DNR Seeking Public Comment On Interim Forest Management Plan For Spruce Grouse Swamp State Natural Area

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking public comment now through Jan. 5, 2024 on an interim forest management plan for Spruce Grouse Swamp State Natural Area in Vilas County.

Interim Forest Management Plans are intended to guide timber management on properties that do not have formal master plans. The department expects to complete detailed master plans for this property at a future to be determined date. Until then, the interim forest management plan for Spruce Grouse Swamp State Natural Area will guide forest management of the property until the master plan for the property is complete.

The draft Interim Forest Management Plan for Spruce Grouse Swamp State Natural Area and a complete list of properties with Interim Forest Management Plans can be found on the DNR’s Interim Forest Management Plans webpage.

“The Interim Forest Management Plan is important because it guides forest management and incorporates ecological, economic and recreational considerations,” said John Pohlman, DNR Property Planner. “The plan is a component of the department’s efforts to ensure state-owned forests are sustainably managed. The planning process also provides an opportunity for interested and affected members of the public to have input on forest management. People want to know we are managing their lands well, and consumers increasingly prefer products sourced from sustainably managed forests.”

Wisconsin’s 17 million acres of forested land – both public and private – provide raw materials for Wisconsin’s forest products industry, which generates $24.7 billion per year and directly supports nearly 65,000 jobs across Wisconsin. Through the DNR’s use of sustainable forestry practices, trees are grown and harvested responsibly ensuring the economic, social and ecological benefits of the forest products industry.

The public is encouraged to submit comments regarding the interim forest management plan for Spruce Grouse Swamp State Natural Area by 4:30 p.m. CST on Jan. 5, 2024 to:

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
C/O John Pohlman, DNR Property Planner
101 S. Webster St. P.O. Box 7921
Madison, WI 53707
John.Pohlman@wisconsin.gov or 608-264-6263