5397001
Public Review and Comment on Draft Programmatic Compatibility Determination for Rights‑of‑Way and Rights to Access

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public review and comment on the Draft Programmatic Compatibility Determination for Rights‑of‑Way and Rights to Access for Temporary Disturbances and Minor Impacts on Conservation Easements in the Midwest Region. This draft document evaluates the compatibility of proposed activities that may cause temporary, minor disturbances while supporting necessary public infrastructure needs across conservation easements in the Midwest Region. The draft Compatibility Determination will be available for a 30‑day public comment period from June 10, 2026 to July 9, 2026. Comments, questions, or concerns can be sent to: R3Planning@fws.gov

5380056
Spring Hunting Season on the District

Waterfowl production areas within the Leopold Wetland Management District are open for state hunting seasons with a few exceptions. 

https://www.fws.gov/wetland/leopold/visit-us/rules-policies

Welcome to the Leopold Wetland Management District! Named after Aldo Leopold, who is widely acknowledged as the father of wildlife conservation in America, the district encompasses approximately 13,500 acres of waterfowl production areas in 17 southeastern Wisconsin counties, covering some of the most important waterfowl areas in the state. While waterfowl production areas are managed primarily for ducks and geese, they also provide habitat for a variety of other wildlife species such as grassland birds, pheasants, shorebirds, wading birds, mink, muskrat, wild turkey and deer.

Looking for places to hunt, bird watch, photograph wildlife, see rare native prairie plants or just enjoy the outdoors?

Waterfowl production areas are open to wildlife-dependent recreation including hunting (deer, upland game and waterfowl), fishing, trapping, wildlife observation, wildlife photography, environmental education, interpretation, berry and mushroom and nut picking (for personal use only), hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing unless otherwise posted.
Visit Us

Driving Directions

The District office is located west of Portage, Wisconsin. Located off state highway 33, 2 miles south on Cascade Mountain Road at W10040 Cascade Mountain Road, Portage, WI.

The District manages approximately 13,500 acres of waterfowl production areas (WPAs) in 17 southeastern Wisconsin counties.

Fees

There is no charge to visit.

Restrooms

Currently there are no restroom facilities located on the district for visitors. However, most lands are located within a few miles of local amenities.

Points of Interest

Check out the district hiking trails listed below to explore a variety of habitats.

  • Schoenberg Marsh WPA (Columbia county)
  • Swan Pond WPA (Dane county)
  • Ulao WPA (Ozaukee county)
  • Uihlein WPA (Winnegago county)
  • Becker WPA (Columbia county)
  • Muir WPA (Marquette county) - no established hiking trails but the area hosts the boyhood home of John Muir. Hiking trails and restrooms are located across Cty Rd F at the Jon Muir County Park. 

What To Do

Waterfowl production areas are open to wildlife-dependent recreation including hunting (deer, upland game and waterfowl), fishing, wildlife observation, wildlife photography, environmental education, interpretation, berry and mushroom and nut picking (for personal use only), hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing unless otherwise posted.

Know Before You Go

When planning a trip to the district, it is important to dress appropriately for the weather and terrain. Consider bringing water, food, binoculars, field guides, hat, sunscreen and anything else that will make your outdoor experience more enjoyable. Be sure to consult maps/directions of each individual property and they are often located in remote areas.

Visitor Tips

  • Dogs are welcome but must be leashed unless engaged in hunting activities
  • Visitors are welcome to hike throughout the areas and are not required to stay on established roads and trails
  • Please note that restrooms are not available at the areas
  • Garbage cans are not available – Please practice “pack it in, pack it out” by taking trash home

Location and Contact Information

      Our Species

      The district is managed primarily for migratory birds, which need a variety of habitats for feeding, courtship and nesting. Many other species benefit too.