HISTORY OF THE ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED CONSERVATIONISTS
"What is Past is Prologue," are wise words of
Shakespeare carved on the stone wall entrance to the beautiful Archives
Building at our national Capitol. "Study the Past," are words equally
significant carved on the opposite wall.
In a strict sense, all events since the
beginning of time up to this very moment are prologue. So it is history that
sets the stage for tomorrow. On this premise,
THE ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED
CONSERVATIONISTS was founded.
Sixteen years prior to this Bicentennial
Year of the Declaration of Independence,
THE ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED
CONSERVATIONISTS, was born. Conceived by C.L. Harrington in May, 1960, it
began as a “kaffe klatsch” with Clarence Bontly. Meeting at irregular times
they enjoyed reliving their years with the Wisconsin Conservation Department.
Shortly
thereafter, Joe Alexander and Ed Line joined the twosome. Then C. L. invited
Juel Anderson and Russ Williams to meet with them. They did. In time, other
retired conservationists met with the group. Automobile trips to places of
interest followed. Soon, ten to fifteen retirees were meeting for coffee and
enjoying a half—hour or so of chit—chat. When Edward Erdlitz suggested a name
for the group,
THE ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED CONSERVATIONISTS, it was accepted and
monthly meetings followed.
As is true with many worthy organizations,
THE ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED CONSERVATIONISTS, rose from humble beginnings.
Actually, the Association is dedicated to the friendship and good fellowship
of conservationists no longer on active duty. Noon get—togethers for lunch
are scheduled on the first Wednesday of each month at various eating places
in and around Madison. Speakers on timely subjects of interest and concern to
members keep the group alert and informed.
Membership in,
THE ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED
CONSERVATIONISTS, is limited to retired gentlemen who meet the qualifications
and standards of good character. The Organization affords members an
opportunity to register group action in natural resource functions. Officers
are President, Vice President, Secretary—Treasurer, and Coordinator, chosen
annually. Current members are largely from the Wisconsin Department of Natural
Resources formerly the Wisconsin Conservation Departments), and the Forest
Service and Soil Conservation Service of the United States Department of
Agriculture.
THE ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED
CONSERVATIONISTS, is not a secret organization. Members graciously proclaim
bonds of professional interests in conservation: and kindness, honesty,
and good will. Expertise in diverse fields, the Association proudly proclaims
45 active and 5 inactive members, totaling 1,558 man-years of professional
career service in natural resource activities.
Independent now of those directing public
programs, we are free to pass judgment on and register individual and group
responses on the wise use or misuse of our renewable and nonrenewable natural
resources. Thus,
THE ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED CONSERVATIONISTS, is in a position
to support programs and objectives which in its judgment are beneficial to
sound management. Practices and legislation considered detrimental to
effective conservation, the Association will oppose.
As members of,
THE ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED
CONSERVATIONISTS, we pride ourselves in being loyal conservationists. By the
same token, we consider our greatest responsibility is being honorable
citizens of the United States of America.
Signed this 5th day of May, 1976:
Theodore F. Kouha, President
Herbert E. Hahn, Secretary/Treasurer
Charles N. Lloyd, Vice-President
Walter J. Zelinski, Coordinator
