Barden recognized for 25 years of service

EAGLE RIVER

Alvin Barden of Eagle River, was recognized on Jan. 21, 2016, by the Golden Sands Resource Conservation & Development Council, Inc. for 25 years of service to their organization.

Barden has been an at-large member to the Golden Sands RC&D Council since 1991. He currently holds the office of Vice President and serves on their Personnel & Finance Committee, and the Forestry, Agriculture, & Wildlife Committee.

Golden Sands RC&D is a regional organization that serves the Central Wisconsin Counties of Adams, Green Lake, Juneau, Outagamie, Portage, Marathon, Monroe, Marquette, Taylor, Wood, Waupaca and Waushara. Their mission is to support the improvement of Central Wisconsin'seconomy in ways that conserve its natural resources at the same time.

Originated in 1972, Golden Sands RC&D is a non-profit, independent, 501(c)(3), non-partisan organization made up of county delegates, at-large members and corporate members.

Barden has been active in forest conservation throughout his long career, starting with his bachelor's degree from Iowa State University in 1955 leading to a job as a camp counselor for Trees of Tomorrow. He later furthered his education with a Master's degree in natural resources administration from Colorado State University.

His career in forestry later included work with Nicolet College, Wisconsin Forest Productivity council, and American Tree Farm. Barden wasinstrumental in forming the Forest Industry Safety & Training Alliance (FISTA), a non-profit fostering safety in this high-risk industry.

Upon retirement, Barden has stayed active in promoting sustainable forestry through his service to Wisconsin Woodland Owners Association and to Golden Sands RC&D Council.

Barden was presented with a certificate of appreciation by the Council's President, Hugh O'Donnell and received an overwhelming round of applause by all the Council members at their January 21st meeting at the Central Wisconsin Children's Museum in Stevens Point.

'Al's work has made a difference in the forestry industry statewide and nationally,' said Amy Thorstenson, Executive Director for the Council, 'we are lucky to have him on our board sharing his expertise.'

For more information about Golden Sands RC&D Council, visit their website at www.goldensandsrcd.org.