Facility Rules and Policies

Waterfowl production areas are open to wildlife-dependent recreation including hunting of deer, upland game and waterfowl, trapping, fishing, wildlife observation, wildlife photography, environmental education, interpretation, hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Special rules and regulations apply to some recreational activities. Contact the district office for more information.

Recreational Opportunities

Waterfowl production areas are open to wildlife-dependent recreation including hunting of deer, upland game and waterfowl, trapping, fishing, wildlife observation, wildlife photography, environmental education, interpretation, hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. 

General Regulations for Waterfowl Production Areas
  • No entry fees
  • Public use is prohibited from dusk to dawn, except for hunting in accordance with state laws 
  • Dogs are welcome, but must be leashed unless hunting within a designated season
  • Blinds, tree stands and cameras must be removed daily
  • Visitors are welcome to hike throughout the areas and are not required to stay on established roads and trails 
  • Berry and mushroom collecting is limited to personal consumption
  • Collection of artifacts is prohibited
  • Motorized vehicles only allowed on public roads and parking areas
  • Mobility assisted devices allowed on designated trails only

Prohibited Activities: 

  • Motorized vehicles
  • Gas and electric boat motors
  • Bikes
  • Horses
  • Fires, camping
  • Commercial enterprises
  • Target shooting
  • Geocaching
  • Dog training
  • Dumping of deer carcasses
Hunting Regulations for Waterfowl Production Areas

Waterfowl production areas are open to hunting, fishing and trapping subject to all applicable federal and state laws, except where posted with "Closed to Public Hunting" signs. In addition to the general regulations above:  

  • Placement of bait and hunting over bait is prohibited 
  • Non-toxic shot is required for all hunting - does not apply to rifle bullets or shotgun slugs
  • Damage to trees is prohibited, including cutting shooting lanes and the use of screw-in tree steps and stands
  • Possession or use of alcoholic beverages while hunting is prohibited 
  • Shining or spotlighting wildlife is prohibited
  • Use of hunting dogs is allowed, provided the dog is under the immediate control of the hunter at all times
  • An ADA accessible hunting blind on Erickson Waterfowl Production Area can be reserved by disabled hunters
  • Hunting seasons follow published state of Wisconsin seasons and dates

Deer hunters are encouraged to use lead free ammunition when hunting. Research has found that lead pieces left behind in the gut piles of deer are dangerous and even deadly to the eagles and other wildlife that eat them.

Oak Ridge Waterfowl Production Area is closed to hunting from the opening day of waterfowl season, until the first Saturday in December, except deer hunting during regular archery, gun and muzzleloader seasons.

Designated portions of St. Croix Prairie Waterfowl Production Area and Prairie Flats South Waterfowl Production Area are closed around the office and shop facilities.