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Totogatic Wildlife Area

Acquisition of Totogatic Wildlife Area began in 1941 and was completed in 1951. Today, the property covers 2,719 acres. This project was funded originally through the Pittman-Robertson Act as a waterfowl restoration area. A 600-foot dike and 70-foot dam were completed in 1953, flooding approximately 1,000 acres with about 400 acres of open water. Fifteen miles of roads were constructed on the property to improve access and provide fire breaks.

A 35-acre impoundment was created on the south edge of the property in 1956 to improve muskrat habitat, and nesting islands were created here for waterfowl. Boat landings were built at both ends of the flowage to provide public access. Active timber management provides a diverse forest with a focus on quality wildlife habitat. The flowage is now used more heavily for fishing than waterfowl hunting and is a popular place in spring and fall for viewing migrating waterfowl. Osprey nesting platforms have been placed on the property.

Management Objectives

Currently hunting, trapping, fishing, snowshoeing, bird watching and canoeing are the main recreational activities taking place on the property. Cross-country skiing takes place on the property, although there are no groomed trails. Snowmobiles and ATVs are allowed only on designated county routes.

Presently, the property is managed for wildlife recreational activities and to provide wildlife habitat. For more information on master planning for this and other wildlife areas around the state, visit the property planning page.

Recreation

The Totogatic Wildlife Area offers many recreational opportunities including:

  • Biking;
  • Birding;
  • Canoeing;
  • Cross-country skiing (no designated trail);
  • Fishing;
  • Hiking (no designated trail);
  • Hunting;
  • Snowmobiling trail;
  • Swimming;
  • Trapping;
  • Wild edibles/gathering; and
  • Wildlife viewing.

Maps

Download [PDF] a map of this property.

If you are interested in exploring this property further, you can access an interactive map.

Adopt a Fish or Wildlife Area

 

Find out more about how to adopt this wildlife area.