Lands_Content Page_Washington Creek Wildlife Area

Washington Creek Wildlife Area

Washington Creek Wildlife Area is a 515-acre property, including approximately 230 acres of flowage and associated wetland, located in south-central Rusk County, approximately 9 miles south of Bruce. The wildlife area was established in 1955 primarily as a waterfowl production area. To provide habitat for waterfowl, the original Washington Creek flowage dam was constructed in 1957 and replaced in 2011. The flowage is actively managed to benefit waterfowl, shorebirds, amphibians, invertebrates, and many other species. A gravel boat launch on the east side of the wildlife area provides access to the Flambeau River.

Management Objectives

Established in 1955, the area was developed for and is managed as a waterfowl production area. 

Habitat consists of a shallow impoundment with an associated matrix of cattail, sedge and floating bog. Smartweed and beggar-ticks in the flowage provide an abundance of food for waterfowl. Wild rice establishment in the flowage may be considered in the future as an additional forage and cultural resource for wildlife and humans alike. Pin oak, uncommon in the area, exists adjacent to the flowage in the upland shrub cover type. Forested areas surrounding the flowage are comprised primarily of aspen, red oak and black spruce swampland. Two openings are maintained in the open upland and aspen stands to provide further diversity to the property. An osprey platform can be seen on the east side of the flowage. The nearby Flambeau River hosts muskellunge, panfish, smallmouth bass, walleye and sturgeon. The varied combination of cover types in proximity makes the property a notable wildlife viewing area.

Visit the property planning for more information on master planning for this and other wildlife areas around the state.

Recreation

The Washington Creek Wildlife Area offers many recreational opportunities:

  • Birding
  • Canoeing
  • Cross-country skiing (no designated trail)
  • Hiking (no designated trail)
  • Hunting (noted for waterfowl, ruffed grouse, turkey, deer, bear and small game)
  • Kayaking
  • Snowmobiling (marked trail)
  • Trapping
  • Wild edibles/gathering
  • Wildlife viewing

Amenities

  • Bathroom - none.
  • Parking lot - multiple parking areas are available.
  • Campground and size - none.
  • Trails, Types and Lengths - no designated trails.

Maps

Download 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.