Free fishing weekend was held throughout the state this past weekend which enticed anglers of all skill levels. The free admission into Yellowstone Lake and other state parks, in addition to the no-fee fishing, brought families to the lake to discover the great outdoors. In addition, the ‘OutWIGo’ celebration took place near the Amphitheater where nature stations were set up for guests to stop by for a chance to get involved in the outdoor and nature-themed activities.
One of the first stations that guests noticed as they were walking into the Amphitheater area was the Ambulance provided by the Blanchardville Fire and EMS department. The Ambulance was an open invitation for all-ages to take a peek into an emergency vehicle. Volunteers were available to answer questions and provide services if they were needed.
The nature station was led by Mark Sturnick, biology instructor, and an active member of the Friends of Yellowstone Lake. He enjoys helping people better understand nature, through the programs he leads at Yellowstone Lake. Guests and families learned more about identifying species of pine cones, animal bones, antlers, and other finds from nature. Animal furs were on display for guests to touch and identify. The opportunity provided a rare hands-on experience, which most families appreciated, while gaining a better knowledge of nature.
A Wisconsin-DNR led invasive species discussion brought awareness to some of the plants and animals that invade our native land and bodies of water. Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) is one example of an invasive plant, which has planted its aquatic roots in lakes, rivers, and streams. It was first located in Wisconsin in the 1960s. Freshwater Golden Clams (Corbicula fluminea) are on the watch list for the state, as the invasive species numbers seem to rapidly rise. Examples of both invasive species were available for easy identification. Guests learned that invasive species can spread through firewood, garden waste, muddy boots and dirty gear, horticulture and gardening, shipping containers, outdoor decorating, and through human interactions with nature. A water sample from Yellowstone Lake was available for guests to observe which contained a healthy group of tadpoles, a crowd favorite.
Michael Smith and Mary Chelotti-Smith are Wisconsin Naturalist Bat Ambassadors who encourage people to learn more about bats and their importance in our local ecosystem. They had their booth set up which offered images and some taxidermy items to help guests identify the eight bat species that call Wisconsin their home. Their discussion included the anatomy and physiology of bats, and some of the similarities the flying mammals have with other mammals, including humans. The couple have participated in bat counts at Yellowstone Lake State Park, and throughout the state. They regularly participate in acoustic monitoring of bats by using a device that attaches to their vehicle. While driving a pre-destined route in Lafayette County, three times a year; the machine is able to read echolocation frequencies. The data is then collected, and the number of bats as well as the various species, can be identified. Bats continue to play a significant role in nature as they are the main predator of insects that spread diseases and damage crops.
Friends of Yellowstone Lake and Rangers from the Wisconsin DNR encouraged participation as they helped bring added enthusiasm to the celebration. Games such as the fishing pole game entertained several guests of all ages. Prizes were earned by those who were interested in casting a line for a great ‘catch’. Laughs were heard through the many attempts by young and older alike.
The arts and crafts station with Brenda Degenhardt provided an opportunity to create a nature-themed postcard, using ink-stamps and decorations. Forest animals, fishing, trees, and mushrooms were common themes. There was also a little bird craft-project which was appreciated as it was created using fancy papers, decorations, and pretty bling for the eyes. Meanwhile above the craft area, the birds were singing songs from their high perch in the trees, which some guests enjoyed from a nearby picnic table.
‘OutWIGo’ is designed to help people discover new ways to explore Wisconsin’s natural spaces. Yellowstone Lake State Park is part of the 50 state parks and nine state recreation areas that are managed by the Wisconsin DNR. Programs that teach, educate, and encourage outdoor recreation are available all summer long.