Wisconsin Association of Land Conservation Employees

Madison, WI

Call to Order: Jean Schomisch called the WALCE Annual meeting to order at 3:30 pm.

Approval of February 3, 2006 Minutes: Motion by Greg Leonard, second by Dan O’Connell to approve the February 3, 2006 Board meeting minutes. Motion carried.

Treasurers Report: Ed reviewed the income and expense for the 2005/2006 budget. Motion by Tom Sweeney second by Dale Hanson to approve the Treasurers report. Motion carried.

2006 Budget Proposal: Ed reviewed the 2006 – 2007 proposed budget. Motion by Dave Ferris second by Blaine Delzer to approve the 2006 – 2007 proposed budget. Discussion followed. Motion carried.

WALCE Strategic Plan: Perry reviewed the updated strategic plan and major changes from the previous strategic plan. Motion by Tom Sweeney, second by Dave Appleyard to approve strategic plan. Motion carried.

Presidents Report: Jean expressed the need for a long term vision including goals and objectives for the Association and concerns about the current resource issues impacting the state. She expressed the need for WALCE members to become active in setting goals and striving to achieve those goals in order to achieve resource protection. Jean expressed appreciation to the few that have worked hard on behalf of the Association and briefly reviewed the accomplishments of the Board and Committee over the past two years. She encouraged all members to plan for the future of the Association, take the high road and be positive, proactive and professional.

Administrative Committee report: Andy Johnson introduced members of Administrative Committee and reviewed the accomplishments of committee over the past year. Topics covered included the staffing survey, Buffer Initiative, state budget issues, Livestock Siting legislation, NR 243, LWRM plans and implementation strategies, 2006 work plan, funding, Chapter 30 permit process, Working Lands Initiative, and improving communication to members.

Technical Committee Report: On behalf of Bob Micheel, Doug Denk introduced the Technical Committee members and provided an update on the activities of the Technical Committee. Topics covered included: survey regarding the Transect Survey, EQIP funding no till survey, state wide technical tour, communication strategy, WALCE representation on non-WALCE committees, and contact list for technical practices.

Professional Improvement Committee Report: Penny Pohle provided an update on the Professional Improvement Committee including concerns with turnover and vacancies on committee, certification and training opportunities, awards program, scholarship fund, and partnering with WLIA or WCCA on conferences. She encouraged everyone to complete a conference evaluation form.

Candidate Speeches: The candidates for President, Greg Cleereman, Marinette County and Dale Hanson, Barron County and Vice President - Kurt Calkins, Columbia County presented their comments.

Other Business: None

Adjourn: Motion by Greg Baneck second by Andy Johnson to adjourn at 5:05pm. Motion carried.

Respectfully Submitted,