Winneshiek Co. Pheasants Forever Celebrates 40 Years of Conservation Work

Decorah Vikings win, City Council votes, New Referenda on the ballot — we're the one telling Decorah's story. Donate now. DECORAH — The Winneshiek County chapter of Pheasants Forever is celebrating 40 years of conservation work in 2026, marking a milestone for one of the organization's top-performing chapters in Iowa and the Midwest. Led by a board of about 20 active volunteers, the chapter has built a strong track record of fundraising and habitat improvement. In the past year, the group reported raising $2.66 million for conservation efforts and contributing to nearly 5,000 acres of habitat improvements. The chapter's primary fundraiser, its annual banquet, is scheduled for Saturday, April 4, at Pinter's Event Center. The event is open to the public and will feature a silent auction, live auction, games and a prime rib meal served by U2BBQ. Chapter President Kent Kleckner said the event will also celebrate decades of local support. "The Board is deeply appreciative of the four decades of local support and is ready to celebrate the 40th year milestone. We hope to see familiar faces and new ones too." The Winneshiek County chapter is one of more than 700 chapters across the United States and Canada. Pheasants Forever uses a "local chapter model," which allows volunteers to lead conservation efforts in their own communities. Lexi Ashbrook, who works full time for Iowa Pheasants Forever, praised the chapter's work. "I'm proud to be able to work with the Winneshiek Chapter as they continue to deliver Pheasants Forever's mission in a part of Iowa that is even more special because of their volunteer efforts" says Ashbrook, "Their Passion and ambition to keep improving local habitat and becoming more relevant in their community is inspiring" Local board member Tom Wahlberg said his involvement is rooted in a shared commitment to conservation. "I'm happy to help make the banquet a success, but the reason I've worked alongside these guys for so many years is because I am passionate about conservation work—and I'm in good company. We care about establishing permanent vegetation, helping pollinators, conservation efforts that help our watershed and protects our drinking water, and – of course – having Winneshiek County wildlife habitat that is healthy enough to offer the experience of hunting pheasants." Organizers said proceeds from the banquet will support local conservation projects, including habitat restoration and environmental stewardship efforts across Winneshiek County. Tickets for the banquet are available through the event website or by searching for the Winneshiek County chapter on the national Pheasants Forever site or by scanning the QR code below. For more information, contact Wahlberg at 563-379-2857 or twahlberg01@gmail.com. Fresh stories, delivered! Sign up for the free DecorahNews.com newsletter and stay informed, inspired, and ahead of the curve.