This article, by Yara Al-Rayyan, was originally published in the Friends of the Lakeshore Nature Preserve newsletter.
After a decade of dedicated service, Laura Wyatt, Interim Director of the Lakeshore Nature Preserve, is retiring. I had the privilege of interviewing her to reflect on her remarkable tenure. During our conversation, Wyatt shared insights into her journey, the evolution of the Preserve and her vision for its future. Her deep connection to the Preserve and commitment to its stewardship have left an indelible mark, making her departure both a moment of celebration and reflection.
A Career Devoted to Nature
Before joining the Lakeshore Nature Preserve, Laura Wyatt amassed a wealth of experience in horticulture and land management. Her journey began in the suburbs of Chicago, where she worked with the Morton Arboretum and the Chicago Botanic Garden. Wyatt also served as an extension educator at the University of Illinois and became the first director of Klehm Arboretum in Rockford, Illinois. Her diverse background includes roles in urban forestry, horticultural education and public land administration. These experiences not only honed her expertise in plant management and conservation but also deepened her lifelong interest in making people-plant connections.
A Decade of Leadership at the Preserve
Laura Wyatt joined the Lakeshore Nature Preserve in 2014 as the Program Manager. Her extensive background in horticulture and land management equipped her to lead the Preserve at a time when environmental awareness was growing. Her work ensured that while the Preserve adapted to new understandings of environmental stewardship, it retained its core natural essence. From strategic planning for the management of the Preserve to expanding connections with students and updating the master plan, her vision underscores the importance of creating a supportive environment where community members of all ages and abilities can contribute to and benefit from the Preserve’s offerings. “I love to teach people. I love to make people aware of things, and I feel we’re a success when someone has come out to the Preserve and they have gained just one little piece of knowledge or one insight into something new during their visit, and we’ve been successful.”
Wyatt’s efforts to maintain and enhance these natural features were always guided by her belief in the people-plant connection. “The value of trees in urban cities and the benefits they bring to communities is something I have always championed,” she said. Wyatt also noted that the proposed Frautschi Center will also help facilitate diverse opportunities for involvement.
One of the highlights of our conversation was hearing about Wyatt’s favorite places in the Preserve throughout the seasons. In the spring, she loves Eagle Heights Woods and the blooming wildflowers. Summer draws her to the Biocore Prairie, where the landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors as it transitions into fall. Come winter, she enjoys walking on the frozen lake by Raymer’s Cove. These seasonal favorites underscore the natural rhythms of the Preserve and showcase its year-round beauty.
A Partnership for the Future
Wyatt’s interactions with the Friends of the Lakeshore Nature Preserve, founded in 2001, have been particularly special. “I hope the people who are in charge are able to make those right choices and see that the support of the Friends is going to be more important than ever,” Wyatt notes. She emphasizes the collaborative spirit that has characterized her work with the Friends and the mutual commitment to the Preserve’s well-being.
Wyatt urges both UW and the Friends to continue their efforts, reiterating the importance of member involvement in safeguarding the Preserve’s future. “With our new building, there will be so many opportunities for the Friends, for folks to become engaged at new and different levels,” she advises. Her parting message to the community is one of continuous engagement and stewardship.
As Laura Wyatt steps down, we will welcome a new director who will undoubtedly bring another passion and vision to the Preserve. The legacy of stewardship and dedication that Wyatt leaves behind will continue to inspire and guide the Preserve’s journey forward.
With her departure, Wyatt leaves a lasting impact on the Lakeshore Nature Preserve. Her decade-long tenure is marked by a deep commitment to preserving and enhancing the natural beauty and ecological significance of this cherished landscape. Her wisdom and dedication will be missed, but her influence will remain, guiding future generations of stewards.