“That land is a community is the basic concept of ecology, but that land is to be loved and respected is an extension of ethics.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“A land ethic, then, reflects the existence of an ecological conscience, and this in turn reflects a conviction ofindividual responsibility for the health of the land.”

 

Aldo Leopold

 

 

 

 

 

The Aldo Leopold
Foundation
P.O.Box 77
Baraboo, WI 53913
608.355.0279
608.356.7309 fax

mail@aldoleopold.org

 

 

 

Intern Profile: Luke Van Schyndle

Name: Luke Van Schyndle

Job Title: Ecological Restoration Intern

What is your educational and professional background? Graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison may of 2007 with a BA in Political Science as well as a certificate in Environmental  Studies from the Gaylord Nelson Institute

Where are you originally from? Born in Green Bay, WI and raised in the town of De Pere just to the south.

What brought you to work in the environmental field? While I was interested early on in Politics and a future in law I was always drawn to the outdoors, whether that is camping, downhill skiing or spending time on the family’s dairy farms.  I decided to focus my political interests on the environment as I see this field being the major challenge for our nation in the next few decades.

How long have you worked for ALF? I began my internship after graduation the end of May 2007.

What is your favorite part of your job?  Meeting new people and new organizations who are doing such valuable work to aid the environment.  Generally I enjoy being a part of the recent groundswell in the environmental movement.

What is the biggest challenge? Maintaining an image of the work and the process we are undertaking in our management of our lands.  It is much too easy to develop a sense of futility when effects and benefits seem a distant prospect.  I find it difficult to understand the positive effects which my immediate work on this parcel of land may have in the future.

How has working for ALF changed your thinking? I now understand how much work is needed to simply be a good steward of one’s land.  The sheer number of hours spent maintaining a stretch of land, not to mention attempts at improvement or restoration, are awe inspiring.  I have gained a much deeper appreciation for the private landowner who takes the time and effort to live in a sustainable manner.

What is your favorite Leopold quote/essay? As many people are, I am particularly fond of “The Good Oak” from A Sand County Almanac.  Leopold’s recounting of both the ecological and legislative history is particularly meaningful to me and the work I wish to accomplish in my future.