Training Public Land Managers How To Manage Invasive Species – Wisconsin, 2008-2009
The Southeastern Wisconsin Invasive Species Consortium (SEWISC) asked Bergner Associates to develop workshops to train park, highway, and utility managers and staff how to manage invasive plants in Southeastern Wisconsin. Bergner Associates worked with SEWISC to develop the workshop program, recruited sponsors and exhibitors, and handled all workshop on-site logistics. Because of our strategic communication strategies, over 200 individuals attended – more than three times the expected attendance. Workshop attendees overwhelmingly said that they plan to implement the invasive species management techniques learned.
Minnesota-Wisconsin Invasive Species Conference – 2010
Minnesota and Wisconsin joined forces for the first time in 2010 to organize an invasive species conference, MNWIISC. Over 580 attendees at this 2 ½ day conference included land managers, natural resource professionals, academics, landscapers, nursery, agricultural or forestry employees, environmental restoration specialists, lake association and woodland owner association members, government and non-profit organizations. Bergner Associates handled all conference administration tasks – from recruiting sponsors and exhibitors, to negotiating contracts with the conference venue and all vendors, processing registrations, coordinating all on-site logistics, managing a nearly $100,000 budget, and writing a summary report.
James E. Dutton Foundation: Current
The James E. Dutton Foundation wanted to expand their impact on improving the environment for humans and wildlife. The foundation asked Bergner Associates to develop the first environmental scholarship contest for the southeastern Wisconsin region. In its first year (2010-2011), the contest focuses student’s efforts on stormwater management. For more information, visit the Dutton Foundation Contest for the Environment here.
