The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Wisconsin Conservation Congress (WCC) have announced Tommy Burr of Eagle River as the first recipient of the new Youth Conservation Congress (YCC) Delegate of the Year Award.
This award honors young leaders who care deeply about Wisconsin’s natural resources. It also celebrates their time, effort, and passion for conservation.
Burr, a junior at Northern Pines High School, has been active in the YCC since 2019. He first learned about the program through former WCC delegate Jim Heffner and current delegate Carol Heffner. Since then, he has become a devoted and engaged participant.
“The YCC has been an amazing experience for me,” said Burr. “I’ve learned how to care for and respect Wisconsin’s outdoors. I’ve also enjoyed meeting other delegates from across the state.”
Even with a busy schedule, Burr rarely misses a YCC event. In fact, his family has even adjusted vacations so he can attend.
Burr’s leadership and excitement for the outdoors inspire others. At the 2024 YCC Summer Program, he brought his boat and invited others to go fishing. These early morning outings brought delegates together to enjoy nature firsthand.
Fishing isn’t the only outdoor tradition Burr values. He also joins his dad and grandpa every year for Wisconsin’s sturgeon spearing season. This year, he took it a step further by working at a sturgeon registration station. He helped record fish data and learned how biologists study the species.
“He truly embodies the spirit of the YCC,” said Kyle Zenz, DNR Youth Conservation Congress coordinator. “Tommy’s care and commitment to conservation are clear in everything he does.”
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