Lands_Content Page_Dewey Marsh Wildlife Area

Dewey Marsh Wildlife Area

Dewey Marsh contains a large expanse of relatively undisturbed northern sedge meadow including smaller islands of tamarack and black spruce swamp, paper birch and white pine woods and ericaceous bog. The marsh is dominated by blue-joint grass, steeple bush and wire-leaved sedges, with cattails and bur-reed. It forms the headwaters of Hay Meadow Creek. Scattered throughout the area are islands of aspen, birch and white pine. Tamarack and black spruce swamps are also present. The Dewey Marsh State Natural Area is located within the wildlife area. Hay Meadow Creek passes through the property in the east and south. The lay of the land is generally flat and forested areas are dominated by aspen.

Management Objectives

The Dewey Marsh Wildlife Area is a Conservation Opportunity Area [PDF] for managing large sedge meadows of upper Midwest/regional significance according to Wisconsin's Wildlife Action Plan. It is also a Land Legacy Place. It is managed to provide opportunities for public hunting, trapping and other outdoor recreation while protecting the qualities of the unique native communities and associated species found on the property. It is managed to maintain large blocks of sedge meadow within a complex of associated wetlands such as open bog, shrub-carr, alder thicket, tamarack and black spruce by maintaining hydrology, tree cutting and harvest, brushing and prescribed fire. Timber sales are used to maintain the aspen cover type. Populations of invasive species are controlled or eliminated by cutting, pulling, burning, herbicide treatment and/or bio-control.

For more information on master planning for this and other wildlife areas around the state, visit the property planning page.

Recreation

The Dewey Marsh Wildlife Area offers many recreational opportunities;

  • Birding;
  • Cross-country skiing (no designated trail);
  • Hiking;
  • Hunting;
  • Snowmobiling trail;
  • Target range (county-run facility on adjacent property);
  • Trapping;
  • Wild edibles/gathering; and
  • Wildlife viewing.

Maps

Download [PDF] a map of this property.

If you are interested in exploring this property further, you can access an interactive map.

Adopt a Fish or Wildlife Area

Find out more about how to adopt this wildlife area.