Harvey Halvorsen

Secretary

Contact at: Info@ThePrairieEnthusiasts.org

Harvey helped organize the original western Wisconsin chapter of The Prairie Enthusiast in 1995. He retired from the WDNR as a wildlife biologist and supervisor who specialized in land acquisition and restoration projects. A passion throughout his career was building landscape diversity from the ground up using the grassroots support of like-minded individuals. Imprinted on open landscapes from an early age, he especially enjoys the concept of building large swaths of diverse prairie within strategic geographies. He enjoys experiencing the natural world through birding, kayaking, trout fishing, and viewing the sky through telescopes. He’s acted as a burn boss for the WDNR, and, with his wife Ruth, planted their backyard with prairie plants.

Jerry Newman

Prairie Bluff Chapter Representative

Contact at: Info@ThePrairieEnthusiasts.org

Jerry’s vivid photography of prairies and the life found on them is often featured on our website and printed materials. He retired from a varied life in management, farming, and sales. “Retirement freed me to pursue my interests in history and photography, and it wasn’t long until I realized how well prairies completed that package. Photographing prairies, their flora and fauna, as well as the people who care for them has proven to be a satisfying creative outlet. It is equally satisfying to put the camera down and engage in the necessary work of caring for prairies. I hope my work and my photos can awaken and inspire others.”

Scott Fulton

Past President

Contact at: Info@ThePrairieEnthusiasts.org

Scott acted as Board President for six years, where he brought his skills as a biotech entrepreneur. During his tenure as president, Scott oversaw significant organizational growth within The Prairie Enthusiasts. The Chapter Support Team was built out under his supervision, and he was dedicated to visiting all 11 chapters as often as possible, listening to their perspectives and needs. Scott continues to provide valuable input as a board member and active member of the Empire-Sauk Chapter. Whether teaching burn school, being a crew member on a burn, or engaging with outreach and organizational development, Scott’s knowledge and dedication to the organization are invaluable.

Sarah Barron

Advancement Manager

Contact at: SBarron@ThePrairieEnthusiasts.org

Sarah has had a love of native plant ecosystems and their inhabitants since childhood. She and her husband collect native plants along roadsides and grow native plants to harvest seed. Sarah is often out on a prairie or savanna, toting a pack with a camera, binoculars, and perhaps a parsnip predator. She is passionate to share “prairie enthusiasm” with others and continue to grow her knowledge of natural ecosystems. She started at The Prairie Enthusiasts in 2023, where she coordinates marketing materials like social media, emails, the website, and the Prairie Promoter newsletter. She’s always excited to hear about ways to engage others and share knowledge.

Duncan Schultz

Donor Relations Officer

Contact at: DSchultz@ThePrairieEnthusiasts.org

Duncan moved to the Midwest from Orange County, California in 2007. Time spent outside with the land has always been important to him, but it mostly came through long trips to “get to nature.” Once he started at the UW-Madison Arboretum in 2009, the prairie rooted itself in his everyday life. Duncan considers himself extremely fortunate to spend his working hours supporting the prairie and other fire-dependent ecosystems and hopes his passion and excitement shine through all he does. Married with two kids, you’ll find his happiest places are in a good chair with a good book, or in wide open spaces having good conversation.