Wisconsin DNR approves land exchange for Radley Creek fisheries enhancement

The Wisconsin Natural Resources Board convened on December 11, 2024, to discuss significant developments in land management and wildlife conservation. The meeting highlighted two key topics: the management of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in deer populations and a land exchange aimed at enhancing public access to fishing areas.

One of the primary discussions centered around the management of CWD, a fatal neurological disease affecting deer. Board members emphasized the importance of leaving infected deer in their original hunting areas to prevent the spread of prions to new locations. This approach is particularly relevant for public land hunters, who may benefit from regulations that facilitate the disposal of deer carcasses in a manner that minimizes disease transmission. While the proposed measures may not drastically change current practices, board members acknowledged that every small effort contributes to managing the disease effectively.

The second major agenda item involved a land exchange proposal concerning the Radley Creek Fisheries Area in Waupaca County. Jim Lemke, the Real Estate Section Manager, presented a plan to exchange a 2.84-acre parcel owned by Richard Pachowski for two smaller department-owned properties totaling 2.61 acres. This exchange is designed to improve public fishing access along Radley Creek, a designated class 1 trout stream, and to enhance conservation efforts by allowing the planting of native prairie grass and hardwoods to reduce agricultural runoff into the creek.

The board unanimously approved both the CWD management measures and the land exchange, reflecting a commitment to balancing wildlife health with public recreational access. The successful completion of these initiatives is expected to foster better environmental stewardship and community engagement in conservation efforts.

As the board concluded its discussions, members expressed gratitude to landowners like Mr. Pachowski for their cooperation in facilitating land exchanges that benefit both conservation goals and local agricultural practices. The board's actions signal a proactive approach to managing Wisconsin's natural resources, ensuring that both wildlife and public interests are prioritized in future planning.