Fall 2012 - Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin

Fall 2012
BRIDGES
Connecting people to conservation in Wisconsin
Wisconservation
Spotlight: Your
Support at Work
— Page 3
In Memory of
Dave Redell
— Page 4
Pils Create a
Conservation
Fund
— Page 6
Cover photo by J. Mayer: Border Lakes
State Natural Area in Vilas County
Inset photo by D.Z. Johnson: Dave Redell
at 2012 Wisconsin Bat Fest
• Sitting atop a rocky ledge on a Foundation Field Trip to
Observatory Hill in Marquette County, where John Muir
perched as a boy and looked down on Ennis Lake and the
rolling hills toward Baraboo; and thinking about how this
landscape informed Muir’s later work with Teddy Roosevelt
to advocate for the idea of national parks in America.
FROM THE DIRECTOR:
I recently attended a memorial service for bat biologist Dave
Redell, who with Lisa Wilson established the Wisconsin Bat
Conservation Fund with our Foundation in 2009. You can read
more about Dave and the Fund on page 4. The service was very
moving and captured Dave’s dedication, spirit, and mischiefmaking qualities so admired by his friends and colleagues. The
program included Dave’s list of things for which he was
thankful: the special people in his life, music, his home, coffee,
the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ Bat Crew—
and living in Wisconsin.
I was struck by Dave’s thoughtfulness in preparing this list. In
my last days on Earth, would I have been self-aware enough to
include “living in Wisconsin” on my top twenty things for which
to be grateful?
Living in Wisconsin is a gift. In the past few weeks I’ve been
introduced to Foundation members who know this and are
doing their part to be stewards of the natural beauty of
Wisconsin. I am grateful for these experiences that remind me
of our Foundation’s mission to connect generations to the
conservation of Wisconsin’s lands, waters, and wildlife:
• Watching for hawks at the Cedar Grove Ornithological
Research Station in Sheboygan County with Dan Berger, who
has banded raptors for more than 63 years, and who, with
Helmut Mueller and many volunteers and interns, maintains
the longest record of banding that has resulted in more than
70 scientific papers about hawk and owl populations and
migrations.
• Meeting Foundation members on the Brule River in Bayfield
County and hearing about the difference that our
Foundation has made in their lives by introducing them to
new places in Wisconsin or helping them set up an endowment for a Wisconsin natural area or waterway.
What a poignant reminder for us all: to be thankful that we live
in a beautiful state along with fellow conservationists who enjoy
and appreciate our great fortune in making this place our home.
I am thankful to you—our Foundation
members and supporters—for your
devotion and dedication to Wisconsin.
What a gift you are for our state.
• Paddling the Upper Sugar River in Dane County with
Foundation members and endowment creators Bill and Lisa
Keen, and hearing about the monthly stream monitoring
and canoe trips (“Paddle & Pig-Out” trip to Paoli) they
organize for the Upper Sugar River Watershed Association to
introduce others to the river’s beauty.
With gratitude,
Ruth Oppedahl, Executive Director
BRIDGES
Fall 2012
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EMERITUS DIRECTORS
FOUNDATION STAFF
Robert Banks
Linda Bochert
Bruce Braun
Daniel T. Flaherty
Rebecca Haefner, M.D.
Rita Hayen
Martin Henert
Jim Hubing
Kristine Krause
David Ladd
Richard Lorang
Diane Humphrey Lueck
William Lunney
Peg Mallery
Jim Matras
Tom Olson
Ron Semmann
Albert Toma
Darrell Bazzell
Anthony Earl
Robert Froehlke
Thomas Lyon
Howard Mead
Thomas Schmidt
Toby Sherry
Christine Thomas
Todd Tiefenthaler
Margaret Van Alstyne
Sally Whiffen
Winnie Bade, Financial Officer
Barb Barzen, Grants Coordinator
Florence Edwards-Miller, Administrator
John Kraniak, Membership Coordinator
Ruth Oppedahl, Executive Director
Maria Sadowski, Director of Communications
Christine Tanzer, Field Trip Coordinator
Camille Zanoni, Director of Member Relations
HONORARY DIRECTORS
OUR MISSION:
2
C.D. Buzz Besadny
Collins Ferris
Paul Hassett
Warren Knowles
Cliff Messinger
Gaylord Nelson
Dair J. Steward
Daniel Trainer
Nash Williams
BRIDGES / Fall 2012
Connecting generations to the wonders of Wisconsin’s
lands, waters, and wildlife through conservation,
education, engagement, and giving.
wisconservation.org
Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin
WISCONSERVATION SPOTLIGHT:
Your Support at Work
Our C.D. Besadny Conservation Grant Program, named after one of our Foundation’s
founders, provides financial support to public and private organizations or government
agencies working on natural resource projects and programs at a small-scale, local level.
Grants range from $100 to $1,000 and must be matched 100% by recipient organizations
either through cash or in-kind donations. In 2012, the Besadny Endowment Grants awarded
more than $21,600 to 23 community partners across Wisconsin. Projects included trail
building, outreach programs, monitoring of streams, lakes, birds, badgers, and woodducks,
and many more activities that connect children and adults to the wildlife and wild places in
their community. We recently changed the application deadline to September 6, 2013.
Please check future newsletters or our website for information on how to apply for a grant.
WDNR
Besadny Grants Fund Projects Statewide
Our Foundation has been instrumental in supporting the recovery of whooping cranes in
Wisconsin. Our funding helped 14 young whooping cranes currently heading south on
their first migration. Of these, six left the White River Marsh in late September, following
ultralight aircraft flown by Operation Migration pilots. Six chicks were captive-raised at the
Necedah National Wildlife Refuge during the summer, released at Horicon Marsh in late
October, and safely arrived at their wintering habitats. The other two youngsters are
following their parents as they migrate. The total population of the Wisconsin-Florida flock
stands at 110—an impressive number for a species that is still critically endangered.
To follow the project, visit Bringbackthecranes.org or Facebook.com/WhoopingCrane
EasternPartnership.
D.Z. Johnson
Whoopers Winging South
The Wisconsin Master Naturalist program will provide a large corps of volunteers dedicated
to conserving the state’s natural resources through education, stewardship, and research
activities—a perfect fit for our Foundation’s mission and goals. We have committed to
funding the development and implementation of the Wisconsin Master Naturalist
program, which is gearing up for its debut next year. The first pilot training session in
Madison graduated 25 Master Naturalists this summer, a second pilot training session is
underway in Ashland, and its website is under construction. The long-awaited program will
launch with three volunteer training sessions in spring and three more in fall of 2013, at
various locations across the state. Fundraising is going full speed to make it all happen. If
you are interested in becoming a Wisconsin Master Naturalist, watch for updates in our enewsletters, website, and Facebook page.
WDNR
Wisconsin Master Naturalist Debuts Soon
Bigger and Better 2013 Great Wisconsin Birdathon
K & B Wardiu
After raising $21,000 in our pilot year, our partners are now planning the 2013 Great
Wisconsin Birdathon, which includes a new website to provide an easy, fun, and engaging
way to support Wisconsin’s birds. Birders of all levels will create their own web page for
their Birdathon, and donors can connect with birds (and birders) through the teams’
experiences. So gear up and stay tuned!
Learn about and contribute to these projects online at wisconservation.org. Thank you!
Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin
BRIDGES / Fall 2012
3
In Memory:
DAVE REDELL
Dave Redell, bat ecologist with the Wisconsin Department of
Natural Resources (DNR) and long-time friend to our
Foundation, passed away on Tuesday, September 18, 2012.
Many of our members know Dave from the numerous field
trips he led to places such as Neda Mine and Maiden Rock. His
enthusiasm was absolutely contagious, and his story touches
all of us who care about Wisconsin, and the future of our
wildlife and wild places.
D.Z. Johnson
Background In Bats
Dave obtained a Master’s degree in wildlife ecology from UWMadison. His studies focused on bat migration, with Neda
Mine in Dodge County as his research site. Neda Mine is the
Midwest’s largest bat hibernaculum; more than 150,000 bats
hibernate there each winter.
The DNR Bat Crew (left to right): Heather Kaarakka, Paul White,
Jennifer Redell, and Dave Redell
“I don’t think I have ever come across a more dedicated conservationist than Dave Redell,” says Erin Crain, DNR’s Bureau
Director, Endangered Resources. “Dave’s tenacity, creativity,
and passion for his life’s work are an inspiration to all of us who
strive to protect and enhance Wisconsin’s natural resources.
We miss him, but feel his presence as we continue his work.”
After graduating, Dave became the first bat ecologist for the
DNR’s Bureau of Endangered Resources. Inspired by his
concern for our state’s bats, and a feeling of responsibility to
our state’s citizens, Dave built the DNR’s bat program and
often commented that he had the best job in the world.
Battle Against Time
Dave was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2002. But rather than
slowing him down, the diagnosis strengthened his passion for
his work, and heightened his urgency to accomplish all that he
could. In 2012, Dave was honored with the prestigious U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service’s Silver Eagle Award and with a lifetime
achievement award from the Midwest Bat Working Group.
D. Redell
Dave’s enthusiasm
was absolutely
contagious, and his
story touches all of
us who care about
Wisconsin’s wildlife.
D. Redell
J. Redell
As his work intensified, so too did a looming and unprecedented threat: white-nose syndrome. This disease, which is
sweeping the nation, can kill between 70-100% of the bats at
any given location. It recently appeared just 30 miles outside of
Wisconsin’s boarders.
4
BRIDGES / Fall 2012
In response, Dave and the DNR “Bat Crew” worked to enact
vanguard regulations to protect Wisconsin bats and developed
a plan that will guide the state’s response to white-nose
syndrome.
"Support from the Foundation is critical to our work," says
Jennifer Redell, Dave's wife and also a member of the DNR bat
crew. "While we don't yet know what will be the impact of
white-nose syndrome on Wisconsin's bats, Dave knew that
securing funding for future bat conservation efforts could
mean the difference between the species disappearing forever
or their populations recovering."
THANK YOU
WITH APPRECIATION: 2012 FIELD TRIP LEADERS
We extend our gratitude to our field trip leaders, who show our members
the wonders of Wisconsin’s natural resources. You are AMAZING!
Fund for the Future
In 2005, Dave and Lisa Wilson decided to set up an endowed
fund for bats with the Foundation.
“It took several years of saving, but eventually we had enough
to create a named fund, the Wisconsin Bat Conservation Fund,”
says Lisa Wilson. “Its primary purpose is to support the Bat
Monitoring Program and secondarily to support other bat
conservation needs in Wisconsin.”
The goal of the endowment is to raise $2 million. It is currently
at about 10% of its goal. Dave’s friends and family requested
that donations be made to the fund in his memory.
J. Addis
The Wisconsin Bat Conservation Fund was
Dave’s legacy. Through the fund, his work
will carry on, providing money for future
research projects and long-term bat
conservation efforts in the state. It is truly
a legacy of love.
Last summer Dave, assisted by Paul White, threw out the first pitch
at our Bats at the Ballpark event with the Madison Mallards, which
brought in nearly $1000 for bats and for conservation in Wisconsin.
Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin
Matt Aho
Rachel Anderson
Craig Anderson
Erick Anderson
Benjamin Arnold
Nancy Aten
Armund Bartz
Jeb Barzen
Jim Bennett
Marty Biller
Gary Birch
Cathy Bleser
Thomas Boos
Owen Boyle
Ryan Brady
Bernie Brouchoud
Andy Bubolz
Aaron Buchholz
Nancy Christel
Caroline Clarin
Terrie Cooper
Kate Cooper
Mark Cupp
Meghan Dennison
Dave Edwards
Diane Edwards
Sue Eiler
Janet Eschenbauch
Phil Fauble
Ruth Forsgren
Marge Gibson
Sandy Gillum
Beth Goeppinger
Michael Grimm
Molly Groth
Kim Grveles
Marilyn Hansotia
Frank Hassler
Mike Healy
Russell Hefty
Joe Henry
Dawn Hinebaugh
Steve Hoffman
Randy Hoffman
Bill Hogseth
Mary Holleback
Steve Houdek
Scott Hulse
Brad Hutnik
Gene Jacobs
Jayne Jenks
Kris Johansen
Kendra Johncock
Heather Kaarakka
Lesa Kardash
Kelly Kearns
Brenda Kelly
Jeanette Kelly
Scott Kelly
Joan Kenney
Jerry Kiesow
Diane Kiesow
Lisie Kitchel
Joanne Kluessendorf
Scott Koehnke
Nolan Kollath
Tom Kroeger
Hank Kuehling
Ellen Kwiatkowski
Anne Lacy
Courtney LeClair
Ruth Ann Lee
Lori Leonard
Jack Libbey
David Linderud
Tim Lizotte
Jim Lorman
Darcy Love
Ryan Magana
Pat Manthey
Mark Martin
Michele Maxson
Evan McDoniels
Matt McKay
Molly McKay
Thomas Meyer
Mike Miller
Mike Mossman
Nancy Nabak
Tom Nicholls
Chris Niehaus
Dick Nikolai
Ryan O'Connor
John Olson
Andy Paulios
Patrick Raab
Allen Ramminger
Ron Rasmussen
David Redell
Jennifer Redell
Mike Reed
James Robaidek
Shawn Rossler
Amber Roth
David Salmon
Dave Sample
Greg Sass
James Schwiebert
Britt Searles
Cully Shelton
Charlie Shong
Dave Siebert
Bill Smith
Heidi Springborn
Richard Staffen
Yoyi Steele
Peter Stevens
Laine Stowell
Andrew Struck
AJ Susa
Steve Swenson
Chad Thomack
Craig Thompson
Marjie Tomter
Joel Trick
Betty Trimper
Pat Trochlell
Jared Urban
Timothy Vargo
Shelley Warwick
Michael Warwick
Brad Webb
Jordan Weeks
Paul White
Bernadette Williams
Brock Woods
Tom Zagar
Matt Zine
Amanda Zopp
Our board and staff extend a fond farewell
and deepest appreciation to Camille Zanoni,
for her 10 years of passionate commitment to
our Foundation's mission. Camille will
become director of advancement for the
Aldo Leopold Nature Center.
We have begun a search for her replacement,
who will work on membership and
Conservation Steward Society development,
estate giving, and the Wisconsin's
Conservation Endowment.
We wish Camille the very best on her new
adventure!
BRIDGES / Fall 2012
5
Giving to Future Generations
CHUCK and LINDA PILS Create a Conservation Fund
experienced the beauty of Wisconsin with our own children
and now with our grandchildren.”
And yet, when Chuck suggested creating an endowment with
our Foundation, Linda was hesitant. She worried that they
should give their funds to their children and grandchildren.
“It took only one night of ‘sleeping on’ the decision to realize
that by donating to the Foundation, we were indeed giving to
our children and grandchildren,” says Linda.
“By creating an endowment, we are providing
NRF
much, much more than material goods.
We give them the opportunity to enjoy the
For more than 60 years, Chuck and Linda Pils have proudly
called Wisconsin home. They love our state’s diverse plant,
animal, and ecological communities, which they enjoy
through a variety of outdoor activities.
natural heritage that has been given so freely
The Pils are Natural Heritage Circle Members and Wisconsin
Conservation Endowment Fund Creators, having included the
Foundation in their estate plans to establish the Chuck and
Linda Pils Fund through a future bequest.
many future generations, will someday feel
to us. By supporting research on native
species, we hope that our grandchildren, and
that sense of wonder at the flash of a marten’s
tail or the swoop of a bat on a starlit night.”
Linda’s commitment to
Wisconsin stems from her
memories of time together
as a family.
R. Brady
“When our children were too
young for long trips, we took
them to our nearby natural areas
and state parks,” says Linda.
R. Brady
“We swam and camped at
Governor Dodge, hiked in the
Southern Kettle Moraine and
Parfrey’s Glen, and cross-country
skied at Blue Mounds. Through
the seasons, and over many
years, we have hiked, biked,
camped, fished, kayaked, and
6
BRIDGES /Fall 2012
J. Woodford
Chuck spent more than 33 years with the Wisconsin
Department of Natural Resources (DNR), working on wildlife
studies and endangered resources. He holds deep knowledge
of the research and management needs of many plant and
animal species—and most importantly for our Foundation,
Chuck understands which species critically need funding.
The Chuck and Linda Pils Fund
will be their permanent legacy
and will support the future
conservation of the species that
matter most to them, including
American martens, badgers, bats,
reptiles, amphibians, and
mussels.
If you share the Pils’ commitment to the
protection of Wisconsin’s natural resources,
please join them in including the Natural
Resources Foundation in your estate plans.
For information about leaving a legacy gift through
your estate plans, or to create a permanent
conservation endowment for the causes close to your
heart, contact the Foundation at (866) 264-4096 or
email [email protected].
Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin
ESCAPE TO ALASKA
AUGUST 6–AUGUST 16, 2013
Join us for an exclusive 11-day adventure
created especially for the Foundation!
We’ll visit Kenai Fjords and Denali National Parks
and enjoy hikes with local experts, a trip aboard
Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star, boat tours, plus
behind-the-scenes visits to wildlife centers.
Itinerary, pricing, and registration at: http://www.holbrooktravel.com/privategroups/NRFAlaska
Only 12 spa
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first purchase!1 Plus, with every purchase you make with the NRF Visa card, you
support the Foundation’s work to protect Wisconsin’s lands, waters, and wildlife!
1
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Support Your Foundation Today!
Renew your membership or join the Natural Resources Foundation today and help conserve Wisconsin’s lands, waters, and wildlife.
Please fill out this form and return it to the Natural Resources Foundation, PO Box 2317, Madison, WI 53701-2317.
K&B Wardius
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Tell us what you think…
ur opinion about
We would love to hear yo
tion efforts,
our Foundation’s conserva
ll, and what you
what you think we do we
ore of.
would like to see us do m
Please take a few minutes to fill out our
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Or scan the QR Code to complete the survey
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To thank you, those who complete our survey before Friday, December 16 may enter a
drawing to win a Foundation t-shirt, a subscription to Wisconsin Natural Resources
magazine, or the Wisconsin Naturally guide to State Natural Areas.
D.Z. Johnson