News You Can Use

HOLIDAY DEER HUNT

The antlerless-only holiday deer hunt opens the morning of Christmas Eve and runs through New Year’s Day in select Farmland (Zone 2) counties. Archery and crossbow deer hunting opportunities also extend to Jan. 31. Visit dnr.wi.gov/topic/hunt for details on all hunting seasons.

Linda Freshwaters Arndt

RARE PLANT MONITORING

Plant lovers: Spend time this winter preparing to be part of the Rare Plant Monitoring Program to help preserve the state’s most vulnerable flora. Training can be completed through online videos or by sessions planned in early 2022. For details, see wiatri.net/inventory/rareplants.

SKI TRAIL CONDITIONS

When the snow starts to accumulate, cross-country skiers know it’s time to dust off skis and boots, break out the wax and get ready for the season. Before hitting the trail, check the DNR’s cross-country ski trail conditions report for grooming information on the state’s hundreds of miles of ski trails — dnr.wi.gov/trailconditions.

A vehicle admission sticker is required for entry to most parks, and a state trail pass may be needed for skiers age 16 and older. Fees support Wisconsin’s state parks.

For more on cross-country skiing at state parks and trails, visit dnr.wi.gov/ topic/parks/recreation/skiing.

Jason Smith

GET OUT FOR A FIRST DAY HIKE

Start the new year right on Jan. 1 by stepping out into the fresh air. State parks and other properties are great places to ring in the new year with a First Day Hike; some locations may host organized events. Visit dnr.wi.gov/ events to find events near you.

Amanda Kutka

BALD EAGLE WATCHING

In cold weather, areas of open water along the Wisconsin, Fox and Mississippi rivers provide ideal hunting grounds for bald eagles in search of fish to eat.

This creates great viewing opportunities for those who want to see these majestic birds in action.

Several Wisconsin communities offer bald eagle watching events in winter. For details, and to learn more about this once endangered species, visit dnr.wi.gov/topic/wildlifehabitat/baldeagle.html.

Reggie Gauger

FIND A PARK

Looking for a state park or other property to enjoy Wisconsin’s great outdoors? Check out the DNR’s online park finder. You can search for parks based on the activities they offer, amenities available, accessible features and even find rental opportunities at state parks, forests and trails statewide — dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/findapark.