Gathering Waters presented David Grusznski with the 2025 Land Trust Professional of the Year Award at a Greenseams Team celebration on August 22, 2025 in Oak Creek, Wisconsin.
David Grusznski has dedicated 22 years to land conservation during his career with The Conservation Fund, where he currently serves as Milwaukee Programs Director & Senior Field Representative. Starting as an intern in 2003, David has been instrumental in the development and success of the Greenseams and Working Soils programs of the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) that protect natural areas for floodwater management through land conservation.
Having been involved since nearly the beginning of the Greenseams program, David has worked on most of the program’s 178 land acquisitions that have protected 7,751 acres of natural areas and working farmlands across Ozaukee, Fond du Lac, Sheboygan, Washington, and Waukesha counties.
“For more than two decades, David Grusznski has been a steady force behind some of southeast Wisconsin’s most impactful land conservation efforts,” said Emy Brawley, Midwest Regional VP at The Conservation Fund. “His deep commitment and collaborative spirit have not only helped safeguard thousands of acres of natural and working lands, but have also improved the quality of life for communities across the state. David’s work exemplifies the mission and values of The Conservation Fund — and we are incredibly proud to see his legacy recognized with this well-deserved honor.”
David has served as a mentor to dozens of Wisconsin conservationists – many of whom have gone on to have successful careers of their own. He is well-regarded as an expert and resource by many partners across Wisconsin, including Restoring Lands, Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation, Glacial Lakes Conservancy, Ducks Unlimited, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
“David’s work is reflected in the success of MMSD’s land conservation programs,” said Mike Carlson, Executive Director of Gathering Waters. “His breadth of knowledge in land acquisition and management, and his long-standing relationships with partners have been crucial to the success of conservation efforts that are now considered national models for land conservation.”
Thank you to David for his dedication to land conservation in southeastern Wisconsin for over two decades!
About the Land Conservation Leadership Awards
The awards, presented annually to conservation leaders by Gathering Waters, recognize the outstanding achievements and contributions of people and organizations who devote their time and talents to protecting Wisconsin’s land, water, and wildlife.
About the Land Trust Professional of the Year
This award recognizes a land trust staff member that demonstrates commitment to a land trust through leadership and completion of initiatives or projects that support and enhance a land trust’s success.