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National Forest Offering Balsam Bough Harvest Permits Published on 09/18/2023 under News

The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is again opening the land to bough harvesting.

As we transition from summer to fall, people will begin harvesting balsam boughs which are traditionally utilized in holiday decorations such as wreaths. As of Monday, the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest will begin issuing seasonal harvest permits.

The district offers personal-use permits for free, while commercial bough permits can be purchased.

Individuals interested in obtaining a bough harvesting permit for National Forest lands should call the district office nearest their harvesting activities to confirm hours and availability before seeking a permit.

Those seeking boughs, in general, are encouraged to protect trees by removing only from branches on the lower half of trees, and taking no more than 1/3 of greens on any given branch.

In Other News

Thursday Mock Tornado Drills Canceled

Published on 04/16/2026 under News It's Severe Weather Awareness Week, which typically culminates with mock tornado drills on Thursday afternoon and evening. However with the recent severe weather in Wisconsin this week, the drills have been canceled. We, at WJJQ, typically take part in the yearly drill which includes watches and warnings. According to Ready Wisconsin, the decision to cancel this year's drill comes as emergency management, local agencies, and people are actively responding and recovering from the impacts of these recent storms. They said proceeding with the scheduled drills would place additional strain on already stretched resources as many communities continue to deal with storm impacts. Families are still encouraged to go over tornado safety including locations and plans.

Published on 04/16/2026 under News While tornado safety is the main focus of Severe Weather Awareness Week, Wisconsinites will likely encounter other weather-related occurrences like flooding. Many areas of the state are dealing with flooding this week after several rounds of storms. Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters in Wisconsin, causing millions of dollars in property damage each year. Beyond the expense, flood waters can be more dangerous than they seem. Officials note that you should never attempt to walk or drive through a flooded roadway using the phrase "Turn around, Don't Drown!" Just six inches of flowing water can knock over an adult, and a small vehicle can be swept away by 12 inches of moving water. Floodwaters can also damage or wash away the road, often hidden below the surface. The waters may also contain contaminants and hazards. At home, store important records and other water prone items in a waterproof container in upper levels rather than the basement. If your home experiences flooding, your local health department can provide proper cleaning and disinfection guidelines and other resources. While you can't stop rising waters, Ready Wisconsin shared some home tips that can help. That includes cleaning your gutters regularly, direct downspouts away from your home, and improve the grading and landscaping to keep water from flowing away from your home.

Published on 04/16/2026 under News A Rhinelander educator is being honored for helping students branch out beyond the classroom. School Forest Manager Mike Cheslock has received a Wisconsin School Forest Award from the LEAF Program for his work at the Cedric A. Vig Outdoor Classroom, the district's primary school forest. Cheslock was recognized for his leadership and vision in expanding the program across grade levels and subject areas, giving students hands-on learning experiences in forestry, conservation, and ecology. Under his direction, the outdoor classroom has become a key part of the district's curriculum, supporting science education while promoting environmental stewardship and real-world skills. Rhinelander Superintendent Eric Burke says, "Mike's leadership of our school forest and the CAVOC learning center is truly exceptional. He has created opportunities for authentic, hands-on learning that simply cannot be replicated in a traditional classroom, and our entire district is better because of his vision and dedication." He was recognized at a statewide environmental education conference earlier this month. The district also plans to have a local award presentation at CAVOC later this month.-Photo provided by the Rhinelander School District

Published on 04/16/2026 under News Giving back in Rhinelander just got a little easier and a lot more convenient. The Personal Essentials Pantry at First United Methodist Church is teaming up with Trig's Rhinelander store to launch a new "grab-and-go" donation program. The effort is part of a Leadership Oneida County project. They held a kick-off event this week. Shoppers can now purchase prepackaged donation bags filled with items like hygiene items, cleaners, and other household products, set aside for the pantry. Organizers say the effort helps provide essentials that aren't typically covered by assistance programs, while making it simple for the community to support families in need. The volunteer-run pantry relies entirely on donations and says initiatives like this help ensure neighbors have access to everyday necessities for health and dignity. The Personal Essentials Pantry has two distribution days each month.

Published on 04/16/2026 under News A couple of Northwoods students showed off their professional skills in a statewide competition, and were recognized for their efforts. Earlier this month, more than 1,700 students were in Madison for the 53rd edition of Skills USA. This included middle school, high school, and technical college students. The participants qualified through regional competitions for one of 65 events based on career-ready skills. They were judged by experts and professionals in the respective fields. Among the local medalists were the Tomahawk High School Commercial sUAS Drones (Team) of Brock Fischer and Bodie Olsen who were runners-up. And Rhinelander's Brookelynn Martin also earned a silver medal in the high school cosmetology competition. And there was one gold medal returning to the Northwoods: Lola Beach of Rhinelander High School topped the Baking & Pastry Arts competition. Gold winners are eligible to compete in the National SkillsUSA Championships which will be held in Atlanta the first week of June.

Published on 04/16/2026 under News Whether you're a regular Johnny Appleseed, or you're struggling with your red delicious; there's an opportunity to learn more about home apple trees in the Northwoods this weekend. Just one week after hosting a maple syrup demonstration, the Kemp Natural Resources Station is inviting the public to its "Apple School" this Saturday. The free workshop runs from 9 to 2 and will cover everything from choosing the right apple varieties for the region to pruning, pest control, and long-term tree care. It's led by horticulture experts from University of Wisconsin–Madison and its agricultural research programs. Organizers say the event is perfect for anyone thinking about starting an orchard, or figuring out why their apple trees aren't producing. While the workshop is free, they do ask that people register online.

Published on 04/15/2026 under News It's Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week, and part of the outreach is on preparedness. Local emergency management officials are encouraging every resident to take time to identify a safe and secure location to go when a tornado strikes, whether in your home, work, or school. The goal is to stay away from windows, doors, or outside walls. For most homes, a basement or cellar is best. If that isn't possible, select a small interior room on the ground or lowest level of your home/building. If you're outside when severe weather arrives, you're safest heading indoors. If that's not possible locate a low-lying, flat location and take cover there. Use your arms to protect your head and neck. It's also a good idea to go over these tips with your family. Once a location is identified, people are encouraged to share a #safeplaceselfie on social media. Wisconsin averages 23 tornadoes each year. Last year, the National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed 39 tornadoes in the state.

Published on 04/15/2026 under News The spring bird migration is well underway, and with it an annual observation and fundraising challenge returns. The 14th annual Great Wisconsin Birdathon kicks off today and will continue through June 15th. The effort is organized by the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin and participants includes local libraries, schools, bird organizations or individuals simply interested in our feathered friends. There are two parts to the Birdathon...First, they're encouraging people to break out binoculars to spot and record as many bird species as possible. Participants can search anywhere in the state, and organizers noted there are no shortage of birding opportunities and habitat here in the Northwoods. Last year, a record setting 620 birders across 91 teams participated, identifying 283 bird species. They're also encouraging participants to collect pledges in exchange for sightings. Last year they collected $127,000 for organizations and projects dedicated to bird related causes such as habitat improvement and protection. The Tomahawk Public Library is one of those groups that is participating. They've also got some ongoing bird-themed reading challenges and activities including Bird Bingo; a birding class; a bird walk; and even some bird/window deterrent kits.

Published on 04/15/2026 under News Following Lincoln County Sheriff Ken Schneider's retirement announcement at the end of the current term, the first candidate has entered the race to succeed him. Andy Vanderwyst formally declared his candidacy for the November election, while congratulating Schneider's 36 years of law enforcement service. Vanderwyst, himself, has spent more than two decades with the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, serving in roles including patrol deputy, sergeant investigator, and patrol lieutenant, along with leadership positions on the county's Special Response Team and Honor Guard. He says he's been encouraged by support from colleagues and community members to seek the position, noting he looks forward to meeting with citizens to talk about his vision is for the future of the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office.

Published on 04/15/2026 under News A Northwoods assemblyman will seek another term in Madison. Representative Calvin Callahan (R-Tomahawk) announced he is running for a fifth term in office. The release says, "Calvin came to you seven years ago with a vision that families should be able to afford to live where they love, right here in the Northwoods." It continued, "Together, we can continue to make the 35th Assembly District a great place to live, work, and raise your families, and we can build a better Wisconsin!" The 35th Assembly District includes all of Lincoln and Langlade Counties and portions of Marathon, Oneida, Oconto, and Shawano counties.

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