News Release Published: May 6, 2009 by the West Central Region

Contact(s): Peter Bakken, superintendent, Black River State Forest, 715-284-1406

BLACK RIVER FALLS – The state Department of Natural Resources is asking for public comments on a draft master plan for the Black River State Forest. The plan addresses land management, recreational opportunities and proposed boundary expansions.

An open house meeting will run from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, May 28, at the Holiday Inn Express at W10170 Hwy 54 E, Black River Falls. State foresters and other DNR staff will be available to answer questions, provide information and accept public comments.

The draft master plan includes changes that resulted from public comments in 2008.

The Black River State Forest, 68,000 acres of pine and oak forests in Jackson and Clark counties, is best known for its hiking and cross country ski trails – along with snowmobile, ATV and horse trails – and offers opportunities for camping, swimming, canoeing, hunting and fishing. The DNR also manages this property for wildlife habitat, native biological diversity, soil and water quality, aesthetics and timber production. The forest was established in 1957.

The proposed action is not anticipated to result in significant adverse environmental effects. The DNR has made a preliminary determination that an environmental impact statement will not be required.

Questions about meetings or the master plan process may be directed to Peter Bakken, state forest superintendent, Black River State Forest, 910 Hwy 54E, Black River Falls, WI 54615, or to Pat Murphy, regional forestry staff supervisor, 1300 W. Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701. Copies of the draft master plan may be obtained by calling Bakken at 715-284-1406 or by sending an email to: This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it . The deadline for public comments is June 20, 2009. Black River State Forest Master Plan documents can be found on-line at Black River State Forest Master Plan.