Rapid Ecological Assessment for the Wildlife Areas within...
Transcript of Rapid Ecological Assessment for the Wildlife Areas within...
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 1
Rapid Ecological Assessment for the Wildlife Areas
within the Southern Washburn, Polk, and Barron
County Planning Group
An Addendum to the 2011 “Rapid Ecological Assessment for the Fishery Areas within
the Southern Washburn, Polk, and Barron County Planning Group”
Properties included in this report are:
Washburn County
Polk County
Barron County
Beaver Brook Wildlife Area Balsam Branch Wildlife Area Loon Lake Wildlife Area
Joel Marsh Wildlife Area New Auburn Wildlife Area
Loon Lake Wildlife Area
McKenzie Creek Wildlife Area
Rice Beds Creek Wildlife Area
Wisconsin’s Natural Heritage Inventory Program Bureau of Natural Heritage Conservation Department of Natural Resources P.O. Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707 March 2017 PUB- NH-857 2017
2 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Acknowledgments We extend our appreciation to property managers Michelle Carlisle, Nancy Christel, Pete Engman, Paul
Heimstead, Ryan Magana, Kevin Morgan, and Kyle Young for their support and assistance.
Primary Author: Amy Staffen
Contributors:
Abner Jacobson – report assistance
Andy Clark – natural community surveys
Kevin Doyle – surveys for rare plants and natural communities; botany data processing;
report contributions
Ryan Magana – surveys for herps, Ephemeral Ponds, and natural communities; report
contributions
Ryan O’Connor – inventory coordination, ecology data processing, report contributions
Kurt Schmude – aquatic invertebrate surveys
Amy Staffen – surveys for birds, rare plants and natural communities
Richard Staffen – surveys for birds, herps, and Ephemeral Ponds; zoology data processing;
inventory coordination; report contributions
Cover photos (all by Amy Staffen): Top – Poor Fen at Tula Lake SNA with Black Spruce Bog and
upland forest in the background; Lower left – Northern Dry-mesic Forest at Rice Beds Creek WA; Lower
right – Flowage at dawn at Loon Lake WA.
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 3
Table of Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................... 4
Description of the Study Area ...................................................................................... 7
Regional Ecological Context ........................................................................................ 9
Vegetation .................................................................................................................... 12
Rare Species and High Quality Natural Communities of the Southern Washburn,
Polk and Barron County Wildlife Areas ..................................................................... 18
Management Considerations and Opportunities to Conserve Biodiversity .......... 19
Wetlands and Aquatic Features ..................................................................................................... 19
Habitat for Breeding and Migratory Birds..................................................................................... 23
Opportunities to Conserve Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) and Rare Plants ..... 24
Invasive Species ............................................................................................................................. 26
Game Species of the SWPB-WA ................................................................................ 30
Primary Sites: Site-specific Opportunities for Biodiversity Conservation ............. 32
Future Needs ............................................................................................................... 33
References ................................................................................................................... 35
Species List ................................................................................................................. 36
Appendices
NHI Rapid Ecological Assessments normally have a standardized set of Appendices as listed below. For
Appendix A, B, D, and F, see the 2011 REA (WDNR, 2011).
A. Natural Heritage Inventory Methods Overview (See 2011 REA)
B. Map of Conservation Opportunity Areas for the North Central Forest and Northeast Sands Ecological
Landscapes (See 2011 REA)
C. Documented rare species and high-quality natural communities for the Wildlife Areas within the
Southern Washburn, Polk, and Barron County Planning Group listed by property……………...….37
D. Descriptions for Rare Species and High Quality Natural Communities Documented on the Wildlife
Areas within the Southern Washburn, Polk, and Barron County Planning Group (See 2011 REA)
E. Species of Greatest Conservation Need of the Wildlife Areas within the Southern Washburn, Polk,
and Barron County Planning Group …................................................................................….39
F. Wisconsin Natural Heritage Working List Explanation (See 2011 REA)
G. Primary Sites within the Southern Washburn, Polk and Barron County Wildlife Areas Planning
Group…...……………………………………………………………………………………………46
4 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Southern Washburn, Polk and Barron County Wildlife Areas
At a Glance
Exceptional Characteristics of the Study Area
Wetlands and Aquatic Features. Streams and aquatic features figure prominently in the
SWPB-WA properties, and include high-quality streams, extensive and diverse types of
wetlands, springs and seeps, and undeveloped wilderness lakes. These features support
diverse plants and wildlife, including some that are rare (e.g., rare aquatic invertebrates, frogs
and turtles).
Habitat for Breeding and Migratory Birds. Significant opportunities to manage for three
distinct assemblages of breeding birds exist on the SWPB-WA, including grassland birds
(e.g., Henslow's Sparrow), marsh birds (e.g., American Bittern), and colonial water birds
(e.g., Black Tern).
Site Specific Opportunities for Biodiversity Conservation
Five ecologically important sites, or “Primary Sites,” were identified at the Southern Washburn, Polk
and Barron County Wildlife Areas. “Primary Sites” are typically delineated because they encompass
the best examples of 1) rare and representative natural communities, 2) documented occurrences of
rare species populations, and/or 3) opportunities for ecological restoration or connections. These sites
warrant high protection and/or restoration consideration during the development of the property
master plan.
New Auburn Wetlands (includes New Auburn Sedge Meadow SNA). This vast expanse
(over 700 acres) of Northern Sedge Meadow and Alder Thicket provides important habitat for
nesting and migratory marsh birds and waterfowl, including some that are rare.
Tula Lake Upland Forest and Peatlands (includes Tula Lake SNA). This complex of wild
seepage lakes, Poor Fen, Black Spruce Swamp and upland pine-oak forest spans over 600
acres, supporting rare forest raptors, warblers, herptiles, and invertebrates.
McKenzie Creek Headwaters. This 300+-acre primary site features a wild lake, creek,
forested and open wetlands, springs, seeps, and upland forest. The site plays an essential role
in maintaining the health of the Clam River Watershed and associated riparian ecosystems,
and supports diverse birds of upland forest and shrubby wetlands.
Loon Lake Woods SNA. This 71-acre site supports a shady Southern Mesic Forest of sugar
maple and basswood, with large red, white and burr oaks. Older successional stages of this
forest type are poorly represented in this region, highlighting the significance of this site. A
rare aquatic invertebrate is associated with Ephemeral Ponds here.
Rice Beds Creek Swamps and Meadows. This 819-acre site harbors a large wetland
complex that lies at the convergence of the Apple River and Rice Beds Creek. Vast tracts of
Hardwood Swamp support over 130 plant species and forest interior birds, while an extensive
swathe of sedge meadow and alder thicket straddle Rice Beds Creek, providing important
habitat for nesting marsh birds.
Beaver Brook. This primary site captures 2.8 miles of the Beaver Brook corridor, and is one
of the most botanically diverse sites in the Northwest Sands Ecological Landscape. Upland
and lowland forest, extensive areas of Alder Thicket, pockets of Emergent Marsh, scattered
spring ponds, and abundant groundwater upwellings support diverse wildlife. Patches of older
and old-growth Northern Dry-mesic Forest occur on the site.
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 5
Introduction Purpose and Objectives
The Wisconsin Natural Heritage Inventory (NHI) program completed a Rapid Ecological Assessment
(REA) for the Southern Washburn, Polk and Barron County Fishery Areas in July 2011. That report
provides baseline information for property master planning, highlighting ecological issues and
opportunities to conserve biological diversity. Seven wildlife areas (WA) within this same tri-county
area overlap closely with the fishery areas described in the 2011 REA in terms of geographical location,
ecological landscapes, rare species, natural communities, management opportunities and conservation
actions. The NHI program completed a rapid ecological assessment of those seven wildlife areas in
2016. This document presents a summary of the 2016 wildlife areas assessment, and in particular
stresses conservation themes and opportunities that are unique from those presented in the 2011 REA
(WDNR 2011). Since this document is meant to serve as an addendum to the SWPB 2011 REA, please
refer to that document for more detailed information. Although the format for NHI REAs has changed
slightly since 2011, attempts were made to make the format of this report match as closely as possible
that of the 2011 REA, to make it easier for readers to compare and combine information as needed.
Properties included in this current assessment are as follows:
Balsam Branch WA McKenzie Creek WA
Beaver Brook Wildlife Area (WA) New Auburn WA
Joel Marsh WA Rice Beds Creek WA
Loon Lake WA Tula Lake SNA
Loon Lake Woods State Natural Area (SNA)
The primary objectives of this project were to collect biological inventory information relevant to the
development of master plans for the Southern Washburn, Polk and Barron County Wildlife Areas
(SWPB-WA) and to analyze, synthesize and interpret this information for use by the master planning
team. This effort focused on assessing areas of documented or potential habitat for rare species and
identifying natural community management opportunities.
Survey efforts for the SWPB-WA were limited to a “rapid ecological assessment” for 1) identifying and
evaluating ecologically important areas, 2) documenting rare species occurrences, and 3) documenting
occurrences of natural communities with high ecological integrity. There will undoubtedly be gaps in our
knowledge of the biota of this property, especially for certain taxa groups; these groups have been
identified as representing either opportunities or needs for future work. Inventory data collected through
this effort is a starting point for adaptive management of the SWPB-WA and should be revisited as
opportunity allows and updated when new information becomes available.
6 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Overview of Methods
For detailed background on Wisconsin’s NHI program and methodology, please see the 2011 SWPB
REA (WDNR 2011).
The most recent taxa-specific NHI field surveys for the study area were conducted during 2016. Survey
locations were identified or guided by using recent aerial photos, USGS 7.5’ topographic maps, various
Geographic Information System (GIS) sources, information from past survey efforts, discussions with
property managers, and the expertise of several biologists familiar with the properties or with similar
habitats in the region. Based on the location and ecological setting of properties within the SWPB-WA,
key inventory considerations included the identification of high-quality open and forested wetlands and
upland forests, as well as the location of habitats that had the potential to support rare species. With the
exception of the Beaver Brook DOT mitigation site, private lands, including easements, surrounding the
SWPB-WA were not surveyed.
The 2016 NHI surveys were limited in scope and focused on documenting natural communities with high
ecological integrity, rare plants, breeding birds (terrestrial, marsh, forest raptors), aquatic invertebrates,
and herptiles. The results from these surveys were used, along with other information, to identify
ecologically important areas (Primary Sites) of the SWPB-WA (see pages 49-65).
Background on Past Efforts
Various large-scale research and planning efforts have identified a number of locations within the SWPB
as being ecologically significant, most of which are detailed in the 2011 REA (WDNR 2011). Several
examples that are unique to the SWPB-WA are described below:
Wisconsin Wildlife Action Plan: Conservation Opportunity Area
Conservation Opportunity Areas (COA) are places in Wisconsin containing ecological features, natural
communities, or Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) habitat for which Wisconsin has a
unique responsibility for protection when viewed from the global, continental, upper Midwest, or state
perspective. The Wisconsin Wildlife Action Plan (WAP; WDNR 2006b) identifies one Conservation
Opportunity Area (COA) within which two SWPG-WA properties occur:
McKenzie Creek and Rice Beds Creek WAs lie within the Straight Lake COA. This COA
features regionally significant complexes of oak forest and lakes, including good-quality
examples of Northern Mesic Forest, Northern Dry-mesic Forest, Southern Dry-mesic Forest,
Northern Wet Forest, and Inland Lakes. It is recognized as important for its large blocks of
predominately older northern forest, and for providing habitat for a variety of Species of Greatest
Conservation Need (SGCN), including forest raptors, forest interior birds, forest mammals,
marsh birds, herptiles, and aquatic invertebrates.
Legacy Places
The Land Legacy Report (WDNR 2006a) was designed to identify Wisconsin’s most important
conservation and recreation needs for the next 50 years.
Rice Beds Creek WA and Loon Lake WA fall within the Apple River Land Legacy Site. This
area occupies the upper stretches of the Apple River, and supports a variety of grasslands,
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 7
wetlands, numerous small glacial pothole lakes, and hardwood forests. North of Rice Beds
Creek WA are large blocks of northern hardwood forest with old-growth characteristics.
McKenzie Creek WA is part of the Clam River Land Legacy Site. The Clam River is a lightly
developed, 55-mile-long river that runs through a variety of habitat types including forests and
barrens. McKenzie Creek WA lies within the headwaters area, which is known for excellent
trout fishing.
Special Management Designations
State Natural Areas
State Natural Areas (SNA) are places on the landscape that protect outstanding examples of native
natural communities, significant geological formations, and archaeological sites. Designation confers a
significant level of land protection through state statutes, administrative rules, and guidelines. State
Natural Areas within the SWPB-WA are as follows:
Tula Lake SNA is a 160-acre site that occurs within McKenzie Creek WA.
Loon Lake Woods SNA is a 59-acre site within Loon Lake WA.
TNC Lakes Portfolio
In 2014, The Nature Conservancy identified a ‘portfolio’ of lakes for Wisconsin that represent high
quality examples of each lake type (Blann and Wagner 2014). The project aims to support prioritization
of strategies for protection, maintenance, and restoration of Wisconsin’s diversity of lake ecosystems.
Several lakes at Loon Lake WA were identified as Portfolio sites.
Description of the Study Area
Location and Size
The SWPB-WA is located in northwestern Wisconsin (Map A) and is made up of seven properties
totaling 16,452 acres. This includes:
Balsam Branch WA (173 acres) is located in southeastern Polk County about 11 miles southeast
of Saint Croix Falls.
Beaver Brook WA (1,896 acres) is located in southwestern Washburn County less than one mile
southeast of Spooner.
Joel Marsh WA (1,309 acres) is located in southeastern Polk County about two miles west of
Turtle Lake.
Loon Lake WA (3,151 acres) is located mostly in Barron County with a small portion in Polk
County between Turtle Lake and Cumberland.
McKenzie Creek WA (5,547 acres) is located in Polk County less than one mile south of Clam
Falls.
New Auburn WA (1,162 acres) is located in Baron County about four and a half miles south of
Chetek.
Rice Beds Creek WA (3,211 acres) is located in Polk County about eight miles northwest of
Turtle Lake.
All acreages are based on fee simple ownership from DNR Facilities and Lands GIS records as of
December 2016; acreage may not include easements, leases and some permanent water bodies.
8 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 9
Regional Ecological Context Similarly to the fishery areas highlighted in the 2011 REA, the SWPB-WA properties are located almost
entirely within the Forest Transition Ecological Landscape (Fig. 1); just a tiny part of Beaver Brook WA
extends into the Northwest Sands Ecological Landscape. For more information on the Forest Transition
Ecological Landscape, see the 2011 REA (WDNR 2011).
Land Type Associations (LTAs) of Wisconsin are mapped based on
the associations of biotic and environmental factors which include
climate, physiography, water, soils, air, hydrology, and potential
natural communities. The majority of the SWPB-WA properties fall
within the Late St. Croix Moraines LTA (Map B), which is
described in detail in the 2011 REA. Those that are unique to the
SWPB-WA include the following: New Auburn WA falls within the
Chetek Plains and New Auburn Moraines LTAs, and a small part of
McKenzie Creek WA lies within the Polk Basalt Moraines LTA:
Chetek Plains (212Qb04). The characteristic landform
pattern is nearly level outwash plain with terraces, fans, and
sandstone hills common. Soils are predominantly well
drained sandy loam over outwash. The majority of New
Auburn WA falls within this LTA.
New Auburn Moraines (212Qb06). The characteristic landform pattern is rolling moraine with
pediments common. Soils are predominantly moderately well drained silt loam over dense, acid
sandy loam till or sandstone. Approximately 200 acres in the southeast part of New Auburn WA
lie within this LTA.
Polk Basalt Moraines (212Qa03). Landform pattern is undulating, rolling collapsed moraines
intermixed with ice-walled lake plains, bedrock knolls and ridges. Soils are predominantly well
drained sandy loam over dense, acid sandy loam till or igneous/metamorphic bedrock.
Approximately 1,300 acres in the western part of McKenzie Creek WA, including Tula Lake
State Natural Area, lie within this LTA.
Figure 1. Ecological Landscapes in
relation to the Property Group.
10 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 11
Physical Environment The glacial geology, landforms, and soils of the SWPB-WA remain consistent with those described in the
2011 REA (WDNR 2011). While the general hydrology of the study region is also consistent with that
described in the previous REA, a number of important waterbodies associated with the SWPB-WA merit
special attention here.
A number of coldwater streams in the SWPB-WA have exceptionally high water quality, including
McKenzie Creek (Class I and II trout stream in places, as well as an Outstanding Resource Water),
Beaver Brook (Class I trout stream fed by 10 spring ponds), and Rice Bed Creek (Class II trout fishery as
it flows through the northern unit of the namesake wildlife area, as well as the northern quarter of the
southern unit). In addition, two headwater streams occur within the property group, including Rice Bed
Creek and McKenzie Creek.
Undeveloped lakes are becoming increasingly rare in this part of the state, thus their abundant
representation in this property group is significant. McKenzie Creek and Loon Lake WAs are
particularly rich in small seepage lakes. Large impoundments at Joel Marsh, Loon Lake, and McKenzie
Creek WAs are also major landscape features.
12 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Vegetation See the 2011 REA for an applicable description of the historical vegetation of the SWPB-WA (WDNR,
2011; pp. 21-22). A summary of current vegetation of the SWPB-WA follows.
Each one of the SWPB-WA properties harbors a mosaic of habitats capturing a continuum from stream to
wetlands to uplands. Wetland types run the gamut from Floodplain Forest and Northern Tamarack
Swamp to Alder Thicket, Emergent Marsh, Poor Fen, Open Bog and Northern Sedge Meadow. Upland
cover types include Surrogate Grassland and upland forest dominated by oaks (Quercus spp.), aspen
(Populus spp.), or a mix of northern hardwoods and pines. Shallow seepage lakes punctuate the
landscape mosaic at a number of the properties as well, supporting diverse aquatic plant communities.
Descriptions of the dominant cover types as well as examples of natural communities with high
ecological integrity on the property group are described below.
Upland Forest – Northern/Southern Dry-mesic Forest and Northern Mesic Forest
The largest WisFIRS cover types in the property group are northern hardwoods, aspen, and oak,
capturing approximately 60% of the total area (the “Oak” cover type represents approximately 25%). On
the SWPB-WA, the most common upland forest type is dry-mesic forest, which occurs on gently rolling
morainal topography on sandy loams or loamy sands. Pockets of rich loamy soils on glacial till plains
and moraines also harbor mesic forest.
Due to the position of the property planning group within the Tension Zone, both southern and northern
elements may blend here, thus wide-ranging canopy trees such as red oak (Quercus rubra), sugar maple
(Acer saccharum) and American basswood (Tilia americana) may be joined by southern species such as
white oak (Quercus alba; common in Southern Dry-mesic Forest) and northern species such as white
pine (Pinus strobus), eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), and red pine (Pinus resinosa), which are
more typical of Northern Dry-mesic Forest).
In the 2015 update of Wisconsin's Wildlife Action Plan, northern forest natural communities were
subdivided into seral stages based on the progression from young forest to mature forest following
harvesting or a major natural disturbance (Tables 1 and 2). These subdivisions were created to help
illustrate the relative impact of the wide range of possible forest types on SGCN habitat; see the
“Northern Forest Communities” webpages on the WDNR website for more details, or Appendix E of this
report for the greatest opportunities for SGCN conservation in upland forests and other community types
on the SWPB-WA. In describing these forest seral stages, it is recognized that they exist and persist on
the landscape due to a marked range of conditions depending on the nature and intensity of forest
management. Managers are encouraged to adopt a balanced approach that takes into account the need for
large blocks of older forest as well as areas of mid-seral and young-seral forest, which would benefit the
most SGCN.
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 13
Table 1. Three seral stages of Northern Dry-mesic Forest1
Source: Wisconsin’s Wildlife Action Plan (WDNR 2015). DBH = diameter at breast height; CWD = coarse woody debris
Seral Stages DBH Stand
Development
Stage
Canopy Subcanopy Layering Structural Diversity
Late Seral (Old-
growth Forest,
Older Forest)
12-
24"+
Understory Re-
initiation stage to
Old Growth stage
Well-developed canopy,
with diverse species such
as northern red oak, white
pine, red pine. Also red
maple, paper birch and
aspen.
Moderate
subcanopy, with
shade-tolerant spp
such as white pine,
red maple.
Size and age diversity of
trees are high, which are
strong contributors to
habitat for SGCN.
High, with numerous snags
and CWD.
Mid-Seral 5-11" Stem Exclusion
stage to
Understory Re-
initiation stage
Moderate to well-
developed canopy, often
with lower species
diversity of tree species,
with northern red oak, red
maple, white pine. Also
aspen and birch in small
patches. Red pine in some
landscapes.
Moderate to well-
developed
subcanopy, with red
maple, aspen, birch,
eastern hop-
hornbeam,
musclewood.
Often even-aged, but
multiple age classes
starting to develop,
though not as complex
as Late Seral stands.
Snags and CWD are
typically sparse unless
intentionally retained by
previous management.
Young Seral 1-5" Stand Initiation
stage, followed by
Stem Exclusion
stage
Ranges from dog-hair
thicket to, very dense
canopy of short, young
white pine, red pine, red
oak, black oak, red maple,
aspen, and birch.
Usually none. Usually even-aged with
a single layer of young
trees, unless scattered
older trees have been
retained.
Low. Snags and CWD may
or may not be present
depending on stand origin
and management history.
1 Stands with more than 50 percent aspen by basal area fall into the "Aspen-Birch" habitat type. For stands dominated by planted conifers, refer to the "Conifer Plantation" type.
14 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Table 2. Four seral stages of Northern Mesic Forest
2
Source: Wisconsin’s Wildlife Action Plan (WDNR 2015). DBH = diameter at breast height; CWD = coarse woody debris
Seral Stages DBH Stand
Development
Stage
Canopy Subcanopy Layering Structural Diversity
Late Seral
(Old-growth
Forest, Older
Forest)
15-
24+"
Old Growth
stage
Well-developed, with sugar
maple, basswood, red oak, yellow
birch, white ash. Hemlock and
white pine occur as scattered
individuals or in small groves.
White pines occupy supercanopy.
All tree sizes and age
classes present,
creating complex,
multi-layered canopy.
Old-growth canopy
trees can be75-300
years old.
High. Abundant snags,
cavity trees, CWD in
various stages of
decomposition.
Mid-Seral 11-15" Understory Re-
initiation stage
Moderate to well-developed, with
sugar maple, basswood, red oak,
American elm, white ash, yellow
birch. Also scattered groves of
hemlock.
Moderate to well-
developed. Young
saplings may be
present.
Occasional older trees
may be present. Young
saplings may be
present.
Stands lack complex
structural diversity of Late
Seral stands. If trees are
allowed to age beyond
rotation age, stands may
acquire snags, CWD, and
multi-aged structure.
Early Seral 5-11" Stem Exclusion
stage
May have high canopy cover, but
lack the larger trees as well as tree
species diversity of later seral
stands. Sugar maple is often
dominant, also red oak, red maple,
basswood, white ash. Also aspen
and birch in small patches.
May be even-aged or
two-aged, fitting into
what foresters term the
"stem exclusion phase"
as competition inhibits
new saplings and
shrubs.
Snags and CWD are
typically sparse except for
legacy trees.
Young Seral 1-5" Stand Initiation
stage
Low diversity of tree species, with
sugar maple, aspen and birch.
Other northern hardwoods may be
present (e.g., red oak, red maple,
basswood, white ash).
Typically low, unless stand
originates from blow-down
and salvage logging doesn't
occur). Snags and CWD
may or may not be present
depending on stand origin
and management history.
2 Stands with more than 50 percent aspen by basal area fall into the "Aspen-Birch" habitat type. For stands dominated by planted conifers, refer to the "Conifer Plantation" type.
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 15
The majority of upland forest on the SWPB-WA is comprised of young and mid-seral dry-mesic and
mesic forest. Scattered small areas of older (“late seral”) Northern Mesic Forest also occur on the
property group. Diversity of tree species, sizes and age classes in all strata is an indicator of high
ecological integrity that can support diverse plants and wildlife and have greater adaptive capacity in
response to natural disturbances. Maintaining or restoring some lands to more closely resemble
historical conditions within actively managed lands can help conserve important elements of biological
diversity. Five areas on the SWPB-WA have been identified as supporting upland forest with high or
moderate ecological integrity:
At McKenzie Creek WA, over 600 acres of mid- to late seral Northern Dry-mesic Forest occurs
south of County Highway W. The forest tracts near Tula and Margaret Lakes represent the
highest quality examples of this community type on the property group in terms of providing
diverse habitat for SGCN and rare plants. The forest here has characteristics of late seral forest,
including complex layering, diverse tree size and age classes, and structural diversity. Large
tracts of contiguous mid-seral dry-mesic forest continue all the way to the south boundary of the
wildlife area, where the forest plays a particularly important role in protecting the headwaters
area of McKenzie Creek. A variable forest canopy is created by 9- to 32-inch DBH red oak,
white oak, sugar maple and American basswood. Large white pines (24-36 inch) also occupy the
canopy as well as the supercanopy. A moderately diverse ground layer includes conservative
species such as blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides), leatherwood (Dirca palustris), and
miterwort (Mitella diphylla). Two primary sites in this area feature parts of this important forest
block: Tula Lake Upland Forests and Peatlands and McKenzie Creek Headwaters.
Stands of late seral Northern Dry-mesic Forest, including natural origin white and red pine, occur
at the south and north ends of the Beaver Brook Primary Site (within Beaver Brook WA; see
pages 62-64). Older age class natural origin white and red pine stands are uncommon within the
Forest Transition Ecological Landscape.
Over 500 acres of Northern Dry-mesic Forest are found at Loon Lake WA with additional forest
lands continuing on adjacent private lands. Here, the forest composition is similar to those
described above, but the diversity of tree age and size classes is lower, there are fewer native
ground layer species, and regeneration of canopy dominants (especially oak) is very limited.
Patches of mid-seral forest are interspersed here with young seral patches that have been
intensively logged. This forest is particularly important for protecting the numerous small
seepage wilderness lakes and wetlands that occur within this unique landscape of kettles and
moraines.
Another forest area at Rice Beds Creek WA south of County Highway G is significant for its
large size (600+ acres) and good landscape context, but also similar to the stands at Loon Lake
WA in terms of structure, age class, and composition (mostly mid-seral with young patches).
This block was typed as Southern Dry-mesic Forest, mainly due to the absence of pines.
Loon Lake Woods SNA supports mid- to late seral Northern Mesic Forest of sugar maple and
basswood, with large red, white and burr oaks (Quercus macrocarpa) also contributing to this
forest's dense canopy. This forest shows characteristics of older forest, including some trees as
large as 20 inches dbh, a mix of tree sizes and age classes, abundant coarse woody debris, and
“pit-and-mound” microtopography. A rich ground flora includes ephemerals such as large-
flowered trillium and wild leek (Allium tricoccum). Older successional stages of Southern Mesic
Forest are poorly represented in this region, highlighting the significance of this site.
At New Auburn Wildlife Area, a small tract of mid- to late seral Northern Mesic Forest
supports large sugar maple, basswood and red oak with a rich ground flora. The site’s small size
and large amounts of habitat edge make it vulnerable to harmful disturbances such as non-native
invasive species, windthrow, and runoff.
16 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Emergent Marsh
Emergent Marsh occupies approximately 15% of the property group area, with particularly large tracts at
Joel Marsh and Loon Lake WAs associated with flowages. These marshes occur where there is
permanent standing water, and are dominated by cattails (Typha spp.), bulrushes (especially softstem
bulrush [Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani]), bur-reeds (Sparganium spp.), and arrowheads (Sagittaria
spp.). These provide significant habitat for numerous bird and herptile species as well as offer important
ecosystem services such as filtration of runoff and flood mitigation.
Open and Brushy Wetlands
This broad cover type occupies approximately 10% of the area on the property group, and includes
Northern Sedge Meadow, Alder Thicket, and Poor Fen.
Northern Sedge Meadow and Alder Thicket. In this property group, sedge meadows and Alder Thickets
occur along the margins of streams, and are dominated by broad-leaved sedges such as common yellow
lake sedge (Carex utriculata) or lake sedge (C. lacustris), along with bluejoint grass (Calamagrostis
canadensis), soft-stem bulrush, and a variety of forbs such as water smartweed (Persicaria amphibia),
orange jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), and swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata). In undisturbed
settings, Alder Thickets typically occupy areas that are transitional between sedge meadows and forested
wetlands or uplands. Past drainage of open wetlands in places has fostered artificial development of
these lowland shrub communities, however (e.g., in parts of New Auburn WA). The ground layer
species of Alder Thickets are largely typical of sedge meadow, but native shrubs (especially speckled
alder [Alnus incana]) can create moderate to deep shade. Two areas on the SWPB-WA have been
identified as supporting Southern Sedge Meadow and Alder Thicket with high ecological integrity:
New Auburn WA (New Auburn Wetlands Primary Site)
Rice Beds Creek WA (Rice Beds Creek Swamps and Marshes Primary Site)
Poor Fen. Poor Fen is a weakly minerotrophic peatland that has deep Sphagnum and higher plant
diversity than that of Open Bog communities. Species typical of fens on the SWPG-WA include cotton-
grasses (Eriophorum spp.), woolly-fruit sedge (Carex lasiocarpa), purple pitcher-plant (Sarracenia
purpurea), round-leaved sundew (Drosera rotundifolia), and pod grass (Scheuchzeria palustris). Three
areas on the SWPB-WA have been identified as supporting Poor Fen with high ecological integrity:
McKenzie Creek WA at Marsh Lake, Tula Lake and Dinger Lake.
Lowland Forest
Lowland forests occur on more than 10% of the study area, and include Hardwood Swamp, Black Spruce
Swamp, and Northern Tamarack Swamp.
Hardwood Swamp. Northern Hardwood Swamp is a deciduous forested wetland that occurs along
streams or in insular basins. The dominant tree species is black ash (Fraxinus nigra), but in some stands
red maple, yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis), and American elm (Ulmus americana) are also
important. The tall shrub speckled alder may be locally common. Gooseberries and currants (Ribes spp.)
are also characteristic shrubs of these swamps. Vines may also be important, especially Virginia creeper
(Parthenocissus quinquefolia) and poison ivy (Toxicodendron spp.). The herbaceous flora is often
diverse and may include many of the same species found in Alder Thickets, including marsh-marigold
(Caltha palustris), orange jewelweed, wood nettle (Laportea canadensis), and numerous fern, grass, and
sedge species. One area on the property group was recognized for supporting Hardwood Swamp with
high ecological integrity:
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 17
At Rice Beds Creek WA, over 360 acres of Hardwood Swamp extends north, west and east from
the confluence of the Apple River and Rice Beds Creek. Black ash is the dominant canopy tree
here, along with lesser amounts of yellow birch and red maple. Over 130 plant species grace the
mucky forest floor, including numerous fern, lily, and sedge species. This forest block is part of
the Rice Beds Creek Swamps and Marshes primary site.
Black Spruce Swamp. Black Spruce Swamp is a forested wetland community characterized by a
relatively dense canopy of black spruce (Picea mariana) and tamarack (Larix laricina) growing over
deep beds of Sphagnum. The associated ground flora is relatively low in diversity due to the high
acidity, cold ambient temperatures, short growing season, and low nutrient levels typical of this
community. On the SWPB-WA, these include shrubs such as Labrador tea (Rhododendron
groenlandicum), leatherleaf (Chamaedaphne calyculata), and bog rosemary (Andromeda polifolia), herbs
such as false mayflower (Maianthemum trifolium) and purple pitcher-plant, and various sedges and
cotton-grasses. One area on the SWPB-WA was recognized for supporting Black Spruce Swamp with
high ecological integrity:
Beyond the fen margins of Tula and Marsh Lakes at McKenzie Creek WA lies a Black Spruce
Swamp where small-diameter black spruce and tamarack create 35-65% canopy cover over a
deep Sphagnum mat with scattered bog shrubs such as Laborador tea, leather leaf and bog
rosemary, along with occasional tufts of rusty cotton-grass (Eriophorum virginicum) and other
wetland herbs. This is part of the Tula Lake Upland Forests and Peatlands Primary Site.
Surrogate Grassland
Lastly, surrogate grasslands are maintained on about 5% of the total study area, and comprise mostly
former agricultural lands that have been planted to prairie; a subset is dominated by non-native cool-
season grasses.
18 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Rare Species and High Quality Natural Communities of the Southern Washburn, Polk and Barron County Wildlife Areas Rare species and high-quality natural communities have been documented at the SWPB-WA (Table 3).
Other rare or declining species may be present on the SWPB-WA that escaped detection during surveys.
All species listed below are Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN), and are tracked by NHI.
Table 3. Documented rare species and high-quality natural communities of the Southern Washburn, Polk and Barron
County Wildlife Areas Planning Group
For an explanation of state and global ranks, as well as state status, see Appendix F of 2011 REA. State Rank and
Listing Status is based on Wisconsin Natural Heritage Inventory (NHI) Working List updates (WDNR, 2016). Bird
occurrences refer only to breeding activity. *Observation did not meet criteria for mapping in NHI database.
Common Name Scientific Name Last
Observed
Date
State
Rank
Global
Rank
State
Status
Birds
American Bittern Botaurus lentiginosus 2016 S2S3B G4 SC/M
Black Tern Chlidonias niger 2016* S2B G4 END
Bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorus 2016 S2S3B G5 SC/M
Brewer’s blackbird Euphagus cyanocephalus 2016 S2S3B G5 SC/M
Cerulean Warbler Setophaga cerulea 2016 S2S3B G4 THR
Eastern Meadowlark Sturnella magna 2016 S2S3B G5 SC/M
Golden-winged Warbler Vermivora chrysoptera 2016 S3B G4 SC/M
Henslow's Sparrow Ammodramus henslowii 2016 S2S3B G4 THR
Le Conte's Sparrow Ammodramus leconteii 2016 S2S3B G4 SC/M
Least Flycatcher Empidonax minimus 2016 S3B G5 SC/M
Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis 1983 S2B,S2N G5 SC/M
Northern Harrier Circus cyaneus 2016 S3B,S2N G5 m-SIN
Red-headed Woodpecker Melanerpes
erythrocephalus
2016 S3B G5 SC/M
Red-shouldered Hawk Buteo lineatus 2016 S3S4B,S1N G5 THR
Western Meadowlark Sturnella neglecta 2016 S2B G5 SC/M
Wood Thrush Hylocichla mustelina 2016 S4B G5 m-SIN
Yellow-headed Blackbird Xanthocephalus
xanthocephalus
2016 S1S2B G5 SC/M
Reptiles
Blanding's Turtle Emydoidea blandingii 2013 S3S4 G4 SC/P
Prairie Skink Plestiodon septentrionalis 2016 S3 G5 SC/H
Amphibians
Four-toed Salamander Hemidactylium scutatum 2016 S3? G5 SC/H
Mink Frog Lithobates septentrionalis 2016 S3 G5 SC/H
Mammals
Big Brown Bat Eptesicus fuscus 2013* S2S4 G5 THR
Little Brown Bat Myotis lucifugus 2011* S2S4 G3 THR
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 19
Common Name Scientific Name Last
Observed
Date
State
Rank
Global
Rank
State
Status
Silver-haired Bat Lasionycteris noctivagans 2013* S3 G3G4 SC/N
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Sioux (Sand) Snaketail Ophiogomphus smithi 2013 S2 G2G3 SC/N
Swamp Darner Epiaeschna heros 2011 S2S3 G5 SC/N
Natural Communities
Alder Thicket Alder thicket 2016 S4 G4 NA
Black Spruce Swamp Black spruce swamp 2016 S3? G5 NA
Ephemeral Pond Ephemeral pond 2013 SU GNRQ NA
Hardwood Swamp Hardwood Swamp 2016 S3 G4 NA
Lake--Shallow, Soft,
Seepage
Lake--shallow, soft,
seepage
2016 S4 GNR NA
Lake--Soft Bog Lake--soft bog 1984 S4 GNR NA
Northern Dry-mesic Forest Northern dry-mesic forest 2016 S3 G4 NA
Northern Mesic Forest Northern mesic forest 2009 S4 G4 NA
Northern Sedge Meadow Northern sedge meadow 2016 S3 G4 NA
Poor Fen Poor fen 2016 S3 G3G4 NA
Southern Dry-mesic Forest Southern dry-mesic forest 2016 S3 G4 NA
Southern Mesic Forest Southern mesic forest 2012 S3 G3? NA
Plants
Pale Green Orchid Platanthera flava var.
herbiola
2016 S2 G4?T4Q THR
Robbin’s Spike-rush Eleocharis robbinsii 2016 S3 G4G5 SC
Snail-seed Pondweed Potamogeton bicupulatus 2016 S2 G4 SC
Management Considerations and Opportunities to Conserve Biodiversity
Many of the conservation themes presented in the 2011 REA pertaining to the SWPB fishery areas also
apply to the SWPB wildlife areas. Examples of how SWPB-WA sites relate to these themes is presented
below. For more details on these themes, please see the 2011 REA (WDNR, 2011; pp. 25-30).
Wetlands and Aquatic Features Similarly to the SWPB fishery areas, streams and aquatic features figure prominently in the SWPB-WA
properties, and support a variety of rare and declining species. Important and unique examples on the
SWPB-WA are described below (Table 4). For more details on this theme, see the 2011 REA (WDNR,
2011; p. 26).
A number of streams in the SWPB-WA have good water quality due to the fact that the surrounding
wildlife areas protect them from harmful runoff from agricultural lands in the region. McKenzie Creek,
for example, is completely protected from start to end within its namesake wildlife area, and is a Class I
and II trout stream in places, as well as an Outstanding Resource Water. Beaver Brook is also a Class I
20 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
trout stream fed by 10 spring ponds. Rice Bed Creek is a Class II trout fishery as it flows through the
northern unit of the namesake wildlife area, as well as the northern quarter of the southern unit.
Two headwater streams occur within the property group, including Rice Bed Creek and McKenzie Creek.
These streams are essential to the health of the Upper Apple River and Clam River Watersheds
(respectively) and associated riparian ecosystems: They keep sediment and other pollutants out of the
stream's lower reaches, they provide vital organic and inorganic elements that support ecosystems
downstream, and they support diverse and unique plants and animals that are specially adapted to the
physical and chemical conditions associated with this habitat complex (Kaplan et al. 2008).
Table 4. Significant aquatic features of the Southwest Washburn, Polk and Barron County Wildlife Areas.
Property Name Significant Areas
within Property
Features
Beaver Brook WA Beaver Brook Primary
Site
One-mile-long swathe of Alder Thicket, Floodplain
Forest, ten spring ponds supports several rare bird
species.
Beaver Brook WA DOT Mitigation
Wetland
Important example of a commercial cranberry bog
undergoing ecological restoration.
Beaver Brook WA Harrison Lake Wilderness lake with fringe of Northern Sedge
Meadow
Beaver Brook WA Wetland in northwest
corner near public
access point
Poor Fen, Tamarack Swamp, Alder Thicket, open
water. Rare frog.
Loon Lake WA
Joel Marsh WA
Flowages with extensive Emergent Marsh and open
water habitats for rare marsh and colonial water
birds.
Loon Lake WA Loon Lake Hardwoods
SNA
Ephemeral Ponds support rare dragonfly.
Loon Lake WA South and east of
Loon Lake (Fig. 3)
Patches of Black Spruce Swamp, Tamarack Swamp,
Northern Sedge Meadow, Emergent Marsh,
Submergent Marsh and Poor Fen scattered
throughout a large complex of wilderness lakes.
Rare aquatic plants and frog.
McKenzie Creek WA McKenzie Creek,
Clam Falls Flowage
Outstanding Resource Water, trout stream, supports
rare dragonflies.
McKenzie Creek WA Tula Lake Upland
Forests and Peatlands;
Dinger Lake; Margaret
Lake
Peatlands of high ecological integrity including Poor
Fen and Black Spruce Swamp. Undeveloped small
seepage lakes and Ephemeral Ponds. Rare
salamander and flies.
New Auburn WA New Auburn
Wetlands Primary Site
Over 700 acres of Northern Sedge Meadow with
pockets of Emergent Marsh, patches of Alder
Thicket, and areas of open water. Rare marsh and
grassland birds.
Rice Beds Creek WA Rice Beds Creek
Swamps and Meadows
Primary Site
Over 200 acres of Hardwood Swamp with high
ecological integrity along with extensive tracts of
Northern Sedge Meadow and Alder Thicket. Rare
marsh and grassland birds.
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 21
Extensive wetlands on the SWPB-WA are associated with streams, as well as springs, spring seeps,
forested seeps, insular basins, and impoundments, and include both open and forested types. They serve
to slow the release of water during storms (thus minimizing flooding), filter nutrients and pollutants that
are carried in runoff, and provide moisture banks during low water periods or droughts. Riparian
wetlands also provide vital habitat to many animals (e.g., the Special Concern Blanding’s turtle
[Emydoidea blandingii]), as well as natural corridors for their migration.
Undeveloped lakes are becoming increasingly rare in this part of the state, thus their abundant
representation in this property group is also significant. Those lake and wetland areas that hold the
highest ecological integrity or importance as wildlife habitat on the property group are described below
(Table 3). Many of these areas fall within primary sites, which are described in greater detail in the next
major section within this report.
At Loon Lake WA, a complex of 17 shallow seepage lakes occurs within a rolling forest landscape (Fig.
2), including four that were identified as high priorities for conservation by The Nature Conservancy
(Blann and Wagner 2014). Wetlands occur in zones around the lakes: Northern Sedge Meadow in
shallower waters, Emergent and Submergent Marsh in deeper embayments, and Floating-Leaved Marsh
in the deepest waters. Sphagnum mats with Poor Fen, Open Bog or Northern Tamarack Swamp also
occupy some lake margins and kettle depressions. Several rare species are associated with these lakes
and wetlands, including two rare plants and one amphibian. This area is only accessible on foot,
providing diverse opportunities for conservation of these important aquatic communities and associated
plants and animals.
22 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Figure 2. The wild lakes region at Loon Lake WA supports diverse aquatic and wetland habitats. Lakes are outlined
in aquamarine. Lakes identified as high priority for conservation by The Nature Conservancy (2014) are denoted
with a solid aquamarine color (all are unnamed, so Water Body Identification Codes provided instead).
Conservation of lakes, streams and wetlands. Nutrient enrichment and sedimentation are among the
leading causes of stream, lake and wetland degradation, and can be reduced using various approaches:
To slow the flow of harmful runoff into streams during snowmelt and rain events, maintain or
promote diverse tree species in mid- and older age classes, along with appropriate shrub and
groundlayer vegetation, in upland riparian corridors and associated slopes and terraces. In
particular, a mixture of hardwoods and conifers reduces snowmelt rates, minimizes
sedimentation, and maximizes water quality. (Note: Naturally open sandy banks should not
necessarily be reforested, as they provide critical nesting habitat for turtles.)
To protect water quality in wilderness lakes on the SWPB-WA, maintain or restore wetlands that
are directly or partially connected to them.
Follow forestry best management practices (BMPs) for water quality (WDNR, 2010b), and
consider additional buffers around sensitive riparian and wetland habitats.
Work with municipal planners, developers, businesses, and local zoning boards to increase
groundwater infiltration practices and decrease storm water input from impervious surfaces
(parking lots, etc.) through techniques such as the installation of bioswales.
Hydrologic alteration is another significant threat to streams and wetlands, and can be mitigated with the
following actions:
Identify priority groundwater recharge areas that supply wetlands, springs, and streams.
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 23
Conduct groundwater quantity and/or quality monitoring, stream flow, and lake levels in areas
where groundwater dependent species and communities are in close proximity to areas with high
demand on groundwater resources.
Habitat for Breeding and Migratory Birds Opportunities to manage for three distinct assemblages of breeding birds exist on the SWPB-WA,
including grassland/shrubland birds, marsh birds, and colonial water birds (Table 5). In addition to the
detailed information provided below on managing for these suites of species, see the 2011 REA (WDNR,
2011; p. 25) for related opportunities on the SWPB Fishery Areas.
Table 5. Significant conservation opportunities for rare or declining breeding birds on the Southwest Washburn,
Polk and Barron County Wildlife Areas Planning Group
Bird Assemblage Species tracked by NHI that breed
on SWPB-WA (state rank*)
Suitable SWPB-WA Properties
Grassland Birds bobolink (SC)
eastern meadowlark (SC)
western meadowlark (SC)
Henslow’s Sparrow (Thr)
LeConte’s Sparrow (SC)
northern harrier (SIN)
Loon Lake WA
New Auburn WA
Rice Beds Creek WA
Shrubland Birds golden-winged warbler (SC) Balsam Branch WA
Beaver Brook WA
Loon Lake WA
McKenzie Creek WA
New Auburn WA
Rice Beds Creek WA
Marsh Birds and
Colonial Water Birds
American bittern (SC)
northern harrier (SIN)
yellow-headed blackbird (SC)
black tern (END)
Loon Lake WA
Joel Marsh WA
New Auburn WA
*END = Endangered, THR = Threatened, SC = Special Concern, SIN = Species with information needs.
Grassland Birds. Since the North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) began in 1966, grassland birds
have declined more steeply than any other group of birds in North America and the Midwest (Askins et
al. 2007). There are two types of open habitats that support grassland bird species on the SWPB-WA:
Surrogate Grassland and Northern Sedge Meadow. Surrogate Grasslands were historically cleared,
drained, plowed and/or heavily grazed and later replanted with non-native cool-season grasses or native
prairie plants. There are large areas of surrogate grassland at Loon Lake WA, the most productive area
of which lies in the northwest part of the property (Fig. 3). At this site, rare and declining birds such as
both meadowlark species (Sturnella neglecta and S. magna), Henslow’s sparrow (Ammodramus
henslowii), Le Conte’s sparrow (Ammodramus leconteii), and bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) are
regularly seen during breeding season. At New Auburn and Rice Beds Creek WAs, there are extensive
swathes of Northern Sedge Meadow that also support vulnerable species such as northern harrier (Circus
cyaneus) and Le Conte’s sparrow. Brushy thickets within or along the edges of these open habitats at all
three sites provide important habitat for shrubland birds including the golden-winged warbler (Vermivora
chrysoptera). Restricting brushy areas to discrete thickets and edges, along with removal of tall trees
within core habitat areas, will further promote habitat for these declining species. When managing for
grassland birds, the minimum recommended size for a habitat block is 250 acres (Sample and Mossman
1997). Blocks of managed grassland can be even smaller, however, if they are surrounded by compatible
open cover types, even if they have limited value for grassland birds (e.g., pasture, grassy hayfields, idle
24 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
grasslands, reed canary grass-dominated meadows). Promoting large open landscapes and rotating
management spatially and temporally using a variety of management techniques (e.g., brushing,
prescribed fire, mowing, herbicide application) can benefit the greatest number of species by creating a
variety of habitat structures.
Figure 3. Grassland bird habitat with highest productivity on the SWPB-WA occurs at Loon Lake Wildlife Area
(yellow highlighted area). Clearing trees in area delineated with brown polygon could expand habitat area and
remove avian predator perches.
Marsh and Colonial Water Birds. Large expanses of Emergent Marsh, Northern Sedge Meadow, and
open water impoundments provide important habitat for marsh bird and colonial water bird species
during breeding season. Diverse bird species may also use these sites during migration, including
waterfowl and shorebirds. Runoff from agricultural lands and roads adjacent to these sites may
contribute to overgrowth of cattails and non-native invasives, potentially diminishing habitat for birds by
reducing diversity of food sources and nesting habitats. Initiatives to promote diversity in native plant
species, habitat structure (open water, wetland, shrubland, grassland) and food sources (aquatic tubers,
mudflat colonizers, etc.) will benefit birds who utilize these habitats during migration and breeding
season.
Wisconsin’s Wildlife Action Plan: Opportunities to Conserve
Species of Greatest Conservation Need and Rare Plants The Wisconsin Wildlife Action Plan (WDNR 2015) notes Species of Greatest Conservation Need
(SGCN) associated with each Ecological Landscape. Species of Greatest Conservation Need are animals
that have low and/or declining populations that are in need of conservation action. They include various
birds, fish, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates (e.g., dragonflies, butterflies, and freshwater
mussels) that are:
Are already listed as threatened or endangered;
Have few, low, or declining populations, and/or threats their populations or habitats;
Are stable in number in Wisconsin, but declining in adjacent states or nationally;
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 25
Have biological, genetic or ecological characteristics that place them at risk or make them
vulnerable to decline.
There are 67 SGCN and 53 rare plants significantly associated3 with the Forest Transition Ecological
Landscape. This means that these species are (and/or historically were) significantly associated with this
Ecological Landscapes, and that restoration of natural communities with which these species are
associated would significantly improve their conditions. For a complete list of which SGCN and rare
plant species occur on the SWPB-WA, please see Appendix C.
The Wisconsin Wildlife Action Plan also identifies conservation opportunities by highlighting the natural
communities in each Ecological Landscape that are most important to the SGCN. While many
communities that occur on the SWPB-WA have major or important conservation opportunities, some of
these communities support more SGCN and rare plant species than others (Error! Reference source not
found.). For example, mid-seral and late seral Northern Dry-mesic Forest can potentially support more
species in the Forest Transition Ecological Landscape than do Aspen-Birch and Conifer Plantation.
Although all of these rare species do not necessarily occur on the SWPB-WA, communities with higher
species counts provide a disproportionate benefit to a greater number of SGCN and rare plants across this
Ecological Landscape and may warrant special consideration in the master planning process. This
intersection of SGCN and rare plants with priority natural communities represents the best opportunities
for management on the SWPB-WA from an ecological and biodiversity perspective; see Appendix E for
further details.
3 Here, we consider “significantly” to equate with “high” and “moderate” associations as defined in Wisconsin’s Wildlife Action Plan (WDNR
2015). For more information, see the “Key to SGCN-EL Association Scores.”
A note on northern forest natural communities: In the 2015 update of
Wisconsin's Wildlife Action Plan, northern forest natural communities were
subdivided into seral stages based on the progression from young forest to
mature forest following harvesting or a major natural disturbance (see pp.
12-14 in this report). These subdivisions were created to help illustrate the
relative impact of the wide range of possible forest types on SGCN habitat.
In describing these forest seral stages, it is recognized that they exist and
persist on the landscape due to a marked range of conditions depending on
the nature and intensity of forest management. Managers are encouraged to
adopt a balanced approach that takes into account the need for large blocks
of older forest as well as areas of mid-seral and young-seral forest, which
would benefit the most SGCN.
26 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Figure 4. Number of SGCN and Rare Plant Species associated with Natural Communities of Conservation
Significance on the Southern Washburn, Polk and Barron County Wildlife Areas (WDNR 2015).4
4 Chart represents the SGCN and rare plants that are moderately or highly associated with the respective natural communities. Species and
natural communities represented are limited to those that are moderately to highly associated with the Forest Transition Ecological Landscape.
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 27
Invasive Species Non-native invasive plants and animals pose a threat to the integrity of the SWPB-WA habitats and the
plants and animals that rely on them. While managing for non-native invasives that are already known to
occur on SWPB-WA properties (Table 6) is important, it is also important to monitor for the appearance
of new invasives on the scene; a list of such species that are known to occur in the larger region is
provided in Table 7. While detailed information on invasive species is provided in the 2011 REA
(WDNR, 2011; pp. 29-30), several issues unique to this property group merit special attention here:
Given the influence of numerous recreational trails that pass through or alongside the SWPB-
WA properties, managers and planners should also refer to the BMPs for recreational settings
developed by the Wisconsin Council on Forestry (Wisconsin Council on Forestry 2010).
Monitor riparian areas 1-2 years post-flooding for new invasive species.
Survey for and control invasive species prior to forest management; follow WDNR Forest
Invasives Best Management Practices (BMPs) during forest management activities (WDNR,
2009).
For recommendations on controlling specific invasive species, consult with DNR staff, refer to websites
on invasive species, such as that maintained by the DNR (dnr.wi.gov, search term “invasives”) and by the
Invasive Plants Association of Wisconsin (ipaw.org), and seek assistance from local invasive species
groups:
St. Croix – Red Cedar Cooperative Weed Management Area (St. Croix, Polk, Barron, Washburn,
and Burnett Counties; scrcinvasives.org)
Ice Age Trail Alliance (iceagetrail.org)
o Indianhead Chapter (Polk County)
o Superior Lobe Chapter (Barron and Washburn Counties)
Japanese hedge-parsley (Torilis japonica)
was identified at McKenzie Creek WA in
2016, and is a relatively new non-native
invasive of upland forests in the region.
28 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Table 6. Non-native Invasive Species currently known at the Southern Washburn, Polk and Barron County Wildlife Areas (SWPB-WA) Planning Group
Property abbreviations: BeaB = Beaver Brook Wildlife Area, BalB = Balsam Branch Wildlife Area, JM = Joel Marsh Wildlife Area, LL = Loon
Lake Wildlife Area, MC = McKenzie Creek Wildlife Area, NA = New Auburn Wildlife Area, RBC = Rice Beds Creek Wildlife Area. Chapter NR
40 classification codes for SWPB-WA counties in superscript: P = Prohibited, R = Restricted, PR = Proposed Restricted.
Upland Habitats Wetland Habitats
Common Name Latin Name Open Wooded Open Wooded Aquatic Sites Where Present
Plants
Bird’s foot trefoilNR Lotus corniculatus X Common at many parking areas.
Canada thistleR Cirsium arvense X X
BalB: Present.
BeaB: Common on earthen dam at mitigation site.
common buckthornR Rhamnus cathartica X X
BalB: Abundant at south end of site.
BeaB: Forest N of mitigation site.
JM: Dense in western part, scattered to the east.
LL: Scattered in western part.
MC: Along IAT, dense at McKenzie L. boat landing.
RBC: West of 195th Ave at dead end.
common reedP Phragmites australis X
BeaB: Rare in mitigation wetland.
MC: Noted in SWIMS database as present.
Crown vetchR Coronilla varia X Dense along Cranberry Road near BeaB. Field rd at LL.
glossy buckthornR Rhamnus frangula X X BeaB: Rare at NW wetland.
curly-leaf pondweedR Potamogeton crispus X MC: Clam Falls Flowage
Hemp-nettleR Galeopsis tetrahit X X NA: 29th St. parking area and adjoining field road.
Japanese hedge-parsleyP Torilis japonica X MC: South end along field rd.
narrow-leaf cattailR Typha angustifolia X BeaB: Rare in wetland mitigation site.
purple loosestrifeR Lythrum salicaria X BeaB: Harrison L, NW wetland, mitigation site.
reed canary grassNR Phalaris arundinacea X X X
BalB: Uncommon.
BeaB: Occasional on mitigation site dam.
LL: Ponds and wetlands S of Loon Lake.
NA: Around wetland edges and old ditches.
RBC: Along Apple R.
spotted knapweedR Centaurea biebersteinii X
Common at virtually all parking areas. BeaB: Patch at
east end of earthen dam at wetland mitigation site.
wild parsnipR Pastinaca sativa X BeaB: Rare at wetland mitigation site.
Animals
Chinese mystery snailR Cipangopaludina chinensis X
BeaB: Beaver Brook, RBC: Apple River, MC:
McKenzie Lake, Clam Falls Flowage.
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 29
Table 7. Non-native invasives to watch for in the Southern Washburn, Polk and Barron County Wildlife Areas Planning Group
Chapter NR 40 classification codes for SWPB-WA counties in superscript: P = Prohibited, R = Restricted, PR = Proposed Restricted.
Upland Habitats Wetland Habitats
Common Name Latin Name Open Wooded Open Wooded Aquatic
Plants
dame's rocketR Hesperis matronalis X X X X
cypress spurgeR Euphorbia cyparissias X
Eurasian bush honeysuckleR
Lonicera sp. (L. x bella,
L. morrowii, L.
maackii) X X X
Eurasian water-milfoilR Myriophyllum spicatum X
garlic mustardR Alliaria petiolata X X
giant hogweedP
Heracleum
mantegazzianum X X
Grecian foxgloveP Digitalis lanatum X X
Japanese knotweedR Polygonum cuspidatum X X
scarlet pimpernelR Pimpinella saxifrage X X
tall manna grassP Glyceria maxima X
tansyR Tanacetum vulgare X
tree of HeavenR Ailanthus altissima X X
wild chervil* Anthriscus sylvestris X X
yellow irisR Iris pseudacorus X X
Animals
European earthworms
Families of
Acanthodrilida,
Lumbricidae,
Megascloedidae X X
New Zealand mud snailP
Potamopyrgus
antipodarum X
rusty crayfishR Orconectes rusticus X
banded mystery snailR Vivaparus georgianus X
*Wild chervil Prohibited in Washburn County (among others), Restricted in Polk and Barron Counties (among others).
30 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Game Species of the SWPB-WA The following information was provided by WDNR wildlife and fisheries managers
Beaver Brook, Loon Lake, Rice Beds Creek, McKenzie Creek, Joel Marsh, and New Auburn WAs
provide good opportunities for hunting and trapping. Primary game species include white-tailed deer
(Odocoileus virginianus), black bear (Ursus americanus), ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus), eastern gray
squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), American woodcock (Scolopax minor), Wilson’s snipe (Gallinago
delicata), and wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo). Numerous upland furbearers such as long-tailed weasel
(Mustela frenata), short-tailed weasel (Mustela erminea), fisher (Martes pennanti), red fox (Vulpes
vulpes), gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), bobcat (Lynx rufus), coyote (Canis latrans), and wolf
(Canis lupus) are present. Waterfowl are present in low numbers at Beaver Brook WA, but offer some
hunting opportunities, especially near the junction of the Yellow River and Beaver Brook and at Harrison
Lake. Properties with wetlands (Joel Marsh, Loon Lake, and New Auburn WAs), especially those with
flowages, support abundant waterfowl. Waterways and adjacent wetlands and aquatic areas provide
habitat for river otter (Lontra canadensis), muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus), mink (Neovison vison), raccoon
(Procyon lotor), and beaver (Castor canadensis), providing trapping opportunities.
Though small, Balsam Branch WA affords good opportunities for hunting, trapping, and wildlife
observation. Game species commonly found on the property are white-tailed deer, eastern cottontail
rabbit (Sylvilagus floridanus), eastern gray squirrel, black bear, and turkeys. Numerous furbearers such
as long-tailed weasel, short-tailed weasel, fisher, red fox, and coyote are present. Waterfowl are present
and offer hunting opportunities on the lake. The waterways and adjacent wetlands provide habitat for
river otter, muskrat, mink, raccoon, and beaver, but do not support a sport fishery.
Beaver Brook, within Beaver Brook WA, is classified as a Class I trout stream along its entire length. It
is the longest Class I trout stream in Washburn County and one of the few supporting fishable trout
populations in Washburn County. The stream sustains excellent levels of natural reproduction for both
brook and brown trout (Salvelinus fontinalis and Salmo trutta). Brown trout tend to be less abundant in
this system. In addition, brook trout have reestablished in the southeastern section of beaver brook,
where a cranberry flowage was removed in 2008. This section (between Cranberry Rd. and Cty Rd. B)
continues to see improved numbers of brook trout each season (though it was originally thought it could
not sustain trout). DNR Fisheries Staff in Spooner monitor this stream yearly and this stream remains a
priority for trout habitat/survey work in our area. The stream is a relatively small trout stream (~6.0
miles), therefore protection of spawning habitat is important to maintain a healthy trout population.
Having a limited watershed, upland disturbances near the stream would likely result in trout habitat
degradation. Overall, the fishery provides an excellent trout fishing opportunity for anglers near
Spooner. Harrison Lake is has a history of partial winterkills. But our most recent data show records of
largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) and bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) in the lake.
At Loon Lake WA, sport fishing opportunities are limited to Loon Lake, Crystal Lake, and Chain Lakes,
all of which contain warmwater fish communities consisting of bluegill, black crappie, pumpkinseed,
yellow perch, largemouth bass, and northern pike. Loon Lake once had a naturally-reproducing walleye
population, but is now a stocked walleye fishery. Crystal Lake and Chain Lake both have history of
periodic winterkills, but do support desirable fish communities most of the time.
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 31
McKenzie Creek WA offers diverse sport fishing opportunies. There are several warmwater lakes in
the wildlife area including Clam Falls Flowage, Dinger Lake, Margaret Lake, and McKenzie Lake, all of
which support sport fisheries with bluegill, black crappie, pumpkinseed, yellow perch, largemouth bass,
and northern pike. In addition to the warmwater lakes, McKenzie Creek and Clam River are coldwater
trout streams. The fishery in McKenzie Creek consists of a coldwater fish community with brook and
brown trout being the primary sportfish. McKenzie Creek is a class II trout stream in the upper reaches
(above CTH W) and Class I in the lower reaches (below CTH W). Clam River is a class I stream for
both brook trout and brown trout. Mohnson Creek is considered a class II trout stream, though brook and
brown trout are only present in low numbers. Major game species of McKenzie Creek WA include
white-tailed deer, ruffed grouse, American woodcock, and grey squirrel. Bear, beaver, otter, muskrat,
mink, coyote, and fox are also present and offer trapping and hunting opportunities.
Running through Rice Beds Creek WA, Rice Bed Creek is a cool water stream with marginal trout
habitat, and does not support a sport fishery.
At Joel Marsh WA, sport fishing opportunities are restricted to Joel Flowage, which is a
winterkill lake that periodically supports yellow perch, northern pike, and black crappie.
32 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Primary Sites: Site-specific Opportunities for Biodiversity Conservation Five ecologically important sites, or “Primary Sites,” were identified within the SWPB-WA (Table 8).
Primary Sites are delineated because they generally encompass the best examples of 1) rare and
representative natural communities, 2) documented occurrences of rare species populations, and/or 3)
opportunities for ecological restoration or connections. These sites warrant high protection and/or
restoration consideration during the development of the property master plan. This report is meant to be
considered along with other information when identifying opportunities for various management
designations during the master planning process.
Brief descriptions of the primary sites are provided in the “At a Glance” section at the beginning of this
report, while complete descriptions can be found in Appendix G.
Table 8. Southwest Washburn, Polk and Barron County Wildlife Areas Primary Sites
Code Name
SWPB-WA01 New Auburn Wetlands
SWPB-WA02 Tula Lake Upland Forest and Peatlands
SWPB-WA03 McKenzie Creek Headwaters
SWPB-WA04 Loon Lake Woods State Natural Area
SWPB-WA05 Rice Beds Creek Swamps and Meadows
SWPB-WA06 Beaver Brook
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 33
34 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Future Needs This project was designed to provide a rapid assessment of biodiversity values for the SWPB-WA and is
an addendum to the information in the 2011 REA for SWPB fishery areas (WDNR, 2011). The project
relied, in large part, on one field season of survey work. Although the report should be considered
adequate for planning purposes, additional efforts could help to inform adaptive management. These
could include the following:
Updated breeding bird surveys are needed at Joel Marsh WA due to the fact that the site had
undergone an artificial drawdown during the 2016 survey season.
Aquatic plant surveys on wilderness lakes with exceptional landscape context could inform
presence and status of rare aquatic plants and identify high quality aquatic natural communities.
Detailed surveys for plants and natural communities are needed at the following wetland sites
(access was limited due to high water/deep muck during 2016 survey season):
o Open wetlands and forested wetlands in northern third of Rice Beds Creek Swamps and
Meadows Primary Site.
o Alder Thickets at Beaver Brook Primary Site.
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 35
References
Askins, R.A., F. Chavez-Ramirez, B.C. Dale, C.A. Haas, J.R. Herkert, F.L. Knopf, and P.D. Vickery.
2007. Conservation of Grassland Birds in North America: Understanding Ecological Processes in
Different Regions: "Report of the AOU Committee on Conservation". Ornithological
Monographs 64:iii-viii, 1-46.
Blann, K., and J. Wagner. 2014. Development of a Lake Classification and Conservation Portfolio to
Support Lake Conservation Planning in Wisconsin. Report produced for the Wisconsin Lakes
Partnership and Wisconsin DNR. The Nature Conservancy. Madison, WI.
Christel, N. 2008. National Audubon Property Management Plan Proposal. Wisconsin Department of
Natural Resources,. Spooner, WI.
Iverson, L.R., A.M. Prasad, S.N. Matthews, and M. Peters. 2008. Estimating potential habitat for 134
eastern U.S. tree species under six climate scenarios. Forest Ecology and Management 254
(3):390-406.
Kaplan, L.A., T.L. Bott, J.K. Jackson, J.D. Newbold, and B.W. Sweeney. 2008. Protecting headwaters:
The scientific basis for safeguarding stream and river ecosystems. Stroud Water Research Center.
Sample, D.W., and M.J. Mossman. 1997. Managing habitat for grassland birds: A guide for Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Madison, WI.
Wisconsin Council on Forestry. 2010. Best management practices for preventing the spread of invasive
species by outdoor recreation activities in Wisconsin. Wisconsin Council on Forestry,.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources [WDNR]. 2006a. Wisconsin Land Legacy Report: an
inventory of places critical in meeting Wisconsin's future conservation and recreation needs.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Endangered Resources. Madison, WI.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources [WDNR]. 2006b. Wisconsin Wildlife Action Plan.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Endangered Resources. Madison, WI.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources [WDNR]. 2009. Wisconsin's Forestry Best Management
Practices for Invasive Species. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Division of
Forestry. Madison, WI. PUB-FR-444 2009.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources [WDNR]. 2011. Rapid ecological assessment for the fishery
areas within the southern Washburn, Polk, and Barron County Planning Group. Wisconsin
Department of Natural Resources. Madison, WI.
http://intranet.dnr.state.wi.us/int/land/nhc/reports/WashburnPolkBarronFishery_REA_int.pdf.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources [WDNR]. 2015. 2015-2025 Wisconsin Wildlife Action
Plan. Madison, WI.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources [WDNR]. 2016. Natural Heritage Inventory Working List.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Madison, WI.
http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/nhi/wlist.html.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources [WDNR]. In preparation. Old-growth and Old Forests
Handbook. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Madison, WI.
36 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Species List The following species were mentioned in the main report text above.
Common Name Scientific Name
Animals
American Woodcock Scolopax minor
Beaver Castor canadensis
Black Bear Ursus americanus
Blanding's Turtle Emydoidea blandingii
Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus
Bobcat Lynx rufus
Bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorus
Brook Trout Salvelinus fontinalis
Brown Trout Salmo trutta
Coyote Canis latrans
Easter Gray Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis
Eastern Meadowlark Sturnella magna
Fisher Martes pennanti
Golden-winged warbler Vermivora chrysoptera
Gray Fox Urocyon cinereoargenteus
Henslow’s Sparrow Ammodramus henslowii
Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides
Le Conte’s Sparrow Ammodramus leconteii
Long-tailed Weasel Mustela frenata
Mink Neovison vison
Mink Frog Lithobates septentrionalis
Muskrat Ondatra zibenthicus
Northern Harrier Circus cyaneus
Raccoon Procyon lotor
Red Fox Vulpes vulpes
River Otter Lontra canadensis
Ruffed Grouse Bonas umbellus
Short-tailed Weasel Mustela erminea
Turkey Meleagris gallopavo
Western Meadowlark Sturnella neglecta
White-tailed Deer Odocoileus virginianus
Plants
Adder’s-mouth Pogonia ophioglossoides
American Basswood Tilia americana
American Elm Ulmus americana
Arrowhead Sagittaria spp.
Black ash Fraxinus nigra
Black Spruce Picea mariana
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 37
Blue Cohosh Caulophyllum thalictroides
Bluejoint grass Calamagrostis canadensis
Bog Rosemary Andromeda polifolia
Burr Oak Quercus macrocarpa
Bur-reed Sparganium spp.
Common Yellow Lake Sedge Carex utriculata
Cotton-grass Eriophorum spp
Eastern Leatherwood Dirca palustris
False Mayflower Maianthemum trifolium
Japanese Hedge-parsley Torilis japonica
Labrador Tea Rhododendron groenlandicum
Lake Sedge Carex lacustris
Leather-leaf Chamaedaphne calyculata
Marsh-marigold Caltha palustris
Orange Jewelweed Impatiens capensis
Pod Grass Scheuchzeria palustris
Poison Ivy Toxicodendron radicans
Purple pitcher-plant Sarracenia purpurea
Red Maple Acer rubrum
Red Oak Quercus rubra
Robbin's Spike-rush Eleocharis robbinsii
Round-leaved Sundew Drosera rotundifolia
Rusty Cotton-grass Eriophorum virginicum
Snail-seed Pondweed
Potamogeton bicupulatus
Soft-stem Bulrush Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani
Speckled Alder Alnus incana
Sugar Maple Acer saccharum
Swamp Milkweed Asclepias incarnata
Tamarack Larix laricina
Two-leaf Miterwort Mitella diphylla
Virginia Creeper Parthenocissus quinquefolia
Water Smartweed Persicaria amphibia
White Oak Quercus alba
White Pine Pinus strobus
Wild Leek Allium tricoccum
Wood nettle Laportea canadensis
Woolly-fruit Sedge Carex lasiocarpa
Yellow Birch Betula alleghaniensis
38 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Appendix Index NHI Rapid Ecological Assessments normally have a standardized set of Appendices as listed below. For
Appendix A, B, D, and F, see the 2011 REA (WDNR, 2011).
A. Natural Heritage Inventory Methods Overview (See 2011 REA)
B. Map of Conservation Opportunity Areas for the North Central Forest and Northeast Sands
Ecological Landscapes (See 2011 REA)
C. Documented rare species and high-quality natural communities for the Wildlife Areas within the
Southern Washburn, Polk, and Barron County Planning Group listed by property
D. Descriptions for Rare Species and High Quality Natural Communities Documented on the
Wildlife Areas within the Southern Washburn, Polk, and Barron County Planning Group (See
2011 REA)
E. Species of Greatest Conservation Need of the Wildlife Areas within the Southern Washburn,
Polk, and Barron County Planning Group
F. Wisconsin Natural Heritage Working List Explanation (See 2011 REA)
G. Primary Sites within the Southern Washburn, Polk and Barron County Wildlife Areas Planning
Group
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 39
Appendix C
Documented rare species and high-quality natural communities for the Wildlife Areas
within the Southern Washburn, Polk, and Barron County Planning Group listed by
property Numerous rare species and high-quality examples of native communities have been documented within the Southern Washburn, Polk and Barron
County Wildlife Areas Planning Group (SWPB-WA). The table below shows the rare species and high-quality natural communities currently
known from the SWPB-WA and listed by property with the year last observed. Ranks and statuses based on Wisconsin Natural Heritage
Inventory (NHI) Working List published July 2016. *Species did not meet requirements for mapping in NHI database.
INFORMATION REMOVED DUE TO SENSITIVE LOCATIONAL INFORMATION RELATING TO RARE SPECIES
40 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Appendix E
Species of Greatest Conservation Need and Rare
Plants of the Wildlife Areas within the Southern
Washburn, Polk, and Barron County Planning Group The following tables represent high priorities for conservation based on Wisconsin’s Wildlife Action
Plan (WDNR, 2015) in that they identify the intersection of Species of Greatest Conservation Need
(SGCN), Natural Communities, and Ecological Landscapes (EL; Figure 1). Tables are provided for the
Forest Transition EL, as the SWPB-WA lies within this
EL. Note that a natural community only appears in the
table below if it meets two criteria: 1) It is considered to
represent a major or significant conservation opportunity
in that ecological landscape; and 2) It occurs on the
property group. Also note that species that have been
documented on the SWPB-WA are highlighted in yellow.
The non-highlighted species could occur on the property
group given the presence of available habitat, but escaped
detection during surveys.
Sample interpretation – Northern Sedge Meadow:
Since Northern Sedge Meadow is included in Table E1
below, this indicates that the community type occurs on
the SWPB-WA, and is also considered a priority conservation target in the Forest Transition EL. In fact,
large tracts of Northern Sedge Meadow occur at several properties, including New Auburn WA and Rice
Beds Creek WA. If you scan down the column for Northern Sedge Meadow, you’ll note that 12 SGCN
and rare plants are highly or moderately associated with that community type in the Forest Transition EL.
Of these, American bittern, bobolink, Le Conte's sparrow, Blanding's turtle, four-toed salamander have
already been identified on the SWPB-WA (since they are highlighted yellow). Protecting Northern
Sedge Meadow thus represents a priority conservation action that will benefit at least 12 SGCN and rare
plants.
Figure 5. Identifying conservation priorities
in Wisconsin's Wildlife Action Plan
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 41
Table E9. Species of Greatest Conservation Need, Plants, and Natural Community Combinations that represent high priority conservation actions in
the Forest Transition Ecological Landscape. (H = Highly [significantly] associated, M = moderately associated.) Species highlighted in yellow have been
documented on SWPB-WA. Non-highlighted species could occur on the property group given the presence of available habitat.
UPLAND COMMUNITIES WETLAND COMMUNITIES AQUATIC COMMUNITIES
Northern Mesic
Forest
Northern Dry-mesic
Forest
Common Name Scientific Name Yo
un
g Se
ral
Earl
y Se
ral
Mid
-Se
ral
Late
Se
ral
Yo
un
g Se
ral
Mid
-Se
ral
Late
Se
ral
Co
nif
er
Pla
nta
tio
n
Asp
en
-Bir
ch
Surr
oga
te G
rass
lan
ds
Flo
atin
g-le
ave
d M
arsh
Sub
me
rge
nt
Mar
sh
Eme
rge
nt
Mar
sh
Po
or
Fen
No
rth
ern
Se
dge
Me
ado
w
Ald
er
Thic
ket
Tam
arac
k Sw
amp
(p
oo
r)
Bla
ck S
pru
ce S
wam
p
No
rth
ern
Har
dw
oo
d S
wam
p
Co
olw
ate
r st
ream
s
Co
ldw
ate
r st
ream
s
Spri
ngs
an
d S
pri
ng
Ru
ns
(So
ft)
Larg
e L
ake
--sh
allo
w, s
oft
, se
ep
age
Smal
l Lak
e--
soft
, bo
g
Eph
em
era
l Po
nd
Riv
eri
ne
Imp
ou
nd
me
nt
Birds
American Bittern Botaurus lentiginosus M M H H M
American Woodcock Scolopax minor H M M H M H M H M
Black Tern Chlidonias niger H M H M M M M
Bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorus H M H
Brewer's Blackbird Euphagus cyanocephalus H
Dickcissel Spiza americana H
Eastern Meadowlark Sturnella magna H
Eastern whip-poor-will Antrostomus vociferus M M M
Evening Grosbeak Coccothraustes vespertinus M H H M H
Golden-winged Warbler Vermivora chrysoptera M M M H M M
Grasshopper Sparrow Ammodramus savannarum H
Greater Prairie-Chicken Tympanuchus cupido H M
42 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
UPLAND COMMUNITIES WETLAND COMMUNITIES AQUATIC COMMUNITIES
Northern Mesic
Forest
Northern Dry-mesic
Forest
Common Name Scientific Name Yo
un
g Se
ral
Earl
y Se
ral
Mid
-Se
ral
Late
Se
ral
Yo
un
g Se
ral
Mid
-Se
ral
Late
Se
ral
Co
nif
er
Pla
nta
tio
n
Asp
en
-Bir
ch
Surr
oga
te G
rass
lan
ds
Flo
atin
g-le
ave
d M
arsh
Sub
me
rge
nt
Mar
sh
Eme
rge
nt
Mar
sh
Po
or
Fen
No
rth
ern
Se
dge
Me
ado
w
Ald
er
Thic
ket
Tam
arac
k Sw
amp
(p
oo
r)
Bla
ck S
pru
ce S
wam
p
No
rth
ern
Har
dw
oo
d S
wam
p
Co
olw
ate
r st
ream
s
Co
ldw
ate
r st
ream
s
Spri
ngs
an
d S
pri
ng
Ru
ns
(So
ft)
Larg
e L
ake
--sh
allo
w, s
oft
, se
ep
age
Smal
l Lak
e--
soft
, bo
g
Eph
em
era
l Po
nd
Riv
eri
ne
Imp
ou
nd
me
nt
Henslow's Sparrow Ammodramus henslowii H
Le Conte's Sparrow Ammodramus leconteii H H
Least Flycatcher Empidonax minimus H H H M M M M
Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis M H H M M
Red-shouldered Hawk Buteo lineatus M M M H
Rusty Blackbird Euphagus carolinus M M M M
Upland Sandpiper Bartramia longicauda H
Western Meadowlark Sturnella neglecta H
Yellow Rail Coturnicops noveboracensis H H
Fish
Lake Sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens H
Least Darter Etheostoma microperca M
Redfin Shiner Lythrurus umbratilis M
Reptiles
Blanding's Turtle Emydoidea blandingii M H H M M M M H H H H
Wood Turtle Glyptemys insculpta H H H H H H H H M M M H M M M H H M M
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 43
UPLAND COMMUNITIES WETLAND COMMUNITIES AQUATIC COMMUNITIES
Northern Mesic
Forest
Northern Dry-mesic
Forest
Common Name Scientific Name Yo
un
g Se
ral
Earl
y Se
ral
Mid
-Se
ral
Late
Se
ral
Yo
un
g Se
ral
Mid
-Se
ral
Late
Se
ral
Co
nif
er
Pla
nta
tio
n
Asp
en
-Bir
ch
Surr
oga
te G
rass
lan
ds
Flo
atin
g-le
ave
d M
arsh
Sub
me
rge
nt
Mar
sh
Eme
rge
nt
Mar
sh
Po
or
Fen
No
rth
ern
Se
dge
Me
ado
w
Ald
er
Thic
ket
Tam
arac
k Sw
amp
(p
oo
r)
Bla
ck S
pru
ce S
wam
p
No
rth
ern
Har
dw
oo
d S
wam
p
Co
olw
ate
r st
ream
s
Co
ldw
ate
r st
ream
s
Spri
ngs
an
d S
pri
ng
Ru
ns
(So
ft)
Larg
e L
ake
--sh
allo
w, s
oft
, se
ep
age
Smal
l Lak
e--
soft
, bo
g
Eph
em
era
l Po
nd
Riv
eri
ne
Imp
ou
nd
me
nt
Amphibians
Four-toed Salamander Hemidactylium scutatum H H H H H H H M H M M M M M H
Mussels
Elktoe Alasmidonta marginata M
Ellipse Venustaconcha ellipsiformis M
Mammals
Big Brown Bat Eptesicus fuscus M M M M M M H H H M H
Franklin's Ground Squirrel
Spermophilus (Poliocitellus) franklinii M
Little Brown Bat Myotis lucifugus M M M M M M M H H H M H H H H H H H
Northern Flying Squirrel Glaucomys sabrinus M H H H H M
Northern Long-eared Bat Myotis septentrionalis M M M M M M M M M M H H M M M H
Silver-haired Bat Lasionycteris noctivagans M M M M M M M M M M M H H M M M H M
Water Shrew Sorex palustris M M M M M H H H H H M
Woodland Jumping Mouse Napaeozapus insignis M H H H M M M
Insects
A Crawling Water Beetle Haliplus apostolicus M
A Fingernet Caddisfly Wormaldia moesta M M
44 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
UPLAND COMMUNITIES WETLAND COMMUNITIES AQUATIC COMMUNITIES
Northern Mesic
Forest
Northern Dry-mesic
Forest
Common Name Scientific Name Yo
un
g Se
ral
Earl
y Se
ral
Mid
-Se
ral
Late
Se
ral
Yo
un
g Se
ral
Mid
-Se
ral
Late
Se
ral
Co
nif
er
Pla
nta
tio
n
Asp
en
-Bir
ch
Surr
oga
te G
rass
lan
ds
Flo
atin
g-le
ave
d M
arsh
Sub
me
rge
nt
Mar
sh
Eme
rge
nt
Mar
sh
Po
or
Fen
No
rth
ern
Se
dge
Me
ado
w
Ald
er
Thic
ket
Tam
arac
k Sw
amp
(p
oo
r)
Bla
ck S
pru
ce S
wam
p
No
rth
ern
Har
dw
oo
d S
wam
p
Co
olw
ate
r st
ream
s
Co
ldw
ate
r st
ream
s
Spri
ngs
an
d S
pri
ng
Ru
ns
(So
ft)
Larg
e L
ake
--sh
allo
w, s
oft
, se
ep
age
Smal
l Lak
e--
soft
, bo
g
Eph
em
era
l Po
nd
Riv
eri
ne
Imp
ou
nd
me
nt
A Flat-headed Mayfly Maccaffertium pulchellum M
A Giant Casemaker Caddisfly Banksiola dossuaria M
A Non-biting Midge Pseudodiamesa pertinax M
A Predaceous Diving Beetle Agabus discolor M H
A Predaceous Diving Beetle Hygrotus marklini M
A Predaceous Diving Beetle Ilybius angustior M
A Predaceous Diving Beetle Ilybius confusus M
A Predaceous Diving Beetle Lioporeus triangularis M
A Predaceous Diving Beetle Hygrotus compar M
A Small Minnow Mayfly Plauditus cestus M
A Water Scavenger Beetle Agabetes acuductus H
A Water Scavenger Beetle Helophorus latipenis M
American Sand Burrowing Mayfly Dolania americana M
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 45
UPLAND COMMUNITIES WETLAND COMMUNITIES AQUATIC COMMUNITIES
Northern Mesic
Forest
Northern Dry-mesic
Forest
Common Name Scientific Name Yo
un
g Se
ral
Earl
y Se
ral
Mid
-Se
ral
Late
Se
ral
Yo
un
g Se
ral
Mid
-Se
ral
Late
Se
ral
Co
nif
er
Pla
nta
tio
n
Asp
en
-Bir
ch
Surr
oga
te G
rass
lan
ds
Flo
atin
g-le
ave
d M
arsh
Sub
me
rge
nt
Mar
sh
Eme
rge
nt
Mar
sh
Po
or
Fen
No
rth
ern
Se
dge
Me
ado
w
Ald
er
Thic
ket
Tam
arac
k Sw
amp
(p
oo
r)
Bla
ck S
pru
ce S
wam
p
No
rth
ern
Har
dw
oo
d S
wam
p
Co
olw
ate
r st
ream
s
Co
ldw
ate
r st
ream
s
Spri
ngs
an
d S
pri
ng
Ru
ns
(So
ft)
Larg
e L
ake
--sh
allo
w, s
oft
, se
ep
age
Smal
l Lak
e--
soft
, bo
g
Eph
em
era
l Po
nd
Riv
eri
ne
Imp
ou
nd
me
nt
Cantrall's Bog Beetle Liodessus cantralli M
Crackling Forest Grasshopper Trimerotropis verruculata M M
Robust Dubiraphian Riffle Beetle Dubiraphia robusta M
Sioux (Sand) Snaketail Ophiogomphus smithi H
Speckled Rangeland Grasshopper Arphia conspersa M M M
Sylvan Hygrotus Diving Beetle Hygrotus sylvanus M
Plants
Autumnal Water-starwort
Callitriche hermaphroditica H M M M
Butternut Juglans cinerea H H H H
Georgia Bulrush Scirpus georgianus M
Large-flowered Ground-cherry Leucophysalis grandflora M M M
Marsh Valerian Valeriana uliginosa H
Mingan’s Moonwort Botrychium minganense H H H
Northern Slender Pondweed
Stuckenia filiformis spp. Albina H
Oake’s Pondweed Potamogeton oakesianus H H H H
46 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
UPLAND COMMUNITIES WETLAND COMMUNITIES AQUATIC COMMUNITIES
Northern Mesic
Forest
Northern Dry-mesic
Forest
Common Name Scientific Name Yo
un
g Se
ral
Earl
y Se
ral
Mid
-Se
ral
Late
Se
ral
Yo
un
g Se
ral
Mid
-Se
ral
Late
Se
ral
Co
nif
er
Pla
nta
tio
n
Asp
en
-Bir
ch
Surr
oga
te G
rass
lan
ds
Flo
atin
g-le
ave
d M
arsh
Sub
me
rge
nt
Mar
sh
Eme
rge
nt
Mar
sh
Po
or
Fen
No
rth
ern
Se
dge
Me
ado
w
Ald
er
Thic
ket
Tam
arac
k Sw
amp
(p
oo
r)
Bla
ck S
pru
ce S
wam
p
No
rth
ern
Har
dw
oo
d S
wam
p
Co
olw
ate
r st
ream
s
Co
ldw
ate
r st
ream
s
Spri
ngs
an
d S
pri
ng
Ru
ns
(So
ft)
Larg
e L
ake
--sh
allo
w, s
oft
, se
ep
age
Smal
l Lak
e--
soft
, bo
g
Eph
em
era
l Po
nd
Riv
eri
ne
Imp
ou
nd
me
nt
Pale Bulrush Scirpus pallidus H M
Round-leaved Orchis Amerorchis rotundifolia M
Slender Bulrush Schoenoplectus heterochaetus H
Slender Pondweed Stuckenia filiformis ssp occidentalis H H
Small Forget-me-not Myosotis laxa M M
Snail-seed Pondweed Potamogeton bicupulatus H H H M
Spotted Pondweed Potamogeton bicupulatus H H H M
Square-stem Spike-rush Eleocharis quadrangulata H
Thread-like Naiad Najas gracillima H
Torrey’s Bulrush Schoenoplectus torreyi M M M M
Vasey’s Pondweed Potamogeton vaseyi H H M M
White Adder’s-mouth Malaxis monophyllos var brachypoda H
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 47
Appendix G
Primary Sites within the Southern Washburn, Polk and
Barron County Wildlife Areas Planning Group Four ecologically important sites were identified on the SWPB-WA (Figure 3). These “Primary Sites”
were delineated because they generally encompass the best examples of 1) rare and representative natural
communities, 2) documented occurrences of rare species populations, and/or 3) opportunities for
ecological restoration or connections. These sites warrant high protection and/or restoration
consideration during the development of the property master plan. This report is meant to be considered
along with other information when identifying opportunities for various management designations during
the master planning process.
SWPB-WA01 New Auburn Wetlands
SWPB-WA02 Tula Lake Upland Forest and Peatlands
SWPB-WA03 McKenzie Creek Headwaters
SWPB-WA04 Loon Lake Woods State Natural Area
SWPB-WA05 Rice Beds Creek Swamps and Meadows
SWPB-WA06 Beaver Brook
48 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
SWPB-WA01. NEW AUBURN WETLANDS
Property: New Auburn Wildlife Area
County: Barron
Land Type Associations: Chetek Plains (212Qb04);
Red Cedar/Chippewa Valley Trains (222La01)
Approximate Size (acres): 734
Description of Site This vast expanse (over 700 acres) of Northern Sedge Meadow is characterized by a mat of abundant
Sphagnum moss overtopped by gracefully arching narrow-leaved woolly-sedge (Carex lasiocarpa) and
blue-joint grass (Calamagrostis canadensis). In the eastern part of the site, the meadow is seemingly
endless, providing a setting that is irresistable to the Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus), a raptor that
hunts low over large expanses of grasslands and wetlands. Past hydrological disturbance has created
conditions that promote abundant small trees and brush in other parts of the site, particularly in the
western half. Channelized Beaver Creek flows through the site, and several old ditches remain from
earlier times. Pockets of Emergent Marsh and open water are interspersed throughout the sedge meadow,
inviting waterfowl to nest, rest, and forage. A narrow band of Alder Thicket offers an additional habitat
niche along the southeast boundary, supporting at least 40 native ground layer species growing
underneath tall speckled alders (Alnus incana). In the spring, sandhill cranes (Grus canadensis) are often
heard bugling from the interior of this wetland complex in concert with their other avian brethren such as
swamp sparrow (Melospiza georgiana), Virginia rail (Rallus limicola), willow flycatcher (Empidonax
traillii), and both marsh and sedge wren (Cistothorus palustris and C. platensis).
Significance of Site Wetlands serve to slow the release of water during storms (thus minimizing flooding), filter nutrients and
pollutants that are carried in runoff, and provide moisture banks during low water periods or droughts.
This wetland site also provides important habitat for nesting and migratory marsh birds and waterfowl.
New Auburn Sedge Meadow SNA was designated in 2003, conferring an additional layer of protection
on 325 acres within this primary site – this includes the Alder Thicket and some sedge meadow in the
southeast part of the site.
Management Considerations Hydrologic alteration of these wetlands through ditching in the distant past resulted in a lowering of the
water table, facilitating tree and shrub invasion in portions of the site and loss of open wetland habitat.
Amy Staffen, WDNR
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 49
Extensive usage of groundwater resources for agriculture or industry on surrounding lands may further
exacerbate this impact. Identifying priority groundwater recharge areas that supply Beaver Creek and
this wetland complex may be an important component of an integrated approach to restoration and
management of the primary site.
Seeking measures to buffer fertilizer and erosion run-off from surrounding agricultural lands will help
stave wetland degradation. Property managers have already created excellent buffers in the form of
upland prairie plantings to the north and south, thus maintaining these will continue to be important.
New Auburn Wetland Primary Site is somewhat unique among Wisconsin wetlands in its relative lack of
non-native invasive species. Regular monitoring for new invaders and early control represents a high
priority action, especially at the most common points of entry (along roads, streams, dikes, and ditches).
Small amounts of reed canary grass occur at the perimeter of the property in several places and along the
central dike heading west from 29th Street. A more detailed assessment of the extent of the invasion is
recommended in order to facilitate tactical control efforts.
50 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
New Auburn Wetlands Primary Site (SWPB-WA01)
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 51
SWPB-WA02. TULA LAKE UPLAND FOREST & PEATLANDS
Property: McKenzie Creek Wildlife Area
County: Polk
Land Type Association: Polk Basalt Moraines (212Qa03)
Approximate Size (acres): 603
Description of Site An uncommon complex of wild seepage lakes, open wetlands, Black Spruce Swamp and upland pine-oak
forest are all captured within this primary site. Tula and Marsh Lakes are small, shallow "bog lakes" that
support Poor Fen along their margins, with squishy floating Sphagnum mats, carnivorous plants such as
purple pitcher-plant (Sarracenia purpurea) and sundew (Drosera spp.), cranberries (Vaccinium spp.),
numerous sedges, rushes, and cotton grasses. Bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), ospreys (Pandion
haliaetus) and common loons (Gavia immer) have made their homes on these two bog lakes over the
years. Beyond the fen margins of Tula and Marsh Lakes lies a Black Spruce Swamp, where the deep
Sphagnum mat continues, but tamarack (Larix laricina) and black spruce (Picea mariana) occupy the
canopy and the ground layer is replaced with scattered bog shrubs such as Laborador tea (Rhododendron
groenlandicum), leather leaf (Chamaedaphne calyculata) and bog rosemary (Andromeda polifolia), along
with occasional tufts of rusty cotton-grass (Eriophorum virginicum). The reedy song of the hermit thrush
(Catharus guttatus) can be heard amond the spruces in spring. Extensive areas of Alder Thicket and
sedge meadow can also be found in the western part of this primary site. To the east lies Margaret Lake,
which is larger and deeper than the other two lakes, and has only a narrow fringe of sedge meadow that
quickly transitions to upland forest. This Northern Dry-mesic Forest occupies gently rolling terrain in
the core of the primary site, and continues beyond it to the south and east. The trees create three distinct
layers here, from massive towering white pines (Pinus strobus) in the supercanopy to large red and white
oaks (Quercus rubra and Q. alba) in the canopy, to sugar maple (Acer saccharum), American hornbeam
(Carpinus caroliniana), red oak and white birch (Betula papyrifera) in the subcanopy. Diversity of tree
species, sizes and age classes in all strata are indicators of late-seral forest of high ecological integrity
that can support numerous native plant species (including those that are conservative) and abundant
wildlife, and can resist or rebound from natural disturbances. Diverse herbs grace the forest floor,
including spring ephemerals such as large-flowered trillium (Trillium grandiflorum), and less commonly
seen plants such as blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides) and miterwort (Mitella diphylla).
Ephemeral ponds are scattered throughout the forest, and provide important habitat for reproducing frogs
and salamanders. An especially high number of mammals are known to use this area, including white-
tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), black bear (Ursus americanus), otter (Lontra canadensis), mink
(Neovison vison), muskrat (Ondatra zibenthicus), coyote (Canis latrans), red fox (Vulpes vulpes),
snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus), bobcat (Lynx rufus), and fisher (Martes pennanti).
Amy Staffen, WDNR
52 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Significance of Site The mature Northern Dry-mesic Forest provides important breeding and stopover habitat for diverse bird
species. Contiguity with a larger block of intact forest beyond the bounds of the primary site makes this
particularly suitable for forest-interior bird species. This site’s ephemeral ponds, upland hardwood
forest, and mossy wetlands provide suitable habitat for numerous herptiles, including some that are rare.
A large population of two exceptionally rare fly species were discovered at this site in 2016. These
observations, along with two other records, are the only published records of this family of flies from the
Midwest.
The 160-acre Tula Lake State Natural Area lies within this primary site, and was designated in 1982.
Management Considerations During the master planning process, consideration of expanding the boundaries of the State Natural Area
to match those of the primary site is recommended, as the larger site has characteristics of an ecological
reference area, and supports a number of rare and declining species.
No non-native invasive plants are known to occur at this site. It would be considered a high priority
action, therefore, to institute a regular Early Detection-Rapid Response program for invasive species to
maintain the site’s high integrity.
Opportunities to manage older (late seral) forest at a landscape level are high at this site because of the
large size of the Northern Dry-mesic Forest (over 200 acres) and its connection to other large blocks of
forest. Management should seek to maintain older forest in a large-sized block at this site and promote
additional older forest on nearby lands. When managing land surrounding older forest, manage in a way
that does not isolate the site and that minimizes the negative effects of fragmentation.
Amphibian and aquatic invertebrate species that use Ephemeral Ponds during at least part of their life
cycle benefit from moist, shaded conditions, coarse woody debris adjacent to the pond, and absence of
soil compaction in the surrounding uplands. Aquatic invertebrates that live in and around the lakes on
this site are also sensitive to
inputs that diminish water
quality. Recreational
development and natural
resource management activities
could include considerations
for management of ephemeral
ponds and streams, such as by
following forestry Best
Management Practices for
Water Quality (WDNR, 2010a).
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 53
Tula Lake Upland Forest and Peatlands Primary Site (SWPB-WA02) and McKenzie Creek Headwaters
Primary Site (SWPB-WA03)
54 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
SWPB-WA03. MCKENZIE CREEK HEADWATERS
Property: McKenzie Creek Wildlife Area
County: Polk
Land Type Association: Late St. Croix Moraines (212Qa01)
Approximate Size (acres): 323
Description of Site
This primary site features a wild lake, creek, forested and open wetlands, springs, spring seeps, forested
seeps, and upland forest. As the site’s centerpiece, McKenzie Lake is a 52-acre drainage lake where
common loons may be heard calling in spring. Apart from a vehicle-accessible boat landing and parking
area on the north shore, this lake is undeveloped, and only non-motorized boats are allowed here.
McKenzie Creek, a cool (warm-transition) headwater stream, flows through the lake from southwest to
north, and its headwaters are situated in the southwest part of the primary site. An 80-acre wetland
complex spans the creek from the creek headwaters to the shouth shore of McKenzie Lake. Here,
numerous springs and spring seeps bubble out of the ground among tracts of Hardwood Swamp, Alder
Thicket, and sedge meadow. The gently rolling morainal topography surrounding this wetland complex
and the lake supports mid-seral Northern Dry-mesic Forest that is developing late seral characteristics,
where large red oak, American basswood (Tilia americana) and sugar maple dominate a moderate to
dense canopy; some red oaks achieve 26 inches in diameter. Huge 24- to 36-inch white pines tower
above the hardwoods. American hazelnut (Corylus americana), maple-leaved viburnum (Viburnum
acerifolium) and common blackberry (Rubus allegheniensis) create a moderate shrub layer, while a
diverse ground layer of more than 50 species includes grasses, sedges, forbs, and ferns. A great variety
of birds call this forest home, including pileated
woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus), wood thrush
(Hylocichla mustelina), veery (Catharus
fuscescens), and ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapilla).
A popular stretch of the Ice Age Trail runs
through this primary site.
Significance of Site McKenzie Creek headwaters, springs, spring
seeps, and forested seeps are essential to the
health of the Clam River Watershed and
associated riparian ecosystems: They keep
sediment and other pollutants out of the stream's
lower reaches, they provide vital organic and
inorganic elements that support ecosystems
Amy Staffen, WDNR
Active spring seeps bubble from the ground at
McKenzie Creek Headwaters. Photo by Rich Staffen.
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 55
downstream, and they support diverse and unique plants and animals that are specially adapted to the
physical and chemical conditions associated with this habitat complex (Kaplan et al. 2008).
This large block of forest provides breeding and stopover habitat for numerous species of birds, and
contributes to the functional block size of the high-quality forest interior bird habitat featured in the Tula
Lake Upland Forest and Peatlands Primary Site.
Management Considerations In order to protect McKenzie Creek and its headwaters and, by extension, the Clam River Watershed,
consider maintaining a forested Riparian Management Zone (RMZ) beyond 100 feet, the standard
described in the WDNR BMP guide (WDNR 2010a). An expanded RMZ will offer extra protection to
these unique and sensitive features, and will help mitigate threats from both point-source and non-point-
source runoff. This is particularly important in light of climate change projections for more frequent and
intense spring and summer storms along with winter rains on frozen ground.
Two non-native invasive plants are known to occur at this site: Japanese hedge-parsley (Torilis japonica)
and common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica). A site-wide inspection for these and other species is
recommended, along with mapping of invasives locations to help set management priorities for different
areas. In the very least, regular inspections of transport corridors such as trails, field roads and logging
roads would serve as a high priority action to limit spread. There may be opportunities to enlist the help
of local Ice Age Trail volunteers in invasives monitoring, mapping and control. The non-native Chinese
mystery snail (Bellamya chinensis) has been identified in McKenzie Lake; long-term impacts of this
relatively new invasive remain under investigation.
Opportunities to manage dry-mesic forest at a landscape level are high at this site because of its
contiguity with other large blocks of forest, particularly to the north. Managers have succeeded in recent
decades in maintaining a mosaic of diverse tree ages and size classes and moderate to dense canopy
cover. The limited amount of oak regeneration, however, foreshadows a change in future canopy
composition: White oak and red oak seedlings are rare to uncommon, saplings are nonexistent, and the
subcanopy is dominated by sugar maple, suggesting a conversion to maple forest in the future. While
considerations regarding maintaining the current composition versus facilitating conversion are numerous
and complex, an important goal for this particular primary site ultimately will be to maintain continuous
forest canopy to protect the headwaters, stream, and watershed of McKenzie Creek, regardless of canopy
composition.
Richard Staffen, WDNR
Richard Staffen, WDNR
56 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
SWPB-WA04. LOON LAKE WOODS STATE NATURAL AREA
Property: Loon Lake Wildlife Area
County: Barron
Land Type Association: Late St. Croix Moraines (212Qa01)
Approximate Size (acres): 71
Description of Site The gently rolling terrain of Loon Lake Woods supports a shady forest of sugar maple and basswood,
with large red, white and burr oaks (Quercus macrocarpa) also contributing to this forest's dense canopy.
Scattered, very old stumps offer evidence of logging in the distant past, but this forest shows
characteristics of older (late seral) forest, including some trees as large as 20 inches in diameter, a mix of
tree sizes and age classes, abundant coarse woody debris, and “pit-and-mound” microtopography which
occurs when large trees topple over due to old age. A rich ground flora includes ephemerals such as
large-flowered trillium and wild leek (Allium tricoccum), numerous fern species, and various forest
wildflowers, grasses and sedges. Several ephemeral ponds occur in shallow depressions, and support
wetland trees and plants such as black ash (Fraxinus nigra), lake sedge (Carex lacustris), and marsh
marigold (Caltha palustris) along with several frog species. Occasional glacial erratics (large boulders)
may also be encountered in the forest. A diverse assortment of migratory and resident birds make use of
this forest, including broad-winged hawk (Buteo platypteris), least flycatcher (Empidonax minimus),
yellow-throated vireo (Vireo flavifrons), veery, scarlet tanager (Piranga olivacea), and many warbler
species.
Significance of Site Older successional stages of Southern Mesic Forest are poorly represented in this region, highlighting the
significance of this site. Loon Lake Woods was designated a State Natural Area in 2003.
Management Considerations This site should be managed as a Northern Mesic Forest reserve and an ecological reference area.
No non-native invasive plants are known to occur at this site. It would be considered a high priority
action, therefore, to institute a regular Early Detection-Rapid Response program for invasive species to
maintain the site’s high integrity.
Amphibian and aquatic invertebrate species that use Ephemeral Ponds during at least part of their life
cycle benefit from shaded conditions, coarse woody debris adjacent to the pond, and absence of soil
compaction in the surrounding uplands.
Andy Clark, WDNR
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 57
Loon Lake Woods Primary Site (SWPB-WA04)
58 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
SWPB-WA05. RICE BEDS CREEK SWAMPS AND MEADOWS
Property: Rice Beds Creek Wildlife Area
County: Polk
Land Type Association: Late St. Croix Moraines (212Qa01)
Approximate Size (acres): 819
Description of Site This primary site was designated to highlight a large wetland complex that lies at the convergence of the
Apple River and Rice Beds Creek. Where Rice Beds Creek passes through this primary site, it is
classified as a cool-cold headwater stream and is considered a warm water forage fishery, while the
Apple River is a warm mainstem stream. Over 200 acres of Hardwood Swamp with high ecological
integrity runs from the confluence of the two rivers to the south and west along the Apple River. An
additional 160+ acres of Hardwood Swamp lies along the northeast boundary of the primary site. Black
ash is the dominant canopy tree here, along with lesser amounts of yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis)
and red maple (Acer rubrum). Over 130 plant species grace the mucky forest floor, including six fern
species, 14 members of the lily family (e.g., the elegant Michigan lily [Lilium michaganense]), and 13
sedge species (including conservatives such as Carex leptalea and C. disperma). Standing pools of
water, streamlets, and scattered terraces provide microhabitats with the forest matrix that boost the site’s
floral diversity and offer additional habitat niches for wildlife. Five woodpecker species including the
pileated find ample habitat in the forest, along with the resplendent scarlet tanager and various types of
warblers, flycatchers, and thrushes. A vast swathe of sedge meadow and Alder Thicket straddle Rice
Beds Creek in the northern half of the primary site, providing important habitat for nesting marsh birds
such as sedge wren, sora (Porzana carolina), sandhill crane, and common yellowthroat (Geothlypis
trichas). A sizeable wild rice (Zizania palustris) bed has long been valued here within this wetland
complex, giving the stream its name.
Significance of Site Wetlands serve to slow the release of water during storms (thus minimizing flooding), filter nutrients and
pollutants that are carried in runoff, and provide moisture banks during low water periods or droughts.
Riparian wetlands also provide vital habitat to many animals, as well as natural corridors for foraging and
migration. While not detected during targeted surveys in 2016, this site supports suitable habitat for rare
or uncommon herptiles: the four-toed salamander, Blanding’s (Emydoidea blandingii) and wood turtle
(Glyptemys insculpta). The site’s lowland forest is extensive enough to support forest-interior birds, with
recent surveys turning up scarlet tanager, eastern wood-pewee (Contopus virens), veery, and northern
waterthrush (Seiurus noveboracensis).
Andy Clark, WDNR
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 59
Management Considerations The Hardwood Swamps of this primary site are vulnerable to the effects of emerald ash borer (Agrilus
planipennis) (EAB), as black ash is a dominant species. Large-scale loss of ash could cause a cascade of
negative impacts, including diminishment of important habitat for rare plants and animals, elevated water
tables, and invasion of shrubs or non-native invasives such as reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea)
(WDNR 2010b); reed canary grass is already known to occur along the Apple River at the margin of the
primary site. It is important to note that removal of all ash as a stopgap measure against EAB is not
recommended (WDNR 2010c). Managers and planners may wish to consider underplanting trees that are
adapted to the hydrology of the site as well as to future climate projections (Iverson et al. 2008).
Retaining some ash snags after the trees have died may be beneficial by providing modest shading as
well as securing soils, not to mention wildlife habitat.
Drew Feldkirchner, WDNR Richard Staffen, WDNR
60 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Rice Beds Creek Swamps and Meadows Primary Site (SWPB-WA05)
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 61
SWPB-WA06. BEAVER BROOK
Property: Beaver Brook Wildlife Area
County: Washburn
Land Type Association: Late St. Croix Moraines (212Qa01)
Approximate Size (acres): 261
Description of Site This primary site captures approximately 2.8 miles of the narrow Beaver Brook corridor where species
typical of both northern and southern Wisconsin mingle in a tightly interwoven assortment of wetland
and upland communities, yielding an exceptionally high number of diverse plant species. These natural
communities include tracts of both upland and lowland forest, extensive areas of Alder Thicket, pockets
of Emergent Marsh, scattered spring ponds, and abundant groundwater upwellings in the form of springs,
spring runs and forested seeps.
Two small stands of mature natural origin white pine lie along Beaver Brook at the south end of the
primary site. Rich forest herbs grace the forest floor below a deeply shaded canopy. These stands tie into
a larger matrix of Northern Dry-mesic Forest at varying stages of maturity, with red oak, American
basswood and aspens (Populus spp.) dominating the canopy within and beyond the bounds of the primary
site. As one moves north along the meandering stream corridor, burr oak (a species more typical of
southern Wisconsin), along with other lowland forest trees such as black ash, create moderate shade over
bubbling seeps and a lush groundlayer of ferns, horsetails and sedges. Abundant speckled alder occupies
a one-mile swathe along the stream in the core of the primary site; this brushy wetland is punctuated by
scattered spring ponds. At the northeast corner of Beaver Brook primary site lies a forested block with
lowland hardwoods along the stream and Northern Dry-mesic Forest in the uplands, including a 40-acre
area with large (20- to 30-inch diameter), natural-origin red and white pines.
Significance of Site This site contains one of the most botanically diverse sites in the Northwest Sands Ecological Landscape.
Beaver Brook is a high-quality Class I trout stream where it runs through the primary site, in large part
due to the abundant springs, spring ponds, and seeps, along with the continuous shading and protection
from various brushy and forested natural communities along its corridor. Patches of older and old-
growth Northern Dry-mesic Forest, including natural origin white and red pine (Pinus resinosa), occur on
the site. These provide important habitat values such as abundant downed woody debris, snags, loose
tree bark, large tree crowns, and a dense canopy that host a myriad of plant, lichen, bird, mammal and
invertebrate species. Older age class natural origin white and red pine stands are unusual, and are no
longer well-represented within the Forest Transition Ecological Landscape. Further exemplifying the
uniqueness of the site, species found more commonly in the Boreal Forest region to the north like
Amy Staffen, WDNR
62 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Canada, blackburnian, and black-throated green warblers were found at the site during the nesting
season.
Management Considerations No non-native invasive plants are known to occur at this site. It would be considered a high priority
action, therefore, to institute a regular Early Detection-Rapid Response program for invasive species to
maintain the site’s high integrity.
Managers and planners may consider following WDNR old-growth silvicultural guidelines (WDNR, In
preparation) in upland forest stands, particularly where natural origin pines occur to the north and the
south. Similar guidelines are already being applied to a 41.5-acre area in the northern part of the site that
was purchased from the National Audubon Society in 2009 (Christel 2008). An important consideration
will stem from whether or not human intervention will be allowed to promote a desired set of
characteristics, particularly to promote regeneration of pines by mimicking natural disturbances. Clear
and detailed management goals and objectives are critical for the implementation of sustainable, science-
based management of old-growth and old forests designated as managed and extended rotation (WDNR,
In preparation).
Amy Staffen, WDNR
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 63
Beaver Brook Pines Primary Site (SWPB-WA06)
64 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
References for Appendix G
Christel, N. 2008. National Audubon Property Management Plan Proposal. Wisconsin Department of
Natural Resources,. Spooner, WI.
Iverson, L.R., A.M. Prasad, S.N. Matthews, and M. Peters. 2008. Estimating potential habitat for 134
eastern U.S. tree species under six climate scenarios. Forest Ecology and Management 254 (3):390-
406.
Kaplan, L.A., T.L. Bott, J.K. Jackson, J.D. Newbold, and B.W. Sweeney. 2008. Protecting headwaters:
The scientific basis for safeguarding stream and river ecosystems. Stroud Water Research Center.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources [WDNR]. 2010a. Wisconsin's forestry best management
practices for water quality. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry.
Madison, WI. PUB FR-093 2010.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources [WDNR]. 2010b. Wisconsin's Statewide Forest Assessment.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Madison, WI.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources [WDNR]. 2010c. Emerald Ash Borer and Forest
Management. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Madison, WI.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources [WDNR]. In preparation. Old-growth and Old Forests
Handbook. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Madison, WI.
Species List The following species were mentioned in Appendix G above.
Common Name Scientific Name
Animals
American Bittern Botaurus lentiginosus
Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Black Bear Ursus americanus
Blanding’s Turtle Emydoidea blandingii
Bobcat Lynx rufus
Brewer’s Blackbird Euphagus cyanocephalus
Broad-winged Hawk Buteo platypteris
Cerulean Warbler Setophaga cerulea
Chinese Mystery Snail Bellamya chinensis
Common Loon Gavia immer
Common Yellowthroat Geothlypis trichas
Coyote Canis latrans
Eastern Wood-pewee Contopus virens
Emerald Ash Borer Agrilus planipennis
Fisher Martes pennanti
Fly spp. Corethella spp.
Four-toed Salamander Hemidactylium scutatum
Golden-winged Warbler Vermivora chrysoptera
Hermit Thrush Catharus guttatus
Least Flycatcher Empidonax minimus
Louisiana Waterthrush Parkesia motacilla
Marsh Wren Cistothorus palustris
Mink Neovison vison
Southern Washburn, Polk, Barron County Planning Group 65
Muskrat Ondatra zibenthicus
Northern Harrier Circus cyaneus
Northern Waterthrush Seiurus noveboracensis
Osprey Pandion haliaetus
Ovenbird Seiurus aurocapilla
Pileated Woodpecker Dryocopus pileatus
Red Fox Vulpes vulpes
Red-shouldered hawk Buteo lineatus
River Otter Lontra canadensis
Sandhill Crane Grus canadensis
Scarlet Tanager Piranga olivacea
Sedge Wren Cistothorus platensis
Snowshoe Hare Lepus americanus
Sora Porzana carolina
Swamp Darner Epiaeschna heros
Swamp Sparrow Melospiza georgiana
Veery Catharus fuscescens
Virginia Rail Rallus limicola
White-tailed Deer Odocoileus virginianus
Willow Flycatcher Empidonax traillii
Wood Thrush Hylocichla mustelina
Wood Turtle Glyptemys insculpta
Yellow-throated Vireo Vireo flavifrons
Plants
Amererican Hazelnut Corylus americana
American Basswood Tilia americana
American hornbeam Carpinus caroliniana
Aspen Populus spp.
Black Ash Fraxinus nigra
Black Spruce Picea mariana
Blue Cohosh Caulophyllum thalictroides
Blue-joint grass Calamagrostis candensis
Bog Rosemary Andromeda polifolia
Bristle-stalked Sedge Carex leptalea
Burr Oak Quercus macrocarpa
Common Blackberry Rubus allegheniensis
Common Buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica
Cranberry Vaccinium spp.
Japanese Hedge-parsley Torilis japonica
Labrador Tea Rhododendron groenlandicum
Lake Sedge Carex lacustris
Large-flowered trillium Trillium grandiflorum
66 2017 Addendum to 2011 Rapid Ecological Assessment
Leather-leaf Chamaedaphne calyculata
Maple-leaved Viburnum Viburnum acerifolium
Marsh Marigold Caltha palustris
Michigan Lily Lilium michiganense
Narrow-leaved Woolly sedge Carex lasiocarpa
Pitcher-plant Sarracenia purpurea
Red Maple Acer rubrum
Red Oak Quercus rubra
Red Pine Pinus resinosa
Reed Canary Grass Phalaris arundinacea
Rusty Cotton-grass Eriophorum virginicum
Soft-leaf Sedge Carex disperma
Speckled Alder Alnus incana
Sugar Maple Acer saccharum
Sundew Drosera spp.
Tamarack Larix laricina
Two-leaf Miterwort Mitella diphylla
White Birch Betula papyrifera
White Oak Quercus alba
White Pine Pinus strobus
Wild Leek Allium tricoccum
Wild Rice Zizania palustris
Yellow Birch Betula alleghaniensis