From a legendary water conservationist shaping Green Bay’s future, to a dairy farm revolutionizing soil health, and a local meteorologist inspiring environmental action on-air—meet the 2024 Impact Award winners driving change in our community.
Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance (Fox-Wolf) is excited to announce the recipients of the 2024 Impact Awards, celebrating individuals and organizations that have made significant strides in environmental conservation and sustainability in the Fox-Wolf Watershed. The prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Hallet “Bud” Harris for his lifelong dedication to water conservation. Additionally, Seven Oaks Dairy, Community First Credit Union, Jeff Mazanec, Senior Consultant at raSmith, and Ryan Kudish, meteorologist at WFRV-TV Local 5, will be honored for their outstanding contributions to advancing sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Lifetime Achievement Award: Hallet “Bud” Harris
Hallet “Bud” Harris is being awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of over 50 years of groundbreaking work in water conservation. Bud joined the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay in 1969 as an Ecology professor and has since been a driving force behind numerous initiatives to improve the ecological health of the bay of Green Bay. His efforts have been critical in projects like the Fox River PCB cleanup and the Lower Fox River TMDL study.
Though he retired in 1999, Bud has continued to champion environmental causes. He has raised over $1 million for water monitoring programs, served on the Wisconsin Sea Grant Advisory Council, and been a leader for Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance. His impact is still felt across the conservation community.
“Bud has been such a force in water conservation for decades,” said Jessica Schultz, Fox-Wolf Executive Director. “What’s remarkable is not just the sheer scope of his work, but how he continues to inspire and guide people. We wouldn’t be where we are today without him.”
Impact Award Recipients
Seven Oaks Dairy
Seven Oaks Dairy is being recognized for its dedication to sustainable farming and soil health practices. Their efforts include participation in the Climate Smart Dairy Study and other innovative projects that improve water quality and land management. The dairy has also been a vocal advocate for sharing best practices with others through field days and tours, setting a new standard for agricultural conservation.
“Seven Oaks Dairy is a perfect example of what it means to lead by doing,” said Schultz. “They’ve taken on some big challenges and continue to find ways to improve. What they’re doing today is shaping the future of farming.”
Jeff Mazanec, Senior Consultant at raSmith
Jeff Mazanec, Senior Consultant at raSmith, is being honored for his extensive contributions to stormwater management and community engagement. As a long-time board member of Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance, Jeff has connected people from diverse fields to improve local water quality. His passion for water-based recreation has led to community paddling events, encouraging others to appreciate and protect the region’s waterways.
“Jeff is someone who just doesn’t quit,” said Schultz. “Whether it’s developing new tools like PermiTrack or rallying people around a cause, Jeff is always thinking ahead and getting things done. He’s made such a difference, and he’s always the guy you go to when you need something figured out.”
Community First Credit Union
Community First Credit Union is being recognized for its commitment to environmentally friendly infrastructure. They’ve incorporated native plantings and permeable pavers at their facilities, which help manage runoff and improve water filtration. Their sustainable design choices are making a positive impact on the local environment.
“What’s great about Community First Credit Union is that they’re making these smart, thoughtful choices about how they build and operate,” said Schultz. “They’re showing that even small changes can have a big impact.”
Ryan Kudish, WFRV-TV Local 5 Meteorologist | Sustainably Speaking
Ryan Kudish, meteorologist at WFRV-TV Local 5, is receiving an Impact Award for his work on Sustainably Speaking, a weekly news segment focused on environmental issues. Through this platform, Ryan has highlighted critical topics related to sustainability, bringing attention to local efforts and inspiring the community to take action.
“Ryan has this amazing ability to make complex environmental issues accessible to everyone,” said Schultz. “His passion for sustainability shines through, and he’s really helping people understand why these issues matter. We’re thrilled to recognize his work.”
About the Awards
The Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance Impact Awards are presented annually to individuals and organizations that show leadership in environmental conservation within the Fox-Wolf Watershed. These awards highlight efforts to protect natural resources, improve water quality, and promote sustainable practices.
Awardees will be recognized at Fox-Wolf’s The Happiest Hour event on October 10 at The Hillside at Plamman Park in Appleton. For more information, please contact Dan Beckwith, Communications Specialist.
About Us
Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance is a non-profit organization that works with partners to protect and restore the water resources of the Fox-Wolf River Basin.
