Safety
- News
Historic Flooding Of Wisconsin River Threatens Portage Community; Critical Infrastructure At Risk
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced that local officials are responding to historic flooding along the Wisconsin River as water levels continue to rise, placing significant strain on levee systems and threatening to breach in the Portage area. There is concern regarding the integrity of the Caledonia Levee, south of Highway 33 near Blackhawk Park.
- News
Wisconsin River Rising In Columbia County; DNR Continues To Monitor
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced that as of 12:45 p.m. today, April 16, the Wisconsin River is at 19.85 feet, major flood stage and is continuing to rise. The National Weather Service predicts the river to crest at 21.0 feet tomorrow, April 17, at 7 a.m.
- News
DNR Warns That Heavy Rain And Flooding Can Contaminate Private Wells
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages private well owners to consider testing their drinking water after significant rainfall and flooding. Heavy rains, such as those that swept through much of Wisconsin the past week and may happen again in the coming days, can impact drinking water quality.
- News
Pine Island State Wildlife Area Closed Due To Flooding
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced that Pine Island State Wildlife Area is currently closed until further notice due to major flood levels on the Wisconsin River in the Portage area, to protect public health and safety. The property will be reopened when flood waters recede and it is safe to do so.
- News
DNR Monitoring Portage-Area Levees Due To Rising Flood Levels
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced that the Wisconsin River is expected to rise to major flood levels in the Portage area on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
- News
DNR Reminds Hunters And Recreators To Put Safety First As Spring Turkey Season Starts
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds hunters and outdoor enthusiasts to be aware and stay safe during the 2026 spring turkey season, April 15 – May 26.
- News
Be Bear Aware: Take Steps Now To Avoid Potential Conflicts With Black Bears This Spring
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages the public to be bear aware and take steps to prevent potential conflicts with black bears this spring. As the weather warms and people across the state begin spending more time outside, encounters with wildlife, including bears, increase.
- News
2026 Youth Turkey Hunt Kicks Off Spring Season
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds families, mentors and young hunters that there’s still time to plan and participate in the 2026 statewide youth turkey hunt April 11-12.
- News
DNR Seeking Safety Education Instructors
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR)'s Safety Education programs are seeking avid hunters, passionate recreationalists and outdoor enthusiasts to join their safety education volunteer corps.
- News
DNR Announces 2025 Recipients Of Annual Hunter Education Awards
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR)’s Hunter Education Program today announced the recipients of the 2025 Hunter Education Instructor of the Year, Archery Instructor of the Year and Hunter Education Group of the Year honors.