Pheasant hunters gain 400 acres in northwest Monroe County
Source: dnr.wi.gov
Published: Oct. 28, 2008
LA CROSSE – The 680-acre Sand Creek Fish Area in northwest Monroe County is being stocked with pheasants this year for the first time, creating new hunting opportunities.
The state Department of Natural Resources purchased the land to protect the trout stream for which it is named, but the purchase also allowed DNR biologists to convert old farm fields into wildlife habitat by planting warm season grasses and prairie species.
A little more than two thirds of the property, about 400 acres, now represents good pheasant habitat and should provide excellent hunting, wildlife managers said.
Wildlife biologist Ron Lichtie said the DNR was responding to requests from local organizations to provide more upland game habitat for hunting.
“This will be a good opportunity to introduce young people to upland bird hunting and also to form working partnerships with area hunting and fishing clubs,” Lichtie said.
The stocking level will be low this first year. Lichtie hopes to increase the numbers, and wildlife managers are already working with local conservation groups to assist with the raising of birds for stocking.
Revenue from the sale of pheasant stamps are put into a designated account with 40 percent of the funds earmarked for wild pheasant restoration. This has a positive effect on thousands of acres of habitat each year, not only for pheasants but other grassland species. The remaining 60 percent is used for the raising and releasing of “put-and-take” pheasants on select public hunting grounds.
Individuals seeking more information can contact Lichtie at 608-785-9992 or at Ronald.Lichtie@wisconsin.gov.
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