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DNR Planning Controlled Burns this Winter Published on 02/11/2025 under News
The DNR will be taking advantage of the winter conditions by conducting some controlled burns around the state in the coming weeks.

According to the DNR, prescribed burns mimic the benefits that natural wildfires have historically provided. This includes removing dead vegetation that can fuel unplanned fires during the summer months, while the resulting ash also returns nutrients to the soil. Prescribed burns also improve habitat for animals and stimulates native plant growth, while reducing non-native species.

Winter burns typically begin with cattail marshes, wetlands and wet prairies. The DNR notes that cattail wildfires can be challenging to suppress during the summer months. Controlled burns also help open up waterways to be utilized by waterfowl for feeding and nesting.

DNR staff research locations thoroughly and monitor weather and site conditions right up until the time of the burn. When burns impact roads, trails or recreation areas additional signage will be posted to notify the public.
-Photo provided by Wisconsin DNR: Current ice conditions provide greater access for crews to safely and efficiently conduct prescribed burns.

In Other News

Pedestrian Dies After Being Struck by Vehicle near Merrill
Published on 02/11/2025 under News A pedestrian is dead after being struck by a vehicle in Lincoln County Monday evening. According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, dispatch received a report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle on State Road 107 near Snow Road northwest of Merrill. That call came in at shortly before 9pm. Members of the Sheriff's Office and the Merrill Fire Department were dispatched to the scene. According to a news release, responders attempted life-saving measures upon arrival, however the pedestrian died of his injuries. The victim is described as a 30 year old Merrill man. His name is being withheld at this time. The Sheriff's Office did not provide any information on driver of the vehicle or additional details on the incident. State Road 107 was closed for approximately five hours as crews cleared the scene.
+ Read More Snowmobile Trails Opening Wednesday in Lincoln/Langlade County; Marathon County Partial Opening
Published on 02/11/2025 under News Snowmobilers in the area continue to receive good news, with some additional trail opening announcements this week. Starting right here in Lincoln County, the Forestry, Land, and Parks Department announced the Lincoln County trails will open tomorrow (Wednesday, February 11) at 8am. Previously, only the Hiawatha Trail was open. Likewise, the Langlade County Forestry Department announced their trail system will also open on Wednesday morning as well. Down in Marathon County it's a partial opening Tuesday for all of Zone 1, as well as Mountain Bay Trail in Zone 3. All other trails in Marathon County remain closed at this time. These announcements come after a Saturday snow that left anywhere from 4 inches up to a foot of snow in North Central Wisconsin with some of the highest totals along the Highways 10 and 29 corridor. As always riders across all trail systems are encouraged to use caution, especially when operating on newly opened trail systems. Be aware of any trail closure signs, stay on marked trails and respect private lands.
+ Read More New YMCA Facility in Park Falls Opening April 16
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+ Read More Merrill Fire Department Brings Back Hydrant Heroes Spotlight
Published on 02/11/2025 under News During winter months, residents are typically responsible for clearing snow from fire hydrants. The Merrill Fire Department is bringing back a winter safety initiative to highlight the importance. The Hydrant Heroes program was created around five years ago as a way for the Merrill Fire Department to remind residents of this task and also celebrate those who've taken responsibility. Over the years they've highlighted those individuals on their social media accounts and offered t-shirts and other prizes. They encourage residents to take a look around the neighborhood for any buried hydrants. They said, "Ideally a 3'x3' space around them will give us enough room to use the hydrant if needed." In general, following a snow event resident are typically reminded to clear not only hydrants, but also mail boxes, sidewalks, address markers, and electric and gas meters.
+ Read More Aspirus: Check Meds with Doctors Prior to Surgery
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+ Read More Hatchet Girls Basketball Team Wins Non-Conference Game
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+ Read More Hatchet Boys Basketball Team Loses at Merrill
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+ Read More New Northwoods Support Group for Parkinson’s
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+ Read More Rhinelander PIE-Academy and Pathways Program Selected to Participate in Legislative Workshop
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