Each year we celebrate conservationist Aldo Leopold’s contributions to the fields of wildlife management and environmental ethics, drawing wisdom from his poetic writings that highlight the interconnectedness of the natural world and challenge us to examine our role in it. Come join representatives from Audubon Minnesota, the Friends of the Refuge – Mississippi River Pools 7 & 8, University of Wisconsin – La Crosse English Department, Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge (refuge) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a walk through the floodplain forest as we contemplate Leopold’s advice for responsible land management in the context of historic land use and current conservation challenges. We’ll explore the unique characteristics of this habitat type and its importance to migratory songbirds, highlight on-going forest management projects, share hope in the face of wicked problems like climate change climate change
Climate change includes both global warming driven by human-induced emissions of greenhouse gases and the resulting large-scale shifts in weather patterns. Though there have been previous periods of climatic change, since the mid-20th century humans have had an unprecedented impact on Earth's climate system and caused change on a global scale.
Learn more about climate change and invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.
Learn more about invasive species , and tips for how we can all help strengthen our natural communities. Enjoy a cup of tea or hot cocoa after the walk courtesy of the Friends of the Refuge!
When: Saturday, March 5, 2022, 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Where: Shady Maple Interpretive Trail at Goose Island County Park
This program is FREE to attend! Pre-registration is required and limited. Registration will open February 22, 2022; please call Ranger Katie at 608-779-2391 to sign-up. Face masks are required when physical distancing is not possible. This program is weather dependent.