By Blake Jackson
The National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) hosted its 2025 Summer Conservation Forum and Tours in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in collaboration with Wisconsin Land + Water.
The event welcomed conservation leaders from across the country to explore innovative conservation efforts, with a strong focus on Wisconsin’s leadership in the field.
Governor Tony Evers and Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson greeted attendees, setting the tone for discussions around natural resource stewardship. “Wisconsin is a leader in farmer-driven conservation and water quality initiatives,” said NACD President Gary Blair.
“The state shines with strong local and state collaboration and provides us with great examples of partnerships to grow the future of voluntary, locally led conservation.”
Mike Strigel, Assistant Deputy Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, also praised the state’s conservation legacy, reinforcing agriculture’s importance to Wisconsin.
Breakout sessions during the forum featured key programs such as the Producer-Led Watershed Protection Grant Program, which connects grassroots conservation efforts with broader state goals.
Aubrey J.D. Bettencourt, Chief of the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), addressed the future of NRCS services: “This is an opportunity to reimagine NRCS, and we’re flipping the business model for what we need to be for the next 90 years. Join us in imagining that future and creating it for ourselves.”
Lance Irving from the Sand County Foundation shared insights into the organization’s work promoting conservation-minded land management to improve water, soil, and wildlife resources.
Mike Lessiter, President of Lessiter Media, recounted the history of no-till farming and emphasized the importance of understanding that legacy. He discussed “critical success factors to sustain and grow conservation practices” and highlighted the key role conservation districts play in supporting adoption.
A national panel also discussed implementation plans for the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which incorporates remaining Inflation Reduction Act conservation investments into Farm Bill programs a top NACD priority.
The forum concluded with tours across southeastern Wisconsin, showcasing local conservation projects on stormwater, habitat, and regenerative agriculture, reinforcing the importance of collaborative, on-the-ground action.
Photo Credit: pexels-adam-sondel
Categories: Wisconsin, Government & Policy