Lots of Love
There is a lot to love about the Driftless. The topography lends itself to rural living and neighbors may be few and far, but there are some things we share. Two of those are: love of land and spotty Internet connections. Say what you will, social media and emails may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but they are a great way to stay in touch with the pulse of life here. Driftless Now is committed to bringing that pulse to you and I am happy to play a part in it.
After seventeen years of getting acquainted with the land and the people, I am certain that this is home and have enjoyed learning about the organizations that demonstrate a commitment to our region.
Love of community must surely include love of land. We are incredibly fortunate to have the Kickapoo Valley Reserve as a haven for animals, vegetation and humans. Current thinking espouses the need for having green spaces in our lives, the Reserve abundantly answers that need for locals and tourists alike.
Valley Stewardship Network adds educational and research components, teaming with University of Wisconsin to offer a ten-week Master Naturalist class at the KVR. Applications for the class are due by February 20th; class begins March 2nd. Visit their website to learn more about their amazing offerings!
Another gem of our region is Wildcat Mountain State Park. If you can’t travel for a vacation, consider a day hike at Wildcat, or simply sit at the observation point and drink in the valley view. Supporting this wonderful asset by purchasing a yearly pass is a gift to yourself and to your family.
Love of community must surely include caring about people. I have enjoyed the efforts of a statewide organization that has a vibrant component here in the Driftless. The organization is Wisconsin Partners and it is committed to people talking to one another in order to find local solutions to shared problems. Meeting monthly, the local group is called Kickapoo Conversations. For the past few months the theme of the conversation has been how to approach the very real need for housing. A summit of findings and a chance for more voices to be heard, Wisconsin Partners is offering “Rural Housing” on January 29 in Viroqua. This group of movers and shakers reflect the diversity of our region and I highly recommend becoming part of the conversation.
And where would we be without Winding Rivers Library System, helping us stay connected to the rest of the world, offering internet for those of us still not reached by modern technology, and of course offering events. The new movie of Harriet Tubman’s life “Harriet” will be shown at the Ontario Public Library, Friday January 31st at 5:30.
Lots to love here in the Driftless!
Contributing writer Dena Eakles is the founder of Echo Valley Farm in Ontario, Wisconsin. Founded in August of 2002, the community of Echo Valley Farm has moved towards sustainability. They celebrate and learn from the land and one another, living what is possible when peace is the foundation and the earth is sacred. in addition, Eakles publishes a blog called Let kindness win, and authored the ebook “The Peace Warrior” (2013).
