Sheboygan River Basin Partnership Expands Community Connections for Healthier Waterways
The Sheboygan River Basin Partnership (SRBP), a Partner Group of Lakeshore Natural Resource Partnership (LNRP), has a longstanding commitment to cultivating community partnerships that promote stewardship and sound decision-making for a healthier Sheboygan River Basin. This year, SRBP has renewed its focus on expanding public engagement through new and existing collaborations, furthering its mission to engage the community in meaningful conservation action.
Engaging Volunteers through the United Way Day of Caring
One highlight has been SRBP’s participation in the United Way of Sheboygan County’s Day of Caring, a volunteer-driven initiative connecting local businesses and residents to impactful community projects. With the support of United Way, SRBP engaged Bemis Manufacturing Company volunteers for a restoration project at the Old Plank Road Trailhead.
This trailhead is situated alongside Willow Creek, a cold-water stream that flows directly into the Sheboygan River. Volunteers tackled tasks including replacing 13 deteriorated wooden planks, spreading over 25 yards of mulch, planting 100 native plants and 18 white pine seedlings, and removing invasive species. This effort resulted in a revitalized space for both the environment and community enjoyment.
Reflecting on the experience, Bemis volunteer Andy Willadsen shared:
“I had a great time working with coworkers and community organizers at the Old Plank Road Trailhead. There were a variety of tasks, allowing everyone to contribute in ways they enjoyed. I especially appreciated the opportunity to use my construction skills to renovate parts of the trail.”
Volunteer opportunities like these highlight SRBP’s belief that engaging the public through hands-on activities fosters awareness and lasting connections to natural resources.
This project wouldn’t have been possible without the collective efforts of many supporters, including United Way of Sheboygan County, Scotty Landscape Supply, Johnson’s Nursery, Saxon Homestead Farm, Bemis Manufacturing Company, and the Sheboygan County Planning and Conservation Department. SRBP and LNRP extend heartfelt thanks to these organizations and businesses for their time, resources, and dedication.
Partnering with Sheboygan Area Progressive Farmers
Another exciting development for SRBP has been its growing collaboration with the Sheboygan Area Progressive Farmers (SRPF), a farmer-led group dedicated to improving soil and water health through regenerative agriculture. This partnership reflects SRBP’s recognition of agriculture’s significant impact on water quality in the Sheboygan River Basin.
By attending SRPF meetings and collaborating on a grant application to the Fund for Lake Michigan, SRBP has laid the groundwork for a partnership that aligns with shared goals, such as reducing nutrient runoff and promoting healthy soils. Regenerative practices like no-till planting, cover crops, and crop rotation improve soil structure and water infiltration, reducing harmful runoff into local waterways.
Though this partnership is still in its infancy, SRBP Board Member Andy Holschbach, emphasizes its potential: “Building a partnership with the SRPF is a natural fit as both organizations are highly focused on improving water quality and having a healthier watershed for all to live in.”
Strengthening Connections for the Future
SRBP’s renewed emphasis on community engagement extends beyond these recent successes. From past initiatives like public paddling events, invasive species removals, and educational workshops, to long-term partnerships with groups like Camp Y-Koda, Maywood Environmental Park, and the DNR, SRBP has consistently worked to connect residents with the natural beauty and importance of the Sheboygan River Basin.
Looking ahead, SRBP plans to continue participating in events like the Day of Caring and deepening ties with SRPF and other local organizations. These efforts not only raise awareness but also inspire collective action toward protecting and improving the basin’s water resources.
Get Involved
Whether you’re a local resident, business owner, or community leader, there are many ways to support SRBP’s mission. Volunteer opportunities, educational events, and partnerships provide avenues for everyone to contribute to a healthier watershed.
For more information about upcoming events or to explore partnership opportunities, contact SRBP Board President Starr Gerk (sjgerk@yahoo.com) or LNRP Director of Partnerships Patricia Scuglik (patricia@lnrp.org).