Wildlife Forever Summer Newsletter
- Reflecting on the Beauty of Nature -
As the Dog Days of summer settle in, I’m reminded how we often overlook modern day luxuries. Have you ever lost power only to find yourself navigating the darkness constantly flipping switches or going to the faucet to wash your hand only to realize the tap is dry? As I write, the buzz of a new generator is keeping me grounded to the reality of what we often take for granted.
Assessing the recent storm damage, we discovered our monarch of the woods, a 200-year-old white oak, had fallen. Its arms over 100 feet wide had shaded the forest floor for nearly two centuries dropping millions of acorns in its time. Deer, turkey, wood ducks, and countless other wildlife thrived because of it. In its fall nearly a dozen other trees with branches interlocked came down together. The sense of loss was profound.
However, as I marveled at the shattered trunk, I quickly realized I was walking on a carpet of bright green oak seedlings. Nature has its way, and I’m reminded that our wise use and stewardship of the outdoors can never be taken for granted. True conservation allows generations, both man and nature, to thrive and grow.
In the spirit of Dog Days, I’d like to invite you to a wonderful book by a WF member in Texas. Mr. Ron Gard is friend and wonderfully talented person with a new book called, “Who’s Dog Are You?”; learn more
Yours in Conservation,
Pat Conzemius
President & CEO
Prairie City Project Updates
Ecological Habitat Areas
As we enter the third growing season of our pilot Ecological Habitat Areas (EHAs), the results are speaking for themselves. Several projects are underway working on public lands and Waterfowl Production Areas in the prairie pothole region.
Restoring and enhancing grasslands at scale can be cost-prohibitive, largely due to the high price of native seed and extensive site preparation. But our EHA approach is proving to be a smart solution. By strategically preparing the land and planting scattered strips of diverse native seed mixes across large, degraded landscapes, we’re making measurable impacts on 300+ acre properties — without needing to restore every inch.
Prairie Wetlands Learning Center
Many of our restoration projects begin with seeds collected close to home — thanks to our partnerships with the United Prairie Foundation, Minnesota DNR, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Some native species require hand-picking throughout the summer, but the fall harvest offers a chance to scale up. Using specialized combines, we’re able to maximize seed collection from nearby public lands, ensuring our restorations are rooted in local biodiversity.
Clean Drain Dry Project Updates
Expect to Inspect
Find a locaion. Get an inspection. Back to recreation.
Use the free Expect to Inspect mapping tool to ensure your watercraft is safe, secure, and free of aquatic invasive species. The map also includes self-service, free-to-use cleaning stations.
Project 435 - Mapping the Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species
From local woodlands to national waterways, aquatic invasive species are on the move — threatening ecosystems across the country. Project 435 takes a new approach by visualizing their impact at the congressional district level, offering a more detailed and localized perspective than traditional statewide maps.
What patterns emerge when we zoom in? And more importantly — how can this data empower action to stop the spread?
Explore the insights and be part of the solution.
The Art of Conservation Updates
The 2025 Songbird Art Contest is in Flight
The 2025 Songbird Art Contest is now open and receiving entries from students around the world! This year’s featured species include the Black-and-white Warbler, Pinyon Jay, Purple Finch, Varied Bunting, and White-breasted Nuthatch.
Designed to inspire creativity and conservation, the contest invites K–12 students to learn about songbirds and the challenges they face.
Free to enter. Open to all K–12 students. Parents and educators — encourage your young artists to apply!
Wildlife Forever Attends ICAST
The Wildlife Forever team was proud to attend this year’s ICAST, the world’s largest sportfishing trade show. In partnership with the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida’s State Host for the Fish Art Contest, we celebrated a special moment: a joint art signing featuring Florida Fish Art winner Sebestian Romo and renowned marine artist Guy Harvey.
Sebestian’s winning Largemouth Bass artwork (Grades 7–9, Freshwater Category) and Guy Harvey’s Marlin, both featured on Florida’s official fishing licenses, were printed as posters for the event — with each artist signing their respective designs for attendees.
Renew Your Membership
By renewing your membership, you help make it possible to support these projects and ensure we safegaurd our outdoor heritage. Members may receive a Premium Wildlife Forever Cap and a Carbon Fiber Wallet depending on your donation level.