The Wisconsin Division of Izaak Walton League of America voted April 10 to fund scholarships for students who successfully complete the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation’s Conservation Leadership Corps training for the 2021-2022 academic year, according to Division President Michael Fuge of Stevens Point. High school seniors and college students seeking natural resources education and careers may apply before May 31, 2021 at http://wiwf.org/clc

“We appreciate the Wisconsin Division’s long-standing support for the Federation’s CLC scholarships, and we value our partnership with the Ikes,” said George Meyer, WWF Executive Director, who founded the CLC in 2013.

Fuge, who also chaired the state grant committee, said the Wisconsin Division Board, at its April meeting, enjoyed hearing about CLC’s continued success and learning about graduates who have already begun rewarding outdoor careers.

Students selected for the all-expense-paid CLC leadership training participate in at least three weekend sessions that combine valuable hands-on experiences, lessons and networking opportunities with nationally recognized conservation leaders. Students develop real-world skills and knowledge to help them become effective future leaders in their selected outdoor fields.

“Training usually also includes policy, advocacy and leadership workshops,” said Jodi Labs, IWLA National Executive Board Chair, adding “I enjoyed being a CLC guest instructor and look forward to helping young women and men develop their leadership skills at future sessions.”

CLC students also present conservation resolutions on timely issues at the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation’s annual meeting. Upon successful completion of CLC training, each participant will receive a Certificate of Accomplishment, a letter of commendation for their resumé portfolio and a $250 scholarship thanks to the Wisconsin Division of IWLA to advance their continuing education.

“Our continued support of the Federation’s Conservation Leadership Corps fits our mission to conserve, restore and promote the sustainable use and enjoyment of our natural resources, including soil, air, wood, water and wildlife,” said Fuge.

Wisconsin Wildlife Federation and Izaak Walton League take a grassroots' approach to solving conservation issues. This approach works due to the continuing efforts of their members. Both organizations promote citizen involvement within local chapters, while encouraging education on local, state and national issues, according to IWLA state grant committee member and Bill Cook Chapter President Nick Homan, the IWLA Wisconsin Division, like WWF, advocates for sound and wise environmental legislation within the state.

According to Fuge, “Whether you are concerned about clean water in your neighborhood, healthy fish and wildlife populations, fresh air to breathe, or access to places where your family can get back to nature, we believe it’s important to take action today to safeguard natural resources for generations to come.”

The Wisconsin Division of Izaak Walton League of America is a key part of the national, nonprofit founded in 1922 to protect the outdoors for future generations. Our members are committed to common sense policies that safeguard fish and wildlife habitat, support community-based conservation and address pressing environmental issues. Discover more about how you can get involved and support IWLA by visiting www.iwla.org.

Wisconsin Wildlife Federation’s members, 200+ affiliated organizations and businesses are dedicated to providing conservation education; supporting hunting, fishing, trapping and other nature-based outdoor recreation; protecting fish and wildlife habitat; assuring access to public lands and waters; supporting the Second Amendment; and promoting shooting sports. Find member & sponsor information at www.wiwf.org.