Stewardship grant award protects Totogatic River frontage, recreation

State Rep. Nick Milroy, D-South Range, was excited by the decision by the Wisconsin Natural Resources Board to unanimously approve a stewardship award to the Conservation Fund, on behalf of the Washburn County Lakes and Rivers Association, to secure a 262-acre piece of land in the town of Chicog for public use and preservation.

By acquiring this land, 2.5 miles of Totogatic River frontage will be protected.

In 2009, the Totogatic River was designated one of four wild rivers in Wisconsin and also has been designated an outstanding water resource — the state’s highest water quality designation, this award will help preserve this resource.

“As the lead author of the bill to designate the Totogatic River a wild river, I am pleased to see that the Natural Resources Board has agreed with the DNR secretary that this purchase of land will benefit the people, ecology, and economy of Wisconsin,” Milroy said. “Now more than ever, visitors to Northwest Wisconsin are coming to enjoy our scenic beauty and wild natural places. By preserving this land, the Natural Resources Board has not only protected our legacy but has also opened up even further opportunities to develop ecological based tourism.”

This purchase will connect two parcels purchased by the DNR and the Conservation Fund in 2010. The acquired land will result in over 800 acres of land and 3.5 miles of wild river frontage which will be available for wildlife habitat management and recreational activities such as hunting, trapping, fishing, hiking and cross-country skiing.

“Over the last 20 years the parcellization and fragmentation of wildlife habitat has made it harder for residents and tourists of our region to enjoy the outdoors. Preserving the last of our wild places is vital if we want to provide future generations with the same opportunities for enjoyment and sense of place that make Northwestern Wisconsin a unique place to live.” added Milroy “This may be our only shot at protecting this important parcel for future generations and I am glad that the Natural Resources Board acted decisively to make it happen.”

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