SOLDIERS GROVE - Wisconsin Water Action Volunteers is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2020 Wisconsin Volunteer Stream Monitoring Awards. These awards recognize individuals and groups for their exemplary efforts in stream monitoring and water-quality related activities, support of stream stewardship, and a commitment to developing partnerships and sharing their skills and water quality data to benefit Wisconsin streams and rivers.
Retired teachers Bruce and Sue Ristow are Crawford County conservation farmers, who raise grass-fed beef utilizing managed grazing techniques to protect and maintain the portion of Tainter Creek that runs through their property.
Monitoring water quality on their farm through the Water Action Volunteers program since 2011, the Ristows are innovators in water quality protection and sustainable agricultural practices in southwest Wisconsin.
In addition to stream monitoring, their work with the Tainter Creek Farmer-Led Watershed Council, and willingness to engage and teach others about the importance of water quality exemplifies the qualities of the Adult Volunteer Award.