Group XIII – Environmental Issues Seminar

Environmental Issues, July 14 – 16, 2010

Seminar Chair, John DuPlissis, Professor, UW-Stevens Point invited fellows to explore and deepen their understanding of the key natural resource issues facing Wisconsin today; with a particular emphasis on water, forestry and tourism issues.  Fellows were presented with scientific background and some substance of the natural resource management issues in Wisconsin and in the United States in general.  There were presentations and discussions regarding public policies that address environmental resource issues including the issues around balancing consumptive and non-consumptive uses of our resources.

Susan Brisk, a Department of Natural Resources forester, highlighted some of the challenges of forest management while taking us to a working logging operation.  In addition, we toured the mill of Action Flooring who provide worldwide their premium, solid hard maple and synthetic floors.  The rains put a slight damper on the afternoon’s activities but cleared in time to enjoy an evening around the campfire.

With the help of Pat Goggin, UW Extension Water Specialist, Jeff Bode, DNR Water and Lakes Section Chief and Patrick Sorge, Alumni and DNR and Rollie Alger, Lakes Association fellows were presented with information regarding Wisconsin water and lakes issues.  Later in the evening continued these discussions as they enjoyed a sunset cruise of Lake Mincoqua.

To better explore and understand firsthand the issues regarding the impact on tourism on the environment the fellows participated in some of these activities with professional guides – flishing, kayaking, birding, biking and camping.
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