By Brad Heidel, Executive Director – bheidel@wisducks.org
Photo credit: JC Videography and Production
This article appeared in the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association’s May 2026 Newsletter edition.
Celebrating the Incredible Accomplishments of 2025
The Wisconsin Waterfowl Association recently held our 2026 Annual Meeting. It was a SOLD OUT event, hosted in a new and exciting format. This year’s celebration took place at the new MeatEater Store at The Corners in Brookfield.
The afternoon was spent celebrating the incredible accomplishments of 2025 and recognizing the volunteers, chapters, and supporters who made it all possible. We also took time to look ahead at what 2026 holds for the organization. The day wrapped up with a social hour, featuring food and refreshments, where we shared stories from the past season and looked forward to the promise of the next. It was a great afternoon among friends. I look forward to building on the success of this event and hope you’ll be able to join us in 2027!
This past year was a great success. The Wisconsin Waterfowl Association could not do what we do without the support and contributions of our staff, volunteers, and supporters. That said, we were proud to recognize several individuals and chapters that played a significant role in advancing our mission.
TOP GUN – This award goes to the chapter and its volunteers who host the highest-netting event. Our Green Bay Chapter earned this honor. The efforts of Chapter Chair Bruce Urben and the entire Green Bay team in securing donations and table sponsors truly make all the difference.
MISSION MAKER – This new award recognizes an individual or chapter that helps the organization deliver on its mission. The Valley Chapter received this inaugural award. Chapter Chair Brad Miller and the Valley team hosted several successful fundraising events throughout the year, including a banquet and a clays shoot. They also served as the lead chapter for the Expo Banquet, all while managing a large wood duck box program.
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR – The Wisconsin Waterfowl Association simply could not do its work without dedicated volunteers. Connie Markham has given selflessly for many years, and this past year was no exception. As the face of WWA, the Waterfowl Hunters Expo, and the Waterfowlers Academy across social media, Connie consistently provides fresh, engaging, and relevant content. She is also a key contributor to the Waterfowlers Academy, hosting both the “For Women By Women” and Women’s Zone events. In addition, she serves in leadership roles on the Waterfowl Hunters Expo Steering Committee and the State Board of Directors. I can’t thank Connie enough for all she does for our organization.
We would also like to recognize the work of Patty Bratz. Patty is the Between The Lakes Chapter Chair and former treasurer for Between The Lakes. She has been instrumental in helping and getting an introduction into WWA through the Oshkosh, Fond du Lac, and West Allis chapters, which has led to events at Meats Opera House, and currently the Bashes, Jail and Bail, and Class A drawings at the Marsh Inn, and for many years as the recorder at the calendar drawing and a great help at registration for the Hunters Expo banquet. She continues to be an asset to the organization.
CONSERVATION PARTNER OF THE YEAR – This award recognizes an individual or organization that has worked with WWA to deliver high-impact waterfowl conservation in Wisconsin. This year’s recipient is Eric Lobner, Division Administrator of the Fish, Wildlife & Parks Division at the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. This recognition reflects not just a single year, but many years of dedicated effort. Without Eric’s vision and leadership—and that of his team at the DNR—WWA would not be in the position we are today to carry out meaningful wetland restoration work alongside our state and federal partners. Along with former Executive Director Bruce Ross and Board Vice President Todd Schaller, Eric has helped get us where we are today. He has truly made a difference.
Remember, none of WWA’s work would be possible without a dedicated staff and an army of volunteers. When I think of these individuals, I’m reminded of the phrase, “Many hands make light work.” We can do even more, but we need your help. If you’re interested in having fun, meeting like-minded people, and making a real impact for Wisconsin’s ducks and duck hunters, please reach out. You can contact me or Brock Rosenkranz at brosenkranz@wisducks.org to learn more.
I can’t thank you all enough,
