What is Aldo Leopold Weekend?

Aldo Leopold Weekend has its roots in groups coming together to read out loud from A Sand County Almanac, Leopold’s most famous writing. It has rapidly evolved into many communities across the state, and country who come together to celebrate Leopold’s ideas and demonstrate their commitment to his vision of a land ethic as part of their community.

Aldo Leopold Weekend 2010: March 5 - 7

Leopold Weekend History

On March 4, 2000, the citizens of Lodi congregated to read A Sand County Almanac aloud, cover to cover. The Friends of Scenic Lodi Valley (event organizers) dubbed the gathering “Lodi Reads Leopold.” Reading started at noon and ended at 10 that night. The session spanned two locations, involved 35 readers and was so inspiring that they decided it should be an annual experience.

During the 4th annual Lodi Reads Leopold, George Meyer, former Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and a “celebrity reader” wondered aloud why every community in the state wasn’t reading Leopold that weekend. State Legislator Mark Miller shouted from the audience, “I’ll introduce that legislation.” That spark caught on, burning bright with bi-partisan support throughout the Legislature to recognize Wisconsin’s most noted conservationist. One year later, in March of 2004, Governor James Doyle signed legislation designating the first weekend in March Aldo Leopold Weekend across Wisconsin.

Today, reading events have expanded across Wisconsin’s state boundaries, and blossomed to include activities that involve the whole community.

Get involved today!

The Aldo Leopold Weekend celebration can be replicated in communities across the nation and the Aldo Leopold Foundation can provide you with information and support. To learn more about how you can be involved, read the online event planner guide and contact us to receive e-mail updates about when new materials are available each year . You may also contact Anna Hawley , Education Intern at the Aldo Leopold Foundation, at 608-355-0279, extension 28 for more information.