Member Spotlight: Lori Lisowski

Lori Lisowski is a member of the Will Dilg Chapter of the IWLA. Now retired, she worked as a journalist, historian, archivist, and librarian—one career wasn’t enough! One fun fact about Lori is that she enjoys playing fantasy football. Her team name is The Loonatics! Learn more about Lori’s involvement with the chapter.

How long have you been a member of the Izaak Walton League of America?

I went to my first IWL meeting in September 2025 and officially joined at the beginning of 2026.

What/who encouraged you to attend your first chapter meeting?

I had no idea what IWL was (and had never heard of Will Dilg) until a Winona Bird Club meeting in early September 2025. Members of the Will Dilg chapter were there to talk about possible collaboration on the Prairie Island habitat management plan. My curiosity about IWLA was peaked. I sought out President Anne Conway after the meeting to ask about the IWL mission and how it was different from other organizations. Anne patiently answered my questions and invited me to the next meeting to learn more.

What has been your favorite part about being an Ike?

I love being an Ike because it's much more than going to meetings. We get outdoors and do things! I fell in love last winter with removing buckthorn at Prairie Island. In the spring I learned a new word--phenology--and a whole world of nature's details opened up to me on weekly walks. Over the summer I've been introduced to new flora and fauna in Blackbird Slough while canoeing with the River Queens. And the meetings are great, too--educational and a way to keep in touch with other members.

What would you tell someone else who's considering joining the IWLA?

For someone who's considering joining the IWLA, the best thing is to jump in and try something new. The people I've met are welcoming, knowledgeable, and passionate about conservation, citizen science, and healthy ecosystems. For someone who likes hands-on learning and cares about the environment, the IWLA is the place to be.