Oconto Marsh Unit
Green Bay West Shores Wildlife Area
The Oconto Marsh Unit is a diverse wetland habitat attracting migrant birds, many species of wildlife, and providing a recreational hiking trail. An observation platform and 2.8 miles of trail through the solitude of the marsh provide users with a peaceful natural experience. Educational signage informs users about natural features. The unit consists of approximately 1,070 acres and is located one-mile northeast of Oconto along County Road Y in Oconto County. There is one parking lot along County Road Y at the southern end of the property.
A 220-acre impoundment maintains an emergent marsh. This impoundment is surrounded by sedge meadows and shrub-carr habitats in the coastal wetlands of Green Bay. There are areas of lowland forest interspersed with wet openings found along the edges of the coastal wetland and areas of aspen/oak woodlands on the northern end of the unit.
Oconto Marsh is a popular stopping place for a variety of migrating shore birds, and marsh bird species. It is a popular destination for bird watchers. The City of Oconto is a participant in the Bird City Network and hosts various education programs and opportunities. Ducks Unlimited and Oconto County Economic Development Corporation are important property supporters.
History of Management
The Oconto Marsh unit was established in 1967. The impoundment and pump were established in 1969 in cooperation with the Oconto Sportsmen's Club. The marsh is an important stopover area for migrating waterfowl and other wetland-dependent birds and a very productive breeding area for dabbling ducks.
Management Objective
The Oconto Marsh Unit is managed for a diversity and quality of wetland habitat types spanning the spectrum from open water, emergent marsh and shrub-carr to bottomland hardwood. Unique to this property is the ability to manage water levels in an impoundment with water pumping capabilities. Water level control allows vegetation management throughout the area, provides habitat for wetland-dependent wildlife. Many opportunities for recreation and hunting and trapping are provided. Timber management on upland portions of the unit has enhanced opportunities for deer and small game hunting. A wildlife refuge is established on a portion of the unit that provides a resting area for waterfowl during the fall migration period. The seasonal refuge area is posted with department signs. Control of invasive aquatic species is another property goal.
Recreation
Many recreational opportunities exist at the Oconto Marsh Unit:
- Birding
- Cross-country skiing (no designated trail)
- Fishing
- Hiking (no designated trail)
- Hunting and Trapping (noted for deer and upland game)
- A partial closed Wildlife Refuge is signed
- Wild edibles/gathering
- Wildlife viewing
Amenities
- Bathroom - none.
- Parking lot - yes.
- Campground and size - none.
- Trails, Types and Lengths - yes, there are gravel and natural surface trails.
- Other - wildlife viewing platform with public binoculars and a small bridge.
Maps
Download [PDF] a map of this property.
If you are interested in exploring this property further, you can access an interactive map.
