LNRP Fall 2024 Updates from Executive Director Mike Mullen

Dear Fellow Conservationists, 

Around this time last year, I was meandering through the quiet woods of the Chequamegon National forest, not yet knowing this hike would be unlike any other. As I ambled through the trees, my phone rang– it was a call from LNRP board members asking me if I would accept the role of leading this remarkable organization! Now, almost a year later, I want to take a few paragraphs to reflect on all we have to be thankful for at LNRP.

I extend an enormous amount of gratitude to the people and organizations who keep us moving forward each and every day. This includes the LNRP board and committee members, our amazing staff and volunteers, dedicated Partner Groups, external partners, and generous funders and donors. They provide their time, talents, and finances so that we can all continue to grow the Conservation, Collaboration and Community work so many have come to appreciate for nearly 22 years. 

LNRP has welcomed talented new staff members to manage additional watershed projects and expand our support of grassroots partners in the lakeshore communities they call home. LNRP Partner Group Climate Change Coalition of Door County hired Jess Sword-Reinke to assist with communications and operations. LNRP hired Sam Frauenfeld as our new Partner Project Coordinator – you can learn more about her here. We have also established a Development and Communications committee in addition to welcoming four new board members (Peter Vander Velden, Siena Morrissey Boutelle, Jacob Boyer, and Jon Troe) who bring expertise in development, fundraising, cyber security, finance, and law. 

This Fall the LNRP staff and board embarked on a strategic planning process which includes new organizational mission and vision statements, the development of action planning tools, and a metrics dashboard to help communicate our progress. During a September board retreat in Manitowoc we identified the key priorities that will guide our work and decision-making. Our 3 Year Strategic Plan, which is nearly complete, will allow us to better focus and align our work across programming, management, communications, and development. 
 
In 2025 we will focus on implementing our new strategic plan and strengthening our organizational resilience by diversifying our funding sources. We will continue to strive for the expansion of our staff, allowing us to broaden the scope and impact of the almost 40 watershed projects we are currently engaged in. Lastly, we will deliver more programming to support local conservationists in learning, sharing ideas, and generating momentum for the stewardship of our shared lands and waters. 

Wishing you a wonderful holiday season,

Mike Mullen
LNRP Executive Director