Workshop for Watershed Leaders Galena, IL
Day 1
The first day of the workshop kicked off with a field day event where local farmer, Nathan Koester showcased his organic sheep grazing operation in partnership with small grain and no-till bean production. Attendees also got to to see a rain simulator demonstration showing how various soil management practices impact water runoff.
Following lunch, the group gathered at Chestnut Mountain Resort for a series of welcoming stories and introductions. The day focused on listening and storytelling, beginning with a check-in circle where participants shared what brought them to the workshop. Stories from local farmers highlighted the economic and emotional impacts of regenerative farming practices, offering real-world insights into conservation, multigenerational efforts, and the role of livestock.
The day concluded with story-sharing in triads, where participants reflected on their personal journeys and considered the question: "What kind of ancestor do I want to be?" This set the tone for deep reflection and collaborative conversation, framing the rest of the workshop.
Day 2
Day 2 stared with a group reflection on key insights and opportunities that emerged. Through a World Café session, participants explored what was working well in their communities, the challenges they faced, and the possibilities for more regenerative farming practices and collaboration between agencies and farmers. The afternoon offered space for affinity groups to discuss specific regional and thematic challenges, from building watershed health coalitions to measuring the impact of soil and stream restoration efforts. Participants were encouraged to identify actions they could take together to catalyze change in their areas.
The day closed with an open space for participants to dive deeper into conversations of their choice, followed by a harvest session where the group shared their insights. As plans took shape for Day 3, participants were invited to continue building connections over dinner and evening activities at Chestnut Mountain.
Day 3
On the final day, participants focused on translating insights into concrete plans through the "Design for Wiser Action" process. Teams collaborated to address specific needs and outline the next best steps, refining their ideas through multiple rounds of discussion and synthesis.
The plans developed and ready for implementation include:
- Build Network of Support for New Adopters | Transitional Mentor Program
- Connect Interested Landowners w/those Currently Practicing | Speed Dating for Soil Health
- Coon Creek Flooding | Strategic Crisis Response for Ag
- Making Data Sharing & Collaboration Easier | Increasing Cross Collaboration Between Farmer Led Groups on a County/State Level
- Fields of Sinsinawa | Be the Hub for Starting Farmer Led Groups (action plan shown below)
The day concluded with reflection on key takeaways and discussions about ways to stay connected for continued collaboration. The workshop wrapped up with plans for the next gathering in central Illinois, ensuring momentum would continue.
As an added bonus, workshop participants were also treated to an electrofishing demonstration conducted by members of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Iowa Soybean Association.
Want to be a part of the next workshop?
Stay in touch with us as progress is made!
Why is this type of gathering different and valuable?
Participating in this type of gathering is incredibly valuable for multiple reasons. It provides a platform for diverse voices to shape a common vision, offering opportunities to learn from others and gain new perspectives. Those who joined us in Galena found the experience to be one of the most rewarding workshops they have been too, walking away fulfilled and with a collection of ideas that surpasses individual thinking.
The structured process of the gathering is unlike typical conferences, producing real outcomes and fostering natural, unforced collaboration. The depth of connections made, and the level of inspiration gained are considerably higher than in other settings. Participants feel they are thinking with many minds, achieving real and actionable results.
Overall, this type of gathering is a must-do experience for learning, growing, and collaborating. It proves that people can make a difference together, breaking through independent thinking to embrace the power of interdependence. It's a unique opportunity to engage deeply, step outside comfort zones, and build community in divisive times. Sharing ideas and learning from others is incredibly beneficial, making it an experience that shouldn't be missed.
