By DNR Conservation Warden Chuck Wincek
This article appeared in the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association’s November 2025 eNewsletter.
Photos courtesy of Fallen Outdoors
I am excited to tell you about an outstanding team of local, state, and federal partners who came together to host a waterfowl hunt in honor of area military veterans who sacrificed so much for our country.
It is known as the Veterans Canada Good Hunt. This annual event continues to grow in meaning and impact. It was held in mid-September and hosted by the St. Croix Wetland Management District in partnership with the Friends of the St. Croix Wetland Management District and The Fallen Outdoors – Team Wisconsin.
But the teamwork did not stop with these incredible groups. The Wisconsin DNR provided strong support, as did the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Star Prairie Fish and Game, Willow River Rod and Gun Club, Russell’s Sport N’ Bike, and other local partners, who collaborated to give six veterans a hunt that I hope each remembers.
We had six veterans in total – three who hunted on Sept. 12 and three on Sept. 14. Among the six remarkable individuals were two Purple Heart recipients, who reminded me and others of the deep sacrifices made by these individuals and others who bravely served. I was humbled to be in the presence of all six.
I am happy to report that all six hunters harvested geese, and two of them did so for the very first time. This was an especially exciting milestone that added to the spirit of camaraderie and celebration. Participants included both local hunters and those who traveled from as far as Ohio and Iowa to be part of the experience.
A key feature supporting inclusive outdoor access is the ADA-accessible hunting and wildlife viewing blind at the Erickson Waterfowl Production Area. This was installed in 2019 and was primarily funded through a National Fish and Wildlife Foundation grant, with additional support from Star Prairie Fish and Game, Bradley Blinds, Lake Kountry Inc., the Friends of the St. Croix WMD, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
This blind is one of the first of its kind in western Wisconsin. It is available for hunters with mobility challenges on a first-come, first-served basis. If unoccupied 30 minutes before shooting hours by a hunter with mobility challenges, the blind is open to all hunters. The blind is located at 1959 145th Street, New Richmond, WI 54017.
My role in this special hunt was to assist with decoy placement and ensure all hunters were properly licensed. LJ Keller, a longtime volunteer and board member of the Friends group, served as the lead guide. Greg Scheder and Jean Gfall provided essential logistical support. Troy Hill from The Fallen Outdoors – Team Wisconsin reached out to the veteran community to connect veterans with this amazing hunting opportunity.
The Fallen Outdoors is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) organization that connects veterans to each other in the great outdoors. Their mission is to organize therapeutic outdoor adventures for those currently serving, those who have served in the past, and our Gold Star families.
Acting Project Leader Chris Trosen says the annual event is nothing short of amazing.
“It’s an opportunity for the community to rally around a common goal—supporting our veterans and recognizing the sacrifices they’ve made for our country. The camaraderie, the shared stories, and the connection to the land make this event incredibly special.”
I cannot say it any better.
I offer a heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make this event possible. Your dedication and teamwork continue to make a difference and honor our veterans.
