2006 Conservationist of the Year

More of our heroes:

Bud Jordahl
Janet Beach Hanson
Kristen Wilhelm

Jeanne Behrend is president of Patrick Marsh Conservancy, which works to protect the Patrick Marsh area near Sun Prairie in Dane County. Jeanne’s enthusiasm and personal leadership have brought together a diverse coalition to protect this sensitive wetland, which is also an important archaeological site. Through Jeanne’s leadership, two separate parcels totaling 57 acres have been permanently protected with the help of the Stewardship Fund. In addition, over 700 additional acres have been identified for future protection.

“Jeanne Behrend has been a tireless and effective advocate for Patrick Marsh. She has worked with the DNR, Dane County, the Natural Heritage Land Trust, the Patrick Marsh Conservancy and the Sun Prairie School District to protect the Marsh by acquiring and protecting dozens of acres of wetland and upland habitat. As a result, the Marsh and its feathered, furred, scaled, chitinous, leafed, and grassed inhabitants face a happy future.”
~ Kathleen M. Falk, Dane County Executive

“Jeanne Behrend is the reason why the Natural Heritage Land Trust has been able to purchase 57 acres of land at Patrick Marsh. It is on the strength of her vision and leadership that Patrick Marsh Conservancy has raised $270,000 over the past two years. Jeanne is completely devoted to the cause of Patrick Marsh, and she conveys a heartfelt enthusiasm for the marsh with everyone she meets.“
~ Jim Welsh, Executive Director of the Natural Heritage Land Trust