Brule River State Forest Master Plan Progress Report 10

Public Informational Meeting

WDNR will host an "open-house" style public meeting on November 30, 2001 to receive public input on the Brule River State Forest Master Plan- Preferred Alternative (PDF). The Meeting will be held at the Brule Town Hall from 4:00 to 7:00 PM.

Several "Discussion Stations" will be set up with DNR experts and master planning staff available at each station to answer questions and receive written comments. Meeting attendees are encouraged to read through the enclosed Preferred Alternative in advance of the public open house, and prepare questions or written comments.

Your comments will receive equal consideration, whether or not you are able to attend the public meeting. Through public involvement we have developed the attached vision and goals for the property. Please comment on how well the preferred alternative would accomplish these goals. Where options are presented in the preferred alternative, please indicate which option you think better fulfills the property vision and goals, and why. You are also asked to indicate any missing elements and to comment on the proposed property boundary modifications.

All participants are encouraged to send their written comments concerning the Preferred Alternative to:

Steve Petersen, Superintendent Brule River State Forest 6250 S. Ranger Rd. Brule, WI 54820-0125 FAX: (715) 372-4836 e-mail: Petersp@mail01.dnr.state.wi.us

We ask that all written comments on the Preferred Alternative be submitted no later than December 10th, 2001.

Options within the Preferred Alternative

Progress Report # 9 indicated that we would be adding a step to the "Public Involvement Plan" that would develop a set of "Refined Alternatives." This extra step was proposed to allow for additional discussion and evaluation of the elements that remained controversial. However, in response to comments that the Master Plan is moving too slowly, we have decided to eliminate the proposed extra step of developing "Refined Alternatives" and proceed with the "Preferred Alternative."

The "Preferred Alternative" has been developed in a way that still allows for additional discussion and evaluation of the controversial elements. It does this by including "Options" for several of the Land Management Areas. The Department remains committed to the careful consideration of public input and to providing opportunities to participate throughout the planning process. Input received on the "Preferred Alternative" will be considered in the development of the Draft Master Plan and EIS.

Tribal Consultations

WDNR staff will continue to consult with tribal representatives in order to receive input on the Draft Preferred Alternative. Discussions have primarily focused on the potential impacts on treaty resources, and the ability to exercise the Chippewa off-reservation treaty rights.

New Literature Available

See the attached BRSF Master Plan Literature Order Form (PDF) for new master plan literature now available.

Draft Vision Statement

The Brule River State Forest provides for the sustainability of a unique river system and biologically rich forest community. We manage, protect and restore its natural resources to promote ecological health and natural communities, to complement the larger ecosystem, and to recognize cultural and economic values. The state forest accommodates recreational activities consistent with the natural quality and wild settings found along the Bois Brule River. The Department of Natural Resources works with federal, state, tribal and local governments, neighboring industrial and private forest owners, and the citizens who enjoy and subsist on the resources of the Brule River State Forest.

Draft Goal Statements

1 - Maintain and enhance the high water quality and natural flow of the Bois Brule River.

2 - Provide an environment that emphasizes natural beauty and enhances a sense of solitude and quietness.

3 - Maintain and enhance the quality of the fishery and fishing opportunities.

4 - Maintain hunting opportunities on the forest.

5 - Provide and accommodate a range of land and water based recreational opportunities while protecting the natural beauty and quiet experiences.

6 - Use sustainable forestry practices to manage the forest resources for present and future generations.

7 - Maintain and restore native ecological communities and habitats.

8 - In consultation with tribal governments, provide for the availability of resources subject to the Chippewa off-reservation treaty rights.

9 - Increase educational opportunities on the forest for all users.

10 - Involve the public as partners in the planning and management of the forest.

11 - Continue to purchase private land within the Brule River State Forest, as such land becomes available. Top of page