THE FIELD NOTE
WISCONSIN’S SOURCE FOR LOCALLY LED CONSERVATION
Volume 33 | Issue 2
MESSAGE FROM MATT
Perhaps more than any other seasonal transition, the arrival of fall always invokes in me a heightened sense of anticipation. Changes in landscape, day length, and temperature are expected, yet they always sneak up on me, and suddenly I’m wondering whether I’m ready for it. What projects need finishing before the snow flies? Does the boiler need a tuneup? What shape is the winter gear in? Other seasonally relevant questions arise too… Is this the year I really go for it with my Halloween costume? Who will top the NFC North?
But this fall in particular—with presidential and statewide elections occurring and the state biennial budget being formed—is attempting to nudge my seasonal anticipation toward anxiety. One need only cruise social media, watch TV, or go for a drive to be bombarded with political messages that would have you certain that the apocalypse is imminent if the “other side” is elected. We’re presented with seemingly binary choices, with no room in the middle for anything else.
While this fall’s elections will certainly have consequences, I’m confident that the sun will rise on November 6, despite the hyperbole. And when it does, awaiting it will be a Wisconsin that has real conservation challenges to address, such as erosion, polluted waterways, invasive species, and of course, climate change, which makes all of these issues worse.
The good news is that county land and water conservation, like no other entity in the state, is uniquely positioned to advance real solutions to our conservation challenges. Our collective commitment to partnerships and practical problem solving is an unquestionable asset. And even amid the political clamor of the season, our efforts enjoy bipartisan support and are backed by farm, community, and environmental groups alike.
As the state budget develops over the coming months, we will be looking to build on this broad support for county conservation. WI Land+Water will be asking each of our member counties to “tell the story” of county conservation, and to advocate for our shared interests, on the local level. Read more about this request, and our budget priorities on pages 8-9.
Conservation still inhabits a place “in the middle” where various and different interests can actually come together in the name of progress, making Wisconsin a better place. That provides me some peace of mind, and wards off any seasonal anxiety that might be trying to creep in. Now, off to find the snow shovel…
Matt Krueger, Executive Director
05.
NEW WI LAND+WATER STAFF
Meet the newest members of our statewide team.
06.
OUR 25-27 BUDGET PRIORITIES
Learn more about our priorities and how we can advance conservation.
10 . OUR 2025 CONFERENCE
Save the date for our 72nd Annual Conference in Green Bay, WI
12.
2025 CONSERVATION AWARDS
See what we’re now offering for our Conservation Farm Family Award.
14.
CONTENTS
14.
AREA ASSOCIATION TOURS
Check out the highlights from our summer and fall area showcases.
16.
LCC TRAININGS ON THE ROAD
Stay engaged with our latest events for our LCC members.
18.
SUMMER CAMP APPRECIATION
From our volunteers to donors, thank you helping youth enjoy the outdoors.
20 .
MIDDLE SCHOOL CAMP
Simon Dischler from Sauk County recounts on his camp experience.
22.
HIGH SCHOOL CAMP
Charlotte Rabe reflects on her time up north at our camp.
24.
NCF-ENVIROTHON
Team Wisconsin enjoyed competing and exploring in upstate New York.
28 . SOC TEAM UPDATES
Get involved with SOC teams as they develop quality standards.
29 . REMEMBERING DAN O’CONNELL
Jim dedicated more than three decades of service to our community.
18.
WHO’S NEW(S)?
THIS FALL, WE’RE WELCOMING NEW STAFF TO OUR OFFICE
AVERY AMELIA, OFFICE BABY
While she may be our tiniest team member, Avery’s impact is anything but small. Her impressive skill set includes being irresistibly cute, orchestrating synchronized “awwww” moments across the entire office, and effortlessly brightening everyone’s day with her heart-melting smiles. Avery has already proven herself to be an expert in boosting office morale and productivity through sheer adorableness. We look forward to welcoming her mom, Jenny, back to work in November, though we suspect Avery might steal the spotlight during any “Bring Your Child to Work” days!
LOU WARPINSKI, OFFICE MANAGER
With a degree in Accounting from Blackhawk Technical College and 15 years of experience working for churches, Lou brings a wealth of financial experience with a commitment to community service. An Army veteran and devoted 4-H horse project leader, Lou embodies the spirit of service and education. Her love for the great outdoors is rooted in her upbringing as a farm girl. Having lived in rural Wisconsin for 40 years, she comes from a family of farmers who cherished the land, and she continues this legacy on her own hobby farm with her husband, also a farm boy at heart. When not managing the office, Lou can be found trail riding on the beautiful Dane County Park Equestrian Trails with her four horses. She also channels her creativity into designing and selling horseshoe home decor art. A proud mother of four and grandmother to four grandsons, Lou values family time and keeping Wisconsin beautiful for future generations.
CONSERVATION WORKS FOR WISCONSIN
PREVIEW OUR 2025-2027 BIENNIAL BUDGET PRIORITIES AND LEARN HOW WE’RE ADVOCATING FOR CONSERVATION
A September conservation tour hosted by Miltrim Farms in Marathon County. From left to right: Tom Mueller, (Miltrim Farms and Marathon Co Environment & Resources Comm.), Matt Krueger (WI Land+Water), Kirstie Heidenreich (Marathon Co Conservation, Planning, & Zoning Dept.), Rep. Karen Hurd, and Sen. Jesse James.
This fall will see some changes in the Legislature following elections, but perhaps more than usual, with all Assembly members and half of the Senate running in newly drawn districts. (The other half of the Senate will run in new districts in 2026.) It presents a real opportunity for us to “tell the story” of county land and water conservation, and the value it represents to Wisconsin, as well as individual counties.
Ahead of the upcoming legislative session and the development of the 2025-27 state biennial budget, our Legislative-Administrative Committee outlined a set of policy priorities we will be engaging on in the coming months and years, and specifically, priorities for which we will be advocating in the budget.
WI Land+Water will be working to advance these budget priorities through a few different avenues. We’ll continue to work inside (and outside) the state capitol to build support with the Governor’s office and legislators. We’ll ensure we are coordinating with our colleagues at the Dept. of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection,
as well as the Dept. of Natural Resources. We’ll also be engaging our partners in conservation, local government, and agricultural groups to advance shared priorities.
If we are to find success, however, a vitally important part to our strategy is what YOU do in your home counties. There is no replacement for our members advocating for the work of county land and water conservation on the local level, and engaging legislators in their home districts. More on that shortly.
We were excited to work with land and water conservation department staff and committee members to organize legislative farm tours this summer in Marathon and Sauk counties. By design, these tours were hosted by leaders in the farm community who have excellent relationships with their county staff, and also participate in DATCP’s popular Producer-Led Watershed Grant Program. The relationship between farmers and LWCD staff was a focal point of the tours, as was the return on investment Wisconsin receives from its support of county conservation staff via the DATCP budget.
Senator Jesse James and Rep Karen Hurd, and Senators Ballweg and Marklein, respectively, were generous with their time and showed considerable interest in the county conservation staffing program. They asked us good questions, many of which we answered and some of which required follow-up after the fact—which provided yet another chance for engagement (a good thing!).
As our budget ask has not been met in recent budgets, and the need for stable, core funding from the state is vitally important to counties, we are taking a different approach. For the first time, WI Land+Water is requesting that each of our 72 member counties make an effort to engage its state legislators in support of our budget request. Engagement at the local level, supported by WI Land+Water’s continued work at the state level, will give us our best shot at budget success.
To support our member counties in this endeavor, we will be rolling out a number of resources that you can expect
to see in the coming weeks. First, we will be providing a “2025 - 2027 Biennial Budget Priorities” handout that can be used by counties to support their legislative engagement. Second, we will distribute an “Advocacy Toolkit” that will provide recommendations for how to conduct legislative meetings, calls, or tours. We will house all of this information on our website to ensure it is available when needed. Last, we will continue to provide periodic Capitol Update emails containing relevant information on legislative and budget proceedings.
Our staff members are more than happy to assist counties with their advocacy efforts; any interested counties should contact Matt Krueger with this request. Thank you for your continued membership support, and for your advance commitment to our shared advocacy efforts. We look forward to making budget and legislative progress in the months ahead!
OUR TOP PRIORITY:
COUNTY CONSERVATION STAFFING
Support Wisconsin farmers and landowners by allocating $20.2 million in base funding for county land and water conservation department (LWCD) technical professionals, from the DATCP budget.
» LWCD staff carry out a range of the state’s agricultural and resource management programs to reduce non-point pollution, preserve farmland, limit aquatic invasive species, protect waterfront property, manage forests, and reduce floods.
» Without county staff support, vital state programs like DATCP’s Farmland Preservation Program simply would not function.
» LWCD staff assist Wisconsin’s farmers in many ways, including supporting producer-led watershed groups, developing nutrient management plans, and improving profitability.
» LWCD staff maintain relationships with landowners, building trust and partnerships that have major water quality benefits, like preventing soil erosion and protecting our drinking water.
County conservation staff are the key to unlocking dollars for Wisconsin communities.
For every $1 of county staffing provided in the state biennial budget, LWCDs leverage $2 in additional local, state, and federal funding.*
*Determined using data from DATCP
ADDITIONAL CONSERVATION PRIORITIES
Addressing the following issues at the state level would better allow LWCDs to meet the needs of their communities.
AGRICULTURAL ENTERPRISE AREAS
Protect farmland by increasing the statewide Agricultural Enterprise Area cap to 3 million acres, meeting increased farmer demand for Farmland Preservation Program participation.
CLEAN DRINKING WATER
Give Wisconsinites with contaminated wells access to safe drinking water by expanding eligibility for well replacement or whole home filtration via the Well Compensation Program.
PROTECT WATERWAYS
Develop a science-based framework that minimizes the impacts of wake boats (shoreline erosion, water quality degradation, aquatic invasive species introduction and transport) while promoting local control.
QUESTIONS? CONTACT: Matt Krueger, Executive Director | matt@wisconsinlandwater.org | 608-441-2677 x 401
A July farm visit hosted by Bindl Farms in Sauk Co. From left to right: Matt Krueger, (WI Land+Water), Sen. Joan Ballweg, Brian Sadler (Sauk Co Land Resources & Environment Dept.),. Marty Krueger (Sauk Co. Land Resources & Environment Comm.) Ray Ring (Plain Village Pres.), Melissa Schlupp (Sauk Co Land Resources & Environment Dept.), Roger Bindl, Sen. Howard Marklein, and Joe Prem (Franklin Twp. Pres.)
CONVENE
MARCH 5-7, 2025
72 ND ANNUAL CONFERENCE
WE’RE BACK IN GREEN BAY WITH 40 BREAKOUT SESSIONS, YOUTH EDUCATION CONTESTS, AND YOUR FAVORITE CONFERENCE EVENTS
The time has come again to prepare for our biggest event of the year—the 72nd Annual Conference. We’re excited to bring you this event on March 5-7 at the KI Convention Center in Green Bay, WI.
Thanks to the hard work and planning of our staff, the Professional Improvement Committee (PIC) and the Technical Committee, this will be our biggest and best event yet. Each August, these committees come together for a day long joint brainstorming session to explore ideas for conference session topics and events. Committee members gather input from their colleagues across the state, asking everyone to bring their best ideas for topics, speakers, and activities.
The goal is to ensure we are offering a conference program that truly meets the needs of our diverse membership. We review attendance, feedback, and emerging issues to curate a lineup of 40 sessions covering the latest best practices, technical developments, and professional growth opportunities. After populating the initial list of ideas, our staff then reaches out to secure speakers and panelists.
“We’re excited to have Brad Ginrgas join us again this year as one of our featured speakers,” said Chris Schlutt, Training & Events Manager. “Brad will give a talk during the opening luncheon, and he is always very entertaining and enlightening.”
For Thursday’s keynote, we are excited to welcome Nic Jelinski, an Associate Professor of Soil Science in the Department of Soil, Water and Climate at the University of Minnesota. He has worked in soils and land management for state and federal agencies, as well as the private sector. “Nic was highly requested by
several of our members, and we know that he’s working on something new for our event,” commented Chris.
Other highly anticipated events include the Conservation Poster and Speaking Contests, organized by our Youth Education Committee. These contests provide a creative platform for our youth to express their understanding of conservation. Posters are evaluated based on their conservation message, visual effectiveness, originality, universal appeal, and individual artwork. The poster competition, which is open to students from kindergarten through 12th grade, progresses through the county and area levels, with the winning entries advancing to the State Competition at the Conference. Top posters from the state level will go on to represent Wisconsin at the National Association of Conservation Districts’ Annual Meeting.
“We’re excited for this year’s poster theme, Home is Where the Habitat Is ,” said our Youth Education Director Kim Warkentin. “Many of our conservation staff and
science educators will work with students in the classroom to teach them about the topic, so this is a great opportunity for students to learn more about conservation.”
The Conservation Awareness Speaking Contest also encourages students in 5th through 12th grade to engage with conservation on a deeper level. Students identify and research
a local conservation issue, and prepare a speech to educate others on the topics. Speakers compete at the county and area level, and the winners advance to the State level.
Not only will the winning speakers receive a trophy, but the first-place winner in each category will share their speeches at the opening luncheon. “Kicking off our conference with our student speakers really leaves the entire room feeling hopeful and inspired,” explained Kim. “These young speakers are really passionate, and it shines through in their speeches.”
Conference attendees can also support our youth programs during the event’s Silent Auction. The proceeds help to facilitate youth education programs that happen across the state. The Silent Auction donations provide an opportunity to highlight the diversity of each county. From the coveted Kringle to handmade crafts, there are hundreds of unique items. “It’s always so much fun to see what people donate, and there are always those ‘must-have’ items that can really get the friendly bidding wars going,” said Kim. To learn more about the youth education events happening at the conference, reach out to Kim, our Silent Auction Chair Haillie Passow, or any member of our Youth Education Committee.
Our early bird conference registration will open in December and we encourage everyone to secure their spot early. Last year, our conference was sold out with over 500 attendees, so don’t wait to register. Be on the lookout for more details this winter as we finalize the full agenda. In the meantime, save the date and start planning your trip to Green Bay for our 72nd Annual Conference!
A NEW FOCUS ON OUR CONSERVATION FARM FAMILY
IN 2025, WE’RE OFFERING SOMETHING EXCITING FOR OUR WINNING FAMILY
Each year, we celebrate those who have gone above and beyond to support conservation efforts across Wisconsin. We’re excited to announce a change for the 2025 Conservation Farm Family of the Year Award winner.
In place of hosting Conservation Observance Day, we’re creating something special. The winning family will be featured in a professionally produced short film that showcases their farm, highlights their conservation practices, and shares their unique story. This documentary-style video will capture the outstanding work being accomplished on Wisconsin farms and will be widely shared across the state to inspire and educate others about conservation in action.
This change comes after seeing a decline in nominations, which included two years of receiving none. “We want to make sure that we’re recognizing the partnership between counties and farmers,” explained Chris Schlutt, Training and Events Manager. “While hosting Conservation Observance Day was
a great honor, we understand that it could be a big undertaking for counties and the winning family. Creating a video will give them something that can last forever and can be shared widely to highlight their achievements.”
There has been a notable increase in opportunities for on-farm visits, thanks to the dedicated efforts of counties and producer-led groups in organizing pasture walks and field days. Because nominees are leaders in their community, many are already hosting these field days and events.
After the winner is selected, WI Land+Water staff will work closely with the county and family to coordinate a day of on-site filming. We’re very excited to work with Bob Trondson of Clouds North Films,” said Kristin Teston, Communications Manager. “We had a great experience filming our promotional video, and I know that we’re going to create something really special for our winning family.”
But the Conservation Farm Family isn’t the only category that’s experienced a lack of nominations, Chris noted. Last year, there were
no nominations for Outstanding LCC Member, and 2022 saw none for the Outstanding Conservation Employee–Administrative Assistant. “The nomination process is easy and our goal is to have at least one nomination for each category, so please take the time to nominate someone,” encourged Chris. “Getting to recognize our members for their dedication to conservation is really exciting, so let’s make that happen!” The additional awards include:
• Outstanding Conservation Employee (three categories)
• Outstanding LCC Member
• Friend of Conservation
• Conservation Legacy Award
• Brad Matson Youth Education Award for Outstanding Youth Educator
Nominations for all awards are due by December 31, 2024, and will be judged by our PIC. All winners will be recognized at our 2025 Annual Conference
Nomination materials can be found at wisconsinlandwater.org/ conservation/awards
SUMMER & FALL AREA ASSOCIATION TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Each summer, Area Associations plan tours that showcase a county’s recent conservation projects and practices
LAKE MICHIGAN
SOUTHERN
SOUTHEAST
Hosted by Walworth County, the theme of the tour was partnerships. It begin with a stop to a large-scale BMP installation that included multiple partners, a visit to Mound Road Basins dredging project, and a presentation aquatic invasive species prevention from the Geneva Lake Environmental Agency. After lunch at Edgewater Park, the tour continued with an informational Q&A about solar projects in Wisconsin with One Energy. The day wrapped up with a discussion of storm water management in the Lyons Hillside Subdivision.
This diverse tour showcased agricultural innovation and local history in Rock County. The day’s journey began with a greenhouse tour of Agrecol, a major producer of Midwest native plants and seeds. Next they traveled to Upbeet Produce, a CSA focused on sustainable farming. Participants were also able to explore a CCC erosion control structure. Lunch featured locally sourced burgers and brats at the new Rock River Heritage Park, accompanied by insights from the Farmers on the Rock watershed group. The tour concluded with a visit to the Rock County Farm, where attendees heard about ongoing farm research with UW-Extenstion partners.
Hosted by Manitowoc County, attendees first stopped at Van der Brohe Arboretum & Bird Sanctuary, a 65-acre former golf course-turned preserve that combines art, architecture, and conservation to learn about the future vision for this site. Next, they toured Woodland Dunes Nature Center & Preserve’s blooming pollinator areas before enjoying lunch catered by Grow-It Forward/Harmony Cafe, a non-profit anti-hunger organization with a mission to provide people in need with dignified access to food. After lunch, the tour stopped to view the Hill Line Dairy and Pine Creek/Carstens Lake wetland and phosphorus absorption project as well as the English Lake sediment basin, diversion, and tile project before enjoying a scoop of ice cream from Pine River Dairy to cap off the day.
NORTH CENTRAL
Langlade County emphasized their local connection to agriculture at this exciting event. The tour visited Spychalla Farms Experimental Fields to hear about Jim Spychalla’s use of cover crops and to view an edge of field nutrient monitoring station on the farm. The tour also included a visit to Schroeder Brother’s Farms where they explored the farm’s Potato Museum. The Langlade County Land Conservation Department staff all contributed a dish for lunch after the tour and an Area Association meeting followed.
WEST CENTRAL
Despite the rainy weather, participants embarked on an educational journey through Buffalo County. The bus tour included stops to view active trials of the Nitrogen Optimization Pilot Program, and a trout habitat restoration project at Waumandee Creek. A highlight was lunch at Suncrest Gardens Farm, a familyowned establishment nestled in the rolling river bluffs near the Mississippi, known for its commitment to community and locally produced food. The day concluded with viewing several historic CCC structures from the bus before returning to Reick Lake Park.
LAKE WINNEBAGO
Attendees of the Lake Winnebago Area tour spent the morning in Marquette County visiting Gumz Farms and hearing from Richard Gumz about the history of his family’s business. Gumz Farms is a major producer in Wisconsin and the Midwest for potatoes, onions, mint, etc. The tour included a look inside the packaging facility, which operates year round.
ENGAGE
LCC TRAININGS TAKE TO THE ROAD
WITH FIVE EVENTS IN FIVE COUNTIES, WE WELCOMED NEW AND RETURNING LAND CONSERVATION COMMITTEE MEMBERS AT IN-PERSON EVENTS
Following April’s statewide county board supervisor elections, our staff took to the road to welcome new and returning Land Conservation Committee members. Recognizing the evolving needs of both newly elected and returning LCC members, as well as LWCD staff, we reimagined our approach to create a more engaging learning experience for attendees.
To implement this new vision, our training team conducted a series of engaging 2-hour sessions across five strategic locations throughout Wisconsin in the month of June. This decentralized approach allowed us to reach a wider audience, tailor content to regional needs, facilitate networking among neighboring counties, and reduce travel burdens for attendees. In many instances, we coordinated these sessions with Area Association meetings, maximizing attendance and fostering a sense of community among participants.
We welcomed more than 140 attendees, representing 46 counties, including newly elected LCC members, returning members, and LWCD staff. The exciting level of engagement shows that our members are ready to get their boots on the ground and learn more about locally led conservation.
For newer members, the training provided crucial introduction to Wisconsin conservation. Patti Hurd, serving her first term on Burnett County’s Natural Resources Committee, said that the training provided a helpful overview and helped her feel more connected to her peers. “The overview of all of it really is helpful because when we get appointed to these committees, a lot of times it’s with people who already know things, so there is very little orientation.” She added, “It’s helpful to hear the purpose and what our role is, what our guidelines are, what we can do and what we shouldn’t be doing - those kinds of things are very helpful.”
A key focus of the training was the relationship between LWCDs and LCCs. Hurd appreciated the panel discussions on this topic, stating, “I liked the panel, I thought it was very helpful to compare different counties.” This aspect of the training helped clarify roles and foster better understanding between committee members and department staff.
Mike Hofberger, a seasoned member of Calumet County’s Land and Water Conservation Committee, shared his perspective on Wisconsin’s unique approach to conservation. “We’re the only state in the nation that has a joint organization of staff and supervisors, and that is good – I think everyone gains from that.” He also emphasized the importance of engagement and continuous learning. “Learn, it is a job, we are elected; we are expected to know something about our committee,” encouraged Hofberger. “Get in there and learn, listen, talk, communicate, educate, and promote.”
Hurd said that this training inspired her to do just that. She is eager to attend more trainings that deal with specific topics and allow attendees to dig
deeper into the issues facing their communities. “It made me say, ‘I want to learn more about these things,’” she reflected.
Our LCC members can expect announcements about our upcoming virtual “LCC Coffee and Conservation” sessions, which are designed to dive into a conservation topic or two, in an informal setting. Our September session “Land and Water Resource Management Planning,” was attended by nearly 20 people, and featured presentations from county staff and supervisors alike, and lots of informal discussion. We are planning a “Conservation Funding” session for the winter. Let us know if there is another topic you’d like to see covered in a future session, or even a conference session!
DISPATCHES FROM SUMMER CAMP EDUCATE
THANKS TO THE SUPPORT OF OUR CONSERVATION COMMUNITY, WE CAN INSPIRE THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS
After the last embers of campfires fade, we reflect on another incredible year of our Middle School and High School Conservation Camps. First and foremost, we owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to our tireless camp counselors. These unsung heroes, with their boundless energy and infectious enthusiasm, have been the backbone of our camps. From first-light fishing to starlit storytelling, they’ve nurtured a love for conservation in our campers that will last a lifetime. To each and every counselor: your time, passion, and commitment have not gone unnoticed. You are a true source of hope, inspiring the next generation to appreciate and protect our natural resources.
But great counselors are just part of the equation. We’re immensely grateful to the numerous organizations that have opened doors for young minds through their generous scholarship support: The Brad Matson Scholarship Fund, Transcendent Technologies, Fond du Lac Audubon Society, and the Green County Conservation League.
We’d like to shine a spotlight on ten counties that went above and beyond, providing scholarships for both our Middle School and High School Camps: Dane, Forest, Iron, Jackson, Oneida, Ozaukee, Portage, Sauk, and Washington.
Your support has allowed students from diverse
backgrounds to experience the wonders of nature firsthand, potentially igniting lifelong passions for conservation.
Every scholarship granted is more than just a ticket to camp – it’s an invitation to explore career paths in conservation, to make lasting friendships, and to develop a personal connection with the great outdoors. These experiences shape perspectives, build confidence, and sometimes even change lives.
The impact of these camps and scholarships extends far beyond the summer months, shaping the future of conservation in Wisconsin and beyond. To truly understand the profound impact these experiences have on our campers, we need look no further than their own words. In the following section, we’re honored to share heartfelt letters from our scholarship recipients. This student’s story is just one among many, but it beautifully illustrates the transformative power of connecting young people with nature and conservation.
We’re always looking to expand our scholarship program! If you’re interested in setting up a camp scholarship in your county, please reach out to Kim at kim@wisconsinlandwater.org. Together, we can ensure that more young people have the opportunity to experience the excitement of Wisconsin’s great outdoors.
Greetings,
In June, I was provided with the amazing opportunity to attend the Wisconsin Land and Water Conservation High School Camp in Manitowish Waters, thanks to Mrs. Sarah Ludwig (my science teacher) since she informed me of the Audubon Society’s scholarship program. I was so thankful and excited for this trip. I even learned to fish two weeks before so I could partake in sunrise fishing activities there.
Upon arrival, we settled into our cabins, did a couple icebreakers and had lunch. Afterwards we set out for the lake to canoe and learn a bit about canoeing and canoeing rescue techniques. I also found some puffball mushrooms along the shore. We tie dyed camp shirts and then started with the camp’s nighttime routine.
The next morning, we went sunrise fishing. Mary Nelson then presented to us about pollinators, focusing on single colony bees. We made and painted some boxes filled with hollow sticks to provide homes for these pollinators. After that, we headed off campus to Saxon Harbor on Lake Superior and attended a presentation about flood relief efforts. We went for a quick swim before heading home. We watched a stirring movie about the dangers pollinators face before heading to bed.
The next morning was the only day nobody fished since we were all so tired from the day before. After breakfast, we headed up to Crystal Lake to learn about macroinvertebrates which was very interesting. We found dragonfly larvae and lots of other critters. I also got to forage a little on our way since there were plenty of wild strawberries growing along the shore. We then went for a canoe trip and headed back to camp. We had a fire before bed where one of the counselors and I played ukulele and guitar and sang for a while.
On the final day, we fished, packed up, and said our goodbyes. While I was exhausted and covered in bug bites, I had never been happier. I hope I will be able to return soon. I would like to restate how thankful I am to have had this experience and I couldn’t have attended without the kindness of the FDL Audubon Society.
-Charlotette Rabe
While I was exhausted and covered in bug bites, I had never been happier. “
TEAM WISCONSIN TRAVELS TO NCF-ENVIROTHON EDUCATE
A TEAM’S JOURNEY FROM A STATE VICTORY TO THE NATIONAL STAGE, PROVES THAT A LOVE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT CAN TAKE YOU FAR
In an impressive display of their environmental knowledge and teamwork, the Cedarburg High School emerged victorious at the WI Envirothon competition held this April at the Lions Camp in Rosholt. With the guidance of their dedicated teacher Katie Schlicht, who serves as both a Science Teacher and CoAdvisor of the CHS Environmental Club, the team’s hard work and passion led them to take the title of overall winner at their first competition.
Their victory at the state level opened the door to an even greater adventure. The Cedarburg team earned the honor of representing Wisconsin at the National Conservation Foundation Envirothon, held in July at Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, New York. This marked their debut on the international stage, and the excitement built as they prepared to compete against teams from across the United States, Canada, and beyond.
The NCF-Envirothon kicked off with a grand opening ceremony, where state flags were proudly presented. This was followed by the lively trading session and a delightful ice cream social. These events set the tone for a week filled with exciting competition and newfound friendships. Over the next days, the Cedarburg team found themselves
immersed in interactive testing courses, showcasing their expertise at four outdoor stations: Wildlife, Forestry, Aquatics, and Soils.
Drawing upon a year’s worth of research and preparation, the Wisconsin team also delivered a compelling 20-minute presentation on a real-world energy issue. Their focus on this year’s Current Issue, “Renewable Energy for a Sustainable Future,” demonstrated not only their teamwork skills but also their ability to address some of our most pressing resource concerns.
Amid the rigorous competition, the team found time for an unforgettable excursion to Niagara Falls State Park. The highlight of this adventure was undoubtedly the boat ride on the Maid of the Mist, where they experienced the power and beauty of the iconic falls up close. This breathtaking encounter with nature served as a poignant reminder of why their work in environmental stewardship is so crucial.
As the Cedarburg High School team reflects on the following pages, their journey from firsttime state competitors to national representatives, stands as an inspiration to students everywhere. It proves that with dedication, teamwork, and a passion for the great outdoors, young voices are already making a significant impact on the future of conservation.
EMILY FREYMUTH NOW COLLEGE FRESHMAN
This fall I will be attending UW-Stevens Point where I will study Environmental Science. It was our school’s first time participating in the Envirothon competition so we did not know all of what to expect at the state competition or the national competition. At the Wisconsin competition we just tried our best and had fun. There were a few questions that we had no idea how to answer that we researched after the competition but also a lot of questions we were able to answer right away. It was a fun learning experience because we were there to pave the path for our school next year so you could imagine our surprise to find out we won the state competition. My favorite part of the nationals competition was getting closer with my team and meeting new people from other states. There were a lot of graduated seniors that were going on to study something environmental in college. It was nice to be able to talk to people about that common interest. The career fair on the first day was also very beneficial. I was given a lot of useful information about potential internships and jobs I might want to have while I am in college and after I graduate. This experience has made me more confident that I want to continue my education in Environmental Science.
NATALIE REITZ
SENIOR
EVANGELINE DAVIS JUNIOR
Hello my name is Evangeline Davis, an upcoming junior attending Cedarburg High School. After high school, I would like to major in Education and become an elementary school teacher. Although I am leaning toward education, I still love learning about the environment and environmental issues. Envirothon has been such a great opportunity to learn about different fields in environmental science as well as just expanding my knowledge. My favorite part about NCF Envirothon was the testing stations. It was so fun to work with my team and display what we have been studying and working toward. I hope to have this opportunity to attend NCF’s Envirothon again next year!
I am interested in majoring in Communications and Marketing. I really enjoyed meeting all of the people from different states and coming together for the environment!
From left to right: Emily Freymuth, Natalie Reitz, Evangeline Davis, Haylie Wetsten, Anna Dietz.
HAYLIE WETSTEN
SENIOR
At both state and nationals, I really liked testing because I could see how much I knew being applied and I just find that really satisfying (and I won’t forget my poncho tearing and getting drenched during the Current Issues test). I also loved getting to see Niagara Falls for the first time and going on the boat that takes you right up close and in the mist. I got some really neat pictures! And, of course, it was nice to spend time with and get to know my teammates better throughout the week, which will make next year all the more fun. After high school, I plan to major in Environmental Sciences/Natural Resources.
ANNA DIETZ
JUNIOR
My name is Anna Dietz and I am a junior in high school. Envirothon was a fun experience, especially because I am thinking of majoring in Environmental Science. Envirothon allowed me to learn and study many different topics that I would not have studied otherwise. I learned a lot about soils and forestry in particular. Along with learning, I enjoyed meeting people from all over the country and world at nationals. We had many opportunities to talk with the other teams, such as when we participated in a trading activity where we traded items related to our state with the other teams. It was interesting hearing about where the teams were from and their experiences in Envirothon.
2025 WISCONSIN ENVIROTHON
APRIL 11, 2025 LIONS CAMP | ROSHOLT, WI
Mark your calendars for the 2025 Wisconsin Envirothon, the state’s ultimate environmental science challenge for middle and high school students. Founded in 1988, this annual event combines hands-on outdoor learning with rigorous academic competition. Student teams will test their knowledge in Aquatic Ecology, Forestry, Soils & Land Use, and Wildlife, while guided by natural resource professionals and educators. Participants will also tackle a current environmental issue in a team presentation, developing crucial leadership and communication skills. Join us for a day of environmental exploration, team-building, and the chance to represent Wisconsin at the National Conservation Foundation’s NCF-Envirothon. Don’t miss this opportunity to mentor the next generation of conservation professionals. Learn more about starting an team, becoming a volunteer, or sponsoring the event at wisconsinlandwater.org/envirothon.
SOC ADVANCES CONSERVATION STANDARDS CONVENE
JOIN THE CONVERSATION AND CONTRIBUTE TO ENHANCING CONSERVATION PRACTICES
The Standards Oversight Council (SOC) is making strides to ensure high quality conservation standards in Wisconsin, with four active work teams focusing on crucial agricultural and urban water management practices. These teams are working on quite a few standards:
» NRCS 512 Pasture and Hay Planting
» NRCS 590 Nutrient Management
» DNR 1011 Vegetated Dry Storm Water Pond
» DNR 1012 Storm Water Sand Filter System
» DNR 1013 Flow-Weighted Additive Dosing of Storm Water Ponds
» DNR 1014 Episodic Additive Dosing for Post-Construction Maintenance
SOC believes that diverse perspectives lead to more effective standards and invites interested individuals to participate in this important process. To get involved, contact Kate Brunner, SOC Program Manager, at kate@wisconsinlandwater.org. For those who wish to stay informed about public comment periods and other news, we recommend signing up for the urban or agricultural email lists via the SOC website. Your engagement can help shape the future for Wisconsin’s land and water resource management!
DAN O’CONNELL
since 1990, Dan was A Beloved member of our Wi Land+Water conservation community
Daniel O’Connell, 56, was called home on September 29, 2024, after an eighteen year courageous battle with cancers. He was born on May 22, 1968 in Hudson, WI. He graduated from Sparta High School in 1986 and later earned a degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology from Iowa State University. Dan began his career in 1990 as a conservation intern in Monroe County. He worked in Wood County (1991-1994) and Jackson County (1994-1999) as a Conservation Technician. He retired from Portage County as a Senior Conservation Technician in September of 2024 after 25 years of dedicated conservation work. He worked with hundreds of landowners to design and install conservation practices that conserve the soil and protect the waters of the state. He was instrumental in many conservation organizations, including Farmers of the Mill Creek Council, Farmers for Tomorrow and the Wisconsin Land and Water Technical Committee. In 2018 he was named the Land and Water Outstanding Conservation Employee Technician. Dan could be found most spring mornings scouting for the Greater Prairie Chickens for the annual census and in the summer eradicating invasive species, but his passion was educating the next generation on the importance of conservation. Dan’s family hopes to establish a scholarship in his name so he can continue to impact the lives of the youth in our community.
