On October 2, the Fox-Wolf community gathered at The Hillside at Plamann Park in Appleton for the 2025 Happiest Hour. It was an evening of celebration, recognition, and connection. Together we honored the people and partners whose work is making a real difference for our waters and we celebrated the progress we have made together this year.

Celebrating Progress

This past year has been filled with #WatershedWins worth recognizing. Volunteers planted native shorelines, schools monitored local rivers, farmers adopted new soil health practices, and businesses stepped up with green infrastructure projects. Our communities came together to remove thousands of pounds of litter, restore habitat, and expand partnerships that protect water across the basin. Every action, big or small, added up to meaningful change and real progress for our rivers and lakes.

Honoring the 2025 Impact Award Winners

The Impact Awards recognize individuals, organizations, and communities that embody the spirit of stewardship and collaboration. This year’s winners represent the many ways people are coming together to protect and restore the Fox-Wolf Watershed.

Barb Reed

A lifelong educator and dedicated volunteer, Barb Reed continues to make waves for our watershed. From leading students in water quality monitoring to volunteering with Fox-Wolf on shoreline projects, Barb inspires others to care for our waters.

Rachel Bouressa

Rachel Bouressa is a conservation agriculture leader whose regenerative grazing practices protect water, soil, and wildlife. Beyond her own farm, she mentors others, hosts events, and advocates for watershed-friendly farming across Wisconsin.

Fox Communities Credit Union

Fox Communities Credit Union shows what corporate stewardship looks like. Through sponsoring cleanups, maintaining boat launches, and rolling up their sleeves to volunteer, their team is making a real difference for our waters.

Eric Peterson

As a FOX 11 News reporter, Eric Peterson has a gift for telling the stories that matter most for our environment. His clear, passionate reporting keeps Northeast Wisconsin informed and inspired to protect our waters.

Town of Calumet – Runoff Reduction Committee

The Town of Calumet is taking bold action to protect Lake Winnebago. From supporting conservation projects to launching a farmer-led group, their Runoff Reduction Committee is leading the way in water quality and community collaboration.

Chuck Farrey

For decades, Chuck Farrey has been a champion for the Fox-Wolf Watershed. His leadership and dedication have supported conservation projects, protected water quality, and inspired collaboration. Chuck’s lifelong commitment has created a legacy that will benefit our waters for generations.

A Night to Remember

The Happiest Hour was more than an awards ceremony. It was a gathering of neighbors, farmers, educators, businesses, and community leaders, all united by a shared purpose. Conversations flowed, laughter carried across The Hillside, and pride filled the evening as we looked back on a year of progress.

Thank You Sponsors

This celebration would not have been possible without the support of our 2025 Happiest Hour sponsors:

Get Involved

Inspired by these stories? Join us by volunteering or donating to support the Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance’s conservation efforts!