It started with a simple social media post.
When Joe saw an offer from Gathering Waters for a free Wisconsin Nature Guide, he requested one for his daughter Kayleigh. What happened next would warm any conservationist’s heart.
When a Nature Guide addressed to 7-year-old Kayleigh arrived in the mail, she immediately dove into its pages, reading it cover to cover – twice! As she studied the names of native birds, plants, and pollinators, she peppered her parents with questions about each new fact she discovered. The information captured her interest.
But it was the enclosed letter asking her to support land protection that inspired Kayleigh to take action.
Kayleigh asked what the letter meant. Her parents explained how some organizations depend on the support of people who believe in what they are doing. After hearing that information, Kayleigh made an extraordinary decision. She asked her parents if she could donate her entire week’s allowance to support Gathering Waters and help protect Wisconsin’s land, water, and wildlife.
The following week, an envelope arrived at Gathering Waters containing five $1 bills – Kayleigh’s entire weekly allowance. This young conservationist’s spontaneous generosity demonstrates her passion for wildlife and her desire to ensure that her favorite creatures continue to have places to call home.
Kayleigh’s deep connection with nature shines through in her countless outdoor adventures. At her family’s cabin in northern Wisconsin, Kayleigh is becoming an accomplished angler. She proudly recounted catching an impressive 17-inch largemouth bass this summer.
“I like catching largemouth bass because they’re feisty,” she explained with enthusiasm.
Kayleigh also began solo kayaking adventures, paddling through quiet backwaters where she can observe wildlife up close. She fondly remembers gliding past fragrant water lilies and listening to the sounds of nature undisturbed by the drone of boat motors.
“I like to go places where boats can’t go,” she said.
Her outdoor education extends beyond water activities. Working alongside her parents, Kayleigh has learned to identify native plants and take care of wildlife. With help from her dad, she has built bat houses and kestrel boxes. The family maintains several birdhouses on their property, carefully monitoring which species move into these man-made homes.
Kayleigh’s face lights up when discussing her favorite wildlife, especially bats. This young lady possesses wisdom beyond her years about ecosystem relationships.
Growing up in a family deeply committed to environmental education and conservation has shaped Kayleigh’s connection to nature. Her father’s background in restoration ecology and her mother’s role as an environmental science teacher have created a rich learning environment where the outdoors and nature became Kayleigh’s classroom.
As a family, they practice land stewardship as they maintain trails on their property and help restore prairies, passing their conservation values, knowledge, and commitment to taking care of the land to the next generation.
Kayleigh’s family’s commitment to environmental education extends beyond their property. They regularly explore local land trust properties, participate in nature programs, and use tools like the Merlin bird identification app to enhance their outdoor experiences.
Their shared enthusiasm for nature has created a legacy of environmental stewardship that Kayleigh is already carrying forward.
We are so thankful to be a small part of Kayleigh’s conservation story. Her thoughtful donation represents more than just monetary support – it symbolizes the next generation’s commitment to conservation.
Her story reminds us that everyone, regardless of age or means, can help protect Wisconsin’s natural heritage. Through her experiences, we see how early exposure to nature and family mentorship can foster a lifelong commitment to conservation.
If Kayleigh’s story inspires you to support local conservation efforts, consider making a donation of any size to help preserve Wisconsin’s natural spaces for future generations of young nature enthusiasts.
Together, we can ensure that young conservationists like Kayleigh will always have wild places to explore, learn, and grow their love for nature.
