
New Beginnings for Wisconsin’s Waterfowl Community
Hold onto your hunting hats, folks! Brad Heidel has officially taken the reins as the new executive director of the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association (WWA). Heidel, who hails from Dane, Wisconsin, steps in to fill the shoes of Bruce Ross, who has served valiantly for seven years. If you didn’t know, Bruce was quite the captain—one of those guys who, when he said “all aboard,” you actually felt like climbing into a duck hunting style ship!
A Hunter's Heart
Heidel’s journey to this position isn’t a wild goose chase. Growing up in the small town of Green Lake, he learned the ropes of hunting at an early age—12 to be precise. That’s when he learned that skipping school for duck opening season is a rite of passage that not even a football coach can take away from you!
“The duck opener holds a special place in my heart and family,” Heidel shared, bringing a mix of personal anecdote and passion to his leadership style. Sounds like he’s got duck feathers in his blood and a hunting rifle under his pillow!
Plans for Wetlands and Beyond
During Heidel’s time with big names in wildlife conservation—think Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Delta Waterfowl—he’s honed his skills in advocacy and habitat restoration. As he embarks on his new journey, his focus remains clear: the ducks, and those who love hunting them. After all, a state known for its lakes isn’t just about fishing—our feathered friends have a special place here too!
“If it doesn’t benefit Wisconsin ducks or duck hunters, we won’t be doing it,” Heidel quips confidently. Think of him as the ultimate duck defender coordinating bonanzas of wetland restoration, hunter recruitment, and education. Imagine the possibilities: more ducks, more hunters, and maybe even a commemorative duck-themed poetry slam? (Now, that would be a quack-up!)
Excitement for the Future
As Brad Heidel readies to steer the WWA—at what feels like a high-speed boat on a lake of adventure—he’s thrilled to continue building on the momentum from Bruce Ross's tenure. “Expect great things to come from the WWA,” he assures. With his energetic outlook, it sounds like the future for Wisconsin waterfowl is not just bright; it's downright dazzling!
With the upcoming seasons, duck hunters across the state can look forward to a plethora of opportunities to engage with the great outdoors. If you’ve been contemplating a page out of a hunting guide or the thrilling potential of the next season, remember to soak in the revitalized WWA spirit.
Get Involved!
So, what can you do to help our ducks and the dedicated community surrounding them? Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a newbie, consider joining the WWA! Your membership, donations, and volunteer hours are key to making a difference. And let’s be honest; if you squeaked by in school, there’s redeeming joy in creating memories in the marsh with your community!
Before you go, just remember: While ducks may have their own "quacks and quirks", one thing is for certain—they can’t wing it without fabulous human support. Let's make this season soar!
So grab your gear, dust off that camouflage, and prepare to embrace the adventure! The Wisconsin wilds are calling, and they are sounding a lot like a squawking mallard!
See you in the marsh—who knows, maybe Brad will be there too, leading the charge with duck calls and dreams!
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