Wisconsin

Fish, Wildlife and Biodiversity

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (http://dnr.wi.gov/)
This is the state agency responsible for the conservation and management of the state’s natural resources including wildlife and aquatic resources. Sources of information on threatened and endangered species include:

Natural Heritage Inventory Program (http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/er/nhi/)
The Natural Heritage Program provides information on state and federal threatened and endangered plants and wildlife, habitats of particular conservation concern, and stewardship actions designed to benefit these important natural resources. Online maps are available that show county-level information on generalized locations of threatened and endangered species. Individualized maps can be made using the Aquatic and Terrestrial Resources Inventory mapping program. A searchable database is also available online that provides county-level information on threatened and endangered species. Requests must be made for county-level or site-specific information. **A fee is charged to compile species lists and information for site-specific requests.

State Wildlife Action Plan (http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/er/WWAP/index.htm)
In 2005, all states completed a State Wildlife Action Plan, to identify and focus management on fish and wildlife in greatest need of conservation. This document provides an overview of key species (primarily nongame) and habitats of conservation concern throughout the state.

Special Sites

Wisconsin Historical Society (http://www.wisconsinhistory.org/)
This organization preserves and promotes the cultural heritage of Wisconsin. Programs of interest include:

Historic Preservation (http://www.wisconsinhistory.org/hp/)
This is the primary state agency with knowledge and expertise in historic preservation, providing assistance in identifying and protecting historic properties, archaeological sites, burial places, and other cultural sites in the state. The staff includes preservation specialists (including historians, architectural historians, historic architects, and archaeologists). The Wisconsin Historic Preservation Database, an online database of documented historic resources in the state, is maintained by the office. Use of the database must be authorized and a subscription fee is charge.

Library and Archives (http://www.wisconsinhistory.org/libraryarchives/)
The Public Archives identifies, preserves, and makes accessible records (such as census records, military records, family histories, and various county, state and federal records) and other documents of historical value to the state.

Natural Resources Conservation Service - Cultural Resources (http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/cultural.html)
The NRCS provides financial and technical assistance, including guidance related to cultural resources, to implement conservation practices. Prior to implementation, NRCS staff or other conservation partners will normally conduct site visits that include an inventory of cultural resources. If resources are identified, they can help provide options for preservation and a variety of appropriate land uses. Even if you are not receiving funding from NRCS, the Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator can provide information regarding cultural resources and may be able to visit your property or connect you with other organizations or individuals for assistance. The following list can be used to locate your state’s Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/ECS/culture/newdir.pdf/

Best Management Practices