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

Astronomy Program

Astronomy Programs are done for the year. Programs will resume in May and will be held on the 2^nd and 4^th Saturdays of the month through October. Programs start at 8:30 p.m.

Nelson Dewey State Park – Cassville, Wisconsin

Thank you to all of the volunteers and campground hosts who help to make Nelson Dewey and Wyalusing State Parks the great parks that they are. We could not do what we do and keep the parks so well maintained without your help. I think I speak from all of the staff at both properties when I say that we have enjoyed working with you throughout this past year and we look forward to doing so again.

Wednesday, October 16th, 2013

2013-10-16T18:58:00.001-05:00

FROM THE BLUFFS

OF WYALUSING

Wyalusing State Park

13081 State Park Lane

Bagley, WI 53801

Phone: 608-996-2261

www.wyalusing.org

DATE: Wednesday, October 16th, 2013

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Trails should be in excellent condition.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: There are still a number of sites available for this weekend, including a few reservable bluff and electric sites. Reservations need to be made no later than Wednesday for Friday night and Thursday for Saturday night. Most of the sites are in Homestead Campground which will give the camper wooded, secluded sites. There are no showers or flush bathrooms in Homestead Campground, but campers can drive to the Wisconsin Ridge Campground for them. Showers and flush toilets are still open in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground. Reservations are accepted 11 months in advance and up to 2 days prior to the arrival date. Campers are welcome to drive to the Wisconsin Ridge Campground for showers and flush toilets. All reservations for campsites in Wisconsin State Parks are made through Reserve America by calling 1-888-947-2757 or online at www.wiparks.net. Reservations are accepted through October 31^st for Wyalusing State Park. From November 1^st through April 30, campsites are available on a walk-in, first-come, first served basis. Homestead Campground will close for the season on November 1.

The Concession Stand is closed for the season. Firewood and canoe rental may be done through the Campground Hosts on Site 153. All profits from the concession stand and sales through the campground host are returned to Wyalusing State Park by the Friends of Wyalusing. Firewood and ice are also available at a privately funded stand just at the entrance to the park.

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien has stayed steady at close to 7.9 and is expected to rise by the weekend to 8.2. That rise should make paddling the canoe trail on the backwaters of the Mississippi River a bit easier. Fall is an excellent time to canoe the Mighty Mississippi.

Save the Date: May 17 & possibly May 18:

Bird Activity – I do not have a recent bird sighting list. Many of the birds listed on October 3rd list, especially the warblers may have left. Regular sightings this time of year include the following: Pied-billed Grebe, Canada Goose, Mallard, Turkey Vulture, Bald Eagle, Red-shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Ring-necked Pheasant, Wild Turkey, Ring-billed gull, Barred Owl, Common Nighthawk, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, , Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Eastern Bluebird, American Robin, Brown Thrasher, Cedar Waxwing, Northern Cardinal, White-throated Sparrow, Brown-headed Cowbird, American goldfinch.

There is an impressive number of Red-headed Woodpeckers in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground feeding on the acorns.

Fall Color- Many people have commented on the lack of color this past weekend (Columbus Day Weekend). There is still color and many leaves remain on the trees. No matter what the experts say about peak color, it is still beautiful with the sun on the leaves. Sugar Maple Nature Trail and Sentinel Ridge Trail are excellent picks for a fall color hike. A Note of Interest – With the beginning of October, we will lose 90 minutes of daylight this month.

Last week was by far the busiest week for camping and visitation at Wyalusing State Park of this entire year. Last week Thursday, we had 60 campsites out of 109 taken with only 1 electric site open on Thursday. We filled all of the campsites over the weekend. Sunday night, October 13^th Wyalusing had 63 registered campsites, with once again only 1 small electric site available. We turned away a number of campers looking for electricity on Thursday through Sunday nights. If you are thinking of camping in the fall of 2014, please remember that you can reserve that October camping spot starting in November.

Hunting at Wyalusing State Park

For those people interested in trapping in Wisconsin State Parks, trapping will be allowed from November 15^th – December 15^th. Dog proof tracks are required.

A Park Access Permit is required to deer hunt during the 9 day gun deer season at Wyalusing State Park. The Park Access Permits were available in mid-August.

If you are interested in hunting in a Wisconsin State Park this fall, please call the individual property for any rules specific to that park.

Reminder- A current Wisconsin State Park sticker is required on all vehicles entering a Wisconsin State Park.

Water Shut-down- Now that we are into the fall season, we know that below freezing temperatures and winter are just weeks away. That means that water will be turned off in the parks. Anticipated shutdowns at Wyalusing: Wisconsin Ridge Flush building and all fountains in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground will be closed for the season beginning October 17^th. The shower/flush building and dump station will be open through the last weekend in October. Please keep in mind that these dates are anticipated. If the weather gets below freezing before these dates, buildings and fountains will be shut down as necessary. Drinking water is always available at the winterized faucet near the shower flush building in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

Astronomy Program

The one remaining Astronomy Programs of this year will be held on Saturday, Saturday, October 26^th. The program will begin at 8:30 p.m. and will be held rain or shine.. Astronomy Programs will resume on the 2^nd Saturday in May, 2014.

Nelson Dewey State Park – Cassville, Wisconsin

Nelson Dewey is open. All campsites at Nelson Dewey State Park are reservable. Reservations are accepted through Sunday, October 13 for this year. Beginning October 14^th, all sites at Nelson Dewey are on a first come first served basis. The campgrounds at Nelson Dewey will close with the first measurable snowfall. Showers and flush bathrooms at Nelson Dewey will be shut down starting October 15^th. Drinking water is available at the park office and pit toilets are located in the campground. If the office is not staffed, please self-register for camping and stickers.

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

2013-10-09T11:57:00.001-05:00

DATE: Wednesday, October 9, 2013

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Trails should be in excellent condition.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: This weekend at Wyalusing State Park is typically one of the busiest of all weekends. As of today, there are 6 reservable sites available in Homestead Campground and a number of non-reservable sites in both campgrounds. Electrical sites will be difficult if not impossible to obtain open for the weekend. Reservations are accepted 11 months in advance and up to 2 days prior to the arrival date. There are no showers or flush toilets at this time in Homestead Campground. Campers are welcome to drive to the Wisconsin Ridge Campground for showers and flush toilets. All reservations for campsites in Wisconsin State Parks are made through Reserve America by calling 1-888-947-2757 or online at www.wiparks.net

The Concession Stand will close for the season on Sunday, October 13^th. Firewood and canoe rental may be done through the Campground Hosts on Site 153. All profits from the concession stand and sales through the campground host are returned to Wyalusing State Park by the Friends of Wyalusing. Firewood and ice are also available at a privately funded stand just at the entrance to the park.

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is at 7.9 and should stay steady for the next few days. That rise should make paddling the canoe trail on the backwaters of the Mississippi River a bit easier.

Save the Date: May 17 & possibly May 18:

There is an impressive number of Red-headed Woodpeckers in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground feeding on the acorns.

Fall Color-Typically on Columbus Day Weekend, this area is at peak for fall color. Autumn color in Southwest Wisconsin seems to be a bit behind other years. It is still beautiful with the sun on the trees but the vibrant reds and oranges are missing in many places at this time. It seems as if every day there is a significant change in the foliage. The bright red of the staghorn sumac certainly is showy this time of year. Highway C on the road up to Wyalusing State Park is a beautiful fall drive. Another excellent choice for fall color is to take Highway 18 West across the Mississippi River. The bluff on the northwest side of the Mississippi River is spectacular!
A Note of Interest – With the beginning of October, we will lose 90 minutes of daylight this month.

Hunting at Wyalusing State Park

For those people interested in trapping in Wisconsin State Parks, trapping will be allowed from November 15^th – December 15^th. Dog proof tracks are required.

A Park Access Permit is required to deer hunt during the 9 day gun deer season at Wyalusing State Park. The Park Access Permits were available in mid-August.

If you are interested in hunting in a Wisconsin State Park this fall, please call the individual property for any rules specific to that park.

Reminder- A current Wisconsin State Park sticker is required on all vehicles entering a Wisconsin State Park.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

October 12^th

*Big Blue Sky

Location: Peterson Shelter Time: 7:00 p.m.

Enjoy the sounds of the river music of Jon Stravers and Big Blue Sky. Big Blue Sky is a changing line-up of local musicians with original music inspired by the river in the Driftless Region. Music includes blues, folks, bluegrass, reggae and music with the natural rhythms of life.

*Program sponsored by Friends of Wyalusing State Park

Astronomy Program

The two remaining Astronomy Programs of this year will be held on Saturday, October 12 and Saturday, October 26^th. Programs begin at 8:30 p.m. and are held rain or shine. Astronomy Programs will resume on the 2^nd Saturday in May, 2014.

Nelson Dewey State Park – Cassville, Wisconsin

Music at Wyalusing State Park

2013-10-08T07:14:00.001-05:00

Jon Stravers and Big Blue Sky will perform a variety of original music inspired by the Mississippi River in the Driftless Region. Jon’s music includes blues, folks, bluegrass, reggae and music with the natural rhythms of life. Big Blue Sky is a changing line up of local musicians. Jon and Big Blue Sky will perform this Saturday, October 12, at 7P.M. in the Peterson Shelter at Wyalusing State Park.

Big Blue Sky started as a father-son duo in the mid-1990s by Jon Stravers Sr, and Jon-Jon Stravers. Their musical style includes the influence of folk, bluegrass, blues and reggae. In their music they seek a closer connection to the planet, and indeed their musical writing comes from the inspiration of wild places and a celebration of the natural rhythms of life.

Big Blue Sky has released seven CDs of original material including “River’s Rising” released in 2001, “Mystic Migrations” in 2004, and two live recordings including a live one-hour program on Iowa Public Radio, “Live at KUNI” in 2006, and “Live at the Elkader Opera House” released in 2007. “Searching for the Cosmic Groove” was released in 2008 (which includes Jon-Jon’s last recordings), and “Driftless Groove” released in May of 2009. Their newest CD is entitled “Bird Dance” released in 2011.

Vehicle admission sticker can be purchased at the Park entrance. The last concert of the season is presented by The Friends of Wyalusing State Park.

Friday, October 4, 2013

2013-10-04T12:45:00.001-05:00

DATE: Friday, October 4, 2013

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Trails will be wet due to recent rains, but remain in good hiking condition.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: Camping availability for this weekend is excellent. All sites for this weekend are on a first come, first served basis. Electrical sites will be very difficult if not impossible to get. As of Friday morning, there are even a few non-reservable bluff sites open for the weekend. Reservations are accepted 11 months in advance and up to 2 days prior to the arrival date. There are no showers or flush toilets at this time in Homestead Campground. Campers are welcome to drive to the Wisconsin Ridge Campground for showers and flush toilets. Concession stand is open weekends only. Canoe rentals and firewood may be available from the campground hosts on campsite 153 in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground.

All reservations for campsites in Wisconsin State Parks are made through Reserve America by calling 1-888-947-2757 or online at www.wiparks.net

The Concession Stand will close for the season on Sunday, October 13^th. Firewood and canoe rental may be done through the Campground Hosts on Site 153. Firewood and ice are also available just at the entrance to the park.

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is at 7.35 but is expected to rise to 8.3 by Saturday and remain at that level for a number of days. That rise should make paddling the canoe trail on the backwaters of the Mississippi River a bit easier.

The Hummingbird Migration is finished. The last remaining hummingbird feeder will come down today. One solo hummingbird was still making use of the feeders at the park office on Saturday, Sept. 28.

Save the Date: May 17 & possibly May 18:

Bird Activity – Bird sightings through October 3^rd include the following: Pied-billed Grebe, Canada Goose, Mallard, Turkey Vulture, Bald Eagle, Red-shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Ring-necked Pheasant, Wild Turkey, Ring-billed gull, Barred Owl, Common Nighthawk, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Eastern Bluebird, American Robin, Brown Thrasher, Cedar Waxwing, Solitary Vireo, Orange-crowned Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Canada Warbler, Northern Cardinal, White-throated Sparrow, Brown-headed Cowbird, American goldfinch.

There is an impressive number of Red-headed Woodpeckers in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground feeding on the acorns.

Fall Color-Even though we are days away from “peak color”, the bluffs and hillsides are beautiful. The bright red of the staghorn sumac certainly is showy this time of year. It seems as if every day there is significant change in the foliage.

A Note of Interest – With the beginning of October, we will lose 90 minutes of daylight this month.

Hunting at Wyalusing State Park

For those people interested in trapping in Wisconsin State Parks, trapping will be allowed from November 15^th – December 15^th. Dog proof tracks are required.

A Park Access Permit is required to deer hunt during the 9 day gun deer season at Wyalusing State Park. The Park Access Permits were available in mid-August.

If you are interested in hunting in a Wisconsin State Park this fall, please call the individual property for any rules specific to that park.

Reminder- A current Wisconsin State Park sticker is required on all vehicles entering a Wisconsin State Park.

Spirits of Wyalusing Past – Even though the weather was less than cooperative for the start of the annual luminary walk on the last Saturday in September, the skies cleared and it was a beautiful evening. This year’s “Spirits” was a bit different from years’ past as there were no “spirits”. But, I do know that everyone who attended enjoyed the beautiful walk along the luminary lit trail, the refreshments afterward and the silent auction. I would like to thank the Friends of Wyalusing State Park and everyone who played a part in this yet another successful event of the Friends of Wyalusing State Park. If you baked a pan of bars, donated items for the silent auction, carved jack-o-lanterns, helped with set up and take down, provided lunch for the volunteers, please know that your efforts are much appreciated. The program was followed by an Astronomy Program, sponsored by the StarSplitters of Wyalusing. I know there was a good audience for the classroom program and the viewing portion with telescopes.

Randy Paske was named Volunteer of the Year by the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks. Randy is certainly very deserving of this award. Congratulations, Randy.

Wyalusing State Park was voted as “The Best Place to Hold a Family Reunion.” This is also very fitting, in part because of the Hugh Harper Indoor Group Camp. There are many families who hold annual reunions at the indoor group camp.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

October 12^th

*Big Blue Sky

Location: Peterson Shelter Time: 7:00 p.m.

*Program sponsored by Friends of Wyalusing State Park

Astronomy Program

Nelson Dewey State Park – Cassville, Wisconsin

Thursday, September 19, 2013

2013-09-19T14:13:00.001-05:00

DATE: Thursday, September 19, 2013

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Trails are in good hiking condition.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: Camping availability for this weekend is excellent. Even though it is too late to make reservations for Friday, Saturday night campers still have time to reserve a campsite. Sites are also available on a first come first served basis. As of Thursday morning, there are 3 electric sites and a number of bluff sites in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground as well as many sites in Homestead Campground available for the weekend. Electric sites will be difficult to get by late Thursday or Friday morning. All sites for Friday night are on a first come first served basis. Reservations will still be accepted through Thursday for Saturday night of this week. Reservations are accepted 11 months in advance and up to 2 days prior to the arrival date. There are no showers or flush toilets at this time in Homestead Campground. Campers are welcome to drive to the Wisconsin Ridge Campground for showers and flush toilets. Concession stand is open weekends only. Canoe rentals and firewood may be available from the campground hosts on campsite 153 in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground.

All reservations for campsites in Wisconsin State Parks are made through Reserve America by calling 1-888-947-2757 or online at www.wiparks.net

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is at 7.3 feet today and is expected to remain at that level for the next week.

The Hummingbird Migration continues. Five of the 10 feeders remain filled for the migrating hummers. At times there are as many as 12-15 and other times there are none at the feeders. I learned an interesting fact this week about migrating hummingbirds. As they cross the Gulf, they feed on insects.. Reminder: Hummingbird feeders should remain filled until you have not seen hummers for at least two weeks. But remember to keep the food fresh and the feeders clean. Many of the flowers they depend on are drying or are already dead.

The first day of Autumn is Sunday, September 22. There is a hint of fall in the area. Staghorn Sumac leaves are brilliant red. Oaks should be dropping acorns and walnuts are falling. Mississippi River Migratory Bird Season (duck hunting) opens at 9 a.m. on Saturday, September 21^st. This season remains open through September 29^th and is closed from September 30^th through October 11^th. It will reopen on October 12^th through December 1^st.

Hunting in Wyalusing State Park

For those people interested in trapping in Wisconsin State Parks, trapping will be allowed from November 15^th – December 15^th. Dog proof tracks are required.

A Park Access Permit is required to deer hunt during the 9 day gun deer season at Wyalusing State Park. The Park Access Permits were available in mid-August.

If you are interested in hunting in a Wisconsin State Park this fall, please call the individual property for any rules specific to that park.

Reminder- A current Wisconsin State Park sticker is required on all vehicles entering a Wisconsin State Park.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

September 28^th

*Spirits of Wyalusing Past

This year’s Spirits of Wyalusing Past will be a bit different from other years. The program this year will not have any “spirits” along the trail. But, people can join the hike between 7:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Interpreters will be available along the trail to answer questions. The trail will still be lit by jack-o-lanterns and tiki torches. Refreshments will be served and there will be a silent auction. .

Location: Peterson Shelter

Time: 7:00 p.m.

October 12^th

*Big Blue Sky

Location: Peterson Shelter Time: 7:00 p.m.

*Programs sponsored by Friends of Wyalusing State Park

Astronomy Programs sponsored by the StarSplitters of Wyalusing are held on the 2^nd and 4^th Saturdays of each month – May through October at the Huser Astronomy Center in Wyalusing State Park. Programs start at 8:30 and are held rain or shine

Nelson Dewey State Park – Cassville, Wisconsin

Nelson Dewey is open for the season. All campsites at Nelson Dewey State Park are reservable. If the office is not staffed, please self-register for camping and stickers.

Thursday, September 13, 2013

2013-09-12T15:39:00.001-05:00

DATE: Thursday, September 13, 2013

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Trails are in good hiking condition.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: There are a number of non-electric campsites available for this weekend in the Homestead Campground. Electric sites will be difficult if not impossible to obtain. All sites for Friday night are on a first come first served basis. Reservations will still be accepted through Thursday for Saturday night of this week. Reservations are accepted 11 months in advance and up to 2 days prior to the arrival date. There are no showers or flush toilets at this time in Homestead Campground. Campers are welcome to drive to the Wisconsin Ridge Campground for showers and flush toilets. Concession stand is open weekends only. Canoe rentals and firewood may be available from the campground hosts.

All reservations for campsites in Wisconsin State Parks are made through Reserve America by calling 1-888-947-2757 or online at www.wiparks.net

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is at 7.2 feet today and is expected to remain at that level for the next week.

The Hazelton Grazing Goats continue to clear the park of invasive species. The coats are now eating their way through the brush near the park office. The goats are courtesy of Driftless Land Stewardship. An electric fence will keep the goats in as well as coyotes out.

The Hummingbird Migration continues. Only the females remain. Consumption has dropped from 2 gallons per day to about 1 gallon per day. With less daylight hours, there is less time for them to eat as well as the number of birds has diminished greatly. Reminder: Hummingbird feeders should remain filled until you have not seen hummers for at least two weeks. But remember to keep the food fresh. Many of the flowers they depend on are drying or are already dead, so they may need our help to get them where they are heading – Costa Rica. Keep your eyes open for Hummingbird Moths. They are moths that resemble Hummingbirds and are usually seen before dark near petunias and phlox.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

September 14^th

Astronomy Program

Location: Huser Astronomy Center

Time: 8:30 p.m.

Join the Starsplitters of Wyalusing for an evening of stargazing.

SEPTEMBER 14

Cannons at the Fort

Historic interpreters present life in Prairie du Chien from the time of the fur trade through the Civil War with Native American storytelling, craft demonstrations, and musket and cannon firing.

Location: Fort Crawford Museum – 717 S. Beaumont Prairie du Chien

Hours: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

More info: 608-326-6960

Effigy Mounds Bird Walk

Join birders for a ranger-led bird walk at Effigy Mounds National Monument. Effigy Mounds is located north of Marquette, Iowa (just across the Mississippi River from Prairie du Chien) on Highway 76.

Time: 10 a.m.

Location: Effigy Mounds National Monument Visitor Center

More information: 563-873-3491 Ext 202

September 28^th

*Spirits of Wyalusing Past

Meet characters from Wyalusing’s illustrious past along a luminary lit trail. Refreshments, silent auction.

Location: Peterson Shelter

Time: 7:00 p.m.

October 12^th

*Big Blue Sky

Location: Peterson Shelter Time: 7:00 p.m.

*Programs sponsored by Friends of Wyalusing State Park

Nelson Dewey State Park – Cassville, Wisconsin

Nelson Dewey is open for the season. All campsites at Nelson Dewey State Park are reservable. If the office is not staffed, please self-register for camping and stickers.

Thursday, August 29, 2013

2013-08-29T14:54:00.001-05:00

FROM THE BLUFFS

OF WYALUSING

Wyalusing State Park

13081 State Park Lane

Bagley, WI 53801

Phone: 608-996-2261

www.wyalusing.org

DATE: Thursday, August 29th, 2013

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Trails are in good hiking condition.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: All reservable sites except for two in Homestead Campground have been reserved for this Labor Day Weekend. We have a number of nonreservable sites open for the weekend, mostly in the Homestead Campground. Electric sites will be very difficult if not impossible to get. The nonreservable sites will most likely fill on Friday night for this weekend with a few possibly opening on Saturday and Sunday. Campers are welcome to call to check on availability, but please keep in mind that we cannot “hold” sites. . Wisconsin Ridge sites on the bluff are typically all taken every night of the week, but with school starting on Tuesday for everyone, retired campers will want the electrical sites and most of the bluff sites will be available during the week. There are no showers or flush toilets at this time in Homestead Campground. Campers are welcome to drive to the Wisconsin Ridge Campground for showers and flush toilets. Concession stand will start weekend only hours after Labor Day. Canoe rentals and firewood may be available from the campground hosts.

All reservations need to be made at least 2 days prior to your arrival date. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance of the arrival date. Please keep in mind that the earlier the reservation is made, the better the selection of campsites. All reservations for campsites in Wisconsin State Parks are made through Reserve America by calling 1-888-947-2757 or online at www.wiparks.net

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is at 7.3 feet today and is expected to remain at that level for the next week.

The Hazelton Grazing Goats continue to clear the park of invasive species. The coats are now eating their way through the brush near the park office. The goats are courtesy of Driftless Land Stewardship. An electric fence will keep the goats in as well as coyotes out.

The Hummingbird Migration has finally begun. Only the females remain and I think these may be birds coming from the North. Consumption has dropped from 2 gallons per day to about 1 gallon per day. With less daylight hours, there is less time for them to eat as well as the number of birds has diminished greatly. Reminder: Hummingbird feeders should remain filled until you have not seen hummers for at least two weeks. But remember to keep the food fresh. Many of the flowers they depend on are drying or are already dead, so they may need our help to get them where they are heading – Costa Rica. Rumor has it that hummingbirds migrate on the backs of Canada Geese. Not true! When hummingbirds migrate, they do not fly in a flock – they fly singly.

It’s that time of year- fall is right around the corner, summer is over and we say good-bye to many of our LTEs (Limited Term Employees). Both Nelson Dewey and Wyalusing had a wonderful summer staff. I would like to take the time to thank them for a job well done. We could not do what we do without you.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

Friday, August 30th

Movie in the Park

Now Showing: Yogi Bear

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Come to the Wyalusing Room at The Peterson Shelter to see this live action animated movie. Bench seating is available or bring your lawn chairs. Popcorn and treats are available for purchase from the Friends of Wyalusing Concession Stand.

Saturday, August 31st

“A Stroll Through Time” Guided History Walk

Join a guided walk that will explore the rich history of Wyalusing State Park. This is an easy walk on fairly level terrain and will last about an hour.

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Meet at the Concession Stand

Saturday & Sunday, September 7th & 8th

Villa Louis Carriage Classic

Villa Louis Historic Site – St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien

The Midwest’s most elegant and lavishly appointed equine sport driving event. Some of the region’s finest horses and over 100 new and restored carriages compete in a variety of arena and cross-country events. Competitive Driving Event on the lawn of the Villa Louis Historic Site.

For more information, please call 608-326- 2721 or visit the website at www.carriageclassic.com.

September 28th

*Spirits of Wyalusing Past

Meet characters from Wyalusing’s illustrious past along a luminary lit trail. Refreshments, silent auction.

Location: Peterson Shelter

Time: 7:00 p.m.

October 12th

*Big Blue Sky

Location: Peterson Shelter Time: 7:00 p.m.

*Programs sponsored by Friends of Wyalusing State Park

Astronomy Programs sponsored by the StarSplitters of Wyalusing are held on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month – May through October at the Huser Astronomy Center in Wyalusing State Park. Programs start at 8:30 and are held rain or shine

Nelson Dewey State Park – Cassville, Wisconsin

Nelson Dewey is open for the season. All campsites at Nelson Dewey State Park are reservable. If the office is not staffed, please self-register for camping and stickers.

Posted with Blogsy

August 21, 2013

2013-08-21T11:21:00.001-05:00

DATE: Wednesday, August 21, 2013

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Trails are in good hiking condition.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: All reservable sites have been reserved for this weekend as well as next weekend (Labor Day Weekend). We have 21 nonreservable sites (5 electric) open on a first come, first served basis. These sites will most likely fill on Friday night for this weekend. Campers are welcome to call to check on availability, but please keep in mind that we cannot “hold” sites. We have filled all of our campsites every weekend in August. Typically, we usually have a few one night sites open on Friday night and a few campsites become available at 9 a.m. on Saturday. Wyalusing State Park does not fill during the week, Sunday through Thursday, but the last few weeks we have been out of electric sites by Sunday for people camping the following weekend. Non-reservable non-electric sites are still available as of Wednesday for this weekend. Wisconsin Ridge sites on the bluff are typically all taken every night of the week. Please contact Reserve America for a reservation if you would like to camp on a bluff or an electric site during the week or on a weekend. There are no showers or flush toilets at this time in Homestead Campground. Campers are welcome to drive to the Wisconsin Ridge Campground for showers and flush toilets. Concession stand is open every day of the week from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Concession hours will change to weekends only after Labor Day. Canoe rentals and firewood may be available from the campground hosts.

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is at 7.4 feet today and is expected to remain at that level for the next week.

The Prairie Garden near the Wyalusing State Park Office is in full bloom and very beautiful. Flowers in bloom in the Prairie Garden include: Royal Catch Fly, Pale Purple Coneflower, Butterfly Milkweed, Joe Pyeweed, Culver’s Root, Thimbleweed, Prairie Onion and Grey-headed coneflowers. Black-eyed Susans, Grey-headed Coneflowers and Purple Coneflowers can be found in the fields near the office.

The Goats are Here! Hazelton Grazing Goats, courtesy of our neighbors, Driftless Land Stewardship, continue to clear certain areas of the park of unwanted invasive species. Last week the goats were “relocated” to an enclosure between the park office and the Astronomy Center. They are often seen near the road. An electric fence will keep the goats in as well as coyotes out.

Hummingbird Mania continues at Wyalusing State Park. The hummingbirds have finished nesting and are back at the feeders with a vengeance. Hummingbirds number between 30-40 during the day and reach approximately between 60-70 just before dark and on rainy days. Hummingbirds are consuming 2 gallons of sugar water per day. I believe the hummers have had their pictures taken more than anything else in the park this weekend. According to a phenology calendar in the office, the hummingbird migration should have started Sunday, August 18^th. Obviously, the hummingbirds are not aware of their expected migration schedule.

A Snake in the Park Office

Visitor Service Associate Pam was surprised and startled to find a snake in the office. Luckily, Randy Paske, Concession Stand Manager who is not fond of snakes to say the least, came to Pam’s rescue and removed the snake safely outside in the prairie garden. Thanks, Randy for your help. Hopefully the snake will not find its way back into the park office.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

Friday, August 23^rd

Movie in the Park

Now Showing: The Lomax (The original movie by Dr. Seuss)

Location: The Wyalusing Room at the Peterson Shelter

Time: 6:00 p.m. Popcorn available at the Concession Stand.

August 24^th

Junior Ranger Program at Effigy Mounds National Monument

Time: 1:00 p.m.

The last Effigy Mounds Junior Ranger Program of the summer will be held this Saturday. All children from ages 6-12 are invited to join a ranger-guided hike up the bluff. Meet at the Effigy Mounds Visitor Center to “explore, learn, and protect” the National Monument. Participants will earn a Junior Ranger patch, hiking stickers and a special paper junior ranger hat. In case of inclement weather, activities will take place indoors.

For more information, please contact Effigy Mounds National Monument at 563-873-3491 ext 202.

Effigy Mounds National Monument is located 3 miles north of Marquette, Iowa on Highway 76 (just across the Mississippi River from Prairie du Chien, WI).

Sticks, Stones & Bones

Hands on program featuring Native American Artifacts

Presented by: Effigy Mounds National Monument Park Ranger, Merle Frommelt

Location: Peterson Shelter Time: 7:00 p.m.

Astronomy Program

Join the StarSplitters of Wyalusing for an evening of stargazing at the Huser Astronomy Center.

Time: 8:30 p.m.

September 28^th

Spirits of Wyalusing Past

Meet characters from Wyalusing’s illustrious past along a luminary lit trail. Refreshments, silent auction.

Location: Peterson Shelter Time: 7:00 p.m.

October 12^th

*Big Blue Sky

Location: Peterson Shelter Time: 7:00 p.m.

*Programs sponsored by Friends of Wyalusing State Park

Nelson Dewey State Park – Cassville, Wisconsin

Nelson Dewey is open for the season. All campsites at Nelson Dewey State Park are reservable. If the office is not staffed, please self-register for camping and stickers.

Sunday, August 4, 2013

2013-08-04T19:40:00.001-05:00

FROM THE BLUFFS

OF WYALUSING

Wyalusing State Park

13081 State Park Lane

Bagley, WI 53801

Phone: 608-996-2261

www.wyalusing.org

DATE: Sunday, August 4, 2013

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Trails are in good hiking condition.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: Most reservable sites in both the Wisconsin Ridge and Homestead Campgrounds have been reserved for this coming weekend, August 9th and 10th. There are a few reservable sites left in the Homestead Campground for this weekend. Reserve no later than Wednesday for sites on Friday. Wyalusing State Park does not fill during the week, Sunday through Thursday, but the last few weeks we have been out of electric sites by Sunday for people camping the following weekend. Non-reservable electric sites may open at some point during this week for the weekend. Wisconsin Ridge sites on the bluff are typically all taken every night of the week. There are still a number of non-reservable sites available for the weekend as of today. Please contact Reserve America for a reservation if you would like to camp on a bluff or an electric site during the week or on a weekend. Campers are welcome to call to check on availability. There are no showers or flush toilets at this time in Homestead Campground. Campers are welcome to drive to the Wisconsin Ridge Campground for showers and flush toilets. Concession stand is open every day of the week from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

The road to the boat landing has been repaired. The boat landing road is now open and the concession stand is once again renting canoes and kayaks.

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is at 7.6 feet today.

The Prairie Garden near the Wyalusing State Park Office is in full bloom and very beautiful. Flowers in bloom in the Prairie Garden include: Royal Catch Fly, Pale Purple Coneflower, Butterfly Milkweed, Swamp Milkweed, Joe Pyeweed, White Indigo, Culver’s Root, Thimbleweed, Prairie Onion and Grey-headed coneflowers. Black-eyed Susans, Grey-headed Coneflowers and Purple Coneflowers can be found in the fields near the office.

The Goats are Here! Hazelton Grazing Goats, courtesy of our neighbors, Driftless Land Stewardship, arrived on Wednesday of last week. Currently they are in a fenced in area just north and east of the Lawrence Interpretive Center and along the entrance to the Outdoor Group Camp. Seventy five goats will clear that area of unwanted invasive species before being “relocated” to other areas of the park. An electric fence will keep the goats in as well as coyotes out.

Hummingbird Mania has arrived at Wyalusing State Park. The hummingbirds have finished nesting and are back at the feeders with a vengeance. Hummingbirds number between 30-40 during the day and reach approximately between 60-70 just before dark and on rainy days. Hummingbirds are consuming 2 gallons of sugar water per day. I believe the hummers have had their pictures taken more than anything else in the park this weekend. A few park visitors have spent hours each photographing the “living jewels” of the bird world.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

August 10^th

*Smokey Bear’s Birthday Bash

Join the Friends of Wyalusing and Park Staff as we celebrate Smokey’s Birthday. Birthday cake, complete with candles, parade through the Wisconsin Ridge Campground, led by Smokey, coloring contests, Pin the Hat on Smokey, hear the real story of Smoky Bear and more. Bring your bike, trike and wagon or walk along with Smokey.

Peterson Shelter – 6 p.m.

August 17^th

*Native Reptiles & Amphibians

Slide show as well as hands on program presented by Matt Heeter

Peterson Shelter – 7 p.m.

August 24^th

Sticks, Stones & Bones

Hands on program featuring Native American Artifacts

Presented by Effigy Mounds National Monument Park Ranger, Merle Frommelt

Peterson Shelter 7 p.m.

September 28^th

Spirits of Wyalusing Past

Meet characters from Wyalusing’s illustrious past along a luminary lit trail. Refreshments, silent auction.

Peterson Shelter – 7:00 p.m.

October 12^th

*Big Blue Sky

Peterson Shelter – 7 p.m.

*Programs sponsored by Friends of Wyalusing State Park

Nelson Dewey State Park – Cassville, Wisconsin

Nelson Dewey is open for the season. All campsites at Nelson Dewey State Park are reservable. If the office is not staffed, please self-register for camping and stickers.

The Bluff Report–July 31, 2013

2013-07-31T10:30:00.001-05:00

FROM THE BLUFFS

OF WYALUSING

Wyalusing State Park

13081 State Park Lane

Bagley, WI 53801

Phone: 608-996-2261

www.wyalusing.org

DATE: Wednesday, July 31, 2013

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Trails are in good hiking condition.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: All reservable sites in both the Wisconsin Ridge and Homestead Campgrounds have been reserved for this coming weekend, August 2^nd and 3rd. As of today, Wednesday, July 31^st , there are no electric sites available for the upcoming weekend. There is a possibility of 4 electric non-reservable sites becoming available on Thursday, August 1^st. These sites may be available on a first come, first serve basis. There are 2 nonreservable bluff sites available in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground as well as most of the nonreservable sites in Homestead Campground. Country on the River, a country music festival begins tomorrow and runs through Saturday night. The festival grounds are located about 8 miles from Wyalusing State Park on Hwy. 18 between the park and Prairie du Chien. Country on the River may put added pressure on the non-reservable site availability for the weekend. Last weekend was the first and only weekend that Wyalusing has filled both of the campgrounds this year. Wyalusing State Park does not fill during the week, Sunday through Thursday, but the last few weeks we have been out of electric sites by Sunday for people camping the following weekend. Wisconsin Ridge sites on the bluff are typically all taken every night of the week. Please contact Reserve America for a reservation if you would like to camp on a bluff or an electric site during the week or on a weekend. Campers are welcome to call to check on availability. There are no showers or flush toilets at this time in Homestead Campground. Campers are welcome to drive to the Wisconsin Ridge Campground for showers and flush toilets. Concession stand is open every day of the week from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

The road to the boat landing has been repaired. The boat landing road is now open and the concession stand is once again renting canoes and kayaks.

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is at 8 feet today.

The Prairie Garden near the Wyalusing State Park Office is in full bloom and very beautiful. Flowers in bloom in the Prairie Garden include: Royal Catch Fly, Pale Purple Coneflower, Butterfly Milkweed, Swamp Milkweed, Joe Pyeweed, White Indigo, Culver’s Root, Thimbleweed, Prairie Onion and Grey-headed coneflowers. Black-eyed Susans, Grey-headed Coneflowers and Purple Coneflowers can be found in the fields near the office.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

August 10^th

*Smokey Bear’s Birthday Bash

Peterson Shelter – 6 p.m.

August 17^th

*Native Reptiles & Amphibians

Slide show as well as hands on program presented by Matt Heeter

Peterson Shelter – 7 p.m.

August 24^th

Sticks, Stones & Bones

Hands on program featuring Native American Artifacts

Presented by Effigy Mounds National Monument Park Ranger, Merle Frommelt

Peterson Shelter 7 p.m.

September 28^th

Spirits of Wyalusing Past

Meet characters from Wyalusing’s illustrious past along a luminary lit trail. Refreshments, silent auction.

Peterson Shelter – 7:00 p.m.

October 12^th

*Big Blue Sky

Peterson Shelter – 7 p.m.

*Programs sponsored by Friends of Wyalusing State Park

Nelson Dewey State Park – Cassville, Wisconsin

Nelson Dewey is open for the season. All campsites at Nelson Dewey State Park are reservable. If the office is not staffed, please self-register for camping and stickers.

Sunday, July 21st, 2013

2013-07-21T20:49:00.001-05:00

DATE: Sunday, July 21^st, 2013

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Trails are in good hiking condition.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: All reservable sites in both the Wisconsin Ridge and Homestead Campgrounds have been reserved for this coming weekend, July 26^th and July 27^th. . As of Sunday, July 21^st, there are no electric sites available for the upcoming weekend. There is a possibility of 4 electric non-reservable sites becoming available later this week. There are still a number of non-reservable, non-electric sites available in both the Wisconsin Ridge and Homestead Campgrounds for this coming weekend. Prairie Dog Blues Fest, held on Friday and Saturday, July 26^th and 27^{th ,}in Prairie du Chien, will put additional pressure on the campsites. Wyalusing State Park does not fill during the week, Sunday through Thursday, but the last few weeks we have been out of electric sites by Sunday for people camping the following weekend. Please contact Reserve America for a reservation if you would like to camp on a bluff or an electric site during the week or on a weekend. Campers are welcome to call to check on availability. There are no showers or flush toilets at this time in Homestead Campground. Campers are welcome to drive to the Wisconsin Ridge Campground for showers and flush toilets. Concession stand is open every day of the week from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

The road to the boat landing has been repaired. The boat landing opened on Wednesday, July 17^th. The concession stand is once again renting canoes and kayaks.

Many boaters, anglers and canoeists took advantage of the great weather, repaired road and near normal water levels over this past weekend.

Mississippi River level at Prairie du Chien is at 9.7 today (Sunday, July 21^st). The river is expected to drop to 9 feet by the upcoming weekend.

The Prairie Garden near the Wyalusing State Park Office is in full bloom and very beautiful. Flowers in bloom in the Prairie Garden include: Royal Catch Fly, Pale Purple Coneflower, Butterfly Milkweed, Swamp Milkweed, Joe Pyeweed, White Indigo, Culver’s Root, Thimbleweed, Prairie Onion. Black-eyed Susans can be found in the fields near the office.

Upcoming Programs and Area Events

Saturday, July 27th

Astronomy Program

Presented by StarSplitters of Wyalusing

Location: Huser Astronomy Center

Time: 8:30 p.m.

Moonlight Hike- Effigy Mounds National Monument

Location: Effigy Mounds National Monument

Reservations required – call 563- 873-3491 ext 202.

Effigy Mounds is located just north of Marquette, Iowa on Hwy. 76 (just across the Mississippi River from Prairie du Chien.

August 10^th

*Smokey Bear’s Birthday Bash

Join the Friends of Wyalusing and Park Staff as we celebrate Smokey’s Birthday. Birthday cake, complete with candles, parade through the Wisconsin Ridge Campground, led by Smokey and more. Bring your bike, trike and wagon or walk along with Smokey.

Peterson Shelter – 6 p.m.

August 17^th

*Native Reptiles & Amphibians

Slide show as well as hands on program presented by Matt Heeter

Peterson Shelter – 7 p.m.

August 24^th

Sticks, Stones & Bones

Hands on program featuring Native American Artifacts

Presented by Effigy Mounds National Monument Park Ranger, Merle Frommelt

Peterson Shelter 7 p.m.

September 28^th

*Spirits of Wyalusing Past

A special night hike celebrating Wyalusing’s colorful and historic past.

October 12^th

*Big Blue Sky

Peterson Shelter – 7 p.m.

*Programs sponsored by Friends of Wyalusing State Park

Nelson Dewey State Park – Cassville, Wisconsin

Nelson Dewey is open for the season. All campsites at Nelson Dewey State Park are reservable. If the office is not staffed, please self-register for camping and stickers.

July 10th, 2013

2013-07-10T15:37:00.001-05:00

FROM THE BLUFFS

OF WYALUSING

Wyalusing State Park

13081 State Park Lane

Bagley, WI 53801

Phone: 608-996-2261

www.wyalusing.org

DATE: Wednesday, July 10th, 2013

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Trails are in good hiking condition.

FORECAST: Forecast is favorable for the upcoming weekend with sunny skies and highs in low – mid 80’s.

CAMPING AVAILABILITY: Most of the reservable sites have been reserved for this weekend. There are still a number of non-reservable sites available in both the Wisconsin Ridge and Homestead Campgrounds. There are no electric sites available for this weekend. Wyalusing State Park does not fill during the week, Sunday through Thursday, but the last few weeks we have been out of electric sites by Sunday for people camping the following weekend. Please contact Reserve America for a reservation if you would like to camp on a bluff or an electric site during the week or on a weekend. Campers are welcome to call to check on availability. There are no showers or flush toilets at this time in Homestead Campground. Campers are welcome to drive to the Wisconsin Ridge Campground for showers and flush toilets. Concession stand is open every day of the week from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Due to the high water the concession stand is not renting canoes or kayaks at this time. The road to the boat landing is closed until further notice due to severe washouts caused by the torrential rains last weekend

The Prairie Garden near the Wyalusing State Park Office is in full bloom and very beautiful. Flowers in bloom in the Prairie Garden include: Royal Catch Fly, Pale Purple Coneflower, Butterfly Milkweed, Swamp Milkweed, Joe Pyeweed, White Indigo, Culver’s Root, Thimbleweed, Prairie Onion. Black-eyed Susans can be found in the fields near the office.

Mississippi River Level at Prairie du Chien: The Mississippi River level today (Wednesday, July 10th) at Prairie du Chien is 13.4. The Mississippi River is expected to drop to 13 feet by Saturday.

Weekend Activities – Wyalusing State Park and Prairie du Chien

Friday – July 12th

Movies in the Park

Now Showing – Open Season III

Presented by: Friends of Wyalusing State Park

Location: Peterson Shelter

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Saturday- July 13^th

Sentinel Ridge Walk

Presented by Merle Frommelt, Ranger, Effigy Mounds National Monument

Location: Passenger Pigeon Monument

Time: 4:00 p.m.

Astronomy Program

Presented by StarSplitters of Wyalusing

Location: Huser Astronomy Center

Time: 8:30 p.m.

Fireworks in Prairie

Location: Lawler Park

Time: Dusk

Saturday and Sunday – July 13^th and 14th

Junior Ranger Program

Battle of Prairie du Chien – A historic re-enactment commemorating Wisconsin’s only Battle of the War of 1812. A living history lesson of how the British won the battle, but lost the war!

Location: Villa Louis Historic Site

Saturday – 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sunday – 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Narrated Battles – Saturday 5 p.m. Sunday 2:30 p.m.

Presented by Effigy Mounds National Park Ranger Merle Frommelt

Meet at Passenger Pigeon Monument – 4 p.m.

August 10^th

*Smokey Bear’s Birthday Bash

Join the Friends of Wyalusing and Park Staff as we celebrate Smokey’s Birthday. Birthday cake, complete with candles, parade through the Wisconsin Ridge Campground, led by Smokey and more. Bring your bike, trike and wagon or walk along with Smokey.

Peterson Shelter – 6 p.m.

August 17^th

*Native Reptiles & Amphibians

Slide show as well as hands on program presented by Matt Heeter

Peterson Shelter – 7 p.m.

August 24^th

Sticks, Stones & Bones

Hands on program featuring Native American Artifacts

Presented by Effigy Mounds National Monument Park Ranger, Merle Frommelt

Peterson Shelter 7 p.m.

*Programs sponsored by Friends of Wyalusing State Park

Nelson Dewey State Park – Cassville, Wisconsin

Nelson Dewey is open for the season. All campsites at Nelson Dewey State Park are reservable. If the office is not staffed, please self-register for camping and stickers.

Friday, June 28, 2013

2013-06-28T11:36:00.001-05:00

DATE: Friday, June 28, 2013

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Wyalusing State Park received approximately 10-12 inches of rain since Friday, June 21^st. Trails may be wet, but all trails are open.

FORECAST: Today’s forecast calls for a 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3 p.m. Temps will cool off with a pleasant high of 77 degrees. Tonight there is a 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorm, with a low around 61. Saturday there is a 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms during the day and a 30 percent in the evening. Highs will be near 72 degrees during the day with a low of 57. Sunday calls for sunny skies with a high near 76 degrees. At this point there is no rain .m. on Friday, June 28^th, we have 10 campsites open for this weekend. There are no electric sites in the forecast until after Tuesday.

CAMPING INFORMATION. As of 10 a available for this weekend. All sites for this weekend are available on a first come first served basis. All reservable sites have been reserved the July 4^th weekend. A number of the nonreservable sites have already been taken for next weekend. Electrical sites for the July 4^th weekend will be difficult to come by. Wyalusing State Park does not fill during the week, Sunday through Thursday, but the last few weeks we have been out of electric sites by Sunday for people camping the following weekend. Please contact Reserve America for a reservation if you would like to camp on a bluff or an electric site during the week or on a weekend. Campers are welcome to call to check on availability. There are no showers or flush toilets at this time in Homestead Campground. Campers are welcome to drive to the Wisconsin Ridge Campground for showers and flush toilets. Concession stand is open every day of the week from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

All reservations for campsites in Wisconsin State Parks and Forests are made through Reserve America. Reservations can be made 11 months in advance over the telephone at 888-947-2757, or online at www.wiparks.net. Reservations need to be made at least 2 days prior to the arrival date. Please keep in mind that waiting until 2 days prior will limit the availability of campsites.

If the office is closed when you arrive, please self register. A site availability list is posted in the kiosk near the self-registration tube. Please refer to this list when registering for campsites. Include money for park stickers when registering for camping. Self registration envelopes and maps are located near the front door of the office. If you would like to purchase an annual sticker, please write legibly. Your annual sticker will be mailed to you on the next business day. The receipt from the self registration is valid as a park sticker until the annual sticker is received.

BIRD SIGHTINGS: Recent bird sightings (as of May 15^th) include:

Spotted Sandpiper, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Black-billed Cuckoo, all of the woodpeckers, Eastern Wood Pewee, Acadian Flycatcher, Eastern Phoebe, Great Crested Flycatcher, Tree Swallow, N. Rough-winged Swallow, Red-breasted Nuthatch, White-breasted Nuthatch, House Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Blue Grey Gnatcatcher, Eastern Bluebird, Veery, Gray-cheeked Thrush, Swainson’s Thrush, Wood Thrush, Gray Catbird, Brown Thrasher, White-eyed Vireo, Solitary Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Warbling vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Indigo Bunting, Eastern Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Field Sparrow, Henslow’s Sparrow, Song Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, White Crowned Sparrow, Harris’ Sparrow, Baltimore Oriole, American Goldfinch. .

Mississippi River Level at Prairie du Chien: The Mississippi River level today (Friday, June 28^th) at Prairie du Chien is 16.2 The Mississippi River is expected to stay at 16.2 until Sunday and then it should start to drop slowly.

Please note, the Guided Canoe Trip scheduled for tomorrow, June 29^th, has been canceled due to the high water levels and the closure of the road to the boat landing.

Naturalist Programs – Wyalusing State Park

Friday, June 28^th

Movies in the Park

Movies in the Park will begin this Friday. The Lorax, (the original) a short animated film based on the popular children’s book by Dr. Seuss is the first selection of the season. Popcorn will be available.

Location: Peterson Shelter

June 29^th

Junior Ranger Program

Presented by Effigy Mounds National Monument Park Ranger

2:00 p.m. – Sentinel Ridge Trail

*Driftless Regional Music Provided by Jon Stravers and “Big Blue Sky”

Big Blue Sky is a changing line-up of local musicians with original music inspired by the river here in the Driftless Region. Blues, folks, bluegrass, and reggae..

Peterson Shelter – 7 p.m.

July 6^th

*Native Reptiles & Amphibians

Slide show as well as hands on program presented by Matt Heeter

Peterson Shelter – 7 p.m.

July 13^th

Touring Sentinel Ridge

Presented by Effigy Mounds National Park Ranger Merle Frommelt

Meet at Passenger Pigeon Monument – 4 p.m.

August 10^th

*Smokey Bear’s Birthday Bash

Join the Friends of Wyalusing and Park Staff as we celebrate Smokey’s Birthday. Birthday cake, complete with candles, parade through the Wisconsin Ridge Campground, led by Smokey and more. Bring your bike, trike and wagon or walk along with Smokey.

Peterson Shelter – 6 p.m.

August 17^th

*Native Reptiles & Amphibians

Slide show as well as hands on program presented by Matt Heeter

Peterson Shelter – 7 p.m.

August 24^th

Sticks, Stones & Bones

Hands on program featuring Native American Artifacts

Presented by Effigy Mounds National Monument Park Ranger, Merle Frommelt

Peterson Shelter 7 p.m.

*Programs sponsored by Friends of Wyalusing State Park

Nelson Dewey State Park – Cassville, Wisconsin

Nelson Dewey is open for the season. All campsites at Nelson Dewey State Park are reservable. If the office is not staffed, please self-register for camping and stickers.