New Driftless Trail Volunteer Opportunities
In addition to our regular monthly workdays at our preserves (more details below!), we're adding ongoing workdays to help build and maintain the Driftless Trail! The first workday for trail maintenance, a.k.a. "Driftless Trail Trimmers," is coming up on Sunday, March 2nd. Our first trailbuilding day, a.k.a. "Driftless Trail Diggers," is Friday, April 18th. Learn more and register today!
Knowles-Nelson Lobby Day
Governor Tony Evers recently released a state budget proposal that calls for funding the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program at $100 million a year for 10 years - an amazing investment in conservation! However, this proposal is sure to face an uphill battle in the legislature. To advocate for Knowles-Nelson, join Gathering Waters and land trusts from around the state in Madison on March 12, 2025 for Lobby Day. Gathering Waters staff will provide talking points and training in the morning before meetings with lawmakers in the afternoon. Learn more and sign up here.
Can't make it to Lobby Day? Check out the many other ways to speak up for Knowles-Nelson!
Survey for Wildlife in Wisconsin
The DNR's Wildlife Management Program is completing a new strategic plan, and you can be a part of it! Head to this web page and click on the "Participate in the Public Input Process" tab at the bottom of the page, which will take you to a short survey. The deadline to submit is February 28th. Whether you're a hunter, fisher, birder, or just a big fan of Wisconsin's native animals, don't miss this opportunity to share your thoughts on managing our wildlife!
Volunteer Opportunities
Head outside and make a difference! Join our outdoor workdays:
Weekends at Wild Oaks: 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month. Upcoming dates: 3/1, 3/15
Sundays at Sardeson: 3rd Sundays of the month. Upcoming dates: 3/16
Wednesdays at the Wetland: 1st Wednesdays of the month. Upcoming dates: 3/5
Driftless Trail Trimmers: 1st Sundays of the month. Upcoming dates: 3/2
Find more details and let us know you're coming at our Volunteer page.
Notes From the Field
with Andy Bingle
"The First 15"
I have always been drawn to the first 15 minutes of a movie. That is when everything starts to unfold — you meet the characters, get a glimpse of the world they’re in, and start to feel the excitement of what’s to come. There is a sense of possibility, surprise, and discovery in those moments.
Starting a new job is a lot like that opening scene in a movie. You choose your new location, redefine who you are, and start building the relationships that will shape your journey ahead.
In my first three months as the Program Manager of the Southern Driftless Grasslands program, I have been inspired by the diverse beauty of Wisconsin’s Southern Driftless landscape, learned more about my own leadership style and values, and worked alongside amazing conservation partners. All this has been possible thanks to the incredible conservation foundation laid by those who came before me. It has been a truly exciting first 15 minutes.
Spring is nature’s page- or scene-break — a chance to edit your own story. An opportunity to identify new places to explore, remind yourself of your values, and choose to surround yourself with people who you would like to define your future 'you.'
So, what do you want your next first 15 minutes to look like?
- Andy Bingle, Southern Driftless Grasslands Program Manager