Superior Rivers Celebrates a Legacy of Water Leaders
By Diane Daulton
Superior Rivers Watershed Association (SRWA) celebrated the legacy of outstanding volunteers in August. The Karen Danielsen Outstanding Stewardship Award was created to honor the commitment of founding board member and dedicated water quality sampler Karen Danielsen, who left us too soon in 2009. Her professional expertise as a forest ecologist and dedicated water quality sampler helped SRWA establish itself as a credible volunteer organization early on. Her strong voice helped form the foundation for citizen science that continues to protect Lake Superior and its watershed today. To honor her commitment each year, SRWA awards the Karen Danielson Outstanding Stewardship Award to continue recognizing its leaders.
In August 2026, another founding member was presented the Karen Danielson Outstanding Stewardship Award in recognition of his many contributions. Bill Heart has tailored his own multi-faceted conservation legacy. His many years of service as advocate and a friend of the watershed sets him apart as a tireless voice for the water. Heart has been a committed SRWA volunteer and board member for many years, serving as the organization’s president during a tumultuous time in the organization’s history as the proposed iron mine threatened the headwaters of the Bad River in the Penokee Hills. Heart’s name is not only synonymous with Penokee headwaters protection, but also with conservation through the efforts of Friends of the White River, Trout Unlimited, Land & Water Conservation, and as long-time friend and advocate for the Wisconsin Wetlands Association, tying his love of the land and beings that live here with broader ecosystem functions.
Over the years, Heart has led countless field trips, paddles, expeditions, and experiences in the Penokees, White River, Bibon Swamp, and the broader Lake Superior basin, expanding the connection between people, land, and water in the region. His colleagues agree, everyone has a story he has helped to script and something they appreciate him for. Heart’s adventures included both fun and fundraisers, supporting the organizations whose work aligned with his ideals. More importantly, they continue to be touchstones, offering opportunities for the community to share his vast knowledge and love for the watershed.
SRWA Board President April Stone offered high praise, stating “If every one of us had just a fraction of the enthusiasm, dedication, and heart that Bill has brought to our watersheds over his lifetime, our world would be an exceptional place.” Heart’s work has already touched many lives and many miles of streams.
