Sportsman Lake has had a handicap accessible dock for 10-15 years. Unfortunately, it has been difficult to get to. The Wisconsin Wildlife Federation and Clark County Land Conservation have been working for the past eight years to change that. They have put in a road, cleared trees and have the material to construct a six-foot-wide walkway that will allow people in wheelchairs or with scooters to access the dock. They are looking for help to construct the walkway. If you can help, please contact Randy Teresinski, Wisconsin Wildlife Federation at 715-897-8832 or Fred Subke, County Conservationist at 715-937-2944. A date hasn’t been set to do the work, but it needs to be completed this fall before their permit from the DNR expires. They are asking the community to become a part of this project as it is for them. A meal will be provided for those who help construct the walkway.
An engineer is helping to make sure the walkway is constructed correctly. All plans have been approved by the DNR as well as state and local officials.
You will need a handicap sticker to park in the turn around once access is complete. Eventually, repairs will also be made to the dock. ATVs and UTVs will not be allowed on the walkway.
Ovyn’s did the roadwork, donating part of the cost. But they are still raising funds through a raffle to help pay for the improvements. Tickets can be purchased at: IGYS Bar & Grill, One Shot Bar & Grill, O-W Sports, Woodland Tap Room, CreekSide Convenience, Red Daisy Girl, Apple Valley Road Haus, Funtes Bar & Grill, B&I Lumber, Rumours Supper Club, Brickyard, Patty’s Back Roads, Chili Corners, Lindsey Bar & Grill, Glass House, Little Club, Frick Inn, Loyal American Legion, Kizzy & Sues, and Steve Ponshock.
Previously this group has worked together to do improvements at Sherwood Lake, Lake Arbutus, Rock Dam, and Mead Lake.
In addition, Clark County Land Conservation in connection with Central Wisconsin Fur, Fins, and Feathers is planning to release pheasants in the area around Sportsman Lake and the Clark County Rehabilitation & Living Center, on Wisconsin DOT land. You will need a small game license and pheasant stamp to hunt the birds.