Madison Reporter

Recent storms across Wisconsin have led to damage at several state-managed properties, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The affected areas include state parks, trails, recreation areas, and wildlife areas. Damage reported ranges from minor washouts and downed trees to partial closures of properties and trails.

The DNR stated that staff are currently working to assess the full extent of the storm damage. They have requested that the public avoid closed areas for safety reasons and to allow clean-up efforts to proceed without interruption. “Staff are currently assessing the extent of the storm damage. The DNR asks the public to help DNR property managers by staying away from closed areas. This will keep the public safe and allow DNR staff to focus on clean-up efforts and reopening amenities for visitors to enjoy.”

Visitors who encounter issues such as downed trees or washed-out trails while hiking or recreating are encouraged by the DNR to note specific locations and share this information with onsite property staff. For updates on conditions at Wisconsin State Park System properties, individuals can visit the DNR’s Property Notices webpage. Information about wildlife areas and other state-managed sites is available through contact details listed in the DNR Staff Directory.

Given that Wisconsin manages tens of thousands of acres and thousands of miles of trails, officials anticipate it may take several days before all damages are fully assessed. Repairs will be made as soon as possible, but there is no current estimate for when all work will be completed. The department noted: “With tens of thousands of acres of property and thousands of miles of trails, it may take DNR staff several days to fully assess all damages. Areas damaged by recent storms will be reopened as repairs are made. An estimate of when all repairs will be completed is not available.”

More detailed information about which specific parts of each property remain closed will be posted on individual property webpages as it becomes available. Those planning visits can use the DNR's Find a Park webpage to check on their destination.

The department also reminded parkgoers that trail surfaces and other outdoor areas may remain muddy or wet over coming days due to lingering effects from heavy rainfall. Visitors should exercise caution as surfaces could be slippery, stay alert regarding weather conditions, and prepare accordingly for their trips.

“More specific information about closed areas of properties will be posted to each property webpage as it is available. For more information, parkgoers can select a property of interest using the DNR's Find a Park webpage,” said a statement from the agency.

“As a general reminder, trails and other areas will likely be muddy and wet over the next several days. Property users are reminded to proceed with caution as surfaces will be slippery and to be aware of the weather and current conditions as they prepare for their visit,” added department officials.