Park Property Supervisor Update – March 2022

Red Wing Blackbird

It’s been a while since the red-winged blackbirds migrated south for winter, but the return of one to the park this week suggests spring is just around the corner! Red-winged blackbirds are some of the ‘early nesters’ in the park, often making their homes in emerging cattails, and bunches of prairie grass when the cattails are slow to sprout for the season. We are anxiously awaiting warmer weather and the return of hikes, bonfires, and prairie plants blooming!

red wing blackbird

Speaking of hikes and programs, we have another exciting hiring update! The DNR is currently recruiting for a full-time Natural Resources Educator that will be stationed out of Havenwoods State Forest, and work with our Milwaukee Work Unit (including Lakeshore). This position will act as the lead in facilitating field trip and public interpretive offerings at Havenwoods, as well as provide coordinated outreach and marketing to the community. The deadline to apply is 11:59pm on Sunday, March 6th. For more information and to apply, visit https://wj.wi.gov/4123.

Interested in Volunteering? The Wisconsin State Park System has implemented a new way to sign up for volunteer interests, and be notified when opportunities align with your general interests. Please visit Volunteer Opportunities | Wisconsin State Park System | Wisconsin DNR to learn more about types of volunteer opportunities and sign up for specific properties! Opportunities at Lakeshore State Park, Hank Aaron State Trail, and Havenwoods State Forest will be updated as we move into the spring, but you can sign up to show your interest at any time. The Volunteer Impact System will be used to communicate spring/summer planting days, litter cleanups, invasive species removal and more! If you’re an individual interested in helping out long-term, some of those activities are currently posted.

See Something, Say Something! Please report any suspicious behavior or potential violations you observe to the 24/7 DNR Violation Tip Line. Reporting can be done anonymously, and can be done through call/text to 1-800-847-9367 or online at Report a Violation | Wisconsin DNR.

Angela Vickio