By Bruce Ross, Executive Director – bross@wisducks.org
This article appeared in the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association’s August 2025 Newsletter edition.
Happy Coast Guard Day! As I write this on August 4th, I am reminded that today celebrates the founding of the Coast Guard by Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton 235 years ago. How do I know that? Many of you may know I went to the Coast Guard Academy and then spent the next 28 years around the world in Coast Guard blue. I have always been proud of my decision to follow in the steps of the men and women who served in our nation’s most frequently overlooked service. It was a great ride.
WWA has been a great “ride” too. I applied for this position nearly seven years ago after volunteering with Ducks Unlimited, not entirely sure of what I was getting into. And when COVID hit shortly after, I feared I would be turning off WWA’s lights as we struggled to generate revenue. But I’m proud to say that WWA has shone brighter:
- Four WWA ecologists are making public and private lands better for wildlife, with thousands of wetland acres planned for restoration this year, and millions in grant funds to make it happen.
Our Waterfowl Hunters EXPO is one of the top three in the nation, with tiny WWA competing with continental brands like DU and Delta for top billing. (Make sure you plan to attend our two-day EXPO this month—22 and 23 August, and bring the whole family, including your dog!)- Our revenues to support our missions are growing and more diversified than ever.
- WWA is the most powerful voice for waterfowl hunter interests in Madison, as we advocate for a reasonable sandhill crane hunt and to advance the stewardship program.
- Our education program, including our “For Women, By Women” program, is growing exponentially across the state.
- So much more, both new and old.
This partial list shows why I’m very proud of what WWA is accomplishing, including WWA’s recent continent-wide recognition by the North American Waterfowl Management Plan Committee and the Blue-winged Teal Award.
I am reminded that whatever good we are achieving, we stand on the shoulders of those who came before. I just received word that one of WWA’s three founders, Jim Weix, has passed away. Forty-one years ago, Jim helped lead a group of buddies to establish this state-focused organization to represent the interests of state waterfowlers better. This included the establishment of a dove hunting season. Sound familiar?
You can learn more about Jim from one of his colleagues, Rob Kieckhefer (WWA Member #1). Jim is an excellent example of how one person can have an outsized impact through dedication to a vision. The best way I can think to honor the commitment of Jim and Rob and the other founders of WWA is to get involved: join or form a chapter, make a donation, establish a wood duck box program, volunteer at the EXPO….
Jim’s passing is also a reminder that tomorrow is not promised. If you’ve been paying attention, you’ll know that I am retiring in a month or two after three distinct careers: a military officer, private sector executive, and now, non-profit leader. I’m proud of what we’ve done, and I hope to remain involved with WWA’s habitat and policy programs. But now it’s time for the next helmsman – or woman – to put their hand on WWA’s tiller.
The recruitment for my replacement is well underway. We’ve received the applications of some superb candidates. I’ll be making an announcement next month of who will lead WWA to the next level of impact. I hope you’ll give that person the same support you have given me.
See you at the EXPO!
Bruce
