The Department of Natural Resources is offering the public an opportunity to help decide which resources should be protected in Wisconsin over the next 50 years. It is holding a series of meetings in connection with its Land Legacy Study, and one will be in Stevens Point.
A similar series of hearings was held a year ago on the types of places and resources the public felt needed protection. The new round of hearings will be on specific places.
The local hearing will be Monday, March 26, at the University Center at University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. It will follow an open-house format and will run from 5 to 9 p.m.
The DNR says the Land Legacy Study attempts to "identify lands and water that will be critical in conserving our native plants, animals and their habitats as well as lands that will be needed to provide satisfying outdoor recreation. This study is also examining opportunities to meet conservation and recreation goals without purchasing lands outright. Finally, of the places identified, on which should the department focus its efforts and which ones are our partners better able to address?"
During the current round of hearings the department is seeking feedback on a list of places identified by DNR staff, asking, "Will these places effectively meet Wisconsin's long-term conservation and recreation needs? What places did we miss? Are some places inappropriate? Are these places in suitable locations? Are the potential protection strategies appropriate to meet the identified conservation and recreation needs as well as the needs of landowners? Who are potential partners and how can the department assist them? Where should the department focus its efforts and how should the department approach setting priorities?"