Coon Creek Community Watershed Council set to celebrate the organization’s fifth anniversary

The Coon Creek Community Watershed Council (CCCWC) is set to celebrate a significant dual milestone this fall: the organization’s fifth anniversary and the 93rd anniversary of the nation’s first watershed conservation project, a historic effort led by Coon Creek residents in the 1930s.

To mark the occasion, the local nonprofit is hosting a free community celebration, September 2nd at the Bakkum Farm in Westby. The event will feature live music, a locally-sourced farm dinner, and an informative program highlighting local producers and conservation partners. All members of the community are welcome to attend.

Orlan Bakkum, who is hosting the celebration alongside his wife, Denise, emphasizes the ongoing need for conservation efforts. Reflecting on the past five years, Bakkum notes that while interest in watershed conservation is growing, broader participation in controlling runoff through soil health techniques remains critical. Bakkum highlights that effective conservation is personal and adaptable, sharing that his own goals focus on preventing erosion and building soil health on his multigenerational family farm.

This summer, Bakkum partnered with UW Extension Agriculture and Water Quality Specialist Sheri Schwert to study soil erosion on his fields. By using perennial buffer strips along the contours of his sloping land, the pair measured the effectiveness of their conservation methods. They plan to demonstrate their low-tech measurement technique and discuss the study results during the September 2nd program.

The gathering kicks off with appetizers, drinks, and music at 5:30 PM. The program will follow at 6:00 PM, with dinner served at 7:00 PM. The Bakkum Farm is located at E6136 Jore Rd in Westby. Guests are kindly encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and picnicware.