Section 1.51. Management of state wildlife areas.

  Section 23.09 (2) (d) 3. , Stats., provides legislative authority and direction for the acquisition and management of wildlife areas. The primary purpose as stated in this statute is to provide "areas in which any citizen may hunt, trap or fish." Section 23.11 (1) , Stats., provides for the general care, protection and supervision of state lands. Section 23.30 , Stats., deals with the provisions of the outdoor recreation program.

(1)  In order to fulfill the statutory charge of providing public hunting and trapping on wildlife areas, the quality of their wildlife habitat must be maintained or developed. However, this is not to be construed as authority for exclusive single-purpose management of entire properties. Wildlife habitat needs and public hunting objectives shall receive major consideration in management planning for wildlife areas; however, fishery, forestry, wild resource and outdoor recreational objectives will be accommodated when they are compatible and do not detract significantly from the primary objective.

(2)  The concept of a general user fee to fund operational activities on wildlife areas which require maintenance to keep them safe, functional and attractive is endorsed.

(3)  The following uses will be accommodated on wildlife areas in accord with the priorities and constraints of practical and scientific wildlife management principles and obligations:

(a) Public hunting and trapping. The primary use on all designated wildlife areas shall be hunting and trapping. Legislation and regulations are encouraged to limit numbers of participants utilizing state land where necessary to insure opportunities for a quality recreational experience. The use of closed areas and/or refuges is endorsed to provide wildlife with required sanctuary from hunting and to protect property.

(b) Scientific study. Relatively undisturbed biological systems on wildlife areas provide a unique opportunity for scientific research on natural or near-natural systems. Since a thorough knowledge of wildlife ecology is the basis of a sound wildlife management program, the designation of suitable tracts as scientific areas is encouraged.

(c) Compatible open-space uses. Open-space pedestrian uses, including hiking, nature study, wildlife viewing and cross-country skiing are generally compatible with the primary purpose of wildlife areas. These activities will be accommodated but may have to be limited in time and location to avoid interference with wildlife production or survival and public hunting or trapping.

(d) Camping. Limited primitive camping may be permitted on wildlife areas. Camping should not be encouraged nor will developments be undertaken to service campers except at locations designated in the property master plan.

(e) Off-road vehicles. Unrestricted use of off-road vehicles, including snowmobiles, will not be permitted on wildlife areas. Agreements may be made with counties, other municipalities, or private clubs for the use and maintenance of designated trails or areas where such use will not be detrimental to wildlife or conflict with public hunting.

(f) Horses. Indiscriminate horseback riding will not be permitted on wildlife areas. Use of horses may be permitted on designated trail systems, specific dog trial and training areas and in other areas where such use will not unduly damage wildlife habitat or conflict with wildlife production and public hunting.

(g) Special use permits. Special use permits may be authorized for outdoor recreational activities such as organized youth group camping, dog trials, etc., but only where such activities do not conflict with each other and where they are compatible with the primary purpose of the property. Sites where such activities are to be permitted and the facilities required shall be designated in the property master plan.

History: Cr. Register, July, 1977, No. 259 , eff. 8-1-77.