Balsam Branch Wildlife Area

Balsam Branch Wildlife Area
IUCN category V (protected landscape/seascape)[1]
Location in Wisconsin
Location in United States
LocationPolk County, Wisconsin
Nearest cityBalsam Lake, Wisconsin
Coordinates45°21′49″N 92°27′59″W / 45.363578°N 92.466321°W / 45.363578; -92.466321
Area180 acres (73 ha)[2]
Established1967
Governing bodyWisconsin Department of Natural Resources

The Balsam Branch Wildlife Area is a 180 acres (73 ha) tract of protected land in central Polk County, Wisconsin, managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR).[3] The wildlife area is characterized by marshland, prairie fields, and a pond set in the center of the property.

Overview

In 1967, the entire plot of land was donated to the WDNR to be conserved, with a focus on the stock of turkey, deer, and various waterfowl native to Wisconsin.[4] The property is frequented by birdwatchers.[5]

The lake at the center of the property is unnamed, and has an area of 13 acres (5.3 ha).[6]

References

  1. ^ Protected Planet Website- Retrieved April 13, 2023
  2. ^ United States Highway 8, WIS 35 (N) to US 53, Polk and Barron Counties, Wisconsin. Federal Highway Administration. 2006.
  3. ^ WDNR Balsam Branch WFA Website- Retrieved February 3, 2023
  4. ^ WDNR Interim Forest Management Plan- Retrieved February 4, 2023
  5. ^ Northern Wisconsin All-Outdoors Atlas & Field Guide. Sportsman's Connection. September 3, 2012. p. 23. ISBN 978-1-885010-71-1.
  6. ^ WDNR Polk county Lakes Website- Retrieved February 4, 2023