Members of the public will have a chance to comment on an ATV trail proposed for the Woodboro Lakes Area.
The Nokomis ATV Club has asked for an ATV/UTV trail through the 3-thousand acre property that’s about 10 miles west of Rhinelander.
DNR Wildlife biologist Jeremy Holtz says a DNR analysis of the plan finds it feasible if certain conditions are met.
“There would be some requirements for trail surfacing, for example. For repair or replacement of an existing bridge. For rerouting the trail in three locations to avoid sensitive soils areas. So there are some things that would have to occur in order for this project to be considered feasible.”
The trail is currently open only to foot traffic for most of the year, and is open to snowmobiles in the winter. There are other existing roads that go through the Woodboro Lakes area that are open to vehicle traffic.
Holtz says hunting is the main use of the property right now, with it being one of two State Wildlife Areas in Oneida County. But it’s also a popular and accessible site for people to walk or drive into year-round.
“It’s not a wilderness area. It’s managed for multiple use – for hunter use, for wildlife habitat, timber revenue and so on, so there’s definitely vehicle activity on the property.”
Holtz says he’s heard strong opinions from people both for and against the increased access to the area.
He says written comments are encouraged, and there is also a public input and information session on August 19th…at the Northwoods Community Elementary School on Highway K.
