By Steve Mueller, President, 2020

I have had the privilege of being elected as the new president of this great organization for the next three years. My wife, Cynthia, and I have a home on the North End and we look forward to spending a good part of the year on the Island. During my 10 years on the board, I have been impressed with the energy and commitment of the board members and our membership, so I look forward to leading us into the new decade.

On behalf of the Board, I want to offer a big thank you to the outgoing president, Fred Koerschner, who has led the organization with abundant enthusiasm and skilled leadership since 2017.

As I write, it is clear that the year 2020 is going to be one of challenges for the world, the nation and our island community. The COVID-19 virus has made us reevaluate what is important in our lives and recognize what binds us in common purpose.

The Wilderness Preserve is part of the Madeline Island community, and plays an important role in the island’s identity, by preserving a large portion of the island in its natural state. It is a commitment that was made by the founding members of this organization and one that the current board and our membership carry forward. This is a special place!

We are a land trust that encompasses lands only on Madeline Island, but we are an extension of the sanctuary provided by the 50 years old Apostle Island National Lakeshore, and the many other protected areas of the Bayfield Peninsula. All of this beauty is embedded in the clean waters of our Lake Superior.

Education to Promote Conservation Our education programs promoting conservation concepts and practices are among the most important contributions we make each year to our island community. This year, because of the coronavirus and with respect for Islanders and sadness, we need to cancel our May and June lectures and hikes – including our treasured annual meeting and spring reception. Please check our website for updates on the status of all summer events, and any changes we might need to make.

Combating Invasive Species Many of you are familiar with our history of combating invasive species. Starting in 2019, we focused on controlling buckthorn and barberry through mapping, foliar spraying and additional removal. Our strategy tackles the perimeter of the invasion and moves inward to address heavier infestations. Our efforts seem to be working.

We will adjust our strategy each upcoming year based on the data that we gather and we are committed to continue this strategy as long as results trend in a positive direction. These efforts have been supported with Wilderness Preserve funds and several generous donations.

Trails — Pathways To The Heart Our miles of trails provide pathways to the heart of our more than 2600 acres, containing a variety of ecosystems from the towering Eastern Hemlock groves to the gracious sedge meadows, all home to a multitude of plants and animals. We are committed to maintaining our beautiful trails for year-round enjoyment of Island residents and visitors who love to hike, hunt in the fall, snowshoe, and ski. We hope you will put on a pair of boots, grab some skis, or put some binoculars up to your eyes and enjoy the abundance our lands have to offer.

Our work continues and we continue to invite your contributions to keep it going. Please know I look forward to getting to know you and to inviting your further support of the Madeline Island Wilderness Preserve so, together, we can preserve and enjoy our very special Island’s lands well into the future. On behalf of the Board, please stay safe as you shelter at home.

With my sincere appreciation for the opportunity to work with you, Steve Mueller, Board President.