University of Wisconsin-Extension Lakes Program wins national award

Madison, Wis. - Wisconsin citizens who care deeply about the future of the state’s more than 15,000 lakes are stepping up to the plate as stewards of public waters. And the University of Wisconsin-Extension Lake Leader Institute is guiding the way.

The Institute, which trains community members how to manage and protect local lakes, is being honored with the 2009 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Fish Habitat Action Plan Outreach and Education Award later this month in Washington, D.C.

The Institute was selected for one of four awards by the National Fish Habitat Board--a group composed of the nation’s leading authorities on aquatic conservation--from among hundreds of nominations.

“Award winners demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to fish habitat conservation, science and education. They are leading by example to help resolve the nation’s most significant fisheries problems,” according to the Board.

With the goal of enhancing Wisconsin’s lakes through education, leadership and citizen action, the Lake Leader Institute has produced more than 200 graduates from around the state since its start in 1998. Lake Leader graduates have become advocates for local lakes by conducting educational programs, spearheading management projects, working with the media and forging partnerships that support stewardship to lakes and much more. Currently, 14 of the 17 directors on the Board of the Wisconsin Association of Lakes are Institute graduates.

“With so many lakes in the state and so few people to protect them, it’s clear that no state agency or unit of government can provide the management attention that each lake deserves. Local residents and lake lovers have a long tradition of stepping up and volunteering their talents to ensure stewardship of our lakes,” says Kim Becken, outreach specialist with the UW-Extension Lakes Partnership. “Their ability as skillful leaders is fundamentally linked to the future of our lakes.”

Working with the Lake Leaders Institute has inspired legislators and natural resource professionals who interact with the group, providing a unique experience that builds partnerships at all levels.

“As an instructor in the Institute, I’ve always felt like I learn more than I teach,” says Carroll Schaal, Lakes Partnership team leader with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. “It’s a humbling experience to spend time with so many dedicated and dynamic people.”

“The trust and relationships that develop between Institute ‘crew’ members and the state agency staff pays big dividends,” he adds. “Other states envy the Wisconsin Lakes Partnership and its ability to get things done.”

To learn more about the Lake Leaders Institute, go to http://www.uwsp.edu/cnr/uwexlakes

###