Every mile of the Wisconsin River Trail exists because some of our neighbors cared enough to say yes — and then showed up to do the work.
Yes to a meeting.
Yes to a conversation.
And yes — sometimes quietly — to showing up for something bigger than themselves.
As the trail keeps growing, we’re realizing how important it is to have thoughtful, grounded people helping guide what comes next. People who care about this place and aren’t afraid to pitch in. That’s why we’re always welcoming new voices into the conversation and extending an open, rolling invitation to those who may feel called to serve on the Wisconsin River Trail Organization Board.
This is an active, working board — made up of people who roll up their sleeves and help move the trail forward.
This isn’t about titles or resumes.
It’s about showing up, pitching in, and doing the steady work it takes to leave something meaningful behind.
In real life, that means helping on a committee, thinking through decisions together, making calls, showing up for events, or stepping in when something needs doing. Some weeks it’s planning and problem-solving. Some weeks it’s simply being there. That’s how this trail has always moved forward.
so… what does the WRTO board actually do?
The WRTO Board of Directors is a volunteer group of community members, some local and some farther away, who actively guide and support the long-term vision of the Wisconsin River Trail. Together, they help steward a growing, multi-use trail system — one that connects communities, protects natural spaces, and supports everything from recreation and wellness to tourism and local economies along the Wisconsin River corridor.
Board service with WRTO is hands-on and collaborative. Members don’t just advise — they participate.
Board members help:
- Shape long-term strategy and priorities
- Provide financial and organizational oversight
- Strengthen relationships with local governments and partners
- Support fundraising and grant efforts
- Serve as ambassadors for the trail and the communities it connects
At the end of the day, the board helps make decisions that make sense on the ground — for the communities involved and the land itself.
you might be a great fit if any of this sounds like you
You don’t need to check every box or have years of nonprofit experience (or any) to belong here. Most of our strongest board members came in simply because they cared.
What they shared was a willingness to follow through, pitch in, and help turn ideas into action.
You might be a great fit if you:
- Care deeply about the Wisconsin River, the Driftless landscape, and the towns along it
- Believe access to nature strengthens communities and supports well-being
- Enjoy thinking beyond city limits and county lines toward a shared regional future
- Bring skills or experience in areas like conservation, planning, engineering, finance, fundraising, communications, education, or community leadership
- Are dependable, collaborative, and willing to follow through on real, shared work
Some board members bring professional expertise. Others bring deep local roots, lived experience, or strong community connections. All are valued — especially when paired with a willingness to show up.
what the commitment really looks like
We believe in being clear and respectful of people’s time.
- Term length: 3 years (renewable once)
- Meetings: Monthly, with hybrid options available
- Time commitment: Approximately 6–10 hours per month
- Compensation: None — this is volunteer service, rooted in care for the community
We need board members to jump in on at least one committee and be willing to help with fundraising and outreach — because that’s how this work gets done.
why this work matters
Serving on the WRTO Board isn’t just about helping build a trail. It’s about being part of the behind-the-scenes work that makes every mile possible. It’s about shaping a future we all share — whether we’re here for another year or another generation.
About making sure kids can safely walk or bike toward the river. About protecting quiet, natural spaces in a world that moves fast and asks a lot.
This trail is a living legacy. And the people guiding it matter just as much as the miles themselves.
The trail we build today becomes the path future generations will walk.
an open, ongoing invitation
If something here stirs your curiosity — or if you’ve ever thought, “I wonder how I could help with this” — we’d love to hear from you.
Board service with WRTO is reviewed on a rolling basis, and conversations begin simply with a letter of interest.
You’re invited to share:
- What draws you to the Wisconsin River Trail
- How your skills or experiences might support the work
- What you hope to contribute — or learn — along the way
Send a letter of interest to:
📧 info@wisconsinrivertrail.org
Or mail to:
Wisconsin River Trail Organization, Inc.
Board Development Committee
103 W. Prairie St.
Boscobel, WI 53805
Whether now or later, the door is open.
Thank you for caring about this trail, this river, and this community. We’re building something beautiful together — step by step, mile by mile.
See you on the trail. 🥾
