Wisconsin history is full of Remarkable Stories, including the stories of individuals who served in the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, to the small group of concerned citizens who put DDT on trial resulting in the nation's first ban of the pesticide in 1969, to the innovative efforts to use contour farming to protect Wisconsin soils and farmland. Check back soon to learn about these remarkable stories, and more.

Will Allen, September 2009, photo by Debbie Kmetz.

Here and Now, we are all part of this history. If we enjoy fishing or boating the state's rivers and lakes, look forward to digging into the earth to plant a garden each spring, crawl out of bed in the early dawn to listen for the migration of cranes, or any of the myriad ways we connect to the places we love, we are an important part of Making Wisconsin Home. There are individuals, such as Will Allen in Milwaukee, who are internationally known for the work they are doing, and others, such as the farmers throughout the state, who are maintaining the state's agriculture traditions with a constant dedication to caring for the land they work on. Many were honored to have Kentucky farmer and beloved writer Wendell Berry at the Wisconsin Book Festival in October. Mr. Berry contribute his thoughts to an open conversation about rural life, farming, and community going on all around the state.

Anvil Lake, photo by Jessica Becker.

What is it about Wisconsin? Is there something in the water? What makes us feel so at home here, so connected to this place? Why does Wisconsin stand out as a leader in the nation in conservation, agriculture, forestry, and water protection? Curt Meine is a writer, conservation biologist, and Director of the Center for Humans and Nature based in Baraboo, Wisconsin, who has given the state's unique history much thought. Check back soon for a overview of Wisconsin's history, from the perspective of Making it Home.