JG 02-18

Nature PreservedSlip your boat into the water, go far enough to lose sight of the landing and look around. You are treated to a view of nature and wild beauty in all its splendor. Tall stands of pine and birch crowd the shoreline, a pair of loons dive in a quiet bay and high overhead a bald eagle circles.

This view will remain. The rugged Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, under the ownership of the State of Wisconsin, will not become fragmented with development along its shores. The scenic beauty and wild char-acter forever preserved for future genera-tions to enjoy.

Turtle-FlambeauScenic Waters Area

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources PUB-PR-350 2018

InformationFor additional information about the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area, contact the DNR Ranger Station, 5291 N. Statehouse Circle, Mercer, Wisconsin 54547 (715) 476-7846.

In case of EMERGENCY

Call the Iron County Sheriff’s Department at

(800) 243-2131 or dial 911.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WARNINGS

For updated weather information tune to local radio stations WCQM 98.3 FM or WMQA 96 FM or weather band radio. Staff is not on duty 24 hours a day and staff that is on duty will not be able to contact all visitors. Pay attention to the weather. In case of severe storms, use picnic tables or the toilet buildings as shelter.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources provides equal opportunity in its employ-ment, programs, services, and functions under an Affirmative Action Plan. If you have any questions, please write to Equal Opportunity Office, Department of Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240.

This publication can be made available in alternative formats (large print, Braille, audio tape, etc) upon request. Please call (608) 266-2135 for more information.

Phot

o: Z

ach

Wils

on

Protecting Your Flowage—Invasive SpeciesExotic species, both aquatic and terrestrial, are one of the biggest threats to our natural environment. You can help prevent introduction of invasives to the flowage.

Prevent introducing aquatic invasives by clean-ing your boat, boat trailer and live-well before you arrive. Discard unused live bait including worms, minnows or crayfish into the dumpster, not the environment.

Terrestrial invasives such as garlic mustard and buckthorn establish themselves through seeds transported by campers. To help prevent the spread of these aggressive invasives, please clean your shoes and boots prior to visiting the area.

Camping Rules at a Glance g Buy firewood locally. Firewood coming from

more than 10 miles away is prohibited.

g Preserve the solitude of the flowage by keep-ing noise to a minimum.

g It is unlawful to discharge a firearm within 100 yards of a campsite.

g All sites, except designated group sites, are limited to six people or one family consisting of parents, all of their dependent children (< 18 years) and up to two guests.

g All sites have a 10-day camping limit.

g Sites cannot be “saved”. Each site must be oc-cupied the first night but may be left unoccu-pied one other night during the 10-day limit.

g Camping is allowed on designated sites only.

g Set your tent on the leveled tent pad or in an opening away from trees. Too much traffic on tree roots near the ground surface will even-tually kill the tree.

g Hang your lantern away from tree trunks; heat damages the tree’s bark.

g Driftwood may not be burned or removed.

g Generator and chainsaw use is prohibited.

g Do not damage trees (no nails, peeling bark, pruning limbs, etc.) or cut standing trees or shrubs even if they are dead.

g Dispose of unused bait in the trash, not on the ground or in the water.

g Please recycle. Bins are located many of the boat landings.

g Take all garbage with you and deposit in dumpsters located at landings.

g “Home” generated garbage is prohibited.

g Do not dispose of garbage or diapers in toilet vaults.

g Put out all fires and keep them restricted to fire rings. Do not burn plastic, metal glass or food.

History of Good StewardshipIn 1926 the Chippewa and Flambeau Improve-ment Company built a dam on the Flambeau River downstream from its confluence with the Turtle River creating the Turtle-Flambeau Flow-age. The dam flooded sixteen natural lakes and impounds approximately 14,000 acres. The Flow-age serves as a reservoir to augment river flows for hydro-electric plants operated by down-stream electric utilities and paper mills. The dam also provides flood protection and has created a unique recreational resource.

The State acquired the Flowage in 1990. State ownership now comprises over 35,500 acres including 114 miles of mainland shoreline and 195 islands.

The Department of Natural Resources manages the Flowage. With direction from a citizen advi-sory committee, a Master Plan was developed for management of the property. The Plan’s goal implements management practices that per-petuate the natural character of the Flowage’s shoreline. Top priorities include preserving its scenic qualities and protecting its plant and ani-mal communities. The Department also strives to preserve the quality and wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities including fishing, hunting, camping, nature observation, trapping, boating and canoeing.

Securing the FutureIn 2006, an anonymous donor created a per-manent endowed fund to provide a perpetual source of support for the purpose of preserving, protecting and enhancing the lands and waters of the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area. The Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin, a statewide nonprofit organization that creates

opportunities for individuals and organizations to support Wisconsin’s natural resources, manages the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area Fund. More information on the Natural Resources Foundation and the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area Fund can be found at www.wisconservation.org or by con-tacting the Natural Resources Foundation at P.O. Box 2317, Madison, WI 53701. Phone: (866) 264-4096.

CampingThe Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area offers 66 remote campsites accessible by water only. Sixty of these sites are available year-round on a first-come/first-served basis with no registration or fee. Six group sites are available by reservation only. There is no camper registration so you should leave your planned itinerary with friends or family so that you can be located in case of an emergency.

For the safety of all visitors please remember that it is illegal to discharge a firearm within 100 yards of any campsite.

Camping is allowed in designated campsites only. You MAY NOT establish new campsites or camp at undesignated sites. There is a ten- day limit on camping at all campsites on the property. In addi-tion, when you set up camp you must occupy the site the first night and you may not leave it unoc-cupied for more than one night thereafter (you may not leave unattended camping equipment to “save” a site). Your dog is welcome to join you but please respect other campers and clean up after your pet. The map on the reverse side of this page shows the location of all designated campsites. All designated sites have a steel fire ring and an open-air pit toilet and are identified with a site number. To preserve the quiet natural setting and in respect for fellow campers, generators are not allowed. If a generator is required for medical reasons, please contact the property manager prior to your visit.

Family CampsitesFifty-eight sites scattered throughout the prop-erty are designated family campsites. These sites are limited to a group of not more than six people. A family consisting of two parents and their dependent children (less than 18 years old), and up to two guests (any age) are allowed even if it exceeds six individuals. Sixteen of the family campsites include a picnic table as well as a fire ring and open-air pit toilet. These sites are designated with a letter “F” as the prefix to the site number.

Forty of the family sites are more rustic and do not include a picnic table. The site numbers for the rustic sites have a letter “R” prefix.

Site “A1” of the family sites includes facilities which make it more accessible to persons with physical disabilities. This site may be reserved by persons with disabilities by contacting the Mer-cer DNR Ranger Station at 715-476-7846. Please give staff ten days’ notice to process your re-quest. If not being occupied by a camper with a reservation, this site is also open on a first-come/ first-served basis.

Group CampsitesThere are eight group campsites total. Two of these sites (G1 and G2) are first-come/first -served and free. They include two fire rings, two pit toilets and a picnic table. These sites are for use by groups larger than what is allowed in the family sites and are designed to accommodate groups of between seven and fifteen people.

Six other group sites (B3 through B8) are available by reservation from April 15 – October 30. These six sites are divided into two groups of three sites clus-tered together sharing one toilet building. Each site allows wheelchair access and accommodates seven to fifteen persons. A picnic table, benches and a fire-ring also occupy each site. These are primitive sites with no running water or garbage disposal available.

There is a fee associated with these six sites: $40.00 per night per site unless you are a Wisconsin non-profit youth group and then the fee is $10.00 per night per site. Your stay is limited to ten days. You do not need to check in anywhere but a card with your party’s name will be attached to the site post and will indicate your departure date. Reservations can be made any time of year by going to the DNR website (www.dnr.state.wi.us) and clicking on the Reserve a Campsite link. You may also call RESERVE AMERICA at 888-947-2757.

Additional camping opportunities are provided at Lake of the Falls County Park located off of County Highway ‘FF’ where the Turtle River enters the flowage. Some resorts also provide camping with rustic to “full hook-up” facilities.

Fires and FirewoodFirewood can harbor pests such as gypsy moths, emerald ash borer, and oak wilt that threaten the lo-cal forest. New regulations regarding the transport of firewood are aimed at stopping the threat. It is il-legal to bring firewood to this or any other state property from more than 10 miles away. It is also illegal to bring firewood from out of state.

You can gather wood that is “dead and down” for your fire, however, available dead and down wood is becoming scarce. Please purchase locally harvest-ed firewood to bring to your campsite. Several local businesses sell bundled campfire wood.

As added insurance against introducing forest pests, please burn all your firewood; do not leave it for the next camper and do not transport it to other properties.

You MAY NOT cut standing trees whether they are alive or dead. Standing dead “snag” trees provide valuable wildlife habitat. You MAY NOT use a chain saw on the Turtle-Flambeau to cut firewood.

Prevent forest fires by confining your campfire to the steel fire ring provided at each campsite. Make sure your fire is dead out before you leave by pour-ing water on it and stirring with a stick.

Garbage and WasteGarbage service is not provided at the campsites. All refuse must be carried out with you. Do not leave items “for the next campers”. These things are generally not appreciated and tend to detract from the rustic setting. Bear visits are increasing. Be bear aware – do not leave food (including pet food) lying around. Do not put unused food in the fire to burn it. Hang all food and garbage at least 10 feet off the ground and 5 feet from the tree trunk. Please do not feed the bears. A fed bear is a dead bear!

Dry paper can be burned but please do not put plastic, cans, glass or other waste in the fire ring.

DriftwoodDriftwood provides valuable fish and wildlife habitat and adds to the unique character of the flowage; it is rapidly disappearing through natu-ral processes and from illegal harvest. Removal of driftwood from the property is prohibited by law. We also ask that you not burn driftwood. Driftwood is usually water logged and does not burn well even if it appears dry on the outside.

Quiet AreaA voluntary quiet area is in place on approxi-mately the eastern 1/5 of the flowage. The quiet area boundaries run from the narrows near Blair Lake upstream to the property boundary near the confluence of the Bear and Manitowish Riv-ers.

Many anglers, canoers, and campers come to the flowage seeking its solitude. The Quiet Area designation helps promote that atmosphere of solitude for those seeking a more “wilderness” type experience.

When camping in the quiet area, please be espe-cially conscious of keeping noise to a minimum. If you plan to use radios or other noise devises, please consider camping in another area.

We also ask that you observe slow, no wake boating. Anglers and canoe-ists appreciate the courtesy of boaters making no wake.

The quiet area offers a refuge for those seeking a peaceful experience away from the hustle-bus-tle of everyday life.

Canoe RouteFor canoeists looking for an extended trip, a route is identified on the map. Portages are also identified on the map for those who want to explore other areas of the flowage. Your trip could begin on the Manitowish River where it crosses Highway 51 or on the Bear River where it crosses Highway 182. Both places have parking. Continue beyond the dam down the Flambeau River to Holt’s Landing in Agenda Township, Ash-land County or Hine’s Park in Park Falls. Camping is available along the Manitowish River but not below the dam on the Flambeau River.

BoatingSix boat access sites on the Turtle-Flambeau Sce-

nic Waters Area provide public access to the flowage. Springstead Landing, the largest,

offers the most amenities including a triple wide concrete launch ramp and paved

parking for 75 vehicles. Fisherman’s Landing, Sportsman’s Landing, and

Trude Lake Landing also have concrete launch ramps with moderately sized gravel

parking areas. Murray’s Landing is a shallow water gravel access and is recommended for smaller boats and canoes only. Sturgeon Bay Landing has a gravel launch area with very limited parking and turn-around space. The County Park on the north end of the Flowage also has a boat launch.

The Turtle-Flambeau Flowage has an abundance of stumps, logs, floating “driftwood” and rock bars that make good fish and wildlife habitat but could dam-age boats. The map should not be used for naviga-tion; conditions are always changing, particularly when water levels fluctuate. Boaters should always exercise caution. Water skiing and personal water-craft are not advised.

Visitors to the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage come to enjoy the peace, quiet and wild natural surround-ings. Please respect the rights of others, heed boating regulations, watch your wake, go slow, keep noise to a minimum and enjoy wildlife from a distance.

Snowmobiles and ATV’sA number of snowmobile trails cross the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area. Please refer to the Iron County snowmobile trail map before venturing onto the property to determine those areas which are legal for snowmobile use. There are no ATV trails within the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area; as such, ATV’s are not allowed on the property.

Snowmobiles and ATVs are allowed on the ice of the flowage; however, before venturing out onto the ice, be sure conditions are safe and you know where you are going. Some areas are hazardous throughout the winter because of currents under the ice. In addition, fluctuating water levels can cre-ate uneven ice conditions.

The WildlifeThe Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area encompasses a wide variety of wildlife habitats including large expanses of open water, hundreds of scattered is-lands and many quiet bays. Surrounding wood-lands vary from steeply rolling hills to level terrain with grassy openings, small wild lakes and ponds and expansive wetlands. The woodlands consist of aspen, northern hardwoods, white birch, pine and scattered old growth hemlock pockets.

The flowage, known for its high density of bald eagles, osprey and common loons, also hosts black terns, merlins, trumpeter swans and over 150 other bird species. In addition, a variety of reptiles, amphibians and mammals including deer, bear, bobcat and timber wolves also reside here. Even the occasional moose hangs out here in the fall.

Many opportunities exist to observe and enjoy wildlife in a remote and wild setting. Approach wildlife slowly and quietly. Be particularly careful not to disturb nesting birds or animals with small young.

The property includes two special wildlife manage-ment units. The Deadhorse Ruffed Grouse Manage-ment Demonstration Area showcases management techniques and principles which best promote grouse habitat. The Little Turtle Waterfowl Manage-ment Area includes the Little Turtle Flowage which emphasizes maintaining breeding and nesting habitat for waterfowl.

Three separate publications are available that pro-vide additional wildlife related information. Birds of the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area includes a bird list; the Turtle-Flambeau Auto Tour booklet provides interpretive information on habitats and management techniques while following a self-guided tour; and Hunting Opportunities in the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area includes maps of four designated hunter-walking trails on the property.

The FisheryThe flowage provides the best of north woods fishing experiences. It supports a diversity of native cool and warm water fish species including wall-eye, muskellunge, northern pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass, lake sturgeon and various panfish species.

The flowage is best known for its superb walleye fishery. Walleye are by far the most abundant game-fish and provide the majority of sport fish harvest. Natural reproduction and abundance of catchable size walleye are outstanding.

Black crappies provide some exceptional panfish-ing during the early summer months and through the ice. Like all crappie populations, they are cyclic. When numbers are up, fishing is tremendous.

Muskies provide outstanding trophy angling. In the past, muskies in excess of 50 pounds have been caught. Periodic stocking events are used to supple-ment the limited natural reproduction.

Smallmouth bass provide quality fishing when ac-tion is slow for other species. “Smallies” in the flow-age are exceptionally heavy fish for their length.

Lake sturgeon, a large and pre-historic looking fish, occupies the flowage in small numbers. Within flow-age waters lake sturgeon are protected. At certain times in the summer, they can be seen surfacing like a dolphin.

The unique character and outstanding fishery war-rant using special size and bag limits to protect and enhance certain fish species. This helps as-sure its continued status as one of the best fisheries in the state. Consult the Wisconsin fishing regulation pamphlet for com-plete regulations and watch for special regulations posted at the landings.

Forest ManagementManagement of the forests in the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area primarily protects the scenic qualities, fish and wildlife of the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage. A 300-foot aesthetic zone around the entire shoreline of the flowage prohibits any timber harvesting, including salvage harvests from tor-nadoes, burns or insects. A number of other areas have been designated for limited or special man-agement to protect unique natural communities. To further protect scenic qualities, lands more than 300 feet from the water but still visible from the water will be harvested on a selection basis only, allowing appropriate timber management but re-maining sensitive to the scenic goals of the project.

Timber harvests in certain areas of the property not visible from the flowage can include more inten-sive forest management to increase the diversity of wildlife habitats while providing additional forest products. Aspen is the most important timber type for benefitting grouse, deer, bear, wolves, beaver and many species of songbirds. Maintaining and re-generating aspen requires clearcutting (technically regeneration harvesting) because aspen is a sun loving tree and does not grow under shade. Also, young aspen shoots come from the parent root system following disturbance to the parent tree such as a tornado in nature or a harvest by man. Re-generation harvests on the property occur in areas not visible from the water and are carefully laid out to protect water quality, aesthetics, and important ecological features.

JG 02-18

Nature PreservedSlip your boat into the water, go far enough to lose sight of the landing and look around. You are treated to a view of nature and wild beauty in all its splendor. Tall stands of pine and birch crowd the shoreline, a pair of loons dive in a quiet bay and high overhead a bald eagle circles.

This view will remain. The rugged Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, under the ownership of the State of Wisconsin, will not become fragmented with development along its shores. The scenic beauty and wild char-acter forever preserved for future genera-tions to enjoy.

Turtle-FlambeauScenic Waters Area

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources PUB-PR-350 2018

InformationFor additional information about the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area, contact the DNR Ranger Station, 5291 N. Statehouse Circle, Mercer, Wisconsin 54547 (715) 476-7846.

In case of EMERGENCY

Call the Iron County Sheriff’s Department at

(800) 243-2131 or dial 911.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WARNINGS

For updated weather information tune to local radio stations WCQM 98.3 FM or WMQA 96 FM or weather band radio. Staff is not on duty 24 hours a day and staff that is on duty will not be able to contact all visitors. Pay attention to the weather. In case of severe storms, use picnic tables or the toilet buildings as shelter.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources provides equal opportunity in its employ-ment, programs, services, and functions under an Affirmative Action Plan. If you have any questions, please write to Equal Opportunity Office, Department of Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240.

This publication can be made available in alternative formats (large print, Braille, audio tape, etc) upon request. Please call (608) 266-2135 for more information.

Photo: Zach Wilson

Protecting Your Flowage—Invasive SpeciesExotic species, both aquatic and terrestrial, are one of the biggest threats to our natural environment. You can help prevent introduction of invasives to the flowage.

Prevent introducing aquatic invasives by clean-ing your boat, boat trailer and live-well before you arrive. Discard unused live bait including worms, minnows or crayfish into the dumpster, not the environment.

Terrestrial invasives such as garlic mustard and buckthorn establish themselves through seeds transported by campers. To help prevent the spread of these aggressive invasives, please clean your shoes and boots prior to visiting the area.

Camping Rules at a Glance gBuy firewood locally. Firewood coming from

more than 10 miles away is prohibited.

gPreserve the solitude of the flowage by keep-ing noise to a minimum.

gIt is unlawful to discharge a firearm within 100 yards of a campsite.

gAll sites, except designated group sites, are limited to six people or one family consisting of parents, all of their dependent children (< 18 years) and up to two guests.

gAll sites have a 10-day camping limit.

gSites cannot be “saved”. Each site must be oc-cupied the first night but may be left unoccu-pied one other night during the 10-day limit.

gCamping is allowed on designated sites only.

gSet your tent on the leveled tent pad or in an opening away from trees. Too much traffic on tree roots near the ground surface will even-tually kill the tree.

gHang your lantern away from tree trunks; heat damages the tree’s bark.

gDriftwood may not be burned or removed.

gGenerator and chainsaw use is prohibited.

gDo not damage trees (no nails, peeling bark, pruning limbs, etc.) or cut standing trees or shrubs even if they are dead.

gDispose of unused bait in the trash, not on the ground or in the water.

gPlease recycle. Bins are located many of the boat landings.

gTake all garbage with you and deposit in dumpsters located at landings.

g“Home” generated garbage is prohibited.

gDo not dispose of garbage or diapers in toilet vaults.

gPut out all fires and keep them restricted to fire rings. Do not burn plastic, metal glass or food.

History of Good StewardshipIn 1926 the Chippewa and Flambeau Improve-ment Company built a dam on the Flambeau River downstream from its confluence with the Turtle River creating the Turtle-Flambeau Flow-age. The dam flooded sixteen natural lakes and impounds approximately 14,000 acres. The Flow-age serves as a reservoir to augment river flows for hydro-electric plants operated by down-stream electric utilities and paper mills. The dam also provides flood protection and has created a unique recreational resource.

The State acquired the Flowage in 1990. State ownership now comprises over 35,500 acres including 114 miles of mainland shoreline and 195 islands.

The Department of Natural Resources manages the Flowage. With direction from a citizen advi-sory committee, a Master Plan was developed for management of the property. The Plan’s goal implements management practices that per-petuate the natural character of the Flowage’s shoreline. Top priorities include preserving its scenic qualities and protecting its plant and ani-mal communities. The Department also strives to preserve the quality and wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities including fishing, hunting, camping, nature observation, trapping, boating and canoeing.

Securing the FutureIn 2006, an anonymous donor created a per-manent endowed fund to provide a perpetual source of support for the purpose of preserving, protecting and enhancing the lands and waters of the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area. The Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin, a statewide nonprofit organization that creates

opportunities for individuals and organizations to support Wisconsin’s natural resources, manages the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area Fund. More information on the Natural Resources Foundation and the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area Fund can be found at www.wisconservation.org or by con-tacting the Natural Resources Foundation at P.O. Box 2317, Madison, WI 53701. Phone: (866) 264-4096.

CampingThe Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area offers 66 remote campsites accessible by water only. Sixty of these sites are available year-round on a first-come/first-served basis with no registration or fee. Six group sites are available by reservation only. There is no camper registration so you should leave your planned itinerary with friends or family so that you can be located in case of an emergency.

For the safety of all visitors please remember that it is illegal to discharge a firearm within 100 yards of any campsite.

Camping is allowed in designated campsites only. You MAY NOT establish new campsites or camp at undesignated sites. There is a ten- day limit on camping at all campsites on the property. In addi-tion, when you set up camp you must occupy the site the first night and you may not leave it unoc-cupied for more than one night thereafter (you may not leave unattended camping equipment to “save” a site). Your dog is welcome to join you but please respect other campers and clean up after your pet. The map on the reverse side of this page shows the location of all designated campsites. All designated sites have a steel fire ring and an open-air pit toilet and are identified with a site number. To preserve the quiet natural setting and in respect for fellow campers, generators are not allowed. If a generator is required for medical reasons, please contact the property manager prior to your visit.

Family CampsitesFifty-eight sites scattered throughout the prop-erty are designated family campsites. These sites are limited to a group of not more than six people. A family consisting of two parents and their dependent children (less than 18 years old), and up to two guests (any age) are allowed even if it exceeds six individuals. Sixteen of the family campsites include a picnic table as well as a fire ring and open-air pit toilet. These sites are designated with a letter “F” as the prefix to the site number.

Forty of the family sites are more rustic and do not include a picnic table. The site numbers for the rustic sites have a letter “R” prefix.

Site “A1” of the family sites includes facilities which make it more accessible to persons with physical disabilities. This site may be reserved by persons with disabilities by contacting the Mer-cer DNR Ranger Station at 715-476-7846. Please give staff ten days’ notice to process your re-quest. If not being occupied by a camper with a reservation, this site is also open on a first-come/ first-served basis.

Group CampsitesThere are eight group campsites total. Two of these sites (G1 and G2) are first-come/first -served and free. They include two fire rings, two pit toilets and a picnic table. These sites are for use by groups larger than what is allowed in the family sites and are designed to accommodate groups of between seven and fifteen people.

Six other group sites (B3 through B8) are available by reservation from April 15 – October 30. These six sites are divided into two groups of three sites clus-tered together sharing one toilet building. Each site allows wheelchair access and accommodates seven to fifteen persons. A picnic table, benches and a fire-ring also occupy each site. These are primitive sites with no running water or garbage disposal available.

There is a fee associated with these six sites: $40.00 per night per site unless you are a Wisconsin non-profit youth group and then the fee is $10.00 per night per site. Your stay is limited to ten days. You do not need to check in anywhere but a card with your party’s name will be attached to the site post and will indicate your departure date. Reservations can be made any time of year by going to the DNR website (www.dnr.state.wi.us) and clicking on the Reserve a Campsite link. You may also call RESERVE AMERICA at 888-947-2757.

Additional camping opportunities are provided at Lake of the Falls County Park located off of County Highway ‘FF’ where the Turtle River enters the flowage. Some resorts also provide camping with rustic to “full hook-up” facilities.

Fires and FirewoodFirewood can harbor pests such as gypsy moths, emerald ash borer, and oak wilt that threaten the lo-cal forest. New regulations regarding the transport of firewood are aimed at stopping the threat. It is il-legal to bring firewood to this or any other state property from more than 10 miles away. It is also illegal to bring firewood from out of state.

You can gather wood that is “dead and down” for your fire, however, available dead and down wood is becoming scarce. Please purchase locally harvest-ed firewood to bring to your campsite. Several local businesses sell bundled campfire wood.

As added insurance against introducing forest pests, please burn all your firewood; do not leave it for the next camper and do not transport it to other properties.

You MAY NOT cut standing trees whether they are alive or dead. Standing dead “snag” trees provide valuable wildlife habitat. You MAY NOT use a chain saw on the Turtle-Flambeau to cut firewood.

Prevent forest fires by confining your campfire to the steel fire ring provided at each campsite. Make sure your fire is dead out before you leave by pour-ing water on it and stirring with a stick.

Garbage and WasteGarbage service is not provided at the campsites. All refuse must be carried out with you. Do not leave items “for the next campers”. These things are generally not appreciated and tend to detract from the rustic setting. Bear visits are increasing. Be bear aware – do not leave food (including pet food) lying around. Do not put unused food in the fire to burn it. Hang all food and garbage at least 10 feet off the ground and 5 feet from the tree trunk. Please do not feed the bears. A fed bear is a dead bear!

Dry paper can be burned but please do not put plastic, cans, glass or other waste in the fire ring.

DriftwoodDriftwood provides valuable fish and wildlife habitat and adds to the unique character of the flowage; it is rapidly disappearing through natu-ral processes and from illegal harvest. Removal of driftwood from the property is prohibited by law. We also ask that you not burn driftwood. Driftwood is usually water logged and does not burn well even if it appears dry on the outside.

Quiet AreaA voluntary quiet area is in place on approxi-mately the eastern 1/5 of the flowage. The quiet area boundaries run from the narrows near Blair Lake upstream to the property boundary near the confluence of the Bear and Manitowish Riv-ers.

Many anglers, canoers, and campers come to the flowage seeking its solitude. The Quiet Area designation helps promote that atmosphere of solitude for those seeking a more “wilderness” type experience.

When camping in the quiet area, please be espe-cially conscious of keeping noise to a minimum. If you plan to use radios or other noise devises, please consider camping in another area.

We also ask that you observe slow, no wake boating. Anglers and canoe-ists appreciate the courtesy of boaters making no wake.

The quiet area offers a refuge for those seeking a peaceful experience away from the hustle-bus-tle of everyday life.

Canoe RouteFor canoeists looking for an extended trip, a route is identified on the map. Portages are also identified on the map for those who want to explore other areas of the flowage. Your trip could begin on the Manitowish River where it crosses Highway 51 or on the Bear River where it crosses Highway 182. Both places have parking. Continue beyond the dam down the Flambeau River to Holt’s Landing in Agenda Township, Ash-land County or Hine’s Park in Park Falls. Camping is available along the Manitowish River but not below the dam on the Flambeau River.

BoatingSix boat access sites on the Turtle-Flambeau Sce-

nic Waters Area provide public access to the flowage. Springstead Landing, the largest,

offers the most amenities including a triple wide concrete launch ramp and paved

parking for 75 vehicles. Fisherman’s Landing, Sportsman’s Landing, and

Trude Lake Landing also have concrete launch ramps with moderately sized gravel

parking areas. Murray’s Landing is a shallow water gravel access and is recommended for smaller boats and canoes only. Sturgeon Bay Landing has a gravel launch area with very limited parking and turn-around space. The County Park on the north end of the Flowage also has a boat launch.

The Turtle-Flambeau Flowage has an abundance of stumps, logs, floating “driftwood” and rock bars that make good fish and wildlife habitat but could dam-age boats. The map should not be used for naviga-tion; conditions are always changing, particularly when water levels fluctuate. Boaters should always exercise caution. Water skiing and personal water-craft are not advised.

Visitors to the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage come to enjoy the peace, quiet and wild natural surround-ings. Please respect the rights of others, heed boating regulations, watch your wake, go slow, keep noise to a minimum and enjoy wildlife from a distance.

Snowmobiles and ATV’sA number of snowmobile trails cross the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area. Please refer to the Iron County snowmobile trail map before venturing onto the property to determine those areas which are legal for snowmobile use. There are no ATV trails within the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area; as such, ATV’s are not allowed on the property.

Snowmobiles and ATVs are allowed on the ice of the flowage; however, before venturing out onto the ice, be sure conditions are safe and you know where you are going. Some areas are hazardous throughout the winter because of currents under the ice. In addition, fluctuating water levels can cre-ate uneven ice conditions.

The WildlifeThe Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area encompasses a wide variety of wildlife habitats including large expanses of open water, hundreds of scattered is-lands and many quiet bays. Surrounding wood-lands vary from steeply rolling hills to level terrain with grassy openings, small wild lakes and ponds and expansive wetlands. The woodlands consist of aspen, northern hardwoods, white birch, pine and scattered old growth hemlock pockets.

The flowage, known for its high density of bald eagles, osprey and common loons, also hosts black terns, merlins, trumpeter swans and over 150 other bird species. In addition, a variety of reptiles, amphibians and mammals including deer, bear, bobcat and timber wolves also reside here. Even the occasional moose hangs out here in the fall.

Many opportunities exist to observe and enjoy wildlife in a remote and wild setting. Approach wildlife slowly and quietly. Be particularly careful not to disturb nesting birds or animals with small young.

The property includes two special wildlife manage-ment units. The Deadhorse Ruffed Grouse Manage-ment Demonstration Area showcases management techniques and principles which best promote grouse habitat. The Little Turtle Waterfowl Manage-ment Area includes the Little Turtle Flowage which emphasizes maintaining breeding and nesting habitat for waterfowl.

Three separate publications are available that pro-vide additional wildlife related information. Birds of the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area includes a bird list; the Turtle-Flambeau Auto Tour booklet provides interpretive information on habitats and management techniques while following a self-guided tour; and Hunting Opportunities in the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area includes maps of four designated hunter-walking trails on the property.

The FisheryThe flowage provides the best of north woods fishing experiences. It supports a diversity of native cool and warm water fish species including wall-eye, muskellunge, northern pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass, lake sturgeon and various panfish species.

The flowage is best known for its superb walleye fishery. Walleye are by far the most abundant game-fish and provide the majority of sport fish harvest. Natural reproduction and abundance of catchable size walleye are outstanding.

Black crappies provide some exceptional panfish-ing during the early summer months and through the ice. Like all crappie populations, they are cyclic. When numbers are up, fishing is tremendous.

Muskies provide outstanding trophy angling. In the past, muskies in excess of 50 pounds have been caught. Periodic stocking events are used to supple-ment the limited natural reproduction.

Smallmouth bass provide quality fishing when ac-tion is slow for other species. “Smallies” in the flow-age are exceptionally heavy fish for their length.

Lake sturgeon, a large and pre-historic looking fish, occupies the flowage in small numbers. Within flow-age waters lake sturgeon are protected. At certain times in the summer, they can be seen surfacing like a dolphin.

The unique character and outstanding fishery war-rant using special size and bag limits to protect and enhance certain fish species. This helps as-sure its continued status as one of the best fisheries in the state. Consult the Wisconsin fishing regulation pamphlet for com-plete regulations and watch for special regulations posted at the landings.

Forest ManagementManagement of the forests in the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area primarily protects the scenic qualities, fish and wildlife of the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage. A 300-foot aesthetic zone around the entire shoreline of the flowage prohibits any timber harvesting, including salvage harvests from tor-nadoes, burns or insects. A number of other areas have been designated for limited or special man-agement to protect unique natural communities. To further protect scenic qualities, lands more than 300 feet from the water but still visible from the water will be harvested on a selection basis only, allowing appropriate timber management but re-maining sensitive to the scenic goals of the project.

Timber harvests in certain areas of the property not visible from the flowage can include more inten-sive forest management to increase the diversity of wildlife habitats while providing additional forest products. Aspen is the most important timber type for benefitting grouse, deer, bear, wolves, beaver and many species of songbirds. Maintaining and re-generating aspen requires clearcutting (technically regeneration harvesting) because aspen is a sun loving tree and does not grow under shade. Also, young aspen shoots come from the parent root system following disturbance to the parent tree such as a tornado in nature or a harvest by man. Re-generation harvests on the property occur in areas not visible from the water and are carefully laid out to protect water quality, aesthetics, and important ecological features.

JG 02-18

Nature PreservedSlip your boat into the water, go far enough to lose sight of the landing and look around. You are treated to a view of nature and wild beauty in all its splendor. Tall stands of pine and birch crowd the shoreline, a pair of loons dive in a quiet bay and high overhead a bald eagle circles.

This view will remain. The rugged Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, under the ownership of the State of Wisconsin, will not become fragmented with development along its shores. The scenic beauty and wild char-acter forever preserved for future genera-tions to enjoy.

Turtle-FlambeauScenic Waters Area

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources PUB-PR-350 2018

InformationFor additional information about the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area, contact the DNR Ranger Station, 5291 N. Statehouse Circle, Mercer, Wisconsin 54547 (715) 476-7846.

In case of EMERGENCY

Call the Iron County Sheriff’s Department at

(800) 243-2131 or dial 911.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WARNINGS

For updated weather information tune to local radio stations WCQM 98.3 FM or WMQA 96 FM or weather band radio. Staff is not on duty 24 hours a day and staff that is on duty will not be able to contact all visitors. Pay attention to the weather. In case of severe storms, use picnic tables or the toilet buildings as shelter.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources provides equal opportunity in its employ-ment, programs, services, and functions under an Affirmative Action Plan. If you have any questions, please write to Equal Opportunity Office, Department of Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240.

This publication can be made available in alternative formats (large print, Braille, audio tape, etc) upon request. Please call (608) 266-2135 for more information.

Photo: Zach Wilson

Protecting Your Flowage—Invasive SpeciesExotic species, both aquatic and terrestrial, are one of the biggest threats to our natural environment. You can help prevent introduction of invasives to the flowage.

Prevent introducing aquatic invasives by clean-ing your boat, boat trailer and live-well before you arrive. Discard unused live bait including worms, minnows or crayfish into the dumpster, not the environment.

Terrestrial invasives such as garlic mustard and buckthorn establish themselves through seeds transported by campers. To help prevent the spread of these aggressive invasives, please clean your shoes and boots prior to visiting the area.

Camping Rules at a Glance gBuy firewood locally. Firewood coming from

more than 10 miles away is prohibited.

gPreserve the solitude of the flowage by keep-ing noise to a minimum.

gIt is unlawful to discharge a firearm within 100 yards of a campsite.

gAll sites, except designated group sites, are limited to six people or one family consisting of parents, all of their dependent children (< 18 years) and up to two guests.

gAll sites have a 10-day camping limit.

gSites cannot be “saved”. Each site must be oc-cupied the first night but may be left unoccu-pied one other night during the 10-day limit.

gCamping is allowed on designated sites only.

gSet your tent on the leveled tent pad or in an opening away from trees. Too much traffic on tree roots near the ground surface will even-tually kill the tree.

gHang your lantern away from tree trunks; heat damages the tree’s bark.

gDriftwood may not be burned or removed.

gGenerator and chainsaw use is prohibited.

gDo not damage trees (no nails, peeling bark, pruning limbs, etc.) or cut standing trees or shrubs even if they are dead.

gDispose of unused bait in the trash, not on the ground or in the water.

gPlease recycle. Bins are located many of the boat landings.

gTake all garbage with you and deposit in dumpsters located at landings.

g“Home” generated garbage is prohibited.

gDo not dispose of garbage or diapers in toilet vaults.

gPut out all fires and keep them restricted to fire rings. Do not burn plastic, metal glass or food.

History of Good StewardshipIn 1926 the Chippewa and Flambeau Improve-ment Company built a dam on the Flambeau River downstream from its confluence with the Turtle River creating the Turtle-Flambeau Flow-age. The dam flooded sixteen natural lakes and impounds approximately 14,000 acres. The Flow-age serves as a reservoir to augment river flows for hydro-electric plants operated by down-stream electric utilities and paper mills. The dam also provides flood protection and has created a unique recreational resource.

The State acquired the Flowage in 1990. State ownership now comprises over 35,500 acres including 114 miles of mainland shoreline and 195 islands.

The Department of Natural Resources manages the Flowage. With direction from a citizen advi-sory committee, a Master Plan was developed for management of the property. The Plan’s goal implements management practices that per-petuate the natural character of the Flowage’s shoreline. Top priorities include preserving its scenic qualities and protecting its plant and ani-mal communities. The Department also strives to preserve the quality and wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities including fishing, hunting, camping, nature observation, trapping, boating and canoeing.

Securing the FutureIn 2006, an anonymous donor created a per-manent endowed fund to provide a perpetual source of support for the purpose of preserving, protecting and enhancing the lands and waters of the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area. The Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin, a statewide nonprofit organization that creates

opportunities for individuals and organizations to support Wisconsin’s natural resources, manages the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area Fund. More information on the Natural Resources Foundation and the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area Fund can be found at www.wisconservation.org or by con-tacting the Natural Resources Foundation at P.O. Box 2317, Madison, WI 53701. Phone: (866) 264-4096.

CampingThe Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area offers 66 remote campsites accessible by water only. Sixty of these sites are available year-round on a first-come/first-served basis with no registration or fee. Six group sites are available by reservation only. There is no camper registration so you should leave your planned itinerary with friends or family so that you can be located in case of an emergency.

For the safety of all visitors please remember that it is illegal to discharge a firearm within 100 yards of any campsite.

Camping is allowed in designated campsites only. You MAY NOT establish new campsites or camp at undesignated sites. There is a ten- day limit on camping at all campsites on the property. In addi-tion, when you set up camp you must occupy the site the first night and you may not leave it unoc-cupied for more than one night thereafter (you may not leave unattended camping equipment to “save” a site). Your dog is welcome to join you but please respect other campers and clean up after your pet. The map on the reverse side of this page shows the location of all designated campsites. All designated sites have a steel fire ring and an open-air pit toilet and are identified with a site number. To preserve the quiet natural setting and in respect for fellow campers, generators are not allowed. If a generator is required for medical reasons, please contact the property manager prior to your visit.

Family CampsitesFifty-eight sites scattered throughout the prop-erty are designated family campsites. These sites are limited to a group of not more than six people. A family consisting of two parents and their dependent children (less than 18 years old), and up to two guests (any age) are allowed even if it exceeds six individuals. Sixteen of the family campsites include a picnic table as well as a fire ring and open-air pit toilet. These sites are designated with a letter “F” as the prefix to the site number.

Forty of the family sites are more rustic and do not include a picnic table. The site numbers for the rustic sites have a letter “R” prefix.

Site “A1” of the family sites includes facilities which make it more accessible to persons with physical disabilities. This site may be reserved by persons with disabilities by contacting the Mer-cer DNR Ranger Station at 715-476-7846. Please give staff ten days’ notice to process your re-quest. If not being occupied by a camper with a reservation, this site is also open on a first-come/ first-served basis.

Group CampsitesThere are eight group campsites total. Two of these sites (G1 and G2) are first-come/first -served and free. They include two fire rings, two pit toilets and a picnic table. These sites are for use by groups larger than what is allowed in the family sites and are designed to accommodate groups of between seven and fifteen people.

Six other group sites (B3 through B8) are available by reservation from April 15 – October 30. These six sites are divided into two groups of three sites clus-tered together sharing one toilet building. Each site allows wheelchair access and accommodates seven to fifteen persons. A picnic table, benches and a fire-ring also occupy each site. These are primitive sites with no running water or garbage disposal available.

There is a fee associated with these six sites: $40.00 per night per site unless you are a Wisconsin non-profit youth group and then the fee is $10.00 per night per site. Your stay is limited to ten days. You do not need to check in anywhere but a card with your party’s name will be attached to the site post and will indicate your departure date. Reservations can be made any time of year by going to the DNR website (www.dnr.state.wi.us) and clicking on the Reserve a Campsite link. You may also call RESERVE AMERICA at 888-947-2757.

Additional camping opportunities are provided at Lake of the Falls County Park located off of County Highway ‘FF’ where the Turtle River enters the flowage. Some resorts also provide camping with rustic to “full hook-up” facilities.

Fires and FirewoodFirewood can harbor pests such as gypsy moths, emerald ash borer, and oak wilt that threaten the lo-cal forest. New regulations regarding the transport of firewood are aimed at stopping the threat. It is il-legal to bring firewood to this or any other state property from more than 10 miles away. It is also illegal to bring firewood from out of state.

You can gather wood that is “dead and down” for your fire, however, available dead and down wood is becoming scarce. Please purchase locally harvest-ed firewood to bring to your campsite. Several local businesses sell bundled campfire wood.

As added insurance against introducing forest pests, please burn all your firewood; do not leave it for the next camper and do not transport it to other properties.

You MAY NOT cut standing trees whether they are alive or dead. Standing dead “snag” trees provide valuable wildlife habitat. You MAY NOT use a chain saw on the Turtle-Flambeau to cut firewood.

Prevent forest fires by confining your campfire to the steel fire ring provided at each campsite. Make sure your fire is dead out before you leave by pour-ing water on it and stirring with a stick.

Garbage and WasteGarbage service is not provided at the campsites. All refuse must be carried out with you. Do not leave items “for the next campers”. These things are generally not appreciated and tend to detract from the rustic setting. Bear visits are increasing. Be bear aware – do not leave food (including pet food) lying around. Do not put unused food in the fire to burn it. Hang all food and garbage at least 10 feet off the ground and 5 feet from the tree trunk. Please do not feed the bears. A fed bear is a dead bear!

Dry paper can be burned but please do not put plastic, cans, glass or other waste in the fire ring.

DriftwoodDriftwood provides valuable fish and wildlife habitat and adds to the unique character of the flowage; it is rapidly disappearing through natu-ral processes and from illegal harvest. Removal of driftwood from the property is prohibited by law. We also ask that you not burn driftwood. Driftwood is usually water logged and does not burn well even if it appears dry on the outside.

Quiet AreaA voluntary quiet area is in place on approxi-mately the eastern 1/5 of the flowage. The quiet area boundaries run from the narrows near Blair Lake upstream to the property boundary near the confluence of the Bear and Manitowish Riv-ers.

Many anglers, canoers, and campers come to the flowage seeking its solitude. The Quiet Area designation helps promote that atmosphere of solitude for those seeking a more “wilderness” type experience.

When camping in the quiet area, please be espe-cially conscious of keeping noise to a minimum. If you plan to use radios or other noise devises, please consider camping in another area.

We also ask that you observe slow, no wake boating. Anglers and canoe-ists appreciate the courtesy of boaters making no wake.

The quiet area offers a refuge for those seeking a peaceful experience away from the hustle-bus-tle of everyday life.

Canoe RouteFor canoeists looking for an extended trip, a route is identified on the map. Portages are also identified on the map for those who want to explore other areas of the flowage. Your trip could begin on the Manitowish River where it crosses Highway 51 or on the Bear River where it crosses Highway 182. Both places have parking. Continue beyond the dam down the Flambeau River to Holt’s Landing in Agenda Township, Ash-land County or Hine’s Park in Park Falls. Camping is available along the Manitowish River but not below the dam on the Flambeau River.

BoatingSix boat access sites on the Turtle-Flambeau Sce-

nic Waters Area provide public access to the flowage. Springstead Landing, the largest,

offers the most amenities including a triple wide concrete launch ramp and paved

parking for 75 vehicles. Fisherman’s Landing, Sportsman’s Landing, and

Trude Lake Landing also have concrete launch ramps with moderately sized gravel

parking areas. Murray’s Landing is a shallow water gravel access and is recommended for smaller boats and canoes only. Sturgeon Bay Landing has a gravel launch area with very limited parking and turn-around space. The County Park on the north end of the Flowage also has a boat launch.

The Turtle-Flambeau Flowage has an abundance of stumps, logs, floating “driftwood” and rock bars that make good fish and wildlife habitat but could dam-age boats. The map should not be used for naviga-tion; conditions are always changing, particularly when water levels fluctuate. Boaters should always exercise caution. Water skiing and personal water-craft are not advised.

Visitors to the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage come to enjoy the peace, quiet and wild natural surround-ings. Please respect the rights of others, heed boating regulations, watch your wake, go slow, keep noise to a minimum and enjoy wildlife from a distance.

Snowmobiles and ATV’sA number of snowmobile trails cross the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area. Please refer to the Iron County snowmobile trail map before venturing onto the property to determine those areas which are legal for snowmobile use. There are no ATV trails within the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area; as such, ATV’s are not allowed on the property.

Snowmobiles and ATVs are allowed on the ice of the flowage; however, before venturing out onto the ice, be sure conditions are safe and you know where you are going. Some areas are hazardous throughout the winter because of currents under the ice. In addition, fluctuating water levels can cre-ate uneven ice conditions.

The WildlifeThe Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area encompasses a wide variety of wildlife habitats including large expanses of open water, hundreds of scattered is-lands and many quiet bays. Surrounding wood-lands vary from steeply rolling hills to level terrain with grassy openings, small wild lakes and ponds and expansive wetlands. The woodlands consist of aspen, northern hardwoods, white birch, pine and scattered old growth hemlock pockets.

The flowage, known for its high density of bald eagles, osprey and common loons, also hosts black terns, merlins, trumpeter swans and over 150 other bird species. In addition, a variety of reptiles, amphibians and mammals including deer, bear, bobcat and timber wolves also reside here. Even the occasional moose hangs out here in the fall.

Many opportunities exist to observe and enjoy wildlife in a remote and wild setting. Approach wildlife slowly and quietly. Be particularly careful not to disturb nesting birds or animals with small young.

The property includes two special wildlife manage-ment units. The Deadhorse Ruffed Grouse Manage-ment Demonstration Area showcases management techniques and principles which best promote grouse habitat. The Little Turtle Waterfowl Manage-ment Area includes the Little Turtle Flowage which emphasizes maintaining breeding and nesting habitat for waterfowl.

Three separate publications are available that pro-vide additional wildlife related information. Birds of the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area includes a bird list; the Turtle-Flambeau Auto Tour booklet provides interpretive information on habitats and management techniques while following a self-guided tour; and Hunting Opportunities in the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area includes maps of four designated hunter-walking trails on the property.

The FisheryThe flowage provides the best of north woods fishing experiences. It supports a diversity of native cool and warm water fish species including wall-eye, muskellunge, northern pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass, lake sturgeon and various panfish species.

The flowage is best known for its superb walleye fishery. Walleye are by far the most abundant game-fish and provide the majority of sport fish harvest. Natural reproduction and abundance of catchable size walleye are outstanding.

Black crappies provide some exceptional panfish-ing during the early summer months and through the ice. Like all crappie populations, they are cyclic. When numbers are up, fishing is tremendous.

Muskies provide outstanding trophy angling. In the past, muskies in excess of 50 pounds have been caught. Periodic stocking events are used to supple-ment the limited natural reproduction.

Smallmouth bass provide quality fishing when ac-tion is slow for other species. “Smallies” in the flow-age are exceptionally heavy fish for their length.

Lake sturgeon, a large and pre-historic looking fish, occupies the flowage in small numbers. Within flow-age waters lake sturgeon are protected. At certain times in the summer, they can be seen surfacing like a dolphin.

The unique character and outstanding fishery war-rant using special size and bag limits to protect and enhance certain fish species. This helps as-sure its continued status as one of the best fisheries in the state. Consult the Wisconsin fishing regulation pamphlet for com-plete regulations and watch for special regulations posted at the landings.

Forest ManagementManagement of the forests in the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area primarily protects the scenic qualities, fish and wildlife of the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage. A 300-foot aesthetic zone around the entire shoreline of the flowage prohibits any timber harvesting, including salvage harvests from tor-nadoes, burns or insects. A number of other areas have been designated for limited or special man-agement to protect unique natural communities. To further protect scenic qualities, lands more than 300 feet from the water but still visible from the water will be harvested on a selection basis only, allowing appropriate timber management but re-maining sensitive to the scenic goals of the project.

Timber harvests in certain areas of the property not visible from the flowage can include more inten-sive forest management to increase the diversity of wildlife habitats while providing additional forest products. Aspen is the most important timber type for benefitting grouse, deer, bear, wolves, beaver and many species of songbirds. Maintaining and re-generating aspen requires clearcutting (technically regeneration harvesting) because aspen is a sun loving tree and does not grow under shade. Also, young aspen shoots come from the parent root system following disturbance to the parent tree such as a tornado in nature or a harvest by man. Re-generation harvests on the property occur in areas not visible from the water and are carefully laid out to protect water quality, aesthetics, and important ecological features.

JG 02-18

Nature PreservedSlip your boat into the water, go far enough to lose sight of the landing and look around. You are treated to a view of nature and wild beauty in all its splendor. Tall stands of pine and birch crowd the shoreline, a pair of loons dive in a quiet bay and high overhead a bald eagle circles.

This view will remain. The rugged Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, under the ownership of the State of Wisconsin, will not become fragmented with development along its shores. The scenic beauty and wild char-acter forever preserved for future genera-tions to enjoy.

Turtle-FlambeauScenic Waters Area

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources PUB-PR-350 2018

InformationFor additional information about the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area, contact the DNR Ranger Station, 5291 N. Statehouse Circle, Mercer, Wisconsin 54547 (715) 476-7846.

In case of EMERGENCY

Call the Iron County Sheriff’s Department at

(800) 243-2131 or dial 911.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WARNINGS

For updated weather information tune to local radio stations WCQM 98.3 FM or WMQA 96 FM or weather band radio. Staff is not on duty 24 hours a day and staff that is on duty will not be able to contact all visitors. Pay attention to the weather. In case of severe storms, use picnic tables or the toilet buildings as shelter.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources provides equal opportunity in its employ-ment, programs, services, and functions under an Affirmative Action Plan. If you have any questions, please write to Equal Opportunity Office, Department of Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240.

This publication can be made available in alternative formats (large print, Braille, audio tape, etc) upon request. Please call (608) 266-2135 for more information.

Photo: Zach Wilson

Protecting Your Flowage—Invasive SpeciesExotic species, both aquatic and terrestrial, are one of the biggest threats to our natural environment. You can help prevent introduction of invasives to the flowage.

Prevent introducing aquatic invasives by clean-ing your boat, boat trailer and live-well before you arrive. Discard unused live bait including worms, minnows or crayfish into the dumpster, not the environment.

Terrestrial invasives such as garlic mustard and buckthorn establish themselves through seeds transported by campers. To help prevent the spread of these aggressive invasives, please clean your shoes and boots prior to visiting the area.

Camping Rules at a Glance gBuy firewood locally. Firewood coming from

more than 10 miles away is prohibited.

gPreserve the solitude of the flowage by keep-ing noise to a minimum.

gIt is unlawful to discharge a firearm within 100 yards of a campsite.

gAll sites, except designated group sites, are limited to six people or one family consisting of parents, all of their dependent children (< 18 years) and up to two guests.

gAll sites have a 10-day camping limit.

gSites cannot be “saved”. Each site must be oc-cupied the first night but may be left unoccu-pied one other night during the 10-day limit.

gCamping is allowed on designated sites only.

gSet your tent on the leveled tent pad or in an opening away from trees. Too much traffic on tree roots near the ground surface will even-tually kill the tree.

gHang your lantern away from tree trunks; heat damages the tree’s bark.

gDriftwood may not be burned or removed.

gGenerator and chainsaw use is prohibited.

gDo not damage trees (no nails, peeling bark, pruning limbs, etc.) or cut standing trees or shrubs even if they are dead.

gDispose of unused bait in the trash, not on the ground or in the water.

gPlease recycle. Bins are located many of the boat landings.

gTake all garbage with you and deposit in dumpsters located at landings.

g“Home” generated garbage is prohibited.

gDo not dispose of garbage or diapers in toilet vaults.

gPut out all fires and keep them restricted to fire rings. Do not burn plastic, metal glass or food.

History of Good StewardshipIn 1926 the Chippewa and Flambeau Improve-ment Company built a dam on the Flambeau River downstream from its confluence with the Turtle River creating the Turtle-Flambeau Flow-age. The dam flooded sixteen natural lakes and impounds approximately 14,000 acres. The Flow-age serves as a reservoir to augment river flows for hydro-electric plants operated by down-stream electric utilities and paper mills. The dam also provides flood protection and has created a unique recreational resource.

The State acquired the Flowage in 1990. State ownership now comprises over 35,500 acres including 114 miles of mainland shoreline and 195 islands.

The Department of Natural Resources manages the Flowage. With direction from a citizen advi-sory committee, a Master Plan was developed for management of the property. The Plan’s goal implements management practices that per-petuate the natural character of the Flowage’s shoreline. Top priorities include preserving its scenic qualities and protecting its plant and ani-mal communities. The Department also strives to preserve the quality and wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities including fishing, hunting, camping, nature observation, trapping, boating and canoeing.

Securing the FutureIn 2006, an anonymous donor created a per-manent endowed fund to provide a perpetual source of support for the purpose of preserving, protecting and enhancing the lands and waters of the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area. The Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin, a statewide nonprofit organization that creates

opportunities for individuals and organizations to support Wisconsin’s natural resources, manages the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area Fund. More information on the Natural Resources Foundation and the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area Fund can be found at www.wisconservation.org or by con-tacting the Natural Resources Foundation at P.O. Box 2317, Madison, WI 53701. Phone: (866) 264-4096.

CampingThe Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area offers 66 remote campsites accessible by water only. Sixty of these sites are available year-round on a first-come/first-served basis with no registration or fee. Six group sites are available by reservation only. There is no camper registration so you should leave your planned itinerary with friends or family so that you can be located in case of an emergency.

For the safety of all visitors please remember that it is illegal to discharge a firearm within 100 yards of any campsite.

Camping is allowed in designated campsites only. You MAY NOT establish new campsites or camp at undesignated sites. There is a ten- day limit on camping at all campsites on the property. In addi-tion, when you set up camp you must occupy the site the first night and you may not leave it unoc-cupied for more than one night thereafter (you may not leave unattended camping equipment to “save” a site). Your dog is welcome to join you but please respect other campers and clean up after your pet. The map on the reverse side of this page shows the location of all designated campsites. All designated sites have a steel fire ring and an open-air pit toilet and are identified with a site number. To preserve the quiet natural setting and in respect for fellow campers, generators are not allowed. If a generator is required for medical reasons, please contact the property manager prior to your visit.

Family CampsitesFifty-eight sites scattered throughout the prop-erty are designated family campsites. These sites are limited to a group of not more than six people. A family consisting of two parents and their dependent children (less than 18 years old), and up to two guests (any age) are allowed even if it exceeds six individuals. Sixteen of the family campsites include a picnic table as well as a fire ring and open-air pit toilet. These sites are designated with a letter “F” as the prefix to the site number.

Forty of the family sites are more rustic and do not include a picnic table. The site numbers for the rustic sites have a letter “R” prefix.

Site “A1” of the family sites includes facilities which make it more accessible to persons with physical disabilities. This site may be reserved by persons with disabilities by contacting the Mer-cer DNR Ranger Station at 715-476-7846. Please give staff ten days’ notice to process your re-quest. If not being occupied by a camper with a reservation, this site is also open on a first-come/ first-served basis.

Group CampsitesThere are eight group campsites total. Two of these sites (G1 and G2) are first-come/first -served and free. They include two fire rings, two pit toilets and a picnic table. These sites are for use by groups larger than what is allowed in the family sites and are designed to accommodate groups of between seven and fifteen people.

Six other group sites (B3 through B8) are available by reservation from April 15 – October 30. These six sites are divided into two groups of three sites clus-tered together sharing one toilet building. Each site allows wheelchair access and accommodates seven to fifteen persons. A picnic table, benches and a fire-ring also occupy each site. These are primitive sites with no running water or garbage disposal available.

There is a fee associated with these six sites: $40.00 per night per site unless you are a Wisconsin non-profit youth group and then the fee is $10.00 per night per site. Your stay is limited to ten days. You do not need to check in anywhere but a card with your party’s name will be attached to the site post and will indicate your departure date. Reservations can be made any time of year by going to the DNR website (www.dnr.state.wi.us) and clicking on the Reserve a Campsite link. You may also call RESERVE AMERICA at 888-947-2757.

Additional camping opportunities are provided at Lake of the Falls County Park located off of County Highway ‘FF’ where the Turtle River enters the flowage. Some resorts also provide camping with rustic to “full hook-up” facilities.

Fires and FirewoodFirewood can harbor pests such as gypsy moths, emerald ash borer, and oak wilt that threaten the lo-cal forest. New regulations regarding the transport of firewood are aimed at stopping the threat. It is il-legal to bring firewood to this or any other state property from more than 10 miles away. It is also illegal to bring firewood from out of state.

You can gather wood that is “dead and down” for your fire, however, available dead and down wood is becoming scarce. Please purchase locally harvest-ed firewood to bring to your campsite. Several local businesses sell bundled campfire wood.

As added insurance against introducing forest pests, please burn all your firewood; do not leave it for the next camper and do not transport it to other properties.

You MAY NOT cut standing trees whether they are alive or dead. Standing dead “snag” trees provide valuable wildlife habitat. You MAY NOT use a chain saw on the Turtle-Flambeau to cut firewood.

Prevent forest fires by confining your campfire to the steel fire ring provided at each campsite. Make sure your fire is dead out before you leave by pour-ing water on it and stirring with a stick.

Garbage and WasteGarbage service is not provided at the campsites. All refuse must be carried out with you. Do not leave items “for the next campers”. These things are generally not appreciated and tend to detract from the rustic setting. Bear visits are increasing. Be bear aware – do not leave food (including pet food) lying around. Do not put unused food in the fire to burn it. Hang all food and garbage at least 10 feet off the ground and 5 feet from the tree trunk. Please do not feed the bears. A fed bear is a dead bear!

Dry paper can be burned but please do not put plastic, cans, glass or other waste in the fire ring.

DriftwoodDriftwood provides valuable fish and wildlife habitat and adds to the unique character of the flowage; it is rapidly disappearing through natu-ral processes and from illegal harvest. Removal of driftwood from the property is prohibited by law. We also ask that you not burn driftwood. Driftwood is usually water logged and does not burn well even if it appears dry on the outside.

Quiet AreaA voluntary quiet area is in place on approxi-mately the eastern 1/5 of the flowage. The quiet area boundaries run from the narrows near Blair Lake upstream to the property boundary near the confluence of the Bear and Manitowish Riv-ers.

Many anglers, canoers, and campers come to the flowage seeking its solitude. The Quiet Area designation helps promote that atmosphere of solitude for those seeking a more “wilderness” type experience.

When camping in the quiet area, please be espe-cially conscious of keeping noise to a minimum. If you plan to use radios or other noise devises, please consider camping in another area.

We also ask that you observe slow, no wake boating. Anglers and canoe-ists appreciate the courtesy of boaters making no wake.

The quiet area offers a refuge for those seeking a peaceful experience away from the hustle-bus-tle of everyday life.

Canoe RouteFor canoeists looking for an extended trip, a route is identified on the map. Portages are also identified on the map for those who want to explore other areas of the flowage. Your trip could begin on the Manitowish River where it crosses Highway 51 or on the Bear River where it crosses Highway 182. Both places have parking. Continue beyond the dam down the Flambeau River to Holt’s Landing in Agenda Township, Ash-land County or Hine’s Park in Park Falls. Camping is available along the Manitowish River but not below the dam on the Flambeau River.

BoatingSix boat access sites on the Turtle-Flambeau Sce-

nic Waters Area provide public access to the flowage. Springstead Landing, the largest,

offers the most amenities including a triple wide concrete launch ramp and paved

parking for 75 vehicles. Fisherman’s Landing, Sportsman’s Landing, and

Trude Lake Landing also have concrete launch ramps with moderately sized gravel

parking areas. Murray’s Landing is a shallow water gravel access and is recommended for smaller boats and canoes only. Sturgeon Bay Landing has a gravel launch area with very limited parking and turn-around space. The County Park on the north end of the Flowage also has a boat launch.

The Turtle-Flambeau Flowage has an abundance of stumps, logs, floating “driftwood” and rock bars that make good fish and wildlife habitat but could dam-age boats. The map should not be used for naviga-tion; conditions are always changing, particularly when water levels fluctuate. Boaters should always exercise caution. Water skiing and personal water-craft are not advised.

Visitors to the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage come to enjoy the peace, quiet and wild natural surround-ings. Please respect the rights of others, heed boating regulations, watch your wake, go slow, keep noise to a minimum and enjoy wildlife from a distance.

Snowmobiles and ATV’sA number of snowmobile trails cross the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area. Please refer to the Iron County snowmobile trail map before venturing onto the property to determine those areas which are legal for snowmobile use. There are no ATV trails within the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area; as such, ATV’s are not allowed on the property.

Snowmobiles and ATVs are allowed on the ice of the flowage; however, before venturing out onto the ice, be sure conditions are safe and you know where you are going. Some areas are hazardous throughout the winter because of currents under the ice. In addition, fluctuating water levels can cre-ate uneven ice conditions.

The WildlifeThe Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area encompasses a wide variety of wildlife habitats including large expanses of open water, hundreds of scattered is-lands and many quiet bays. Surrounding wood-lands vary from steeply rolling hills to level terrain with grassy openings, small wild lakes and ponds and expansive wetlands. The woodlands consist of aspen, northern hardwoods, white birch, pine and scattered old growth hemlock pockets.

The flowage, known for its high density of bald eagles, osprey and common loons, also hosts black terns, merlins, trumpeter swans and over 150 other bird species. In addition, a variety of reptiles, amphibians and mammals including deer, bear, bobcat and timber wolves also reside here. Even the occasional moose hangs out here in the fall.

Many opportunities exist to observe and enjoy wildlife in a remote and wild setting. Approach wildlife slowly and quietly. Be particularly careful not to disturb nesting birds or animals with small young.

The property includes two special wildlife manage-ment units. The Deadhorse Ruffed Grouse Manage-ment Demonstration Area showcases management techniques and principles which best promote grouse habitat. The Little Turtle Waterfowl Manage-ment Area includes the Little Turtle Flowage which emphasizes maintaining breeding and nesting habitat for waterfowl.

Three separate publications are available that pro-vide additional wildlife related information. Birds of the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area includes a bird list; the Turtle-Flambeau Auto Tour booklet provides interpretive information on habitats and management techniques while following a self-guided tour; and Hunting Opportunities in the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area includes maps of four designated hunter-walking trails on the property.

The FisheryThe flowage provides the best of north woods fishing experiences. It supports a diversity of native cool and warm water fish species including wall-eye, muskellunge, northern pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass, lake sturgeon and various panfish species.

The flowage is best known for its superb walleye fishery. Walleye are by far the most abundant game-fish and provide the majority of sport fish harvest. Natural reproduction and abundance of catchable size walleye are outstanding.

Black crappies provide some exceptional panfish-ing during the early summer months and through the ice. Like all crappie populations, they are cyclic. When numbers are up, fishing is tremendous.

Muskies provide outstanding trophy angling. In the past, muskies in excess of 50 pounds have been caught. Periodic stocking events are used to supple-ment the limited natural reproduction.

Smallmouth bass provide quality fishing when ac-tion is slow for other species. “Smallies” in the flow-age are exceptionally heavy fish for their length.

Lake sturgeon, a large and pre-historic looking fish, occupies the flowage in small numbers. Within flow-age waters lake sturgeon are protected. At certain times in the summer, they can be seen surfacing like a dolphin.

The unique character and outstanding fishery war-rant using special size and bag limits to protect and enhance certain fish species. This helps as-sure its continued status as one of the best fisheries in the state. Consult the Wisconsin fishing regulation pamphlet for com-plete regulations and watch for special regulations posted at the landings.

Forest ManagementManagement of the forests in the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area primarily protects the scenic qualities, fish and wildlife of the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage. A 300-foot aesthetic zone around the entire shoreline of the flowage prohibits any timber harvesting, including salvage harvests from tor-nadoes, burns or insects. A number of other areas have been designated for limited or special man-agement to protect unique natural communities. To further protect scenic qualities, lands more than 300 feet from the water but still visible from the water will be harvested on a selection basis only, allowing appropriate timber management but re-maining sensitive to the scenic goals of the project.

Timber harvests in certain areas of the property not visible from the flowage can include more inten-sive forest management to increase the diversity of wildlife habitats while providing additional forest products. Aspen is the most important timber type for benefitting grouse, deer, bear, wolves, beaver and many species of songbirds. Maintaining and re-generating aspen requires clearcutting (technically regeneration harvesting) because aspen is a sun loving tree and does not grow under shade. Also, young aspen shoots come from the parent root system following disturbance to the parent tree such as a tornado in nature or a harvest by man. Re-generation harvests on the property occur in areas not visible from the water and are carefully laid out to protect water quality, aesthetics, and important ecological features.

JG 02-18

Nature PreservedSlip your boat into the water, go far enough to lose sight of the landing and look around. You are treated to a view of nature and wild beauty in all its splendor. Tall stands of pine and birch crowd the shoreline, a pair of loons dive in a quiet bay and high overhead a bald eagle circles.

This view will remain. The rugged Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, under the ownership of the State of Wisconsin, will not become fragmented with development along its shores. The scenic beauty and wild char-acter forever preserved for future genera-tions to enjoy.

Turtle-FlambeauScenic Waters Area

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources PUB-PR-350 2018

InformationFor additional information about the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area, contact the DNR Ranger Station, 5291 N. Statehouse Circle, Mercer, Wisconsin 54547 (715) 476-7846.

In case of EMERGENCY

Call the Iron County Sheriff’s Department at

(800) 243-2131 or dial 911.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WARNINGS

For updated weather information tune to local radio stations WCQM 98.3 FM or WMQA 96 FM or weather band radio. Staff is not on duty 24 hours a day and staff that is on duty will not be able to contact all visitors. Pay attention to the weather. In case of severe storms, use picnic tables or the toilet buildings as shelter.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources provides equal opportunity in its employ-ment, programs, services, and functions under an Affirmative Action Plan. If you have any questions, please write to Equal Opportunity Office, Department of Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240.

This publication can be made available in alternative formats (large print, Braille, audio tape, etc) upon request. Please call (608) 266-2135 for more information.

Photo: Zach Wilson

Protecting Your Flowage—Invasive SpeciesExotic species, both aquatic and terrestrial, are one of the biggest threats to our natural environment. You can help prevent introduction of invasives to the flowage.

Prevent introducing aquatic invasives by clean-ing your boat, boat trailer and live-well before you arrive. Discard unused live bait including worms, minnows or crayfish into the dumpster, not the environment.

Terrestrial invasives such as garlic mustard and buckthorn establish themselves through seeds transported by campers. To help prevent the spread of these aggressive invasives, please clean your shoes and boots prior to visiting the area.

Camping Rules at a Glance gBuy firewood locally. Firewood coming from

more than 10 miles away is prohibited.

gPreserve the solitude of the flowage by keep-ing noise to a minimum.

gIt is unlawful to discharge a firearm within 100 yards of a campsite.

gAll sites, except designated group sites, are limited to six people or one family consisting of parents, all of their dependent children (< 18 years) and up to two guests.

gAll sites have a 10-day camping limit.

gSites cannot be “saved”. Each site must be oc-cupied the first night but may be left unoccu-pied one other night during the 10-day limit.

gCamping is allowed on designated sites only.

gSet your tent on the leveled tent pad or in an opening away from trees. Too much traffic on tree roots near the ground surface will even-tually kill the tree.

gHang your lantern away from tree trunks; heat damages the tree’s bark.

gDriftwood may not be burned or removed.

gGenerator and chainsaw use is prohibited.

gDo not damage trees (no nails, peeling bark, pruning limbs, etc.) or cut standing trees or shrubs even if they are dead.

gDispose of unused bait in the trash, not on the ground or in the water.

gPlease recycle. Bins are located many of the boat landings.

gTake all garbage with you and deposit in dumpsters located at landings.

g“Home” generated garbage is prohibited.

gDo not dispose of garbage or diapers in toilet vaults.

gPut out all fires and keep them restricted to fire rings. Do not burn plastic, metal glass or food.

History of Good StewardshipIn 1926 the Chippewa and Flambeau Improve-ment Company built a dam on the Flambeau River downstream from its confluence with the Turtle River creating the Turtle-Flambeau Flow-age. The dam flooded sixteen natural lakes and impounds approximately 14,000 acres. The Flow-age serves as a reservoir to augment river flows for hydro-electric plants operated by down-stream electric utilities and paper mills. The dam also provides flood protection and has created a unique recreational resource.

The State acquired the Flowage in 1990. State ownership now comprises over 35,500 acres including 114 miles of mainland shoreline and 195 islands.

The Department of Natural Resources manages the Flowage. With direction from a citizen advi-sory committee, a Master Plan was developed for management of the property. The Plan’s goal implements management practices that per-petuate the natural character of the Flowage’s shoreline. Top priorities include preserving its scenic qualities and protecting its plant and ani-mal communities. The Department also strives to preserve the quality and wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities including fishing, hunting, camping, nature observation, trapping, boating and canoeing.

Securing the FutureIn 2006, an anonymous donor created a per-manent endowed fund to provide a perpetual source of support for the purpose of preserving, protecting and enhancing the lands and waters of the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area. The Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin, a statewide nonprofit organization that creates

opportunities for individuals and organizations to support Wisconsin’s natural resources, manages the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area Fund. More information on the Natural Resources Foundation and the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area Fund can be found at www.wisconservation.org or by con-tacting the Natural Resources Foundation at P.O. Box 2317, Madison, WI 53701. Phone: (866) 264-4096.

CampingThe Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area offers 66 remote campsites accessible by water only. Sixty of these sites are available year-round on a first-come/first-served basis with no registration or fee. Six group sites are available by reservation only. There is no camper registration so you should leave your planned itinerary with friends or family so that you can be located in case of an emergency.

For the safety of all visitors please remember that it is illegal to discharge a firearm within 100 yards of any campsite.

Camping is allowed in designated campsites only. You MAY NOT establish new campsites or camp at undesignated sites. There is a ten- day limit on camping at all campsites on the property. In addi-tion, when you set up camp you must occupy the site the first night and you may not leave it unoc-cupied for more than one night thereafter (you may not leave unattended camping equipment to “save” a site). Your dog is welcome to join you but please respect other campers and clean up after your pet. The map on the reverse side of this page shows the location of all designated campsites. All designated sites have a steel fire ring and an open-air pit toilet and are identified with a site number. To preserve the quiet natural setting and in respect for fellow campers, generators are not allowed. If a generator is required for medical reasons, please contact the property manager prior to your visit.

Family CampsitesFifty-eight sites scattered throughout the prop-erty are designated family campsites. These sites are limited to a group of not more than six people. A family consisting of two parents and their dependent children (less than 18 years old), and up to two guests (any age) are allowed even if it exceeds six individuals. Sixteen of the family campsites include a picnic table as well as a fire ring and open-air pit toilet. These sites are designated with a letter “F” as the prefix to the site number.

Forty of the family sites are more rustic and do not include a picnic table. The site numbers for the rustic sites have a letter “R” prefix.

Site “A1” of the family sites includes facilities which make it more accessible to persons with physical disabilities. This site may be reserved by persons with disabilities by contacting the Mer-cer DNR Ranger Station at 715-476-7846. Please give staff ten days’ notice to process your re-quest. If not being occupied by a camper with a reservation, this site is also open on a first-come/ first-served basis.

Group CampsitesThere are eight group campsites total. Two of these sites (G1 and G2) are first-come/first -served and free. They include two fire rings, two pit toilets and a picnic table. These sites are for use by groups larger than what is allowed in the family sites and are designed to accommodate groups of between seven and fifteen people.

Six other group sites (B3 through B8) are available by reservation from April 15 – October 30. These six sites are divided into two groups of three sites clus-tered together sharing one toilet building. Each site allows wheelchair access and accommodates seven to fifteen persons. A picnic table, benches and a fire-ring also occupy each site. These are primitive sites with no running water or garbage disposal available.

There is a fee associated with these six sites: $40.00 per night per site unless you are a Wisconsin non-profit youth group and then the fee is $10.00 per night per site. Your stay is limited to ten days. You do not need to check in anywhere but a card with your party’s name will be attached to the site post and will indicate your departure date. Reservations can be made any time of year by going to the DNR website (www.dnr.state.wi.us) and clicking on the Reserve a Campsite link. You may also call RESERVE AMERICA at 888-947-2757.

Additional camping opportunities are provided at Lake of the Falls County Park located off of County Highway ‘FF’ where the Turtle River enters the flowage. Some resorts also provide camping with rustic to “full hook-up” facilities.

Fires and FirewoodFirewood can harbor pests such as gypsy moths, emerald ash borer, and oak wilt that threaten the lo-cal forest. New regulations regarding the transport of firewood are aimed at stopping the threat. It is il-legal to bring firewood to this or any other state property from more than 10 miles away. It is also illegal to bring firewood from out of state.

You can gather wood that is “dead and down” for your fire, however, available dead and down wood is becoming scarce. Please purchase locally harvest-ed firewood to bring to your campsite. Several local businesses sell bundled campfire wood.

As added insurance against introducing forest pests, please burn all your firewood; do not leave it for the next camper and do not transport it to other properties.

You MAY NOT cut standing trees whether they are alive or dead. Standing dead “snag” trees provide valuable wildlife habitat. You MAY NOT use a chain saw on the Turtle-Flambeau to cut firewood.

Prevent forest fires by confining your campfire to the steel fire ring provided at each campsite. Make sure your fire is dead out before you leave by pour-ing water on it and stirring with a stick.

Garbage and WasteGarbage service is not provided at the campsites. All refuse must be carried out with you. Do not leave items “for the next campers”. These things are generally not appreciated and tend to detract from the rustic setting. Bear visits are increasing. Be bear aware – do not leave food (including pet food) lying around. Do not put unused food in the fire to burn it. Hang all food and garbage at least 10 feet off the ground and 5 feet from the tree trunk. Please do not feed the bears. A fed bear is a dead bear!

Dry paper can be burned but please do not put plastic, cans, glass or other waste in the fire ring.

DriftwoodDriftwood provides valuable fish and wildlife habitat and adds to the unique character of the flowage; it is rapidly disappearing through natu-ral processes and from illegal harvest. Removal of driftwood from the property is prohibited by law. We also ask that you not burn driftwood. Driftwood is usually water logged and does not burn well even if it appears dry on the outside.

Quiet AreaA voluntary quiet area is in place on approxi-mately the eastern 1/5 of the flowage. The quiet area boundaries run from the narrows near Blair Lake upstream to the property boundary near the confluence of the Bear and Manitowish Riv-ers.

Many anglers, canoers, and campers come to the flowage seeking its solitude. The Quiet Area designation helps promote that atmosphere of solitude for those seeking a more “wilderness” type experience.

When camping in the quiet area, please be espe-cially conscious of keeping noise to a minimum. If you plan to use radios or other noise devises, please consider camping in another area.

We also ask that you observe slow, no wake boating. Anglers and canoe-ists appreciate the courtesy of boaters making no wake.

The quiet area offers a refuge for those seeking a peaceful experience away from the hustle-bus-tle of everyday life.

Canoe RouteFor canoeists looking for an extended trip, a route is identified on the map. Portages are also identified on the map for those who want to explore other areas of the flowage. Your trip could begin on the Manitowish River where it crosses Highway 51 or on the Bear River where it crosses Highway 182. Both places have parking. Continue beyond the dam down the Flambeau River to Holt’s Landing in Agenda Township, Ash-land County or Hine’s Park in Park Falls. Camping is available along the Manitowish River but not below the dam on the Flambeau River.

BoatingSix boat access sites on the Turtle-Flambeau Sce-

nic Waters Area provide public access to the flowage. Springstead Landing, the largest,

offers the most amenities including a triple wide concrete launch ramp and paved

parking for 75 vehicles. Fisherman’s Landing, Sportsman’s Landing, and

Trude Lake Landing also have concrete launch ramps with moderately sized gravel

parking areas. Murray’s Landing is a shallow water gravel access and is recommended for smaller boats and canoes only. Sturgeon Bay Landing has a gravel launch area with very limited parking and turn-around space. The County Park on the north end of the Flowage also has a boat launch.

The Turtle-Flambeau Flowage has an abundance of stumps, logs, floating “driftwood” and rock bars that make good fish and wildlife habitat but could dam-age boats. The map should not be used for naviga-tion; conditions are always changing, particularly when water levels fluctuate. Boaters should always exercise caution. Water skiing and personal water-craft are not advised.

Visitors to the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage come to enjoy the peace, quiet and wild natural surround-ings. Please respect the rights of others, heed boating regulations, watch your wake, go slow, keep noise to a minimum and enjoy wildlife from a distance.

Snowmobiles and ATV’sA number of snowmobile trails cross the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area. Please refer to the Iron County snowmobile trail map before venturing onto the property to determine those areas which are legal for snowmobile use. There are no ATV trails within the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area; as such, ATV’s are not allowed on the property.

Snowmobiles and ATVs are allowed on the ice of the flowage; however, before venturing out onto the ice, be sure conditions are safe and you know where you are going. Some areas are hazardous throughout the winter because of currents under the ice. In addition, fluctuating water levels can cre-ate uneven ice conditions.

The WildlifeThe Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area encompasses a wide variety of wildlife habitats including large expanses of open water, hundreds of scattered is-lands and many quiet bays. Surrounding wood-lands vary from steeply rolling hills to level terrain with grassy openings, small wild lakes and ponds and expansive wetlands. The woodlands consist of aspen, northern hardwoods, white birch, pine and scattered old growth hemlock pockets.

The flowage, known for its high density of bald eagles, osprey and common loons, also hosts black terns, merlins, trumpeter swans and over 150 other bird species. In addition, a variety of reptiles, amphibians and mammals including deer, bear, bobcat and timber wolves also reside here. Even the occasional moose hangs out here in the fall.

Many opportunities exist to observe and enjoy wildlife in a remote and wild setting. Approach wildlife slowly and quietly. Be particularly careful not to disturb nesting birds or animals with small young.

The property includes two special wildlife manage-ment units. The Deadhorse Ruffed Grouse Manage-ment Demonstration Area showcases management techniques and principles which best promote grouse habitat. The Little Turtle Waterfowl Manage-ment Area includes the Little Turtle Flowage which emphasizes maintaining breeding and nesting habitat for waterfowl.

Three separate publications are available that pro-vide additional wildlife related information. Birds of the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area includes a bird list; the Turtle-Flambeau Auto Tour booklet provides interpretive information on habitats and management techniques while following a self-guided tour; and Hunting Opportunities in the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area includes maps of four designated hunter-walking trails on the property.

The FisheryThe flowage provides the best of north woods fishing experiences. It supports a diversity of native cool and warm water fish species including wall-eye, muskellunge, northern pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass, lake sturgeon and various panfish species.

The flowage is best known for its superb walleye fishery. Walleye are by far the most abundant game-fish and provide the majority of sport fish harvest. Natural reproduction and abundance of catchable size walleye are outstanding.

Black crappies provide some exceptional panfish-ing during the early summer months and through the ice. Like all crappie populations, they are cyclic. When numbers are up, fishing is tremendous.

Muskies provide outstanding trophy angling. In the past, muskies in excess of 50 pounds have been caught. Periodic stocking events are used to supple-ment the limited natural reproduction.

Smallmouth bass provide quality fishing when ac-tion is slow for other species. “Smallies” in the flow-age are exceptionally heavy fish for their length.

Lake sturgeon, a large and pre-historic looking fish, occupies the flowage in small numbers. Within flow-age waters lake sturgeon are protected. At certain times in the summer, they can be seen surfacing like a dolphin.

The unique character and outstanding fishery war-rant using special size and bag limits to protect and enhance certain fish species. This helps as-sure its continued status as one of the best fisheries in the state. Consult the Wisconsin fishing regulation pamphlet for com-plete regulations and watch for special regulations posted at the landings.

Forest ManagementManagement of the forests in the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area primarily protects the scenic qualities, fish and wildlife of the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage. A 300-foot aesthetic zone around the entire shoreline of the flowage prohibits any timber harvesting, including salvage harvests from tor-nadoes, burns or insects. A number of other areas have been designated for limited or special man-agement to protect unique natural communities. To further protect scenic qualities, lands more than 300 feet from the water but still visible from the water will be harvested on a selection basis only, allowing appropriate timber management but re-maining sensitive to the scenic goals of the project.

Timber harvests in certain areas of the property not visible from the flowage can include more inten-sive forest management to increase the diversity of wildlife habitats while providing additional forest products. Aspen is the most important timber type for benefitting grouse, deer, bear, wolves, beaver and many species of songbirds. Maintaining and re-generating aspen requires clearcutting (technically regeneration harvesting) because aspen is a sun loving tree and does not grow under shade. Also, young aspen shoots come from the parent root system following disturbance to the parent tree such as a tornado in nature or a harvest by man. Re-generation harvests on the property occur in areas not visible from the water and are carefully laid out to protect water quality, aesthetics, and important ecological features.

JG 02-18

Nature PreservedSlip your boat into the water, go far enough to lose sight of the landing and look around. You are treated to a view of nature and wild beauty in all its splendor. Tall stands of pine and birch crowd the shoreline, a pair of loons dive in a quiet bay and high overhead a bald eagle circles.

This view will remain. The rugged Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, under the ownership of the State of Wisconsin, will not become fragmented with development along its shores. The scenic beauty and wild char-acter forever preserved for future genera-tions to enjoy.

Turtle-FlambeauScenic Waters Area

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources PUB-PR-350 2018

InformationFor additional information about the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area, contact the DNR Ranger Station, 5291 N. Statehouse Circle, Mercer, Wisconsin 54547 (715) 476-7846.

In case of EMERGENCY

Call the Iron County Sheriff’s Department at

(800) 243-2131 or dial 911.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WARNINGS

For updated weather information tune to local radio stations WCQM 98.3 FM or WMQA 96 FM or weather band radio. Staff is not on duty 24 hours a day and staff that is on duty will not be able to contact all visitors. Pay attention to the weather. In case of severe storms, use picnic tables or the toilet buildings as shelter.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources provides equal opportunity in its employ-ment, programs, services, and functions under an Affirmative Action Plan. If you have any questions, please write to Equal Opportunity Office, Department of Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240.

This publication can be made available in alternative formats (large print, Braille, audio tape, etc) upon request. Please call (608) 266-2135 for more information.

Phot

o: Z

ach

Wils

on

Protecting Your Flowage—Invasive SpeciesExotic species, both aquatic and terrestrial, are one of the biggest threats to our natural environment. You can help prevent introduction of invasives to the flowage.

Prevent introducing aquatic invasives by clean-ing your boat, boat trailer and live-well before you arrive. Discard unused live bait including worms, minnows or crayfish into the dumpster, not the environment.

Terrestrial invasives such as garlic mustard and buckthorn establish themselves through seeds transported by campers. To help prevent the spread of these aggressive invasives, please clean your shoes and boots prior to visiting the area.

Camping Rules at a Glance g Buy firewood locally. Firewood coming from

more than 10 miles away is prohibited.

g Preserve the solitude of the flowage by keep-ing noise to a minimum.

g It is unlawful to discharge a firearm within 100 yards of a campsite.

g All sites, except designated group sites, are limited to six people or one family consisting of parents, all of their dependent children (< 18 years) and up to two guests.

g All sites have a 10-day camping limit.

g Sites cannot be “saved”. Each site must be oc-cupied the first night but may be left unoccu-pied one other night during the 10-day limit.

g Camping is allowed on designated sites only.

g Set your tent on the leveled tent pad or in an opening away from trees. Too much traffic on tree roots near the ground surface will even-tually kill the tree.

g Hang your lantern away from tree trunks; heat damages the tree’s bark.

g Driftwood may not be burned or removed.

g Generator and chainsaw use is prohibited.

g Do not damage trees (no nails, peeling bark, pruning limbs, etc.) or cut standing trees or shrubs even if they are dead.

g Dispose of unused bait in the trash, not on the ground or in the water.

g Please recycle. Bins are located many of the boat landings.

g Take all garbage with you and deposit in dumpsters located at landings.

g “Home” generated garbage is prohibited.

g Do not dispose of garbage or diapers in toilet vaults.

g Put out all fires and keep them restricted to fire rings. Do not burn plastic, metal glass or food.

History of Good StewardshipIn 1926 the Chippewa and Flambeau Improve-ment Company built a dam on the Flambeau River downstream from its confluence with the Turtle River creating the Turtle-Flambeau Flow-age. The dam flooded sixteen natural lakes and impounds approximately 14,000 acres. The Flow-age serves as a reservoir to augment river flows for hydro-electric plants operated by down-stream electric utilities and paper mills. The dam also provides flood protection and has created a unique recreational resource.

The State acquired the Flowage in 1990. State ownership now comprises over 35,500 acres including 114 miles of mainland shoreline and 195 islands.

The Department of Natural Resources manages the Flowage. With direction from a citizen advi-sory committee, a Master Plan was developed for management of the property. The Plan’s goal implements management practices that per-petuate the natural character of the Flowage’s shoreline. Top priorities include preserving its scenic qualities and protecting its plant and ani-mal communities. The Department also strives to preserve the quality and wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities including fishing, hunting, camping, nature observation, trapping, boating and canoeing.

Securing the FutureIn 2006, an anonymous donor created a per-manent endowed fund to provide a perpetual source of support for the purpose of preserving, protecting and enhancing the lands and waters of the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area. The Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin, a statewide nonprofit organization that creates

opportunities for individuals and organizations to support Wisconsin’s natural resources, manages the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area Fund. More information on the Natural Resources Foundation and the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area Fund can be found at www.wisconservation.org or by con-tacting the Natural Resources Foundation at P.O. Box 2317, Madison, WI 53701. Phone: (866) 264-4096.

CampingThe Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area offers 66 remote campsites accessible by water only. Sixty of these sites are available year-round on a first-come/first-served basis with no registration or fee. Six group sites are available by reservation only. There is no camper registration so you should leave your planned itinerary with friends or family so that you can be located in case of an emergency.

For the safety of all visitors please remember that it is illegal to discharge a firearm within 100 yards of any campsite.

Camping is allowed in designated campsites only. You MAY NOT establish new campsites or camp at undesignated sites. There is a ten- day limit on camping at all campsites on the property. In addi-tion, when you set up camp you must occupy the site the first night and you may not leave it unoc-cupied for more than one night thereafter (you may not leave unattended camping equipment to “save” a site). Your dog is welcome to join you but please respect other campers and clean up after your pet. The map on the reverse side of this page shows the location of all designated campsites. All designated sites have a steel fire ring and an open-air pit toilet and are identified with a site number. To preserve the quiet natural setting and in respect for fellow campers, generators are not allowed. If a generator is required for medical reasons, please contact the property manager prior to your visit.

Family CampsitesFifty-eight sites scattered throughout the prop-erty are designated family campsites. These sites are limited to a group of not more than six people. A family consisting of two parents and their dependent children (less than 18 years old), and up to two guests (any age) are allowed even if it exceeds six individuals. Sixteen of the family campsites include a picnic table as well as a fire ring and open-air pit toilet. These sites are designated with a letter “F” as the prefix to the site number.

Forty of the family sites are more rustic and do not include a picnic table. The site numbers for the rustic sites have a letter “R” prefix.

Site “A1” of the family sites includes facilities which make it more accessible to persons with physical disabilities. This site may be reserved by persons with disabilities by contacting the Mer-cer DNR Ranger Station at 715-476-7846. Please give staff ten days’ notice to process your re-quest. If not being occupied by a camper with a reservation, this site is also open on a first-come/ first-served basis.

Group CampsitesThere are eight group campsites total. Two of these sites (G1 and G2) are first-come/first -served and free. They include two fire rings, two pit toilets and a picnic table. These sites are for use by groups larger than what is allowed in the family sites and are designed to accommodate groups of between seven and fifteen people.

Six other group sites (B3 through B8) are available by reservation from April 15 – October 30. These six sites are divided into two groups of three sites clus-tered together sharing one toilet building. Each site allows wheelchair access and accommodates seven to fifteen persons. A picnic table, benches and a fire-ring also occupy each site. These are primitive sites with no running water or garbage disposal available.

There is a fee associated with these six sites: $40.00 per night per site unless you are a Wisconsin non-profit youth group and then the fee is $10.00 per night per site. Your stay is limited to ten days. You do not need to check in anywhere but a card with your party’s name will be attached to the site post and will indicate your departure date. Reservations can be made any time of year by going to the DNR website (www.dnr.state.wi.us) and clicking on the Reserve a Campsite link. You may also call RESERVE AMERICA at 888-947-2757.

Additional camping opportunities are provided at Lake of the Falls County Park located off of County Highway ‘FF’ where the Turtle River enters the flowage. Some resorts also provide camping with rustic to “full hook-up” facilities.

Fires and FirewoodFirewood can harbor pests such as gypsy moths, emerald ash borer, and oak wilt that threaten the lo-cal forest. New regulations regarding the transport of firewood are aimed at stopping the threat. It is il-legal to bring firewood to this or any other state property from more than 10 miles away. It is also illegal to bring firewood from out of state.

You can gather wood that is “dead and down” for your fire, however, available dead and down wood is becoming scarce. Please purchase locally harvest-ed firewood to bring to your campsite. Several local businesses sell bundled campfire wood.

As added insurance against introducing forest pests, please burn all your firewood; do not leave it for the next camper and do not transport it to other properties.

You MAY NOT cut standing trees whether they are alive or dead. Standing dead “snag” trees provide valuable wildlife habitat. You MAY NOT use a chain saw on the Turtle-Flambeau to cut firewood.

Prevent forest fires by confining your campfire to the steel fire ring provided at each campsite. Make sure your fire is dead out before you leave by pour-ing water on it and stirring with a stick.

Garbage and WasteGarbage service is not provided at the campsites. All refuse must be carried out with you. Do not leave items “for the next campers”. These things are generally not appreciated and tend to detract from the rustic setting. Bear visits are increasing. Be bear aware – do not leave food (including pet food) lying around. Do not put unused food in the fire to burn it. Hang all food and garbage at least 10 feet off the ground and 5 feet from the tree trunk. Please do not feed the bears. A fed bear is a dead bear!

Dry paper can be burned but please do not put plastic, cans, glass or other waste in the fire ring.

DriftwoodDriftwood provides valuable fish and wildlife habitat and adds to the unique character of the flowage; it is rapidly disappearing through natu-ral processes and from illegal harvest. Removal of driftwood from the property is prohibited by law. We also ask that you not burn driftwood. Driftwood is usually water logged and does not burn well even if it appears dry on the outside.

Quiet AreaA voluntary quiet area is in place on approxi-mately the eastern 1/5 of the flowage. The quiet area boundaries run from the narrows near Blair Lake upstream to the property boundary near the confluence of the Bear and Manitowish Riv-ers.

Many anglers, canoers, and campers come to the flowage seeking its solitude. The Quiet Area designation helps promote that atmosphere of solitude for those seeking a more “wilderness” type experience.

When camping in the quiet area, please be espe-cially conscious of keeping noise to a minimum. If you plan to use radios or other noise devises, please consider camping in another area.

We also ask that you observe slow, no wake boating. Anglers and canoe-ists appreciate the courtesy of boaters making no wake.

The quiet area offers a refuge for those seeking a peaceful experience away from the hustle-bus-tle of everyday life.

Canoe RouteFor canoeists looking for an extended trip, a route is identified on the map. Portages are also identified on the map for those who want to explore other areas of the flowage. Your trip could begin on the Manitowish River where it crosses Highway 51 or on the Bear River where it crosses Highway 182. Both places have parking. Continue beyond the dam down the Flambeau River to Holt’s Landing in Agenda Township, Ash-land County or Hine’s Park in Park Falls. Camping is available along the Manitowish River but not below the dam on the Flambeau River.

BoatingSix boat access sites on the Turtle-Flambeau Sce-

nic Waters Area provide public access to the flowage. Springstead Landing, the largest,

offers the most amenities including a triple wide concrete launch ramp and paved

parking for 75 vehicles. Fisherman’s Landing, Sportsman’s Landing, and

Trude Lake Landing also have concrete launch ramps with moderately sized gravel

parking areas. Murray’s Landing is a shallow water gravel access and is recommended for smaller boats and canoes only. Sturgeon Bay Landing has a gravel launch area with very limited parking and turn-around space. The County Park on the north end of the Flowage also has a boat launch.

The Turtle-Flambeau Flowage has an abundance of stumps, logs, floating “driftwood” and rock bars that make good fish and wildlife habitat but could dam-age boats. The map should not be used for naviga-tion; conditions are always changing, particularly when water levels fluctuate. Boaters should always exercise caution. Water skiing and personal water-craft are not advised.

Visitors to the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage come to enjoy the peace, quiet and wild natural surround-ings. Please respect the rights of others, heed boating regulations, watch your wake, go slow, keep noise to a minimum and enjoy wildlife from a distance.

Snowmobiles and ATV’sA number of snowmobile trails cross the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area. Please refer to the Iron County snowmobile trail map before venturing onto the property to determine those areas which are legal for snowmobile use. There are no ATV trails within the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area; as such, ATV’s are not allowed on the property.

Snowmobiles and ATVs are allowed on the ice of the flowage; however, before venturing out onto the ice, be sure conditions are safe and you know where you are going. Some areas are hazardous throughout the winter because of currents under the ice. In addition, fluctuating water levels can cre-ate uneven ice conditions.

The WildlifeThe Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area encompasses a wide variety of wildlife habitats including large expanses of open water, hundreds of scattered is-lands and many quiet bays. Surrounding wood-lands vary from steeply rolling hills to level terrain with grassy openings, small wild lakes and ponds and expansive wetlands. The woodlands consist of aspen, northern hardwoods, white birch, pine and scattered old growth hemlock pockets.

The flowage, known for its high density of bald eagles, osprey and common loons, also hosts black terns, merlins, trumpeter swans and over 150 other bird species. In addition, a variety of reptiles, amphibians and mammals including deer, bear, bobcat and timber wolves also reside here. Even the occasional moose hangs out here in the fall.

Many opportunities exist to observe and enjoy wildlife in a remote and wild setting. Approach wildlife slowly and quietly. Be particularly careful not to disturb nesting birds or animals with small young.

The property includes two special wildlife manage-ment units. The Deadhorse Ruffed Grouse Manage-ment Demonstration Area showcases management techniques and principles which best promote grouse habitat. The Little Turtle Waterfowl Manage-ment Area includes the Little Turtle Flowage which emphasizes maintaining breeding and nesting habitat for waterfowl.

Three separate publications are available that pro-vide additional wildlife related information. Birds of the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area includes a bird list; the Turtle-Flambeau Auto Tour booklet provides interpretive information on habitats and management techniques while following a self-guided tour; and Hunting Opportunities in the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area includes maps of four designated hunter-walking trails on the property.

The FisheryThe flowage provides the best of north woods fishing experiences. It supports a diversity of native cool and warm water fish species including wall-eye, muskellunge, northern pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass, lake sturgeon and various panfish species.

The flowage is best known for its superb walleye fishery. Walleye are by far the most abundant game-fish and provide the majority of sport fish harvest. Natural reproduction and abundance of catchable size walleye are outstanding.

Black crappies provide some exceptional panfish-ing during the early summer months and through the ice. Like all crappie populations, they are cyclic. When numbers are up, fishing is tremendous.

Muskies provide outstanding trophy angling. In the past, muskies in excess of 50 pounds have been caught. Periodic stocking events are used to supple-ment the limited natural reproduction.

Smallmouth bass provide quality fishing when ac-tion is slow for other species. “Smallies” in the flow-age are exceptionally heavy fish for their length.

Lake sturgeon, a large and pre-historic looking fish, occupies the flowage in small numbers. Within flow-age waters lake sturgeon are protected. At certain times in the summer, they can be seen surfacing like a dolphin.

The unique character and outstanding fishery war-rant using special size and bag limits to protect and enhance certain fish species. This helps as-sure its continued status as one of the best fisheries in the state. Consult the Wisconsin fishing regulation pamphlet for com-plete regulations and watch for special regulations posted at the landings.

Forest ManagementManagement of the forests in the Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area primarily protects the scenic qualities, fish and wildlife of the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage. A 300-foot aesthetic zone around the entire shoreline of the flowage prohibits any timber harvesting, including salvage harvests from tor-nadoes, burns or insects. A number of other areas have been designated for limited or special man-agement to protect unique natural communities. To further protect scenic qualities, lands more than 300 feet from the water but still visible from the water will be harvested on a selection basis only, allowing appropriate timber management but re-maining sensitive to the scenic goals of the project.

Timber harvests in certain areas of the property not visible from the flowage can include more inten-sive forest management to increase the diversity of wildlife habitats while providing additional forest products. Aspen is the most important timber type for benefitting grouse, deer, bear, wolves, beaver and many species of songbirds. Maintaining and re-generating aspen requires clearcutting (technically regeneration harvesting) because aspen is a sun loving tree and does not grow under shade. Also, young aspen shoots come from the parent root system following disturbance to the parent tree such as a tornado in nature or a harvest by man. Re-generation harvests on the property occur in areas not visible from the water and are carefully laid out to protect water quality, aesthetics, and important ecological features.

Sturgeon BayLanding

Sturgeon BayLanding

SpringsteadLanding

SpringsteadLanding

Fisherman’sLanding

Sportsman’sLanding

Robinson’sLanding

CanoePortage225 ft

MurraysLanding

Iron County BoatLanding andCampground

Wilson LakeLanding

Trude LakeLanding

CanoePortage1000 ft

CanoePortage1100 ft

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CrystalLake Mercer Lake

Little PikeLake

Little Turtle

Flowage

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DeerLake

Deadhorse Ruffed

Grouse Management

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NorthGrantLake

GrantLake

WilsonLake

Trude Lake

SandLake

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DeadhorseLake

KyleLake

PopkoLake

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Lake of theFallsFirst Black

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SecondBlack Lake

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AltmanLake

Fox Lake

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MinnowLake

MudLake

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ChamleyLake

Muskie Lake

Little Muskie Lake

McDermottLake

HayCreek

Flowage

HayLake

TurtleLake

TurtleLake

Baraboo Lake

Turtle DamTurtle Dam

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HorseshoeLake

HorseshoeLake

Mercer Lake

Fie

rick

R

d.

Cir. S.

Miles to Mercer

Minneapolis/St. Paul 230 mi.

Milwaukee -- 290 mi.

Chicago -- 370 mi

240 mi. -- Madison240 mi. -- Madison

Trails

Hunter Walking Trail (Closed to motor vehicles)

Hiking/Nature Trail

Canoe Route(Suggested)

Water Features

Original Lakes andChannels

Open Water

Voluntary Quiet Area

Public Land Management

DNR Managed Land

Turtle-Flambeau ScenicWaters Area Boundary

Firearm No-Discharge Area(100-yd campsite buffer, not drawn to scale)

Electric TransmissionPowerline

RoadsMajor Road

UnimprovedSecondary Road

ImprovedSecondary Road

0 0.5 1 1.5 MI

0 0.5 1 1.5 KM

Designated public use areas, in conformance with s. 23.155, Wis. Stats., are depicted on this property map.

Map Updated February 2018 acs

Property Facilities

Boat Access

Campsite

Restrooms

Drinking Water

Accessible Facility

Public Telephone

Trailhead & Parking

Cross Country Ski Trail

Turtle-FlambeauScenic Waters AreaWisconsin Department of Natural Resources

The data shown on this map have been obtained from various sources, and are of varying age,reliability and resolution. This map is not intended to be used for navigation, nor is this map anauthoritative source of information about legal land ownership or public access. Users of this mapshould confirm the ownership of land through other means in order to avoid trespassing. Nowarranty, expressed or implied, is made regarding accuracy, applicability for a particular use,completeness, or legality of the information depicted on this map.