Protecting Wisconsin's Wetlands & Waterfowl with Brad Heidel
Dec. 11, 2026 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Wisconsin's wetlands provide critical habitat for wildlife — but their importance extends far beyond ducks and geese. They can improve water quality, help manage flooding, and provide outdoor opportunities for communities across our state. Brad Heidel, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association, joins Madison West Middleton Rotary for a look at the work being done to protect and restore these important resources.
About the Program
Founded by hunters in 1984, the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association (WWA) is a Wisconsin-focused nonprofit organization working to conserve wetlands and waterfowl habitat, educate current and future generations of conservationists, and represent the interests of Wisconsin's waterfowl hunting community.
Brad will take us inside WWA's conservation work, including efforts to restore wetlands on public and private lands throughout Wisconsin. These projects provide important habitat for nesting and migrating waterfowl while also offering broader environmental benefits such as improved water quality and flood mitigation.
He'll also discuss the important connection between hunting and conservation, how hunters and volunteers contribute to habitat restoration and wildlife management, and WWA's efforts to introduce new generations to responsible hunting and conservation.
The conversation will provide a closer look at the health of Wisconsin's wetlands and waterfowl habitat, the challenges facing these resources, and what conservation organizations, government agencies, landowners, hunters, and volunteers can accomplish by working together.
About Brad Heidel
Brad Heidel serves as Executive Director of the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association, leading the organization's efforts to conserve Wisconsin's wetland resources, educate and engage the state's waterfowling community, and expand opportunities for people to become involved in hands-on conservation.
Based in Dane County, Brad works with WWA staff, volunteers, landowners, government agencies, and conservation partners on projects and programs throughout Wisconsin.
Introduced by John Gerold.
Guests Are Welcome
You do not need to be a Rotary member to attend. Come hear an interesting local speaker, meet members of our community, and see what Madison West Middleton Rotary is all about.