Lands_Content Page_Peshtigo Brook Wildlife Area

Peshtigo Brook Wildlife Area

Peshtigo Brook Wildlife Area is a 2,373-acre property in Oconto County. Approximately two-thirds of the property is Peshtigo Brook Meadow and Woods State Natural Area. This area has extensive, unique native sedge meadows interspersed with dry oak, pine, and aspen forests. It provides excellent remote hunting, trapping, and wildlife-viewing recreation.

The property is north of Suring and south of Highway 64. Take Hawthorn Road from Pipeline Road to a parking area on the property's southwest corner. A single parking lot is provided. Remote country recreation skills are a must for the limited development of this property.

Management Objectives

State ownership of the property began in 1953, with the original management directed toward waterfowls and sharp-tailed grouses. With changes in hydrology and the succession of land cover, management has shifted to an emphasis on wildlife and the unique sedge meadow community. Timber sales in the area improve habitat for wildlife dependent on early successional forest types. Prescribed burns to control brush in the sedge meadows are conducted periodically. Oak Wilt containment measures have been utilized here. Timber stand improvement plans, and treatments for invasive species treatments are planned for the future.

The road system is maintained for management activities but is not currently open to vehicular traffic. Plans include improving access and parking through agreements with the Town and County.

This property is managed in collaboration with the Bureau of Natural Heritage Conservation.

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

Recreation

The Peshtigo Brook Wildlife Area offers many recreational opportunities:

  • Birding
  • Cross-country skiing (no designated trail)
  • Hiking (no designated trail)
  • Hunting
  • Trapping
  • Wild edibles/gathering
  • Wildlife viewing

Amenities

  • Bathroom - none.
  • Parking lot - yes.
  • Campground and size - none.
  • Trails, Types and Lengths - primitive trails only.

Maps

Download a map of this property.

If you want to explore this property further, you can access an interactive map.

 

Find out more about how to adopt this wildlife area.