THE PLOVER.

I love Wisconsin in early May -- there are enough trees leafing out and plants growing to provide tranquil greenery but still opportunity to observe features that will soon be hidden by the lush foliage of summer. My wife Kris and I thought that the Plover river might be a good stream to try on a warm, sunny day in early May. We were pleased to discover that paddling just a short section of this river revealed a variety of delights.

Near the first dam.

We put in where Highway "K" crosses the river a few miles above Jordan Pond. Here the river meanders along the Jordan Swamp to the east. There is a county highway paralleling the river to the west, and occasionally the river meanders back near to it. There are farms and houses along the right bank at times, but these did not detract form the experience. There are no rapids but you may have to maneuver around downed trees. We avoided any carryovers but had a few tight squeezes.

Wildlife abounds on this stretch. We saw a northern harrier, spring warblers, a big snapping turtle and of course a plover or two. It was a special treat to spot a small porcupine in a tree almost overhanging the river. Further downstream we spotted an osprey nest in a tall tree overlooking the river. We watched as one of the parent ospreys fished in the river.

Porky out on a limb.

Our map had indicated a small lake about halfway to Jordan pond, but we had not seen one from the road. We found out why a few miles above Jordan Pond. Where once a dam had held back the river little remained except the supporting side structures and a short drop. The chute on the left has plenty of water but a good sized wave. The chute on the right is shallow and rocky but runable at average flow. You can also portage on the right. If you want to run this drop, you'll have to do so soon, because, as we were to find out, the dam is going to be rebuilt.

Running the old dam.

After a few rocky riffles downstream from the dam, you will reach the quiet waters of Jordan Pond. This shallow flowage is home to bass, pike and panfish. A fisherman told us that a few smallmouths are caught in the river. Below the pond is trout water.

Jordan Pond is a county park with a wildlife center, campground, picnic area, beach, and a scenic old mill below the dam. Best of all, there are three canoe campsites isolated by a small bird sanctuary right on the pond. The other campsites are away from the water and all have electric hookups, so no doubt its an RV park in the summer. You may want to reserve your campsite at least a week in advance if you plan on camping in the park.

Jordan power generating station.

Below the dam that creates Jordan Pond is a stretch of rapids that looks marginally runable. I didn't scout because a couple was having their wedding pictures taken at this extremely beautiful spot. Instead we crossed a footbridge spanning the river and talked to a fellow named Mike Bigalke. He has leased the power generating station at the dam and is planning on putting it back in operation. It was built in 1904 and provided power to Stevens Point up until 1965. All of the old equipment is still in the plant, but a lot of work must be done to get the plant online. Mike also is leasing the site of the dam that I ran. He will rebuild the dam and generated power there, too.

Kris and I were delighted to find such a pleasant river so close to our summer home. I was told that the river from Jordan Pond down to Point was much the same in nature as the stretch we paddled. I hope to try that stretch soon. There is a very lovely park in Stevens Point through which the river meanders. I have always wanted to paddle through there. I hope I'll get the chance..

River information.


Back to rivers page.