This is a bittersweet week for Groundswell board and staff as we celebrate Jim’s final days as our Executive Director. We will certainly miss him, but we’re excited for him to start his next chapter and enjoy retired life!
“It has been an honor for me to work with so many conservation-minded landowners over the years. Collaborating with our excellent staff and board, our volunteers, our partners, and all of our supporters has made my job enjoyable and very rewarding.” -Jim Welsh
Jim enjoying a paddle on Waubesa Wetlands. Photo credit: Christine Leigh Photography
Jim has been instrumental in the permanent protection of many of the most loved and valued places in south central Wisconsin. During Jim’s successful tenure over the past 18+ years, Groundswell has achieved national accreditation and has conserved more than 13,000 acres of farms, forests, prairies, and wetlands in and around Dane County.
Under Jim’s leadership, Groundswell has preserved land in rural, agricultural, and urban environments, a testament to his belief that everyone deserves access to nature and open spaces. In addition to his success in expanding conservation areas, protecting new lands and conserving historical areas, Jim has worked with community members to provide equitable access to land and nature, including expanding the outdoor classroom at Lake View Elementary School in Madison and securing land tenure for immigrant farmers and farmers of color.
Thank you, Jim, for everything you have done to create a world filled with green spaces.
Stay tuned for an announcement about our new Executive Director coming soon!