Dan Wisniewski Deerskin River Preserve
Well worth the effort to access, this preserve is nestled along the shoreline of the Deerskin River and contains an abundance of old-growth white cedar.
Natural Features
Stands of old-growth white cedar trees still exists on the property. Old-growth white cedar is a relatively rare forest habitat type in Wisconsin and also often hosts rare orchid species. It also serves as an important deer yard. The Deerskin River in this section has a flowing gradient that is fun to paddle. An easy couple-hour float takes you downstream in a gentle current from the Nicolet National Forest to the river crossing at Rangeline Road just upstream from Scattering Rice Lake.
HISTORY
In August of 2017, NWLT acquired the property from the Wisconsin Board of Commissioners of Public Lands. The NWLT Board of Directors re-named the property to the Dan Wisniewski Deerskin River Preserve in honor of Dan, a long-time director who passed away in 2020.
Town of Washington, Vilas County
40 Acres
Ownership: Northwoods Land Trust
Getting There
Only accessible by water. From Eagle River drive west on State Hwy 70 for 2.9 miles to Rangeline Rd. Turn north onto Rangeline Rd. and continue 2.2 miles until you reach the boat landing on the Deerskin River. Paddle upstream 1 mile to the preserve. The entrance sign is located along the north boundary of the property.
Coordinates
45.957892, -89.161865
Deerskin River Preserve on Google Maps.
Dogs are welcome.
Hunting and Trapping are allowed according to NWLT Guidelines.
MANAGEMENT
The preserve is passively managed meaning activities only occur in response to natural disasters or threats to the conservation values.
Benefits
Natural plant and animal habitat; water quality; public access; carbon storage and other nature-based services that lessen the impacts of climate change; protection of old-growth forest
Funding Support
This project was supported by grants from the Caerus Foundation, Modestus Bauer Foundation, John C. Bock Foundation, and the Wisconsin Land Fund of the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation as well as private individuals and families.
More to Explore
Beaver Creek Hemlocks Conservation Area
Holmboe Conifer Forest State Natural Area
Marshall Wildlife Conservation Area
