Leaders from the Wisconsin Conservation Congress (WCC) and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) met in July to bolster their joint commitment to natural resource stewardship and outdoor recreation.
The WCC stands as Wisconsin’s only statutory body where residents elect delegates to advise state policy on resource management. For over 90 years, the WCC and DNR have maintained a collaborative forum for public voice in conservation decisions. This latest meeting marks a renewed focus on expanding citizen reach, creative problem-solving, and stronger inter-agency communication.
Aligning Priorities Across the State
WCC Chairman Paul Reith of Dane County set a clear direction for the joint leadership meeting.
“As leaders in conservation, it is important that we seek to find understanding, work across the aisle on all issues under the jurisdiction of the department, and produce defensible solutions that best represent the interests and ideals of the great people of Wisconsin,” Reith said.
DNR Secretary Karen Hyun emphasized the value of open strategy sessions focused on fish and wildlife funding, land stewardship, and youth involvement.
“One of my priorities has been to strengthen the DNR’s partnerships in conservation,” Secretary Hyun said. “We did strengthen our partnership, and I am looking forward to doing even more.”
The WCC and DNR have worked collaboratively for more than 90 years. Pictured, from left to right, are: DNR Deputy Secretary Steven Little, DNR Secretary Karen Hyun, WCC Chair Paul Reith, WCC Vice-Chair Mike Britton, WCC Executive Committee Member at-Large Kevin Smaby, WCC Executive Committee Member at-Large Kevin Schanning, WCC Secretary Reed Kabelowsky, DNR Assistant Deputy Secretary Mark Aquino, DNR Senior Policy Initiatives Advisory Scott Loomans and Fish, Wildlife and Parks Division Administrator Eric Lobner. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR
Focused Strategy and Open Dialogue
Leadership tackled several critical issues during the session, including:
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State budget planning and agency priorities.
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Strategies for a mission-oriented partnership.
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Shared outreach methods to connect residents with outdoor recreation.
Executive committee members praised the productive tone of the discussions. Kevin Schanning of Bayfield County highlighted both organizations’ genuine willingness to address statewide conservation challenges together. Meanwhile, Kevin Smaby of La Crosse County expressed optimism about building a new chapter anchored by open, respectful communication.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Conservation Leaders
Participant discussions placed a heavy emphasis on future generations. Reed Kabelowsky of Manitowoc County praised Secretary Hyun for prioritizing tomorrow’s recreationists and leaders. In turn, Secretary Hyun thanked the Youth Conservation Congress (YCC) for introducing young people to conservation careers, public service, and volunteerism.
“Our youth are our greatest resource for the future of conservation and the Wisconsin Conservation Congress,” Kabelowsky noted. “Losing sight of this when building the roadmap of our partnership would be a disservice to our shared future.”
Looking Ahead
Moving forward, both organizations remain committed to elevating local community voices in state natural resource decisions.
“I could not be more excited to work with this team for the betterment and protection of our natural resources,” said WCC Vice-Chair Mike Britton of Barron County.
Reith reinforced that unified effort:
“Our successes are strongest when we work together. As chairman, I am excited to lead the congress forward and support strong communication with the department to ensure your ideas are heard and valued.”
To explore the work of delegates across the state, visit the DNR’s Wisconsin Conservation Congress webpage.
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