MADISON - A rematch is shaping up at the Wisconsin Legislature over proposed streamlining of Wisconsin's mine permitting laws this winter.
Leaders from northern Wisconsin communities pleaded for environmental protections at a hearing of a special legislative committee Thursday.
Officials with the Wisconsin Mining Association also testified before the state Senate Select Committee on Mining. They presented a consultant's report critical of current permitting laws.
Republicans on the committee say the GOP will test its new majorities by trying to again pass the mining bill that failed last session.
Gov. Scott Walker said this week that Gogebic Taconite, the company that wanted to build a mine near Lake Superior but pulled out after the bill failed, is interested in returning if the legislation eases its way.
MINOCQUA - “This disease is called the great imitator for a good reason,” says Jeff Waite.
Lyme disease can be good at hiding.
“Lyme disease is a bacterial type infection spread by a spiral keet, which is also considered a parasite. And it can be carried in the spit glands and intestinal track of ticks in this area. Particularly the deer tick," said Dr. Kurt Landauer.
STATEWIDE - Camping in the Northwoods just got a little more high-tech, thanks to a new website and iPhone app. You can download the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest app on your iPhone.
The app lets you see what campsites are available, and reserve your spot online. It also gives information about trails and other activities in the area.
In the “old days” travelers could always call ahead about site availability, but by the time out of town visitors arrive, they might be full.
EAGLE RIVER - The initiative will help to rebound what's thought of as a suffering walleye population by adding hundreds of thousands of the fish to Wisconsin lakes.
The project could improve fishing for the state's most popular game fish and tourism in the state. George Langely, a local fishing guide at Eagle Sports bait shop in Eagle River, says walleye fishing isn't what it used to be.
"The walleye population has pretty much suffered in the last twenty years and it's really nice to see Madison recognizing that and taking some steps to do something about it. It will take a while but it's a great start."
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