The Wisconsin Legislature designated the Brunsweiler River this week as a state wild river in honor of conservationist Martin Hanson. The 10-mile designated segment of the Brunsweiler River in Ashland County, within the Chequamagon-Nicolet National Forest, becomes the fourth wild river to be given protected status.
Rep. Gary Sherman, D-Port Wing, and Sen. Bob Jauch, D-Poplar, wrote the legislation.
"The purpose of this legislation is to preserve the Brunsweiler River in its free-flowing condition and to protect it from building and expansion so that it can be sustained for many years into the future," stated Sherman.
This legislation reaffirms Wisconsin's legacy of environmental responsibility and in doing so it honors one of Wisconsin's most important environmental leaders. Before he passed away in October 2007, one of Hanson's last requests was to designate the Brunsweiler a State Wild River and on Tuesday both the Assembly and the Senate recognized that request.
Jauch and Sherman noted the importance of passage of the legislation during Superior Days, an annual lobbying event by citizens across northern Wisconsin.
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"Martin was the ultimate behind the scenes advocate constantly advocating for environmental policies and the timing of passage by both houses to coincide with the citizen grassroots lobbying activity is a tribute to the region," said Jauch.
"This legislation is a tribute to Martin's legacy as well as an affirmation of our obligations to protect the unique waters of Wisconsin," Jauch stated. "Martin was a trusted friend and advisor to Gaylord Nelson, Congressman Dave Obey, to Sherman, to me and a long list of state leaders. His achievements include protection of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, the reintroduction of elk into the Northwoods, and the creation of wild and scenic waterways."
