The Ice Age Trail Alliance’s Advocacy Committee received the 2022 Land Trust Volunteer of the Year Award from Gathering Waters on Friday, October 7, 2022 at the Lapham Peak Trailbuilding project in Waukesha County hosted by the Ice Age Trail Alliance.
The Volunteer of the Year Award was offered for the first time in 2022 in recognition of a land trust volunteer or group of volunteers who demonstrate commitment to supporting and serving a land trust to further a land trust’s goals.
The dedicated volunteers of the Ice Age Trail Alliance’s Advocacy Committee certainly do just that, as they work tirelessly year after year to ensure the Ice Age National Scenic Trail is protected and supported.
They analyze policy issues to determine the best course of action, educate Trail supporters to locally amplify the message, and meet with elected officials at all levels of government to garner support.
In recent years, the Committee encouraged elected officials to support the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, the federal Land & Water Conservation Fund, and local conservation efforts that provide critical funding and partnerships necessary to conserve, create, maintain, and promote the Ice Age Trail.
“It is an honor to have our committee recognized for this award,” says Ed Madere, Chairman of the Advocacy Committee. “Our work along with the work of other Trail supporters, reflects the long Wisconsin tradition of love of the land. The Ice Age Trail Alliance members are resolved to continue this tradition.”
The Ice Age Trail Alliance’s Advocacy Committee is instrumental in communicating about the Ice Age Trail, garnering support of both local residents in Trail communities and elected officials. Their work has resulted in continued support of Trail upkeep and expansion projects, and keeps the Trail front and center, reminding everyone what a special resource we have here in Wisconsin.
As a result, the Ice Age Trail Alliance has successfully protected dozens of miles of Ice Age Trail across the state, which will be enjoyed for generations to come.
About the Land Conservation Leadership Awards
The Land Conservation Leadership Awards recognize the outstanding achievements and contributions of people who devote their time and talents to protecting Wisconsin’s land, water, and wildlife. The awards are presented annually to conservation leaders by Gathering Waters.
About the Land Trust Volunteer of the Year Award
New for 2022, the Land Trust Volunteer of the Year award recognizes a land trust volunteer or group of volunteers who demonstrate commitment to supporting and serving a land trust through leadership, pursuits, projects, and partnerships that further a land trust’s goals.
Cover photo provided by: Kevin Thusius, Ice Age Trail Alliance, showing members of the Ice Age Trail Alliance’s Advocacy Committee with Gathering Waters Executive Director, Mike Carlson (second from right).
