Dewey Marsh, Wisconsin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dewey Marsh Wildlife Area |
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| Dewey Marsh | |
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IUCN Category V (Protected Landscape/Seascape)
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Dewey Marsh, April 2015
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 Dewey Marsh Wildlife Area
Location in Wisconsin
Dewey Marsh Wildlife Area
Location in the United States
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| Location | Portage, Wisconsin |
| Nearest city | Stevens Point, WI |
| Area | 6,078 acres (24.60 km2) |
| Established | 1973 |
| Governing body | Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources |
The Dewey Marsh is a special natural area in Portage County, Wisconsin, United States. It is protected by the state as a wildlife area. This means it's a safe place for many different plants and animals to live.
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Where is Dewey Marsh Located?
The Dewey Marsh is found in the middle part of Wisconsin. It is about five to ten miles north of a city called Stevens Point. The marsh is right in the center of the town of Dewey. It's a large area of wetlands, which are lands covered by shallow water.
A Look at Dewey Marsh's Past
Early Days and Native Americans
Long ago, the Dewey Marsh was a busy place. It served as a trading post for hunting and fishing. Local Native Americans would trade goods here. This shows how important the marsh was for people living in the area.
Becoming a Protected Area
Later, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources bought the Dewey Marsh. They did this to protect its unique wetland environment. Wetlands are very important for nature. They help clean water and provide homes for many creatures. The marsh officially became a protected area in 1973.
The Great Marsh Fire
In 1974, a very large fire started in the Dewey Marsh. It burned for a long time, until 1976. Fires in marshy areas can be hard to put out. Especially when they burn deep into the peat, which is decayed plant matter found in bogs.
Dewey Marsh Today
Today, the Dewey Marsh is known for its public lands. People can visit and explore this natural space. It also includes the County's Dewey's Shooting Range. This area is managed to allow both public access and wildlife protection.
