Melissa Knipfel
Fall, 2009Well, I have to say that Fall is here and Winter is definitely knocking on the door! So far my pumpkins on the front stoop have had a total of 7 inches of snow on them this Fall! I have always enjoyed Fall, it’s a time to tend to our harvest and take notice of our labor’s end. Fall is also a time to look forward to new opportunities and preparing for next year. Everyone has a choice in the Fall to either look back or to look ahead to next year.
In this issue of the SWCS newsletter I would like to do a little of both. Last Spring, I wanted to get back to the basics and to this day, I am learning new things about this wonderful organization. I have prepared a short survey for our members to complete. This survey will help me to understand where you, our members, come from, what your interests are and what you wish to gain by being a member of the Soil and Water Conservation Society. I have always believed that in order to lead, you need to know and understand your audience, so please take the time and complete this survey.
I also want to encourage and even challenge you to consider becoming a board member or area representative. I became a Conservationist Member of the SWCS in 2005. During my first year, I decided that I wanted to know more about SWCS, so what better way learn; I put my hat in the running for 2nd Vice President. I am happy to report that, I have truly enjoyed the opportunities that have been given to me and hope that you would consider running for a position within SWCS as well. Opportunities are all around us, all it takes is being able to see them!
Area 1 Representative, Paula Carow, is already thinking about next year’s summer tour in the great north woods. It’s been a while since SWCS has visited the north woods. So many times, we find ourselves forgetting where the north really begins. The City of Portage, WI has a sign before you enter town saying, “Portage… Where the North Begins.” I would like to encourage everyone to attend next year’s summer tour, in Area 1, to truly experience the north woods, first hand!
Jerry Griswold, Vice President, has been leading the charge in developing an engaging and educational program for next year’s Annual Meeting to be held March 11, 2010 in Madison. Stay tuned for more information to come your way.
I wish to extend my thanks to all of you, for the work that you do to protect and enhance our natural resources. I look forward to a great year ahead us!
Melissa Knipfel
WI - SWCS President