Emily Henrigillis of the Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance was recognized by DNR Assistant Secretary Todd Ambs, UW-Madison Division of Extension Dean Karl Martin, and Wisconsin Lakes Board Vice President Derek Kavanaugh for completing her training through the Wisconsin Lake Leaders Institute. This was the 13th class of graduates to learn about Wisconsin’s unique lake resources through a program organized by the Wisconsin Lakes Partnership.

Through a series of in-person seminars and online meetings, Emily gained a better understanding of lake ecology and how to work with state and local governments to assure lakes get the attention they need. The program combines readings, discussions, activities, and field experiences to highlight lake management, local and state government, and leadership skills.

“The individuals that participate in this program are true leaders who have stepped forward to protect our lakes for future generations”, explained Sara Windjue, Leadership and Capacity Development Specialist with the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Extension Lakes Program. “They are committed to developing partnerships and facilitating the learning of others in order to build capacity which will ensure the protection and restoration of thousands of lakes across Wisconsin”.

Emily plans to continue to share scientifically backed best management lake practices with shoreline property owners and anyone else who seeks further education about their nearby lakes.

The Wisconsin Lake Leaders Institute draws participants from across the state to take part in a series of three two-day seminars. Participants demonstrate their commitment to protecting the integrity of the lakes in Wisconsin with an investment of their time and a modest registration cost to cover meals and lodging.

The Wisconsin Lakes Partnership is made up of the Extension Lakes Program at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and the citizen advocacy organization Wisconsin Lakes. Together they recognized the need for new and on-going leadership in the management of our lakes and created the Wisconsin Lake Leaders Institute in 1996. The mission of the Institute is to assist citizen lake leaders to develop both their technical and people skills, ultimately enriching their communities and the waters within them.

The 2021 graduation ceremony took place October 8 at the Aldo Leopold Shack near Baraboo, a fitting setting for celebrating the lake leaders’ accomplishments and looking ahead to their conservation journeys in the world of lakes.

Since its inception, over 300 participants have graduated from the Institute and have made significant contributions in addressing a host of diverse water management challenges. The program has received national attention as an effective strategy to enhance lake stewardship and protection. Recruitment for the 14th “crew” of Lake Leader Institute participants begins this winter. For more information about the program contact Emily Henrigillis at emily@fwwa.org or reach out to the Extension Lakes program staff at (715)-346-2116, uwexlakes@uwsp.edu, or the web link: http://www.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/UWEXLakes/Pages/programs/lakeleaders/default.aspx.