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Oconto Marsh Unit

Green Bay West Shores Wildlife Area

Oconto Marsh Unit
Photo by Bob Howe

The Oconto Marsh Unit consists of approximately 928 acres and is located one mile northeast of Oconto along County Road Y north almost to County Road A in Oconto County. There is one parking lot along County Road Y at the southern end of the property. A 220-acre impoundment maintains an emergent marsh on the south end of the property. This impoundment is surrounded by sedge meadows and shrub-carr habitats in the coastal wetlands of Green Bay. There are areas of lowland forest interspersed with wet openings found along the edges of the coastal wetland and areas of aspen/oak woodlands on the northern end of the unit.

History of management

The Oconto Marsh unit was established in 1967. The impoundment and pump were established in 1969 in cooperation with the Oconto Sportsmen's Club. The marsh is an important stopover area for migrating waterfowl and other wetland-dependent birds and a very productive breeding area for dabbling ducks.

Management objective

Water level control and vegetation management of the marsh provides habitat for wetland-dependent wildlife and opportunities for hunting and trapping. Timber management on upland portions of the unit has enhanced opportunities for deer and small game hunting. A closed area has been established on a portion of the unit that provides a resting area for waterfowl during the fall migration period. No hunting or trapping is allowed within the seasonal game refuge area as posted with department signs during the period when waterfowl hunting seasons are open.

Recreation

Many recreational opportunities exist at the Oconto Marsh Unit.

  • Birding
  • Cross country skiing (no designated trail)
  • Fishing
  • Hiking (no designated trail)
  • Hunting (especially noted for deer and upland game) There is a closed area for waterfowl.
  • Trapping
  • Wild edibles/gathering
  • Wildlife viewing

Maps

Download [PDF] a map of this property.

If you are interested in exploring this property further, you can access an interactive map.

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