December 2024: A Message from Our Director

Dear Wolf River Conservancy Friend,

2024 was a year of milestones and growth for the Wolf River Conservancy. We surpassed 20,000 acres of land protected in the Wolf River Watershed. We helped bring tens of millions of state and federal dollars to the Mid-South through the Wolf River Greenway project and our land trust activities and we educated more than 6,000 students of all ages through field trips and classroom experiences on the value of conservation.  

But the word that comes to mind first for me when reflecting on this incredible year is community. For the past 39 years, our organization has existed to serve this community. Initially, we focused on raising awareness of the natural resource running through the heart of our neighborhoods and wild spaces alike. Over the years we have found purpose in connecting people to the river through paddling, hiking, service, education, outreach, and regionally transformative projects like building the Wolf River Greenway. It is safe to say The Wolf River Conservancy has evolved beyond its early vision into one of the most effective conservation non-profit land trusts in the entire state. We’re proud of our accomplishments over these many years, but I am humbled by the community that made it possible.  Because of the support of this community, we are poised to celebrate our 40^th anniversary next year.

Our organization was founded to serve, and through that service a community was built up around us, a community that has given generously of its time, talents, and treasure to ensure that for generations to come our river, our aquifer and our land is protected. I am honored to lead the Conservancy in my first full year of service as its Executive Director and I am beyond grateful to have joined this community that continues to drive the purpose and mission of the Wolf River Conservancy into the future.  

As we look towards 2025, I am excited for the possibilities and challenges to come. But for now, I want to say thank you for all that you have done to make 2024 all that it has been. Our work is only possible because of the community supporting it and without you we wouldn’t be here.  

Happy Holidays and I can’t wait to share what’s in store for our 40^th anniversary!  

Sincerely,

Erik Houston

Executive Director

Wolf River Conservancy