Summer 2010 Vol. 15 Issue 1A Publication of the Friends of Hartman Creek State Park

Hartman Harrier

INSIDEMeet Fred Viste - P2Naturalist Schedule - P3Trail Building - P4Bluebird - P6High School Connection - P8Water and Prarie - P10Marsh Monitoring - P11Salamander - P12Mosquito Trivia - P14Ticks - P15Park Guide - P16Camground Sites - P17Learn by Doing - P19

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hartman Creek State Park

by Kira Minehart

The hue of Hartman Creek State Park can be expressed by the current season. Summers immi-nence brings many occurrences, as the dull brownish gray evolves into a luscious green. For example, the flight of the endangered Karner Blue butterfly as it seeks a lupine plant. The whisper of the wind as it sways the branches to and fro, and the leaves tumble and toss in re-sponse. The calm breeze appears in steady intervals of time, it is rare for the air to be still. However, Allen Lake seems to be a sheet of glass, with only a few mallards corrupting its southwestern corner. The sand-hill crane prepares for flight, and boasts its six foot wing span. Hikers engage in long treks on the trails that encircle the lakes. Kayakers can be seen skimming the surface on any of the seven pristine lakes. These episodes are only a paragraph of the story that composes the warmer seasons at Hartman Creek State Park. Hartman Creek is home to many species of flora and fauna that are available for all to see on the various trail systems that the park offers. The change of the seasons brings a change in the species that are often seen. Canadian geese, sandhill cranes, and migrating ducks are in full force this spring and can be seen in close proximity to any of the lakes enclosed by the park. White tail deer frolic in and out of hiding; however their pres-ence is common just off the beaten trail. Although Karner Blue But-terflies are listed as an endangered species, Hartman Creek has one of the largest populations in the state. These bright blue insects can be seen hovering about the wild lupine plant, the only plant they feed on. Panfish and largemouth bass are the most popular species anglers have discovered in the natural and

manmade lakes that dot the area. Muskie, northern, and walleye have been caught by the luckier visitors as well. Painted turtles and snap-ping turtles can be seen breaking the surface on any of the lakes with their inquisitive heads, but soon submerge into the cool green water. Lichens and mosses become moist and lush as their color reappears, fading into brighter shades of green and brown. Hartman Creek is a wildlife refuge, and no hunting is permitted except for deer during the deer gun and bow season. The park follows a strict “leave no trace” policy, in order to preserve the natu-ral beauty of its native species. If the wildlife doesn’t spark an interest, the summer recreational activities will not fail to do so. The park offers adventures for people of all ages, interests, and abili-ties. Numerous horse and biking trails weave through the park, all of which are well groomed. These trails are quite popular among riders, hikers, runners, and walk-

ers alike. The historic Ice Age trail can also be found on the property. However, some may prefer the free-dom of the water to ruggedness of the land. Seven crystal clear lakes occupy the park. Four manmade lakes, Allen, Grebe, Middle, and Hartman are spring fed. Gas motors are prohibited on these lakes, which creates serene water for paddlers and anglers. Disability accessible fishing piers are located on the east shore of Allen Lake and on Marl Lake. The slow-no-wake lakes are Marl, Pope, Manomin, and Knight Lakes, and are located at the head of Waupaca’s Chain O’Lakes. Hart-man Lake boasts a 300 foot sand beach with a marked off swim-ming area. Adjacent to the beach

is a recreational area containing picnic tables, drinking water, and a restroom and changing facility. Camping opportunities are abundant at Hartman Creek, with over 100 family camping sites and five group camping sites. Teepee campsites are also available for rent from May to September. Hartman Creek State park is a place where adventure, ecology, and recreation all form a common bond. The park is sure to spark the interests of adults and children alike with its many points of inter-est. For more information, visit the Friends of Hartman Creek Park at ww.hartmancreekfriends.org

Allen Lake Reflections - Photo by Diane Montgomery

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 2

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

Layout Editor: Mark PolebitskiContributing Writers: Kira Minehart Darrin Mann Sue Eiler Shelley Hamel Phil Peterson Kris Stepenuck Diane Montgomery Dino Tlachac Kent D. Hall, Ph.D.Contributing Editors Jake Ash Cade WaltersAdvertising Sales: Arpad & Sue Eiler RoseMary SalzmanDesign Assistant: Sandy Robinson Rick PatzkeAddress all correspondence to:

Friends of Hartman Creek Hartman Creek State Park

N2480 Hartman Creek RoadWaupaca, WI 54981

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

Take Smokey Bear camping!

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

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

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

Clear Water Harbor

Waterfront Restaurant & BarCasual dining in a family atmosphere. Homemade soups, salads, grilled & cold sandwiches, Featuring Daily Specials, Great Friday Night Fish Fry & Homemade Pizzas.

“The Harbor”

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

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

Sunday Champagne Brunch Cruise (June 27 to Labor Day) (RESERVATIONS REQUIRED)

PRIVATE CHARTERS AVAILABLE

CLEAR WATER HARBORN2757 Cty Hwy QQ • Waupaca, WI 54981

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

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

visit our website:www.clearwaterharbor.com

Live Entertainment!

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

MOO’s Dairy Bar

Meet Fred Visteby Sue Eiler

For the first time in many years, the position of ranger-assistant park manager is filled. Coming to us by way of Green Bay, Door County and Stevens Point is Fred Viste. He is in charge of maintenance and general operations in park, cleaning, performing repairs or finding someone who can. The job title also includes ranger, so he will join Park Ranger Sue McElrone, two seasonal rangers, plus Park Manager Mike Bergum in law enforcement duties. A lateral transfer opportunity in January within the DNR allowed Fred to leave Peninsula State Park to get closer to the Stevens Point area, his alma mater.

It took Fred six or seven years to work his way through the UWSP College of natural resources. He had already received a degree in forest recreation and was busy working on another major in urban forestry when the call came from Peninsula State Park in his mid semester of 2008. Working for the DNR was his number one goal. He was faced with the decision to take the job and abandon his forestry pursuits or miss the opportunity for a permanent position as enforcement ranger. He took the job.

Fred has been working since 2001 in a variety of State Parks. His first foray, fresh out of high school was as camp ground host and laborer at Rock Island. Anyone who knows this State Park can appreciate how remote it is, especially for a young man. Fred spent the summer in his tent, cooking at the ranger’s station his pancakes for breakfast, eating leftover pancakes for lunch, and boiling Ramen or beef stew for supper. At night we would gaze at the stars, maybe listen to his Discman and enjoy the solitude. He loved it.

Fred started his higher education at UW Green Bay for a year, then switched to UW Stevens Point where his older brother Paul, born four years earlier but on the same day, was pursuing a degree in environmental education with a minor in environ-mental law enforcement. They lived together for three years on campus. Throughout his college years, he worked summer jobs as a ranger in four out of five Door County State Parks: Rock Island, Potawatomi, Whitefish Dunes and Peninsula. Two summers he worked as an urban forester Green Bay. During school, he filled a clerical position in Schmeeckle Reserve that allowed him to observe interpretive sign design and construction. His many years in Stevens Point developed a fondness for the community with good friendships formed.

Fred and his four siblings all grew up in the family home in the city of Green Bay. Their love of all things outdoors was a combination of the influence of their Grandfather Lintereur, a game warden-wildlife manager for the Northeast region and family tent camping in Upper Michigan. Sadly, when Fred was still in high school, his father suddenly passed away from a heart attack. All five of the Viste children graduated college and their life pursuits include math teacher, music teacher, on-line magazine editor and his older brother as an urban forester in Hilton Head, SC. His mother remains in the family home and is now a grandmother to little Ben.

What brought Fred to Hartman Creek? To him, Stevens Point and the surrounding area is the natural resources capital of America. Providing sound stewardship is very important to him. He loves the Park’s varied terrain, little lakes and prairie remnants. While in Stevens Point he worked with a fire crew and prescribed burns interest him. Good forestry practices are being implemented here, connecting to his love of trees. There is the campground that meshes with his degree in recreation.

Fred enjoys a variety of activities in his spare time. He runs every other day, of-ten in Schmeeckle Reserve or the sidewalks of Stevens Point. He doesn’t yet have snowshoes, skis or a kayak, but might in the future. He’d like a bike. He’s teaching himself to play the electric guitar. He’s tried grouse hunting, but without success. He loves fishing and cherishes annual weeklong trips to Canada with a group of life-long friends. He’s a video gamer in the fantasy genre. He reads science fiction and fantasy. On his half-hour commute he might listen to Mozart and or maybe some heavy metal music. He is a man of varied tastes.

Fred’s short-term goal is to get to know the park better. He’s already checked all the electrical boxes, picnic tables and buildings. He’ll be working with Mike on the newly acquired land north of the Park, getting it signed properly, removing a concrete pad and hunting blinds and preparing a corridor for the Ice Age Trail.

He’s got long term goals too. One day he hopes to manage his own park and eventually move into upper management, administration and supervision. He in-tends to break the mold of sitting behind a desk by retaining communication with the outside world. His Wisconsin roots run deep as most of his family lives in the Green Bay area so he intends to stay in his home state.

In all his years of school, Fred never set foot in the Hartman Creek. He’ll make up for that aplenty as he traverses prairie, forest, campground and lakeshore whether working or recreating. Wish Fred a warm welcome as he starts a new pathway in life in a place he already loves.

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 3

“Universe in the Park” offered by UW Astronomy

DepartmentAn Outreach Program of the Department of Astronomy University of Wisconsin-Madison - Program Director: Prof. Eric M. Wilcots

We are now entering the eighth year of “Universe in the Park”, the extremely popular outreach program of the Department of Astronomy at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. Two “Universe in the Park” programs will held at the Hart-man Creek State Park amphitheater this summer-July 24 and August 28, starting at sunset.

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

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

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

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

Summer 2010 Saturday Hartman Creek State Park Public Programs:

June 19- “What’s On My Line?!” Ever pull up your fishing line and find something bizarre on your hook? Catch an animal that looks more alien than fish or reptile? Find out what that animal might be, why it’s there, and what it can tell you about the water you’re fishing in!

June 26- Day and night program Day program: “Lake Rake” Head on over to the lake (TBA) and get

sassy with the sediment! We’ll seek out macroinvertebrates (bugs!) and other creatures that live in the sediment and shallow water and see just what kind of creepy crawlies lurk under the surface of the water.

Night program: “Fly Tying” We’ll continue with our bug discussion to see what kind of flies and insects the fish are eating- then learn how to make a fishing lure that looks just like them. Do your best to fool the fish!

July 10- “Star Spangled Butterflies” Following Independence Day weekend, explore some of the beautiful and patriotic butterfly species that live right here in Central Wisconsin (including the highly endangered Karner Blue butterfly), their unique names, and the habitat they call home.

July 17- Day and Night programs Day program: “Bee-yond Butterflies” There’s more to life than flut-

tering by! Lots of insects we don’t even see work hard to make a living and enhance our habitat. Drop in to find out who they are!

Night Program: “Prairie Parade” Why don’t we see many insects in the middle of the day? Get the answers and watch the bugs and beetles come out like clockwork as the day gets dim

July 24-. “Did We Do That?” The timber industry has a long and important history in creating current Wisconsin habitats. Take a look at how logging has influenced native and non-native insects in Wisconsin, as well as how humans use insects and the role we play in the survival of insect species.

July 31-“We Dig Decomposers!” Decomposers? You mean termites and dung beetles and worms?! Blech! But wait- these creatures aren’t gross! They do extremely important jobs out in nature- who else is going to take out Mother Nature’s garbage? Get down and dirty with some of the most important ani-mals out there! And see if you can spot decomposers that aren’t animals…

August 7- “Habitat Hike” Hartman Creek State Park boasts many dif-ferent types of habitats from lakes to prairies to forests. But what you might not realize is habitats don’t always have to be on the big scale. Take a hike to see some of the microhabitats that have been hiding right under your nose!

August 14- “CSI: Nature” Officer, your presence is requested at Hartman Creek State Park to help solve a mystery. Figure out what happened the old fashioned way: by looking at the evidence animals leave behind in some of nature’s most common and alluring tales, crimes, and mysteries.

August 21- Day and Night program Day program: “Workin’ ‘til the Whistle” Lots of animals are only ac-

tive during certain times of the day. Discover what time the night shift is over and who takes the next one!

Night Program: “You Can Run But You Can’t Hide!” Ever been curious about the itsy bitsy mammals that are able to hide even when they’re actively searching for food and water? We’ll see if we can make a few mousy little friends and find out just where they go when they’re on the run.

August 28 – “Scavenger Hunt” Have you got a knack for finding a grass that quacks? Or maybe you’ve got an eye for a yellow fly… Either way, come test your skills in an all-nature scavenger hunt complete with prizes! A digital camera is helpful but not required.

Saturday, June 5th“SPRING WING DING FLING THING”

Delicious Grilled Chicken Wings in BBQ or Tangy, Honey Dijon SauceGLENN DAVIS & The Blues Commission

Saturday, June 19thOur highly anticipated sensational STEAK FRY

Huge Steak Sandwich, Sauteed Mushrooms & Onions on grilled Garlic BreadWe welcome new performers

SALT CREEKVoted Best Bluegrass Band two years running

Saturday, July 10thNew “SAUSAGE FEST”

Celebrating The Best of Chicago & Wisconsin’s Tradition of Fine SausagesBIG MOUTH & The Power Tool Horns

Saturday, July 24thCORN ROAST & Blues Bash

Turner’s fresh-picked sweet cornWESTSIDE ANDY and THE MEL FORD BAND

Saturday, August 7th“RIB-O-RAMA”

Succulent slow-smoked BBQ Pork Ribs With BBQ or Tangy, Honey Dijon SuacePUPY COSTELLO & His Big City Honky Tonk

Saturday, August 21stThe annual CHICKEN BBQ

A Delicious Grilled Chicken Dinner w/Baked Beans & Cole SlawDAVE SPECTER

Don’t miss this master of Jazz & Blues

Saturday, September 25thOur Autumn Pig Roast

An annual tradition. We Slow-Roast a Whole Pig on a spit w/all the trimmings!PRIMITIVE CULTURE

Performs Reggae, Funk, Rhythm & Blues

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www.wheelhouserestaurant.com • (715) 258-8289

SUMMER 2010 GRILLIN’ & LIVE MUSIC EVENTS

All events start at NOON. Welcome Happy Campers

Mobility impaired facilities available

Hartman Creek has picnic areas and campsites that have received minor modifications and additions to improve them for mobility impaired visitors.

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

At 18-acre Allen Lake, there is a specially designed fishing pier for mobility im-paired users. Benches and seated angler stations are on the pier.

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

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

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 4

This Park is a Wildlife RefugeHartman Creek State Park is a wildlife refuge, and

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

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

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

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

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

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

Turner’s Fresh Market & Greenhouses

The Best of Fresh Seasonal Produce

(sweet corn from July 4th)

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

1/2 mile west of Hartman Creek Road

Chain BPSUBWAY®

SELLING BEER until 10:00 p.m.

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

FRESH COFFEEFRESH BAKED DAILY:

Cookies, Muffins, Donuts

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

Chain BP 715-258-5153 • Chain Subway® 715-258-9936

OPEN EVERY DAY AT 5:30 A.M.

Denise Maiman

& gifts

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

11

s Sweatshirts & T-shirtss Bath & Body s Eye-catching

Summer Clothing & Accessories

Open May thru DecemberNext to Cate’s Gourmet

2009 Trail Building Results in New Bike

by Darrin MannThe development of singletrack mountain bike trail continued as it has for the

last three years. However, in an attempt to attract more volunteers, Cronies Trail Building Crew gave a reputable bike away at the closing of the 2009 trail building season. The rules were simple. Every volunteer who submitted six hours, during the 2009 season, earned an entry to win the bike. One could submit as many entries as he or she desired as long as they had the devoted hours to support it.

Thirty two motivated individuals, many of whom habitually traveled lengthy distances, helped accumulate 430 highly productive volunteer hours. This season, all of our efforts were focused on the continued development of the intermedi-ate loop. Due to the priceless time submitted by our volunteers, I foresee the intermediate loop being completed by mid summer of 2010. Many involved with this project view the completion of the intermediate loop an enormous milestone. Consequently, this means we are two thirds complete with our project. Only one section then remains to be built.

The 2009 trail building season brought forth ideal working conditions. In previous years, our construction efforts were concentrated in the spring and fall. However, with the mild summer temperatures and a reduction of blood thirsty insects, we worked consistently through the summer until the autumn leaves fell on our backs and graciously reminded us that we should soon consider giving a bike away.

We decided to raffle the bike off at our end of the year party. Central Waters Brew-ery, in Amherst, was more than willing to host our event. Everyone who attended prepared a dish to pass, and I must admit our talents go well beyond trail develop-ment. The outstanding food and drink eventually led into the drawing for the bike.

The name drawn from the bag was Kari Stockinger from Oshkosh. I could not think of one more deserving to win this bike. Kari not only travels a healthy distance to assist; she is often the first to show on a work day and always one of the last to leave. Her enthusiasm for the trail is contagious. We are fortunate to have Kari’s help and look forward to seeing her, and her new bike, in 2010.

If you would like to learn more about our efforts please visit our blog at http://www.croniestrailbuilding.blogspot.com/, you can also find us on Facebook under Cronies Trailbuilding Crew, or call Darrin Mann at (715)256-0031.

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 5

WDNR offers fishing equipment for loan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You’ll have a ball!

Expires 2010Friends of Hartman Creek 2010

1 FREE ROUND OF MINI GOLF

With the purchase of 3 rounds.

18 holes of fun, friendly, family entertainmentSnack shack for delicious treats & souvenirs!Open daily during the summer—10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Conveniently located 1 mile west of Ding’s Dock

N2494 Whispering Pines Road

715-258-8737

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M–F 10:30–5:30 SAT 10:00–1:00

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BICYCLE HEADQUARTERS

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Cycling fun for everyone!

Nearly three-quarters of Wisconsin’s surface felt the crushing, grinding weight of thick, rock-laden ice as the Wisconsin Glacier slowly moved across our state. The glacier advanced for tens of thousands of years, covering the land completely. About 15,000 years ago, the glacier’s advance slowed and finally stopped as the weather became warmer. The glacier began to melt and in a few thousand years, it was gone, leaving evidence of its passage etched in the landscape.

As it melted, the glacier dropped gigantic loads of large boulders, rocks, gravel, sand, and fine soil. The glacier dropped these materials unevenly and formed many different types of landforms such as terminal moraines, recessional moraines, kames, eskers, crevasse fills, outwash plains, ground moraines and kettle holes.

Hartman Creek State Park is located on, and between interesting varieties of landforms of glacial origin. The eastern part of the park lies on gently rolling ground moraine and pitted outwash where the receding glacier deposited rocks, and where flowing rivers from the melting glacier deposited layers of gravel and sand.

The forest-covered hills in the western part of the park are littered with boulders

left behind by the melting glaciers and rocky ridges called recessional moraines hidden among the trees. Deep kettle holes formed where giant, buried ice blocks melted, and the earth caved in. Many more recessional moraines are located north and south of the park.

A few miles west of the park on State Highway 54 there is another rolling, pitted outwash area upon which a few rounded hills, called drumlins, are visible. Trav-eling further westward along the highway through the recessional moraine and down the terminal moraine there is a very sandy, level, outwash area just south of Stevens Point, Wisconsin. This terminal moraine marks where the glacier finally stopped and began to melt back. The terminal moraine can be traced for over 500 miles across Wisconsin.

The glacier is responsible for the interesting scenery in this area and throughout the state of Wisconsin. It helped create the forested, rocky hills, the level farmlands, and the unique recreation areas such as Hartman Creek State Park.

Glacier Created our Park Geology

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 6

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Friends Website

The Friends website has been up for a year now and provides basic information about the group’s mission, objectives, role in the park, board members, projects and news. A large section is devoted to park history, geology, camping informa-tion, recreational opportunities, plant and animal lists along with hours, fees and rules. Past issues of the Hartman Harrier are available for viewing on the news link.

The project was made possible with the support of the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks in partnership with a UW-Madison class that created the website. Board member Julie Zolondek added information and for a while updated the site. She is no longer able to do so and as a result, we have a great website, but no updates.

As a volunteer organization, we depend upon the kindness of our com-munity members. We thank you for your patience while we attempt to find someone to tend the website.

www.hartmancreekfriends.org

Hellestad House Open Hours and

Themesby Diane Montgomery

Looking for some midweek fun? Well, come on down to the Helles-tad House on Tuesdays between 1-4, and selected Saturdays from 10-2. Saturdays for June are the 5th and 19th; July 17th and August 14th and 28th.

The Hellestad House was built in the mid 1800’s. It was moved to Hartman Creek State Park, reno-vated and now serves as an edu-cational center. The cabin houses historical information and artifacts from the Hellestad family and other tidbits from the world of nature including “What’s Blooming In The Park”.

In June we’ll be looking into the waters of Allen Lake to see who else lives there besides the fish. There are many types insects and larvae that coexist and provide a neces-sary link in the Allen Lake food chain. Come early if you want to help take a dip.

In July, we’ll examine the life of the butterfly. We’ll have some live specimens for you to view and we’ll discuss ways you can encourage butterflies to make their home at yours.

I Spy, Identify is August’s theme. We’ll look at how to go about iden-tifying flowers, plants and even animal tracks.

So take a break from the summer’s heat and join me in the naturally cool comfort of the cabin. There is no charge to visit the Hellestad House but, donations are greatly appreciated. Donations support the Friends of Hartman Creek State Park and the many projects they do around the park.

Open House times: Tuesday 1-4 June 1 to Aug. 31Saturday June 5 10-2Sat June 19, 10-2Sat. July 17 10-2Sat. Aug. 14 10-2Sat. Aug. 28 10-2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ParkPacks Pack a lot of FunParkPacks are a great way to explore our state parks, trails and forests with your

family, friends or classmates. They will get you hiking, investigating and thinking about Wisconsin’s natural resources and your role in using them wisely.

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

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

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

some things you probably have around your campsite or car.

How do you pick what to do?There are more things in ParkPacks than you will have time to do! Use the list of

activities on the yellow card titled “Forests Forever” and the supplemental informa-tion sheet to help you pick activities that sound good to you.

Brought to you by. . . ParkPacks were produced under a 1998-99 grant from the Wisconsin Environmental

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

E-mail the FriendsSeveral members of the Friends

of Hartman Creek Board of Directors welcome your email correspondence.

Contact them as follows:Sue Eiler, President aseiler@charter.net

Jerry & Murnell Olsen, Directors gomo@gglbbs.com

Rick Patzke, Director rickp@curlingrocks.net

RoseMary Salzman, Director skool9920@wildblue.net

General informationinfo@hartmancreekfriends.org

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 7

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HARTMAN CREEK STATE PARK BLUEBIRD REPORT

By Kent D. Hall, Ph.D.Coordinator, Aldo Leopold Audubon Society Bluebird Trail

The Hartman Creek State Park (HCSP) Bluebird Trail is part of the largest bluebird trail in Wisconsin, that of the 1,128 nest box Aldo Leo-pold Audubon Society Bluebird Trail (ABT). In

2009 this trail had 56 monitors on 30 sub-trails found in six different counties. For the season, it produced a record 5,290 bluebirds and a total of 1,347 other songbirds (Tree Swallows, wrens & chickadees).

Two of our ABT sub-trails are located at HCSP (Table 1). One is monitored by Brad & Jean Sherman and (34 boxes—3 seasons of operation) the other was monitored by Frank & Barbara Schubert (15 boxes—1st season of operation, expanded to 21 next season; will be monitored by Robert and Deb Benada and Ginny Rieves next season). The Sherman sub-trail is found on the north side and around the north-ern, eastern & southern perimeter of the Park. The Schubert sub-trail is located on the south side of the Park.

A total of 49 nest boxes were monitored for the season. The overall production from the boxes was outstanding. At 4.55 bluebirds/box it averages 47% higher than the estimated statewide production of 3.1/box. In addition, 59 swallows and 10 wrens were raised in the boxes for a 5.9 songbird average/box.

HCSP is definitely a “bluebird friendly” habitat. For three seasons, Park Superintendent, Michael Bergum, has cooperated with the Aldo Leopold Audubon Society in making the HCSP trail a superior one. Audubon has paid for the nest boxes and mounting posts and HCSP/Michael Bergum have provided access to all parts of the park (includ-ing the use of ATVs). This is the kind of cooperation that is needed if the conservation goal of restoring the Eastern Bluebird to a healthy population, is going to be met.

Table 1. Summary of songbird production at Hartman Creek State Park, 2009 season.

Name Box # Bluebird # Bluebirds/Box Swallow # Wren #Shermans 34 168 4.94 34 4Schubert’s 15 55 3.63 24 6

Totals 49 223 4.55 58 10

Great Lakes Endurance to hold run in Hartman Creek

Jeff Crumbaugh has long held Hartman Creek to be one of the nicest areas to run in. Lakes, prairies, glacial hills, oak savannas provide the perfect backdrop for a beautiful run. Now, after much work, a run is scheduled for September 12, beginning at 8:00 a.m. and lasting until noon. Three levels are offered: a 25 K, 10K and kids 2K. Runners will begin at the Hartman Lake Beach Shelter. The route will take the paved bike/walking trail, proceed through the campground, and turning south onto the Ice Age Trail. Portions of the single-track bike trail will be used. The longest route will extend into Emmons Creek Fishery & Wildlife Area. It is a loop trail, all runners returning back to the beach.

Prizes include locally produced maple syrup and locally crafted pottery. Spectators are welcome, the best views by the beach and on the west end of the campground.

Cronies, a local bike organization and Friends of Hartman Creek State Park member along with a Boy Scout troop will be assisting in the air sta-tions.

Great Lakes Endurance has been committed to pioneering race events with minimal to no environmental impact since our first Keweenaw Trail Running Festival in 2000. We led the effort and continue to be recognized as an innovator in conducting ecologically mindful running races. Our com-mitment to organizing a ecologically sensitive event was first acknowledged in a feature article by Suzanne Van Dam in Running Times (May, 2005). In 2008 Runner’s World (November 2008) recognized Great Lakes Endurance as one of the Top Ten Environmental Events in North America. Of those ten, three were Canadian events. The Great Lakes Endurance Trail Series was the only event selected from the midwest. In addition, Trail Runner Magazine (Nov/Dec 2008) awarded Great Lakes Endurance Race Director Jeff Crumbaugh with its inaugural Sprout Award for the Greenest Race Director in North America.

Goal Summary1. Financially support land conservation, environmental education,

and sustainable silent sport trail construction and maintenance.2. Eliminate production of solid waste via use of reusable materials,

composting, recycling, or other new creative methods.3. Serve only locally grown or organic foods.4. Provide runners with race shirts domestically sewn from sustainable

fibers (organic cotton, recycled polyester, etc).5. Minimize impact on local environment.6. Minimize carbon footprint via use of public transportation and/or

purchasing carbon offsets.We support the local economies of communities in which we hold our

events in three ways:1) Attracting runners from a wide geographical range outside the com-

munity who spend money on lodging, food, and services.2) Purchasing goods & service for our event locally.3) Making donations to local groups which promote land conservancy,

environmental education or silent sport trail advocacy.Entry Forms We have used tree free paper and 100% post consumer content recycled

paper with soy ink in past years to print entry forms. In 2007 we only printed entry forms for our Navarino race. In 2008 we did not print any entry forms. Runners could either register online or download an entry form from our website. In 2009 we have moved entirely to online registration. Website: www.greatlakesendurance.com

Race Course MarkingWe mark all of our race course with reusable wired flags. We never use

spray paint or other toxic markings. Our mile markers and directional arrows were constructed from several old sheets of plywood pulled from a trash bin (Cheap and ecological). Our goal is to leave only footprints at the race site. Several hours after the race you can barely tell that an event even occurred.

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 8

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Group size limitsFamily—Parents with their dependent children and not more than 2

guests.Non-family—Maximum of six people.Juveniles—Maximum of 10, including children

and at least one adult leader.Teepee etiquetteTo the early Native American, the teepee was

more than just a home; it was a temple as well. The floor of the teepee represented the earth on which we live, the walls the sky, and the poles the trails from the earth to the spirit world above.

We ask that you honor this tradition by follow-ing a few commons sense rules:

Fires are only permitted in the fire ring that is provided on the site. NO fuels, flames or equip-ment such as stoves, gas lantern, heaters or candles are allowed inside of the teepee. Cooking or smoking inside the teepee is prohibited.

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

inside or near the teepee.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The culprit: Emerald Ash Borer larvae

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

Wisconsin, and within 25 miles of the park. This is to try to prevent the movement of infance forest insects (Emerald Ash Borer) and diseases. You are required to inform the park staff if firewood you are bringing in has come from outside of the 25-mile range. All firewood coming from outside of this range, and all out-of-state firewood, will be confiscated as a preventive measure.

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

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

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Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 9

The world is filled with connections, some of them human. Where do we fit in? How and why do we make them? Electronic connections allow people to text their most minute details of life, keeping distant people somehow close. Yet, as we’ll see, we can be oblivious to our own back yard.

On the last Thursday in May, inspired by the Rotary Club, coordinated by the Waupaca High School all hands, eyes and minds were focused on an area very much not part of the electronic age. It was down to basics, but very much part of a con-nection.

The yellow school bus delivered Kathy Batten’s sophomore homeroom class at the Knight Lake boat landing, right next to the Pope Lake State Natural Area. It was early morning, but the breezes had turned southwesterly and were soft and sweet. For almost everyone, this was a new area, yet not more than three miles from school. The project to eradicate invasive shrubs was also entirely new. As such, volunteer Phil Peterson began by going over the basics. What is the difference between a shrub and a tree? What trees can easily be identified? What are invasive shrubs? Why do they need to be removed? What tools will be used and what are the safe ways to handle them?

Within a half an hour, all hands fell upon the task at hand. Fully armed with weed wrenches, saws, loppers and grub hoes of various sorts, gloved hands began removing the trespassers. Some of the guys delighted in testing their strength against those of the largest shrubs. Some buckthorns were a good twenty feet tall, with a study trunk and root system. It was a personal victory to see their connec-

Photo by Carl Eggebrecht

High School Connectionsby Sue Eiler

tions broken, roots unearthed, understory freed from their unrestrained growth. In the beginning, the ladies took tentative holds upon the grub hoes and weed

wrenches that looked to weigh as much as they did. Soon though, the mechanics of leverage became apparent. It wasn’t brute strength that was needed (though the guys would disagree) but rather learning how to pry and nudge. A gloved hand upon a young buckthorn could gently pull while another hand eased the hoe into the soft black dirt. Soon the team’s efforts produced victory. The tool was indeed that, an extension of bodily energy, not a foreign object.

The piles grew and grew while the woodlands opened up. Sweatshirts came off, water was consumed and an air of happy fatigue set in. By eleven, the tools were back in an orderly pile, all accounted for. An invitation to see a beaver lodge drew the group for a short walk to the lakeshore. Soon the sound of the approaching bus had a greater pull. It was time for them to reenter their world.

A new connection had been formed. The only twitters and tweets were of birds and chipmunks. There was no wi-fi, no power cord and the only booting up was on feet. It was a pure connection between humans, land and plants. Knowledge was gained by listening, observing, testing and mastery.

The questions of how and why we make connections can be answered simply. We’re “wired” to form friendships and communities, to gain knowledge and skills. The Rotary Club, Waupaca High School staff and students are to be congratulated for their efforts to enlarge and enrich these community connections.

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 10

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Partners in Prairie

Restorationby Shelley Hamel

Two local organizations are collabo-rating to develop a small planted prairie along a portion of trail at Bohn Lake State Ice Age Trail Area. Prairie Sands Chapter of The Prairie Enthusiasts (TPE) is partnering with the Waushara County Chapter of the Ice Age Trail Alliance (IATA) to continue seeding, monitoring, and removal of invasive species such as spotted knapweed along a highly visible section of the .7 mile handicapped ac-cessible trail segment leading to Bohn Lake. The Waushara County Chapter of IATA has already planted a buffer strip of native prairie plants along this portion. An adjacent 43-acre field will be on a 3-year sharecropping rotation followed by prairie restoration. Local genotype prairie seeds collected by volunteers will eventually be sown in that area.

DNR Bureau of Parks and Recreation management plans have a long-range goal of converting the existing woodland to an oak barrens setting and converting open fields to grassland prairie in support of Karner Blue Butterfly habitat. Chapter goals include spotted knapweed removal, additional seeding particularly of KBB nectaring species, and coordinating a student work/study group from the Almond-Bancroft school system.

Although the trail segment portion of the overall plan is small, local group support is welcome when DNR funds and resources are scarce. The Prairie Sands Chapter of TPE has a wide geographical area covering seven counties, including Adams, Green Lake, Juneau, Marquette, Portage, Waupaca and Waushara. Iden-tifying suitable public or private projects in which its growing membership can participate is an ongoing priority. The chapter is also involved in restoration of the 10-acre Discovery Prairie on the Mecan River, located on DNR-owned land near the intersection of Dixie Road and Hwy 22 in Marquette County.

For more information about the Prairie Sands Chapter, contact chapter president, Karen Wollenburg, at wol-lenburgfk@gmail.com.

For more information about the Waushara County Ice Age Trail Chapter, contact Randy Lennartz, 920-787-2333, lennartz@centurytel.net .

Weak morning sunshine glistens upon dew laden skunk cabbage turrets. The swamp slowly awakes, bird song echoing from the leafless hillsides. It is time to explore. A man approaches, stepping heavily in his hip boots and khaki jacket. He scans purposefully in each direction, eyes moving fluidly, searching for movement. No doubt his ears also are keenly tuned to catch every nuance. He is no ordinary visitor; he is a citizen monitor preparing for duty.

Phil works with John Gremmer who heads up the monitoring of the Waupaca River for Central Wisconsin Trout Unlimited. Nancy Turk, from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point, also works directly with Phil on stream monitoring Hartman Creek. From late spring to early fall she will send Phil out to do his formal sleuthing at pre-selected spots. The preference is to repeat the data collection each month. He will not do the same thing on each outing, as the protocol varies depending on the time of year.

Water Monitoring consists of tests and samples taken to monitor the health of streams and rivers. Between the months of April and October, tempera-ture, dissolved oxygen, stream flow, and transparency are monitored monthly. The aquatic and streamside habitat assessments are completed once a year in the summer. The stream’s macro-invertibrate community is measured using a biotic index, and is usually done twice a year, once in spring and once in fall. Using the presence or absence of macroinvertibrates (also known as the biotic index), streams are rated as having poor, fair, good, or excellent water quality. The concentration of dissolved oxygen is also critical to a stream’s health. Different aquatic spe-cies require different levels of oxygen saturation, and in order to insure their sustainability, oxygen saturation must be accounted for. They are monitored by citizen groups through Wisconsin using Water Action Volunteers (WAV)

Water Monitoringby Contributiong Writers: Kira Minehart, Sue Eiler and Kris Stepenuck

sampling protocol. The Water Action Volunteers orga-

nization provides people with a unique opportunity to collect and analyze data from their surrounding area. Over 750 sites have been monitored and recorded in the online database and 185sites were monitored in 2009 alone. These accom-plishments are crucial to preserving and protecting Wisconsin’s immense number of lakes and rivers. Understanding how they function is crucial to determining health of these systems. WAV allows people to learn about the wildlife and aquatic community around them while benefiting research and education.

The Water Action Volunteers’ Stream Monitoring Program is co-sponsored by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) and the University of Wisconsin-Extension. It is part of Wisconsin’s Citizen-based Water Moni-toring Network. The Network includes three levels to accommodate the varied interests and time availability of citizens. Everyone initiates participation in Level 1 (except under special circumstances). After that, citizens can choose to partici-pate in Level 2 or Level 3 projects. Water Action Volunteers is a first level program which means members are required to attend training, sample on a schedule, and submit data to an online database.

WAV provides assistance in setting up lo-cal stream monitoring programs, teach-ing methods for monitoring, and data sheets. The main goals of WAV are to en-able Wisconsin residents to monitor their local stream or river’s health, support data sharing for educational purposes, and provide support for environmental groups. For more information about the Network, go to:http://watermonitoring.uwex.edu/

A Level 3 project is the Wisconsin Ephemeral Ponds Project, coordinated by WDNR and UWEX in partnership with numerous local partners. The purpose of this volunteer-based project is to train citizens to identify, inventory, and monitor the ecology of ephemeral ponds. Ephemeral ponds are ponds that are present only a portion of the year, dry-ing up later in the summer but available as habitat for a variety of amphibians, macroinvertebrates, and wildlife during spring and early summer. The objective of the project is to collect data that will lead to a better understanding of the location and ecology of Wisconsin’s ephemeral pond habitats.(Source: http://watermonitoring.uwex.edu/level3/WIe-phemeral.htm). Phil is also monitoring ephemeral ponds near Hartman Creek. He’ll be headed out soon to check their status…

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Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 11

level, scientists have investigated the influence of annual water levels by com-paring water level trends to populations of marsh bird species.

At the local level, MMP staff have also evaluated the habitat characteristics associated with different marsh de-pendant bird species. This information has since been used to develop “Marsh Havens”, a fact booklet which provides guidelines to wetland managers to help them manage the wetlands under their jurisdiction.

All MMP publications and reports are readily available online at the Bird Studies Canada library (http://www.birdscanada.org/library.html ) includ-ing its annual reports and its most recent popular report: The Marsh Monitoring Program 1995 to 2004: A Decade of Marsh Monitoring in the Great Lakes Region.

Through funding provided by gov-ernment agencies and non-profit foundations, the MMP has been, and continues to be involved in various special regional initiatives throughout

Volunteers in Action

by Sue Eiler Boaters along the upper chain with

sharp eyes may spot a special marker this season. Sequestered amongst hard-stemmed bulrush, cattails, water willow and sedge tussocks are a series of eight posts, marked with an orange top, a label identifying it as a marker, with reflective tape, lettered A to G. These eight locations are part of the Marsh Monitoring program, selected for their ecological diversity. Phil Peterson will conduct these surveys throughout the summer, with help from Sue Eiler.

The Great Lakes/St. Lawrence River ecosystem of North America is the largest system of fresh surface water on Earth and provides valuable ser-vices ranging from clean drinking water sources to wildlife viewing. Marshes of the region:

• Filter sediments and toxins out of the water;

• Moderate the impact of drought and flood; and,

• House and feed a myriad of wildlife species.

These services depend on the pres-ence of vigorous, healthy wetlands - both along the coastline and in interior areas. Many wetlands have been lost through draining or filling, degraded by pollution inputs, or altered by invading plants and animals.

The Marsh Monitoring Program (MMP) was launched in 1995, and is a partnership between Bird Studies Canada and Environment Canada with funding from the United States

Bird Studies Canada’s Marsh Monitoring ProgramEnvironmental Protection Agency. The program’s primary goal is to monitor populations of marsh birds and amphib-ians across wetlands in this unique region by engaging the skills of hundreds of volunteers.

Among wetland types, marshes are especially important habitat for a wide array of wildlife species. By definition, a marsh is a vegetated, wet area, peri-odically or regularly inundated up to a depth of 6 feet (2 metres) with standing or slowly moving water. Small numbers of trees or shrubs may occur but the common vegetation consists of a variety of plants such as cattails, rushes, reeds, grasses or sedges. In open water areas, submerged and floating aquatic plants such as water lilies will often flourish.

MMP data are used to view marsh bird and amphibian trends at three levels: Great Lakes basin-wide, regional (basin-specific (e.g. Lake Erie basin), and local (site-specific). From this, questions about what factors may be influencing these species can be addressed. For example, at the Great Lakes basin-wide

the Great Lakes basin and St. Lawrence River watershed. One major focus of the MMP is the monitoring of marshes in U.S. and Canadian Great Lakes Areas of Concern (AOCs).

There are forty-one AOCs across the Great Lakes basin in Canada and the United States that have been identified as being stressed by pollutants, habitat loss, and habitat degradation, and are in urgent need of rehabilitation. Although the scarcity of historical information on amphibian and marsh bird populations can make many interpretations of AOC recovery difficult, the MMP provides baseline information to help measure the success of these rehabilitation efforts and help contribute to improvements to restoration techniques. Presently, the MMP is working with U.S. and Canadian partners to improve program coordina-tion, wetland education, and to increase MMP survey coverage within targeted U.S. and binational AOCs in an effort to help ensure AOC recovery is monitored accurately.

We need volunteers to collect in-formation on frog and toad species, marsh bird species and the wetlands they inhabit. MMP participants follow a standardized protocol, guided by written and audio training materials. Surveys are conducted at semi-circular stations of 100-metre radius, positioned along routes. Nocturnal surveys for frogs and toads are conducted three times during spring and early summer. Bird surveys are conducted twice each spring using taped broadcasts to illicit response calls from several secretive species. Partici-pants also describe the habitat features of their survey stations to allow the MMP to determine habitat associations of marsh birds.

For additional information on the Marsh Monitoring Program contact:

Kathy JonesAquatic Surveys Volunteer and Data

CoordinatorBird Studies CanadaP.O. Box 160Port Rowan, Ontario N0E 1M0Tel: (519) 586-3531 ext. 124, Toll free:

(888) 442-2473 ext. 124, Fax: (519) 586-3532

Email: aqsurvey@birdscanada.org, Web: www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/glmmp

Volunteers place marsh monitors in Pope Lake

Eight monitor stakes are in the upper Chain

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 12

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

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

Water seeks it own level. Everyone knows this. Sometimes it collects in the many potholes and depressions formed courtesy of our most recent glacier. These waterholes can be permanent ponds or temporary, classified as ephemeral. There is a program statewide to identify these potential ponds, known as PEPS (potential ephemeral ponds). Then, they become VEPS, (verified ephemeral ponds) Why is this important information to have? Phil first got involved when as a metro-Milwaukee resident, he attended a training seminar in Grafton. Aerial photographs identify suspected PEPS and each volunteer was asked to verify or discredit six PEPS. Four of Phil’s were in Whit-nall Park. Now you would think an area such as Milwaukee and a well-established park would have every inch of land explored and every pond well documented. Not so. From the air, it appeared four undocumented areas might be water. Phil’s assignment was to verify the aerial unknowns. All that was known there was a reflection of light. It could be metal, it could be water. Armed with a map and GPS coordinates, he found three to be indeed ponds. One was not found. The second area of exploration was the City of Milwaukee, Port Authority. One was water on an abandoned parking lot, another an ephemeral pond.

Fate intervened and Phil soon found himself living full time on the shores of Manomin Lake. He had to abandon his ephemeral pond work in south-east Wisconsin. The program has yet to be expanded statewide, but he has now received permission to study one pond here in Hartman Creek State Park, Pope Lake State Natural Area. His first task was monitoring salamanders that breed exclusively in ephemeral ponds. Timing was everything. Once the snow receded, the overwintering creatures sequestered in forest duff, waiting for the first good rain to begin migrating to their ancestral pond. The homemade mesh nets were carefully placed. Each year on the night of the first significant rain after the ice has melted the salamanders head for their breeding grounds. Throughout the state this year volunteers set out traps on the night of April 2nd and monitored the amphibians that were captured for the next five days. I had chosen to put out six traps in an ephemeral pond and came up with the following results:4/3 - no salamanders but 4 spring peepers4/4 - 1 blue spotted salamander and 10 spring peepers4/5 - 2 blue spotted salamanders and 7 spring peepers

The Wisconsin Salamander Surveyby Contributiong Writers: Kira Minehart, Sue Eiler and Kris Stepenuck

4/6 - no salamanders but 4 spring peepers and 4 chorus frogs4/7 - 2 blue spotted salamanders and 1 spring peeper Studies in various states indicate that salamander populations may be declining. The Wisconsin Salamander Study is conducted to collect valuable infor-mation, adding to what is already known about their population in Wisconsin. The salamander survey is organized and conducted entirely by indepen-dent researchers and volunteer citizen monitors. The salamanders being stud-ied are somewhat secretive, so there is much to learn. Citizen monitors survey potential breeding habitats to record data and document the presence or absence of salamanders. Over 50 volunteer monitors will catch, record, and release adult salamanders that breed in woodland pools or ponds. Each citizen volunteer has to place five salamander traps per pond and monitor them for five consecutive days. These traps are placed half-submerged in water so the salamander can rise to the surface and breathe air. These traps are tied

to a nearby object to keep them from floating away. The contents of the traps are emptied each day, once the species are observed and documented. All captured salamanders are returned to the water in which they were found. The Wisconsin DNR requires that a fishing or small game license be purchased before setting traps. Trapping sites are identified using GPS coordinates. Salamanders belong to the Class Amphibia. They don’t make mating calls, thus they can-not be monitored simply. Salamanders must rely on scent and instinct to mate successfully.

Salamanders move into breeding ponds when the ground is free of frost. The edges of the ponds are open with warmer water preferred by the salamander. There is a short five-day breeding and migration pe-riod in which the salamanders are usually found. It commonly falls in late March in southern Wisconsin and April or early May in northern Wisconsin. However, it was apparent to many surveyors that this year’s first thaw did not stimulate sig-nificant movement by the salamanders. Advisors agreed, however, that migration would begin with the next rain that followed this thaw. In 2009 the following results were documented: blue-spotted salamanders accounted for 88% of all individual adults caught, spotted salamanders 9% and central newts 3%. More than half of the blue spotted salamanders were recorded in NW Wisconsin or Door County. For more information on the Wisconsin Salamander Survey, visit www.stcroixwildlife.org

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

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

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 13

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

Red MillCountry Gifts

In an 1855 Grist Mill

on the Beautiful Crystal River3 miles south of Waupaca on Hwy K

Open all year • 715-258-7385

Covered Bridge & Wedding Chapel in the Woods

Nature Treks in HCSP

New for the 2010 season! All rent-als and concessions will be located at Hartman Lake this year. Unfortunately due to economics, Allen Lake will be shut down for 2010 season and will consider reopening for the 2011 season. Hours of operation will be 10a-6p at this location and all boat and bike rentals will be u-haul rate. Location will open May 15 as a first come-first serve site. Concessions will include Pepsi and Coke products, ice cream bars, various candy and candy bars, chips, limited camping gear, outdoor convenience items, toys, and identification books and field guides for Wisconsin species. There will also be interpretive programs most Saturdays throughout the summer; please see main office for schedule. Thanks! Dino, Amanda, and Justin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plenty of winter fun here

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

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

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

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

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

Volunteers needed to help keep

Hellestad House doors open

The Park is used by many organizations for camping and day use. About eight years ago Linda Ahles conceived and developed the Onaway Adventure Camp (OAC) for the Boys’ & Girls’ Brigade, Neenah, WI. This is a weeklong tent camping experience for boys and girls in grades 5-9, and Leaders-In-Training grades 10-12. OAC uses nature as a backdrop for learning, practicing, and living the Four-fold way of life (growing mentally, physically, socially, and spiritually), while incorporating useful outdoor skills. Leave-No-Trace principles are taught and enforced. Campers are taught teamwork in a spirit of we all succeed as a team; it’s not about being first. We focus on the journey, not the destination.

The week begins at Camp Onaway, but by Sunday camp is set up at Hartman Creek State Park. Each day campers experience several rotations including road and trail biking, trail and wilderness hiking, river canoeing, and other fun outdoor activities. Campers help prepare meals on Brigade’s camp stoves and sleep each night in top-of-the-line tents. The Brigade provides bikes, canoes, and other equip-ment (such as backpacks) needed for rotations.

Service projects at Hartman Creek State Park are a special part of the event. Groups have literally pulled tons of garlic mustard and Japanese hedge parsley in an old orchard behind the campground and along the shores of Marl Lake. The Ice Age Trail has benefited from their work clearing brush. The single-track bike trail required perhaps the most challenging work, but the group was up to the task. Implementing sustainability guidelines while carving out narrow trails in woodlands provided an acquisition of a skill and satisfaction of a job well done.

Onaway Adventure Camp is staffed by Boys’ & Girls’ Brigade camp manager, certified lifeguard, and dedicated adult volunteer leaders which include a registered nurse and camp director. The leaders are highly experienced outdoor adventure enthusiasts with a passion for sharing their skills with future generations.

Onaway Adventure Camp teaches teamwork

ARE YOU READY FOR A TORNADO

OR SEVERE THUNDERSTORM?-Be Prepared: Before setting up camp, discuss with members of your party what

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

-Stay Tuned: The Park Office will post severe weather watches or warnings on the contact window. When severe weather appears to be approaching, tune to local radio stations (WDUX 92.7 FM and 800 AM). Static on your AM radio means that lightning is in the area. Park Rangers or Campground Hosts will attempt to convey storm-related warnings. Remember, a warning means that a tornado or severe thunderstorm has been sighted in your area. A watch means conditions are favorable. Pass along warnings to your neighbors., you need to be aware of risk factors and weather changes. Keep an eye on the western sky;

listen for thunder: learn to identify threatening clouds. Prior to setting up camp, look for trees that could fall in the event of strong winds. Develop a plan of action so you know what you’ll do in the event of a severe storm. Familiarize yourself with your surroundings.

-Seek Available Shelter: Hartman Creek State Park suggests that some areas of the Park are safer than others. If a tornado/severe thunderstorm approaches and you have time, leave the campground. Stay in your vehicle at the east end of the beach parking lot. If there is no time to leave, a pit toilet or shower building may provide shelter. There are no approved storm shelters in the Park.

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

Be prepared!

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 14

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

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

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

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

grill available.

N2750 Cty TK QQ • King, WI

Coin Laundry

The Wash House

715-258-8827

Clean, Friendly and Dependable

Wash House Open Daily5 A.M. to 10 P.M.

Visit us at www.cheesie

bobs.net

Camping with hookups9-hole golf courseNight golf partiesOn site motor home rentalSwimming poolRental equipment available

Royal Oaks Golf ResortN4440 Oakland • Waupaca

Phone: 715-258-5103

Mosquitoes belong to the family Culicidae in the order Diptera, which includes flies. Like flies, mosquitoes have two wings but unlike the former, mosquitoes have scaled wings. Female mosquitoes have a long, piercing/sucking mouthpart called a proboscis that can penetrate the skin of animals to obtain the necessary blood meal to aid in egg development. Males lack this piercing mouth apparatus. When not dining on us, both female and male mosquitoes feed on nectar and plant juices. Other than the annoying bite, females can be distinguished from their male counterparts by having less “feathery” antennae. Incidentally, females are attracted to carbon diox-ide, you know, the stuff you exhale. This is how they find their target for a blood meal. To avoid a bite, you could simply hold your breath for a really long time or wear long sleeves and pants and a bit of repellant for added protection. Also, dif-ferent species vary in their preferred time to feed, but many feed during dawn or dusk. Females lay their eggs, upwards of 300 in some species, on or in a variety of substrates such as old tires, tree holes, buckets, organic material (leaves, grass), swamps and marshes. The common denominator here is water. Floodwater mosquito eggs require a dry period and then a surge of water to make them viable. Hence the reason we see so many more mosquitoes in the spring after the winter-ized eggs have been rejuvenated by spring floods. Permanent water mosquito eggs are laid directly on the water’s surface, most likely on a permanent lake or swamp. These eggs hatch in approximately 24 hours. There have been more than 50 confirmed species of mosquitoes in the state of Wisconsin, compared to approximately 200 species found throughout North America and over 3000 species worldwide. Even though female mosquitoes are vectors for certain types of illnesses (West Nile, malaria, dengue, encephalitis), they are a major food source for many animals including bats, birds, fish, amphib-ians and reptiles. A mosquito inventory was conducted at Mosquito Hill Nature Center between July 1, 2008 and July 1, 2009. Partnering with Dr. Jennifer Meece from Marshfield Clinic, Loren Ayers from the DNR, and a battery of volunteers, species of mosqui-toes were carefully identified from upwards of 1000 per trap. Jessica’s general overview of Wisconsin mosquitoes and research at Mos-quito Hill provide a good basis of understanding of perhaps our number one pest. Still, there is some interesting mosquito details in the following trivia quiz. Test your knowledge and remember, more than one answer may be correct.

Mosquito Triviaby Sue Eiler(Answers Below)1. Mosquitoes are equal opportunity biters, right? Or, do they favor certain types of people? About one out of ten are highly attractive to mosquitoes. Are they: a. those with a high amount of cholesterol on their skin b. an excess amount of uric acid on their skin c. those wearing perfume d. those with sunblock on e. pregnant f. blond

2. Mosquitoes have eyes that are: a. large, compound with razor sharp sight, b. large, compound that can’t detect a rain barrel from a chair from a distance, c. compound, but with blind spots d. small, weak and only useful at close range

3. Antennae are used for: a. males detecting the vibrational sounds of females b. communicating with one another to stay together c. detecting wind direction d. feeling for bare skin e. picking up human scents f. detecting blood with their ther-mal receptor tips 4. Active humans attract mosquitoes by: a. the smell of sweat b. the exhalation of carbon dioxide c. their rapid movements d. the heat they produce

5. Nights of prowling for blood meals can rack up the miles. A mosquito flies in its lifetime: a. 10 miles, b. 50 miles c. 100 miles d. 150 miles

6. Mosquitoes fly how fast? a. ½ a mile per hour b. 1-1 1/2 miles per hour c. 2-3 miles per hour d. with a good tail wind, 4 miles per hour

7. A female gets a blood meal because: a. she’s larger than the male and needs more energy b. she needs more protein to produce her eggs c. she needs the warm blood in order to mate d. it produces a specific odor that attracts males

8. Fertilized eggs, laid either on water or in low spots that will hold water, hatch into larvae called: a. whips b. whippers c. wrigglers d. whippets

9. The greatest predators of mosquitoes are: a. bats b. birds c. dragonflies d. frogs

10. How is it that a warm spring day mosquitoes can be flying? Do some: a. over-winter as adults b. larva freeze in ice and pupate as it warms up c. overwinter as eggs, hatching when it warms up d. use maple sap drips to lay eggs and pupate quickly

Answers: 1. a.b.e, f 2. b, c. 3. a. f 4. a.b.c.d. 5. d 6. b 7. b. 8.c 9.c 10. a.b.c

Mosquito Fun Factsby Jessica Miller, Assistant Naturalist at Mosquito Hill Nature Center

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 15

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

Arm yourself with knowledge about the dangers of deer ticks

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

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

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

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

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

4. Clean the bite wound with disin-fectant.

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

*Keep in mind that certain types of fine-pointed tweezers, especially those that are etched, or rasped, at the

tips may not be effective in removing nymphal deer ticks. Choose non-rasped, fine-pointed tweezers whose tips align tightly when pressed firmly together.

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

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

A tick identification card pro-vided by the Gunderson Clinic of LaCrosse, Wis., is available at the park office.

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

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

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

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

When in tick country (grassy, brushy or woodland areas), several precautions can minimize your chances of being bit-ten by a tick.• Tuck your pant legs into your socks. Tuck your shirt into your pants. Ticks grab onto feet and legs and then climb up. This precaution will keep them on the outside of your clothes, where they can be spotted and picked off. Ticks are usually located close to the ground, so wearing high rubber boots may provide additional protection.• Wear light colored clothing. Dark ticks can most easily be spotted against a light background.• Inspect your clothes for ticks often while in tick habitat. Have a companion inspect your back.

• Wear tick repellents, applied ac-cording to label directions. Application to shoes, socks, cuffs and pant legs are most effective against ticks.• Inspect your head and body thor-oughly when you get in from the out-doors. Have someone check your back or use a mirror.• When working in tick habitat on a regular basis, if possible, do not wear work clothing home. This will reduce the chances of bringing ticks home and exposing other family members.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

store hours:January – April: Fri. & Sat. 10-5May – December: Mon.–Sat. 10-5

Sundays year-’round 10-4

www.cinnamonhousewaupaca.com

Open: Tuesday–Saturday 10–5Memorial Day–Labor Day

After Labor Day Open Thursday–Saturday 10–5

Off Hwy. 22, west of Rural ~ 4 miles south of WaupacaN2076 Cleghorn Rd., Waupaca • 715-258-5235

www.walkersbarn.com • email: lyerkes@charter.net“On the Grounds of Cleghorn B&B”

German Clocks ~ Beer Steins ~ Hand Crafted Inlaid Jewelry ~Gifts ~ Antiques ~ Collectibles

OPEN DAILYfor

Lunch & Dinner

11:30 A.M. to 10:30 P.M.City Square ▲ WaupacaDELIVERY 715-258-5900

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 16

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

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

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

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

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

BE PARKED ON THE BLACKTOP PAVED AREA ALSO. • ALL TENTS/UNITS NEED TO STAY INSIDE THE YELLOW POSTS AT EACH SITE. • Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings only.• Extra vehicles may be parked in the parking lot across from the entrance to the

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• When setting up your campsite, consider fire ring location and wind direction to keep sparks from flammables.

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

• Watch children very closely when they are near fire.• Remember to build a campfire, not a bonfire!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your guide to camping at Hartman Creek State Park

Park hours are 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The park is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. (The park is closed to non-campers between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. —all visitors must leave by 11 p.m.) Dur-ing closed hours, campers must be in or be en route to their registered campsite.

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

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

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

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

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

of the organization’s charter.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Daily $ 7 $10

Senior citizen annual* $10 NA *65 & over

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

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

Trail pass (daily) $4 $4

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

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 17

Hartman Creek Group Campground

Campers beware!Camp robbers on the prowl nightly

Campers have been reporting more and more raccoons in the campground steal-ing food and getting too close to people. The raccoons are attracted to food scraps, garbage and improperly stored food. Raccoons can become a nuisance and a threat.

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

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

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

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

Hartman Creek Family Campground (100 sites)

Family Camground RatesNote: Fees are subject to Change. Electricyty costs $5 more per night.

Wisconsin Residents: $15 night/siteNon-residents: $17 night/site

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 18

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our concern — Your safety

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pets welcome, but please know the rules

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

•To enable indigenous wildlife to live and prosper within the limits of the park.•To educate the users of the park about the park by providing information,

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

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

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

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

Carry in, carry outWelcome to your state park! You’ll notice there are no garbage or recycling bins

in day-use areas. When you visit Wisconsin state parks, forests and recreation areas, you’ll need to take your garbage and recyclables home with you.

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

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

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

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

About Lyme disease and ticks

JOIN US!Become a Friend of Hartman Creek State Park

Membership Form

NameAddressCity State ZipTelephone ( )

Please make your check payable to:

Friends of Hartman CreekN2480 Hartman Creek Rd.

Waupaca, WI 54981

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

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 19

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

Mini GolfBatting CagesOPEN 10–10 DAILY

222 Grand Seasons Dr., Waupaca715-256-0569

(1Blk. from Best Western Hotel)

1 FREE Round of Mini Golfwith 1 Paid Round

With this coupon. Limit one coupon per visit.

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

Mini GolfBatting Cages

Baseball Cap StoreGroups Welcome!

Methods

School groups and volunteers helped set and monitor mosquito traps in various habitats on MHNC property during 2008 and 2009. We used light and CO2 traps to capture adult female mosquitoes seeking a blood meal, gravid traps for females seeking egg-laying substrates, and open-water dip-netting to capture larval mosquitoes. Mosquitoes were euthanized by desiccation in the traps or by freezing.

Our main challenge was sorting, counting and identifying the tens of thousands of mosquitoes we collected! This required patience, a little knowledge of invertebrate anatomy and a keen eye. College students, adult volunteers and project leaders did most of this work. We sent subsamples to Marshfield Clinic to confirm our identifications. At each step, our results were organized by habitat, location on the property, collection method and date

Mosquito ImportanceMosquitoes might not be a high research priority from some perspectives, but the process of developing a successful citizen-based monitoring program at MHNC, the hands-on learning, and the use of real research findings in our curriculum are very important. Additionally, globalization has caused significant changes in the incidence and distribution of vector-borne diseases worldwide. Some mosquito species are disease vectors between mammals, birds and humans, with encephalitis and West Nile Virus as notable examples. Given the limited mosquito data in Wisconsin, the information we contribute certainly will be of interest to epidemiologists and human health specialists.

GoalTo enhance our environmental education programs and property stewardship through the use of an ongoing, citizen-based, biological inventory and monitoring program

Learning By Doing: Starting a Biological Monitoring Program at Learning By Doing: Starting a Biological Monitoring Program at Mosquito Hill Nature CenterMosquito Hill Nature Center

Jessica Miller & the students & volunteers of the Mosquito Hill Nature Center, Outagamie County Parks & Recreation Dept., with the assistance of Loren Ayers, Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources,& Patrick Stockwell & Dr. Jennifer Meece, Marshfield Clinic Research Foundation

Wisconsin has over 50 species of mosquitoes!

BackgroundVisitors to nature and environmental education centers constantly ask what plants and animals are on the property. Even with our cadre of talented naturalists at Mosquito Hill Nature Center, we can barely scratch the surface of that answer, so with the participation of students, volunteers and visitors, we are launching a comprehensive biological inventory of the property.

We want to develop one of the most thorough biological inventories in Wisconsin and from that, a monitoring program to address species of particular interest and concern for Mosquito Hill Nature Center, Outagamie County, and the State of Wisconsin.

The ChallengeOur primary challenge in making this truly “citizen-based” was to effectively connect short-duration, high-volume student and volunteer availability, typical of environmental education centers, with a myriad of plant and animal inventory and monitoring needs. To begin the process, we picked a somewhat unconventional, but perhaps appropriate starting point – mosquitoes!

Results

MHNC staff and Volunteer Naturalists have already put this information to work, educating students and visitors on the mosquito life cycle, their physical characteristics and their role in the food chain. After a bit more analysis, our results will also help illustrate habitat selection, species diversity, and phenology.

Also of great importance is the cadre of talented volunteers that are interested in doing more biological inventories on the MHNC property! Our next taxonomic group to tackle is…

Mosquito Habitat

18 Species Collected on MHNC:Anopheles punctipennis

Anopheles quadrimaculatus Anopheles walkeri

Aedes cinereusAedes vexansCulex pipiens

Culex restuans Coquillettdia perturbans Ochlerotatus canadensis Ochlerotatus dorsalis

Ochlerotatus fitchii Ochlerotatus flavescens

Ochlerotatus grossbeckiOchlerotatus spencerii Ochlerotatus stimulans Ochlerotatus triseriatusOchlerotatus trivittatus Uranotaenia sapphirina

3 Unconfirmed Species:Culiseta morsitans

Ochlerotatus abserratusWyeomyia smithii

Light and Carbon Dioxide Traps for

Adult Female Mosquitoes

H w y Q Q, K i n g , W I • ( 9 2 0 ) 2 5 0 - 2 5 0 0 • c a s p e r s t u d i o a r t . c o m

• O r i g i n a l A r t• G r a p h i c D e s i g n

Hartman Creek State Park lies in the middle of the north-south tension for plant ranges. The tension zone was identified as the north or south range limits for 182 species. As a result Hartman Creek S.P. has the richest diversity of habitat types of any property in the Northeast Region and quite possibly the entire state of Wis-consin. Some of the habitat types include red pine plantations, northern forests, oak forests, old farm fields, old orchards, prairies, grasslands, marshes, and small ponds and lakes. There is also a relatively rare calcareous lake within the property boundaries. The soils are predominately sand and glacial outwash.

Mammals: The wide variety of habitats in the park allows for a vast array of animals: white-tailed deer are the most common, raccoons, cottontail rabbits, woodchucks, red foxes, coyotes, mink, and muskrat.

Birds: Hartman Creek State Park is an excellent place to observe many diverse species of birds including both songbirds and birds of prey. The types of birds seen vary with the changing seasons. Some of the most commonly seen are: Black-capped Chickadees, Cardinals, Robins, Blue Jays, Ducks, Geese, Warblers, Sparrows and Woodpeckers, Owls, Hawks, Flycatchers, Swallows, Bluebirds, Sandhill Cranes. Other species also reported seen: Bald Eagle, Osprey, Great Blue Heron.

Fish: The numerous man-made and natural lakes throughout the park make excellent areas for aquatic studies and fishing opportunities. Some of the most common species of fish that angles have caught in the park include largemouth bass and panfish. Some park visitors have even been lucky enough to catch muskies, pike and walleye.

Reptiles & Amphibians: Many species of salamanders, frogs, toads, snakes and turtles make their homes in Hartman Creek State Park. Some of the most com-

monly seen include Painted Turtles, Snapping Turtles, Eastern Garter Snakes, Eastern American Toads and a variety of frogs. There are no poisonous snakes in the park.

Endangered Animals: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed the Karner Blue Butterfly as federally endangered in December 1992.

Wisconsin has the greatest number of Karner Blue butterfly sites in the country, and Hartman Creek has one of the largest populations of Karner Blues in the state. The abundance of Karner Blues at Hartman Creek is due to a large population of Wild Lupine which is essential to the Karner Blue caterpillar. It is the only plant they are known to feed upon. Butterfly watching is a rapidly growing pastime that attracts visitors to sites with rare species, just as bird watching does.

Animals in the Park

Summer 2010 Hartman Harrier Page 20

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