This document compiles email correspondence exchanged between August and November 2022 regarding the Paine Property conservation easement in Superior, Wisconsin. The communications involve members of the City of Superior, including Councilor Jenny Van Sickle and Economic Development Director Jason Serck, as well as representatives of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), such as Lake Superior Supervisor Cherie L. Hagen, Northern Region Secretary Director James Yach, and several DNR real estate and environmental staff. The overarching topic involves clarifying, updating, and potentially modifying the long-standing conservation easement associated with land near Barker’s Island and the bird sanctuary area.

Throughout the chain, the City seeks guidance from the DNR on how to address questions raised by landowners Fred Paine Sr., Fred Paine Jr., and Thomas Paine. The Paine family expresses concerns about unclear easement boundaries, historical documentation, and whether the bird sanctuary designation was ever properly communicated to them. They also reference missing or outdated records and offer conceptual ideas for a reduced easement footprint. City officials work to gather maps, deeds, easement materials, and property history to support a comprehensive DNR review.

The DNR acknowledges internal knowledge gaps and requests essential documents to confirm the easement’s legal status, the original purpose of the protected area, and whether any compliance issues exist. Staff reference the 1989 limited development easement, its association with protecting fisheries habitat and coastal wetlands, and the potential need for alternative conservation acreage if the easement area is reduced. DNR representatives also note the importance of verifying past ownership transitions, including land trades or sales involving the City and the Paine family.

The email chain concludes with continued coordination between the City and the DNR, indicating that internal state-level discussions were underway and that further outreach would occur. While no final decision is documented here, the correspondence demonstrates ongoing efforts to resolve landowner concerns, clarify easement obligations, and determine appropriate next steps for conservation management and municipal compliance.

• Wisconsin DNR – Conservation Easements Overview
  https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/lands/conservation

• City of Superior Economic Development Department
  https://www.ci.superior.wi.us/180/Economic-Development

• Douglas County Register of Deeds (property records)
  https://www.douglascountywi.org/165/Register-of-Deeds