Help Collar Elk Calves

Pictured: When volunteers or staff locate a calf, a DNR wildlife biologist will take measurements and fit them with a temporary GPS collar that will grow with the elk calf. Photo credit: Wisconsin DNR

The Wisconsin DNR is seeking volunteers to help collar elk calves between May 19 and June 18. This unique collaring experience is part of a multi-year study of Wisconsin’s Jackson County area elk herd. The resulting data helps deepen the DNR’s understanding of elk movement, breeding and survival in Wisconsin.

The DNR needs 15 or more volunteers for each survey day, and these spots have historically filled up fast. If more volunteers sign up for a specific day than staff can take into the field, staff will select volunteers and be in contact to confirm dates.

Interested individuals should be aware that although elk calf surveys are fun, they are also hard work. Volunteers should feel comfortable hiking through thick brush and uneven terrain. It’s important to wear weather-appropriate outdoor clothing, sturdy boots and a mosquito head net, as bug spray is not allowed.

Once in the field, staff will direct volunteers to form a line and walk through the woods searching for calves. When volunteers or staff locate a calf, a DNR wildlife biologist will take measurements and fit them with a temporary GPS collar that will grow with the elk calf.

Those interested should sign up using this survey link. Questions about the surveys can be directed to DNR Wildlife Biologist Christina Kizewski at [email protected] or 715-284-1403.