The Wood family name has been synonymous with Madison Audubon for decades, and this wonderful association came full circle with the naming of the Wood Family Prairie at Goose Pond Sanctuary. On August 10th, more than 50 people gathered at the newly named 60-acre tract of mesic prairie, across from Browne Prairie.
Goose Pond Sanctuary co-managers Sue Foote-Martin and Mark Martin formally announced the establishment of the Wood Family Prairie and expressed their gratitude for the family's numerous contributions to Madison Audubon and Goose Pond Sanctuary. Levi Wood (pictured), along with his wife Janet, represented his late siblings, Ken and Amy, and their late parents, Weston and Jane. He spoke of their passion for birds, natural habitat, and an organization that has come to represent both.
It is difficult to find a Madison Audubon role that hasn't been filled by a Wood family member. Whether it was board member, field trip leader, office assistant, or donor, the impact of the Woods is found in virtually every phase of the organization. "Madison Audubon would not be what it is today without the Wood family," said Mark Martin. "Their compassion and commitment to the natural world is unmatched." Board President Roger Packard echoed Martin's sentiments, adding that the Wood Family legacy lives on through the preservation of this prairie tract.
The impact of the Wood family continues not only with Levi's ongoing involvement, but will be seen in perpetuity due to the generosity of the family. The Kenneth W. Wood Trust for the benefit of Madison Audubon is a significant bequest that will benefit Madison Audubon sanctuaries in Dane and Columbia counties. This significant charitable fund is managed by The Private Client Reserve of U.S. Bank and will make annual distributions to Madison Audubon for its specified purpose.
"This is a transformative gift for this organization," said outgoing executive director, Gary Funk. "Already, distributions from this fund are allowing Madison Audubon to make major renovations to Goose Pond Sanctuary and enhance what is already one of Wisconsin's most beloved birding spots." Levi Wood extended his thanks to Mark and Sue for their work at Goose Pond Sanctuary, as well as to Madison Audubon and all of the attendees. The dedication ended with the unveiling of an informational sign for the Wood Family Prairie (pictured) and a guided hike through the prairie. If you would like to visit the Wood Family Prairie and hike its new trail, please park in the Browne Prairie Parking lot and walk across Kampen Road to the entrance to the Wood Family Prairie.
MORE AT: http://madisonaudubon.org/
