For six weeks, Colin Crimmins and Max Veldran will join the Aldo Leopold Foundation as Seasonal Land Stewardship fellows as part of the Future Leaders Program. Seasonal Fellows assist with a wide variety of land management and monitoring techniques on the property and across the Leopold-Pine Island Important Bird Area. During their experience, fellows will build their field skills, operational proficiency with applicable equipment, familiarity with invasive species control options, comprehension of fire as a management tool, and understanding of the plant and animal communities in southwest Wisconsin.
Please help welcome Colin and Max! Be sure to say hello if you spot them in Leopold Country!
Colin Crimmins
Colin is from the state of Virginia and has enjoyed a deep interest in wildlife and the great outdoors from a young age. Four years ago, he discovered a passion for hunting which dovetailed into learning about land and wildlife management, especially whitetail deer, longleaf pine restoration, prescribed fire, as well as forestry. Colin attended the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation and is looking forward to working at the Aldo Leopold Foundation this summer. In his free time, he enjoys being outside with friends, practicing archery, hiking, hunting, fishing, and sporting clays.
Max Veldran
Max is senior at UW Eau Claire majoring in geography. He has a great passion for the environment and outdoors gaining an appreciation for nature throughout his childhood. He participated in Boy Scouts and attended an environmental magnet middle school. Max continues to pursue his passions through his academic studies, explaining he has a specific interest in human-environment relations. “I believe that conservation and sustainability to be the most important themes for the future.” Max recently participated in conservation projects both locally and in Ghana, and he is looking forward to adding this experience for the opportunities of personal growth and field experience.