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• First H1N1 flu death reported in Wisconsin
• St. Croix County parks to institute firewood ban

The Wisconsin Department of Human Services reports that the stat's first death from the H1N1 flu has occurred.

According to DHS Secretary Karen Timberlake, the patient was Milwaukee resident with H1N1 flu and underlying health condition.

"We are deeply saddened by this death and our condolences go out to the patient's family and loved ones," she said. "Today's news, while tragic, was not unexpected. Every year, influenza claims the lives of as many as 700 Wisconsin citizens and this H1N1 virus is very similar to viruses that cause seasonal influenza. Influenza is especially dangerous for individuals with pre-existing conditions which put them at greater risk for complications."

Timberlake said state officials will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the case to determine which factors were important in the patient's death, as well as what lessons can be learned from this incident.

"As always, this news should serve as a reminder to the public of the importance of practicing good hygiene and staying away from work or school if they feel sick," she said. "Persons at high-risk for complications from influenza should call a health care provider if they have a fever combined with cough, sore throat, headache or body aches."

Those at higher risk for complications include: pregnant women, children from birth to age 2, adults 65 years old or older, people with certain chronic conditions, and residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities.

Wisconsin currently has 2,071 confirmed and 3 probable H1N1 flu cases.

Effective June 8, visitors to the St. Croix County parks may no longer bring in firewood or other sources of wood from outside the county parks.

Firewood will continue to be available for purchase at the campground in Glen Hills County Park.

This new rule is necessary because firewood can harbor many different kinds of invasive pests and diseases harmful to Wisconsin's trees. The new rule will likely cause inconveniences for campers, but is necessary to provide additional protection of the tree resources of St. Croix County.

Emerald ash borer was discovered in southern Wisconsin in 2008 and in Minnesota (Minneapolis/St. Paul area) in May 2009.

Now St. Croix County is faced with the very real threat of becoming the next county to discover the emerald ash borer (EAB) within its borders. Parks and campgrounds have been the sites of new introductions, because this beetle primarily moves on firewood.

Ash trees are a very common tree species in the St. Croix County Parks System and on average make up 30 percent of the community trees in Wisconsin.

EAB has already killed over 20 million trees in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Wisconsin and Ontario, Canada. If an emerald ash borer infestation is found, removal of all ash trees within 1/2 mile radius may be required, resulting in significant public and private costs.

Park staff realizes this may be an inconvenience and fully appreciates your cooperation with this new rule.