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Spring Waterfowl Breeding Survey Shows Steady Numbers Published on 08/01/2024 under News

Waterfowl numbers in Wisconsin remain steady. That's according to the annual spring survey results posted by the DNR.

The spring waterfowl breeding survey indicated stable population numbers and habitat conditions for migratory birds. Surveyors estimated the state's breeding duck population at 502,000 birds. That's down slightly from last year, but above both the ten year and the long-term averages.

The DNR notes that this study is best interpreted through long-term trends versus year to year comparisons.

Taking a look at some of the species specific trends when compared to the long term average: mallards estimates are down, while blue-winged teal are steady, and wood ducks up slightly. The Canada goose populations are in line with the ten year average, but significantly above the long term average. The full report is available on the DNR website.

Taylor Finger, DNR game bird ecologist says, "In addition to positive survey results, the wet conditions across the state should provide excellent brood-rearing opportunities for waterfowl throughout the remainder of the summer."

The spring waterfowl breeding survey dates back to 1973.

In Other News

Rhinelander Schools; AirPro Expand Partnership, $10,000 Donation to Tech Ed. Department

Published on 11/09/2026 under News Classroom learning and local industry are coming together in Rhinelander following a major community investment. The School District of Rhinelander has announced a growing partnership with AirPro Fan & Blower Company, highlighted by a $10,000 donation to the district's Technical Education Department. School representatives recently met with the AirPro team to develop ways to expand hands-on technical learning, career exploration, and real-world skills designed to prepare students directly for the regional workforce. Superintendent Eric Burke says, "This is exactly the type of partnership that benefits our students, our local businesses, and our entire Northwoods community." He added, "Working alongside businesses like AirPro allows us to connect what students are learning in the classroom with the opportunities and needs of our regional workforce." In recognition of the gift, AirPro's support will be honored on the Dr. Lee Swank Wall of Honor located inside the new Technical Education wing at Rhinelander High School. The wall recognizes community partners whose contributions create lasting opportunities for Hodag students.

Published on 11/09/2026 under News State and local health officials are investigating a potential measles exposure at the Marshfield Medical Center emergency department in Weston. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services and the Marathon County Health Department report that an individual with confirmed measles visited the ER on Ministry Parkway while contagious on Thursday, November 5th, between 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Anyone at the emergency department during that window should immediately check their vaccination status and monitor for symptoms. This exposure also serves as a good reminder. If you develop symptoms of measles, stay home and call your provider before seeking care so hospital staff can take precautions against further spread. According to the latest DHS update, there have been more than 450 measles cases in Wisconsin since July. Further updates on public exposure sites will be posted on the Wisconsin DHS website.

Published on 11/09/2026 under News Authorities are investigating a workplace accident in Marathon County last week that claimed the life of a 47-year-old worker. Responders in Kronenwetter were called to American Asphalt on Happy Hollow Road Wednesday morning at shortly after 10am. The initial call indicated an employee trapped in a silo gate. Upon arrival crews provided immediate care on scene. The man was transported to a nearby hospital where he later died from his injuries. The man's name was not immediately released. Based on the preliminary investigation, the worker was checking conditions inside a silo when he became stuck between the gate doors. There are no signs of criminal activity. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was notified and is investigating.

Published on 11/09/2026 under Sports The Hatchet girls' swim season would end at the WIAA Division 2 Sectional Meet in Rice Lake Saturday afternoon. As a team, the Hatchets would finish 10th out 12 teams, ahead of Mosinee and Colby/Abbotsford. The top finisher for the Hatchets in the meet was Kaylee Roberts, placing seventh in the 100 yard backstroke with a time of 1:11.83. Aubrey Tollefson placed tenth in the 100 yard breaststroke, clocking in at 1:21.62. Tollefson, Roberts, Kortney Busterud, and Sloane Eisenman would finish ninth in the 200 medley relay with a time of 2:21.31. This concludes the Hatchet girls' swim season.

Published on 11/06/2026 under News If you notice green lights shining in the Northwoods this November, it may be a message of support for veterans. Operation Green Light is a national effort to salute local veterans and support them as they transition back to civilian life. For the past four years, the Lincoln County Board has approved a resolution backing the initiative. In addition to turning select lights on county buildings green, it encourages residents and local businesses to participate by replacing a traditional bulb with a green light, either outside where neighbors can see it, or inside to spark conversation. The goal is to shine a light on the unique challenges service members face when transitioning to civilian life while raising awareness for local, state, and federal resources. Lincoln County Veterans Service Officer Matthew Pultz, who drafted the resolution, noted that more than 2,000 veterans call Lincoln County home. The resolution states, in part, that the contributions and sacrifices of those who served have been vital in maintaining our freedoms and way of life. Studies show nearly three-quarters of service members experience high stress during their first year back in civilian life. While Operation Green Light originally centered around Veterans Day week, organizers are encouraging community members to keep their green lights burning through the entire month of November.

Published on 11/06/2026 under News With Wisconsin's nine-day gun deer season opener just two weeks away, hunters across the state are preparing to head into the woods. However, health experts at Aspirus Health remind hunters that preparing their hearts is just as vital as sighting in their scopes. Cardiologists warn that jumping from a mostly sedentary routine into a week of intense outdoor activity creates a sharp spike in heart rate and blood pressure. This includes strenuous tasks like hiking to a tree stand, climbing up, the surge of excitement after bagging a buck, and dragging the deer out of the woods. Aspirus Cardiologist Dr. Daniel Krause compares the season to a new workout routine. "You wouldn't walk into a gym and immediately try to bench 400 pounds," Dr. Krause says. "You start slowly and gradually increase your activity level." According to the CDC, roughly 5% of American adults over 20 have coronary artery disease—a condition that restricts blood flow and can trigger heart attacks under sudden strain. Cold temperatures only add to that cardiovascular stress. Doctors urge hunters to know their physical limits, eat well, dress appropriately for cold weather, and listen to their bodies. Anyone experiencing chest pain, unusual shortness of breath, or dizziness in the field should stop immediately and seek medical help.

Published on 11/06/2026 under News Local politics in many communities is defined by familiar faces; long-serving leaders holding municipal seats. But in Eagle River, that's set to change. On Tuesday night, Eagle River residents voted overwhelmingly in favor of a local term limits referendum, passing the measure with nearly three quarters of the 685 votes cast. The vote officially adopts a city ordinance capping consecutive service for both the Mayor and Alderpersons to four two-year terms: an eight-year total limit. Once a city leader completes those four consecutive terms, they must sit out six-years before running for the office again. And for current leaders, the clock is already ticking, the ordinance explicitly counts all past terms served prior to Tuesday's election toward the new limit.

Published on 11/06/2026 under News The tradition of excellence continues for the Tomahawk High School Drama Department! THS has officially advanced to the State One-Act Play Competition, marking an incredible 11th consecutive year the Hatchets have earned a spot at the state festival. This fall, the cast and crew have been bringing Stephen Murray's "Lost in the Woods" to life, described as a comedic tale following a group of tech-free wilderness campers who get lost and encounter mysterious forest creatures and an eccentric counselor. According to the announcement, the milestone reflects the relentless hard work, dedication, creativity, and heart poured into the production by every single student involved, both on stage and behind the scenes. Next up, the THS team will travel to the State Festival at UW-Parkside in Kenosha in two weeks. Congratulations to the entire cast, crew, and directors.

Published on 11/06/2026 under News A historic landmark in downtown Wausau is officially back and brighter than ever. Following a massive 17-million-dollar "Second Century" renovation project, The Grand Theater is set to reopen its doors this weekend. The major overhaul, which began in May, was designed to preserve the venue's rich history while modernizing the overall patron experience. Theatergoers will immediately notice a refreshed color palette of jade, blue and gold, improved sound and lighting, along with custom-built, wider seats complete with cupholders. Beyond the auditorium, the project also revamped backstage dressing rooms, artist lounges, and vital venue infrastructure to keep drawing top-tier national tours and legendary acts to the area. And they'll be re-opening the facility with entertainment royalty, as Wayne Newton will perform to a sold out audience Saturday evening. The excitement continues next week with the boardgame-turned-movie-turned-stage production of the whodunit Clue, followed by a full lineup of holiday performances throughout the month of December. For tickets and more information, head over to grandtheater.org.

Published on 11/06/2026 under News Wisconsin transportation officials and emergency personnel across the state are sending a crucial message to drivers this week: Move Over or Slow Down, as lives are on the line. Governor Tony Evers has proclaimed November 2nd through the 6th as Crash Responder Safety Week. Nearly 140 Wisconsin municipalities and counties are participating in the campaign to raise awareness about the constant hazards roadside workers face on the job. Over the last five years alone, 72 emergency responders were struck by passing vehicles while working along the side of the road. Whether it's emergency responders, utility crews, or stranded motorists, state law requires drivers to move over a lane for flashing lights, or slow down if changing lanes isn't safe. WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman warns that moving over isn't just a traffic rule, but may also be a life-saving decision.

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