Balsam Branch Wildlife Area

Balsam Branch Wildlife Area is a 180 acre property located in Polk County. The property consists of marsh, pond, prairie grass fields, stream bottom, upland and lowland forest.

Find it by following Hwy 8 east of St Croix Falls for 5 1/2 miles. Turn south on Hwy 65 and go 1 1/2 miles. Turn east on 115th Ave and go one mile. Turn south on 150th St and go 1/2 mile to parking area. There is also a parking area on the south end of the property from Hwy C.

History of Management

The property was donated to the State of Wisconsin in 1967 by the American Game Association of New York. The project was developed to protect a very nice small, unnamed lake and to provide wildlife habitat for hunting and enjoyment in Polk County. A large rock with a plaque on it recognizing this donation can be found on the south end of the parking lot on the north end of the property.

Today, prescribed burns are used to maintain the prairie grass fields.

Recreation Opportunities

The following recreational opportunities exist at Balsam Branch Wildlife Area:

Hunting - Waterfowl, deer, ruffed grouse, squirrels, pheasants Trapping - Beaver, muskrats, otter Hiking

Wildlife viewing Bird watching - Grassland songbirds, waterfowl Berry picking

Additional Information

Download [PDF 121KB] a map of this property.

Useful Links:

• Hunting in Wisconsin
• Hunting and Trapping Regulations
• Season Dates
• Polk County Information [Exit DNR]
• Plan your trip to Polk County [Exit DNR]

For more information on Balsam Branch Wildlife Area contact the property manager.

Questions for Wildlife Management