Doyle announces grant for Totogatic River projects

MINONG – Gov. Jim Doyle today announced more than $3.97 million in funding to protect some of Wisconsin’s unique natural areas for public use and help create the Totogatic Wild Rivers Project. The governor made the announcement as part his eighth annual Up North tour.

“These are incredible additions to public lands in Wisconsin that will now be preserved and enjoyed for generations to come,” Doyle said in a prepared statement. “Our natural resources are one of the main reasons why people want to live, vacation, and move here. They are why businesses want to locate here. The future of our state is closely linked to our natural resources, and I’m pleased that, today, that future is looking even brighter with the protection of these lands.”

A $3,971,600 stewardship grant will help create the Totogatic Wild Rivers Project. The project will protect more than 2,100 acres of forest and river frontage. The area serves as an important habitat for diverse wildlife including forest interior, bird species and plants communities.

In addition, the Totogatic Wild Rivers Project will open the former industrial forest for public outdoor recreation including hunting, fishing, trapping, hiking and cross-country skiing. Land for the project is in Washburn and Douglas counties.

Last year, Doyle signed a law designating nearly 70 miles of the river as the Totogatic Wild River, a bill written by Rep. Nick Milroy, D-Superior. The Wild River project aims to protect the river and its surrounding habitats, and preserve its natural beauty. The Totogatic is the state’s fifth Wild River.

Tags: daily updates, news, government, money, environment