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WI Land+Water's 72nd Annual Conference
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR OUR BIGGEST EVENT OF THE YEAR!
Calling all conservation professionals, enthusiasts, and advocates! Registration is now open for the 72nd Annual WI Land+Water Conference, taking place March 5-7, 2025, at the KI Convention Center in Green Bay, WI. This flagship event brings together Wisconsin’s conservation community for three days of learning, connection, and inspiration. Our event is a unique opportunity to engage with peers, gain insights from experts, and celebrate the shared passion for protecting our natural resources.
Plenary Speakers
The conference kicks off on Wednesday with keynote speaker Brad Gingras, whose engaging talk will explore the traits and dynamics shaping today’s multi-generational workforce. Whether you’re a Baby Boomer, Gen Xer, Millennial, or Gen Z, Brad’s entertaining and insightful approach will offer practical strategies to foster understanding and success across age groups. He will also lead two breakout sessions later in the day, diving deeper into critical professional development topics.
Thursday’s plenary session will feature Nic Jelinski, an Associate Professor at the University of Minnesota and a leading pedologist—someone who studies the formation, characteristics, and distribution of soils. Nic’s presentation will highlight the critical role of soil science in conservation, focusing on soil variability, the relationship between soils and landscapes, and the ways soils respond to land management practices and environmental changes. If you’d like a preview of Nic’s work, check out his TEDx Talk, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the science beneath our feet Nic will also lead a breakout session earlier in the day to discuss his research.
Breakout Sessions and Technical Discussions
Throughout the conference, attendees will have the chance to explore more than 40 breakout sessions covering a wide range of conservation topics. From the impacts of groundwater flooding and seepage lakes to the effects of climate change on mental health, these sessions offer timely insights and practical tools for addressing today’s most pressing conservation challenges. Technical roundtable discussions will dive into topics like hydrologic restoration, watershed perspectives, and the role of tile drainage in agricultural settings. The variety of our sessions ensures there is something for everyone.
Supporting the Next Generation of Leaders
The Wisconsin Land+Water Conference also proudly supports the next generation of conservation leaders. The Conservation Awareness Poster & Speaking Contests give young people a platform to showcase their creativity, ideas, and passion for environmental stewardship. Attendees can also take part in the Silent Auction, a highlight of the conference, where proceeds benefit essential youth education programs like the Wisconsin Envirothon and Youth Conservation Summer Camps. The auction features locally sourced and unique items from across Wisconsin, giving participants the chance to support future conservation leaders while bringing home something special.
LCC Member Scholarships Now Available
To encourage greater participation among Land Conservation Committee (LCC) members, WI Land+Water is offering scholarships of $185 off conference registration for one LCC member in each of the eight Area Associations. Designed for LCC members who have never attended the conference, the scholarship is an excellent opportunity to experience the event firsthand. While the recipient’s county will cover any remaining registration costs and travel expenses, this support makes attending more accessible.
Mike Hofberger, Calumet County LWCC, said he felt better prepared to help his county after the conference. “What I get out of attending the WI Land+Water conference is knowing that I can do my job as a County Board Supervisor and LCC member better,” he explained. “I learn what other counties are doing and compare how we do it.
To apply, interested LCC members should contact Chris@wisconsinlandwater.org for more information. Scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, and the deadline to apply is Friday, January 31, 2025. Find full details here.
Recognizing Outstanding Conservation Leaders
From dedicated employees to passionate youth educators, our Conservation Awards shine a spotlight on the individuals or organizations who embody the spirit of our conservation community.
This year brings exciting news for the winners of our Conservation Farm Family of the Year Award. Rather than hosting Conservation Observance Day, the winning family will be featured in a professionally produced short film. This documentary-style video will highlight their farm and showcase their conservation practices, allowing us to share their unique story across Wisconsin and beyond. It’s a meaningful way to celebrate the outstanding work accomplished on Wisconsin farms and inspire others across the state to take action.
Our awards lineup also includes several other categories: Outstanding Conservation Employee (three categories), Outstanding LCC Member, Friend of Conservation, Conservation Legacy Award, and the Brad Matson Youth Education Award/ Outstanding Youth Educator. We're excited to welcome Alan Barrows, Waukesha County, as this year's Awards Banquet Host. Get ready for an exciting Thursday's evening as we celebrate your accomplishments!
Sponsorship Opportunities
This year’s conference also offers exciting opportunities for organizations and businesses to showcase their support for conservation through sponsorship. Sponsors will connect with over 500 conservation professionals, including local conservation staff, policymakers, and resource experts, during the three-day event. Sponsorship benefits include visibility in conference materials, opportunities to exhibit in high-traffic areas, and recognition across Wisconsin Land+Water’s digital platforms.
In addition, sponsors can align their brand with key conference events, such as the Awards Banquet, Keynote Speaker session, or Social Hour, showing their shared commitment to Wisconsin’s natural resources.
Exhibitors receive an exhibition table, access to conference programming, and chances to network in a dynamic, social atmosphere. Sponsorship levels range from Bronze to Gold, with options tailored to meet various outreach goals and budgets.
For more information on sponsorship opportunities and benefits, view our 2025 Packet. We hope you’ll join us in supporting locally led conservation efforts and building meaningful connections within Wisconsin’s conservation community.
Join Us for Three Days of Collaboration
Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a dedicated volunteer, or someone just beginning your journey in conservation, this conference offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn, connect, and contribute to the preservation of Wisconsin’s natural resources. With events for our Young Conservation Professionals Network to our Land Conservation Committee members, our event brings together all of our conservation community. Together, we can get things done in Wisconsin.
We are excited for these three days of knowledge, collaboration, and celebration! For more information and registration, visit wisconsinlandwater.org/conference.
