Julia Henley is a Wisconsin-based environmental advocate, designer, writer, and entrepreneur deeply rooted in the Driftless Region. As VP and Development Specialist for Sustainable Driftless, Inc., she promotes conservation and sustainable growth through storytelling, speaking, social media, and community engagement. In addition to this work, she is also managing partner of Driftless Fine Waters, LLC, an all natural mineral water micro-bottling company recognized internationally for its excellent taste and quality, glass packaging, and sustainable harvest limits. Henley has been active in all areas of sustainability–including disaster recovery, community and neighborhood development, design and construction, affordable housing, local food systems, trail building, getting kids connected to the outdoors and farming. Her work reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship and community resilience in southwestern Wisconsin and in the Great Lakes region.  

 

Rand Atkinson is a Wisconsin-based ecologist, author, and environmental advocate whose career spans over five decades.  He is the President of the Walleye Restoration Foundation, and owner at Big Spring Fish Company, LLC.  Graduating as a field biologist during the 1970s environmental movement, he immersed himself in water law, ecological assessments, and sustainable food production. Inspired by Aldo Leopold’s land ethics, Atkinson founded companies focused on evaluating and restoring aquatic systems, cultivating native plants, and sustainable fish farming. As an adjunct professor, he has shared his expertise in restoration and reclamation. Currently residing in Wisconsin’s Northwoods, Atkinson continues to observe nature and write about the intersection of humanity and the environment. His book, Revolt: Practical Ecology to Save Planet Earth for Our Children, reflects his lifelong commitment to ecological stewardship.

 

James Brickl’s love of photography, and the artistry of it is unique in perspective.  Creating stunning art photos, I was lucky to have found Jim via Facebook posts,  from a friend of a friend.  I am so glad I have.  This long time owner of Select Trusses, Inc., in West Salem, WI is an exceptional photographer. Jim’s passion for the environment, and the intersection and juxtaposition of human’s imprint upon it, is a compelling theme of the passage of time on this earth.  

 

 

 

 

 

Sheryl “Sheri” Schwert is a Southwest Region Water Quality Outreach Specialist. Meeting Sheri via involvement in “Resilient Richland”–a group focused on monitoring and creating smart options to embrace change, and deal with that change in a proactive manner–has already been an education.  These UW Extension professionals, and their outreach and involvement is crucial for private and public efforts at sustainability.  

University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension – Ag Water Quality