March 26, 2015
Wisconsin Lakes Partnership convention focuses on healthy lakes
The health of Wisconsin’s 15,000 lakes should not be taken for granted. That’s the message of the 2015 Wisconsin Lakes Partnership Convention taking place April 23 to 25 at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Stevens Point. The meeting brings together citizens, natural resource managers, and researchers to explore the connections between healthy lakes, healthy watersheds, and healthy people.
The 37th annual convention offers opportunities to learn more about lake science, lake management, and volunteer opportunities. Top researchers and outreach professionals share their knowledge through hands-on workshops, educational displays and exhibits, and interactive presentations. Off-site tours and demonstrations, panels of experts in lake science, and several networking opportunities round out the event. The gathering is a production of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, University of Wisconsin-Extension Lakes (part of the UW-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources), and the non-profit advocacy group Wisconsin Lakes.
Friday morning’s kickoff panel discussion will feature three people who collectively have shaped Wisconsin’s lake programs over the last forty years. Stephen Born, William O’Connor, and Jim Holperin will share the stage to reflect on the origins of the Wisconsin Lakes Partnership in the early 1970s, its challenges over time, and the prospects for its future. Eric Olson, the Director of the UW-Extension Lakes program, explains “We are convening these three leaders as a tribute to Lowell Klessig, who passed away last summer. Lowell’s career as an Extension educator and community organizer was centered on the lakes partnership, and he touched as many people as he did lakes.”
Friday evening will celebrate the extraordinary volunteer and professional efforts of individuals who work tirelessly to improve our lakes at the Wisconsin Lake Stewardship Awards Banquet. In addition, the In A New Light therapeutic photography program for at-risk youth will receive an award in memory of Lowell Klessig, as well as display their art exhibit at the convention.
Saturday morning’s keynote speaker, Marion Stoddart, will bring her empowering message of positive social and environmental change from decades of grassroots organizing. Her message is simple, yet profound, “What I wanted to do was to make a difference in the world – which is what we all want to do, and can do.” As a New England housewife in the 1960s, Marion tirelessly organized her neighbors to end the pollution harming the Nashua River. Today, what was once one of the most polluted waters in the nation is a candidate for federal Scenic and Wild River designation.
Walk-ins are welcome for Friday and Saturday morning sessions. Preregistration is required for workshops and tours on Thursday and Saturday. Pricing options depend on days and sessions attended.
To register and find a full schedule of events and descriptions, go to www.uwsp.edu/uwexlakes.
***