DNR Seeking Public Comment For The Central Lake Michigan Coastal Regional Master Plan

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking public comment on the future management of department properties in the Central Lake Michigan Coastal Region. 

A regional master plan, guided by Ch. NR 44 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code, establishes the levels and types of resource management and public use permitted on DNR-managed properties. Under the regional master planning process, DNR staff will develop a plan for department properties located within the region.

The Central Lake Michigan Coastal Region includes portions of the following 13 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Milwaukee, Oconto, Outagamie, Ozaukee, Shawano, Sheboygan, Waupaca and Winnebago. DNR properties in the region include fishery areas, natural areas, parks, wildlife areas and various other types of properties. This regional plan includes properties such as Collins Marsh Wildlife Area, Harrington Beach State Park, Kohler-Andrae State Park, Navarino Wildlife Area and Point Beach State Forest.

DNR-managed properties in this region will have new management plans developed as part of this planning process. Existing plans for properties in the region that are already compliant with Ch. NR 44 will be referenced during the planning process. The DNR will evaluate whether any updates need to be made to these existing plans and include any necessary updates as part of the overall regional plan.

Members of the public are invited to learn more about the Central Lake Michigan Coastal Region, engage in the DNR’s planning process and share their thoughts on the future use and management of DNR properties in the region by visiting the DNR’s Central Lake Michigan Coastal Regional Master Plan webpage or by attending a public open house meeting or office hours.

In addition to attending a public meeting or office hours, the public is encouraged to submit comments and questions through the DNR’s online input form, downloadable hard-copy input forms (region-wide and property-specific) or by U.S. mail, email or phone. Submit comments by Sept. 12, 2025, to:

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources 
C/O Natalie Avallone, DNR Property Planner
1027 West St. Paul Ave.
Milwaukee, WI 53233
Natalie.Avallone@wisconsin.gov or 920-492-8183

Event Details

What: In-Person Regional Master Plan Public Meeting – Green Bay
DNR staff will give a short presentation at 5:30 p.m.
When: Wednesday, Aug. 13 from 5 to 7 p.m.
Where: Department of Natural Resources – Green Bay Service Center
Lake Michigan Conference Room (first floor)
2984 Shawano Ave
Green Bay, WI 54313

Office Hours For Public Comment 

• Kohler-Andrae State Park – Park Office
  Tuesday, Aug. 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  1020 Beach Park Lane
  Sheboygan, WI 53081
   
• Navarino Wildlife Area – Navarino Nature Center
  Wednesday, Aug. 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  W5646 Lindsten Rd.
  Shiocton, WI 54170