POLK COUNTY, WI — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is proposing to issue an authorization for the incidental taking of several rare species as part of the planned Osceola Bridge Replacement Project, according to a public notice.
The authorization would allow for the unintentional loss of individual animals, including a state-threatened turtle and multiple fish species, during construction activities. Incidental take does not refer to intentional harm and is permitted under state law as long as it does not jeopardize the overall population of the species.
The project involves replacing the existing WIS 243 bridge over the St. Croix River with a new structure along the same alignment. Plans also include adding a pedestrian and bicycle path on the north side of the bridge. The project spans from Minnesota Highway 95 in Franconia Township to WIS 35 in the Village of Osceola, excluding both intersections.
Additional construction activities are expected to include installation of a temporary causeway, grading, shoulder work, storm sewer improvements, and clearing.
DNR officials confirmed the presence of several protected species in the project area, including the wood turtle, as well as the black buffalo, blue sucker, and river redhorse fish. The agency determined the project may result in incidental impacts to these species.
To reduce potential harm, the DNR has outlined several conservation measures. These include installing exclusion fencing to prevent turtles from entering the construction zone, relocating any turtles found within the project area, and timing in-water work to avoid fish spawning seasons. A fish passage telemetry study is also planned to improve understanding of species movement and inform future conservation efforts.
The DNR concluded that, with these measures in place, the project is not expected to jeopardize the continued existence or recovery of the affected species and will provide public benefits related to transportation and safety.
The public is invited to submit written comments regarding the proposed authorization and its potential impacts through April 19, 2026.
Learn More:
The DNR has released a Jeopardy Assessment outlining the anticipated impacts and conservation strategies related to the project, along with background information on the affected species. Those materials are available on the DNR’s Incidental Take Public Notices webpage or by contacting DNR Conservation Biologist Stacy Rowe.
Last Update: Mar 23, 2026 10:56 am CDT
