Removing over 5 million pounds of garbage from the Mississippi, Illinois, Ohio, and other rivers in nine states is no easy task, but Chad Pregracke, the president and founder of Living Lands & Waters has accomplished all of that, and a lot more. The group recently planted 238,000 acorn trees and has plans to plant 100,000 oaks this April, which will dramatically improve habitat and prevent erosion.
While no two people seem to agree on whether or not the new economic stimulus bill will benefit the economy, it does appear to contain a definite bright spot: $3 billion-plus in funds for the conservation of our lands. National conservation and sportsmen's groups, including the Teddy Roosevelt Conservation Partnership and Ducks Unlimited, have embraced at least that part of it.
This new series is dedicated to helping sportsmen become conservation heroes by sharing the stories, tips, and advice of our past Heroes of Conservation. We also hope that you'll share your own experiences with us. -Thomas McCafferty