Contact: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon
E-mail: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org
Surnames: Kirn, Rasmussen, Urban
----Source: Tribune Record Gleaner (Loyal, Clark Co., WI) 1/02/1975
Kirn, Don (Forestry & Parks Administrator - 1975)
Mingling with Mary (By Mary Woods)
Don Kirn, Clark County Forestry and Parks Administrator
There is no sense of denying that fact that winter is here, and for many it seems slowing down on their outdoor activities which were enjoyed throughout the spring and summer months, but on the other hand it is the time for all winter fans to get out the boots and skiing equipment, or the toboggans and sled, or maybe the ice skates, and enjoy the fresh air, and the cold breeze. For Don Kirn, Clark County Forestry and Parks Administrator, there is no relief to his job when winter comes, and through his dedication, and hard work to his job and the work and cooperation that is given to him by so many … Clark County may easily be called a “Winter Wonderland.”
“Whether you enjoy skating, skiing, go tobogganing, you will find Bruce Mound an enjoyable place to go,” states Kirn. “In remarks that have been received the facilities perhaps are some of the best in the state, and more people are finding this to be true.”
The facilities at Bruce Mound, located south of Neillsville, included in a 200-acre area, are nine ski slopes; two beginners; four intermediate and three expert. The beginning slopes average 600 feet, while the intermediates are between 800-1,500 feet, and the expert slopes ranging to 2,500 feet. The skiing facilities also include a set of T-bars with four rope tows, which were put into operation just last winter.
As for the tobogganing, the run is 1,100 feet long, and according to Kirn, “On a cold, crispy day the run can be made in 11 seconds.”
A new sport, added to Bruce Mound this year, is the cross-country ski trail. The trail located at the junction of County Trunk J and Highway 95, and runs for five miles. According to Kirn, many people have become interested in the sport, and the trail has already been used by many this winter.
According to Kirn the recreational area of Bruce Mound began in 1960, and since then much work has been done through county funds, and the Listeman Foundation, with work being completed by county park employees, and the Green Thumb workers.
As for snowmobile trails, Kirn points out that a total of 66 miles are state and county approved. The snowmobiler may start on the trail at the Oak Ridge Parking Lot, west of Mead Lake, on County M, and travel 51 miles south to Hatfield. A snowmobile warming shelter may be used at Wild Rock, at the junction of County I and M. Kirn points out that all crossings are marked giving the snowmobiler, and the other drivers the best safety precautions available.
Commenting on the use of the trails, Kirn points out that he estimates approximately 1,000 machines use the trails on a weekend with travelers from southern Wisconsin, Chicago, Rockford, and Dubuque, using the trails.
A graduate of the Greenwood High School, Kirn began his work as County Forestry and Park Administrator in 1970, when he replaced Arnold Rasmussen. His duties with the county began in 1962, when he served as foreman of the forest-parks crew, and assistant administrator. Kirn and his wife and their family reside in the Willard area where Don also serves as president of the Willard Athletic Association.
After working for the county for several years, Kirn was names as Forest Conservationist of the Year-1973, by the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation for his outstanding contributions, and wise use and management of the nation’s best resources.
Commenting on his position, Kirn states that working outdoors, and seeing so many people of all ages enjoy the facilities is very rewarding, whether it be a four-year-old on skates or a 60-year-old man on a snowmobile. He adds that his office also sends out information on the area to those who request it. Serving as secretary for Kirn is Grace Urban of Neillsville, who no doubt knows much about the fine winter and summer facilities and enjoys them.
In concluding a story on Kirn, much could be said on his dedication to his job, but perhaps words are unnecessary and the best way to see the results is to get out and enjoy the facilities, which Kirn devotes his time to, and enjoys doing it.
(Note, I, the transcriber, lived next door to the Bruce Mound Recreational area from 1957 to 1975 and some of my family still owns the land which is next door to the north. DMK)
