When did you get involved with Minnesota Trout Unlimited? 

I first became involved with MNTU around a dozen years ago when I was hired to plant twelve thousand trees along trout streams over a summer. This was for habitat improvement projects on the Sucker and French River watersheds on the North Shore. Shortly after, I began regularly volunteering for the organization. 

What drew you to join Minnesota Trout Unlimited? 

I have a conservation biology and forest ecology background and I greatly appreciated MNTU’s watershed approach to protecting trout streams. I’ve also been an avid angler my entire life and enjoyed the community aspect of like-minded people. 

How have you contributed as a volunteer? 

Over the years I’ve been involved with so many aspects of MNTU. I’ve served as volunteer editor for the MNTU newsletter for five years and the copy editor for many years prior. I’ve worked on fundraising events and materials, created email blasts, assisted with social media, volunteered at T.U.N.E Camp, and served on the Gitche Gumee Chapter board, as well as participated in many local chapter events. 

How has volunteering for and being a part of the Minnesota Trout Unlimited community impacted you? 

I’ve formed life-long friendships and relationships through MNTU and feel that my work has made a meaningful difference for the ecosystems I love. 

Why should someone join the MNTU community as a member and/or volunteer? 

I would recommend MNTU as a worthwhile organization to invest your volunteer time. There are so many disparate aspects of MNTU that wherever your skill set lies, there is a place for you. As a member, the community aspect can’t be overstated. Even if you only join for the fishing secrets.