Notes from the Dean
A welcome and perspective from the Nelson Institute’s leadership.
Notes From the Dean
Paul Robbins shares updates on exciting changes, including the relaunch of The Commons, the 60th anniversary of the WRM program, new faculty members, and the upcoming Science Hall renovation.
September 15, 2025
Deep Dive
An in-depth look at big questions, breakthrough work, or urgent environmental issues.
Celebrating 60 Years of Watershed Stewardship
For 60 years, the WRM practicum has trained generations of water leaders — and transformed communities, ecosystems, and policy along the way.
September 15, 2025
Reflection
Guest essays and op-eds that reflect on experience, place, and purpose in a changing world.
The New Gerrymander: Flood Maps
Flood risk lines are designed to keep us safe. What happens when they can be bought?
September 15, 2025
In Your Environment
Practical how-tos, at-home actions, and personal sustainability steps.
How to See the Water in the Leaves
Up your leaf-peeping game this season by looking at more than just colors.
September 15, 2025
Alumni in Focus
Nelson Institute graduates making bold moves and meaningful impact around the globe.
Where to Start? Where You Are
Environmental educator Anne Pearce builds community by helping others connect with the natural world — wherever they call home.
September 15, 2025
What Lies Beneath
When it comes to Wisconsin’s hydrogeology, Sue Swanson is a source of knowledge and inspiration.
September 15, 2025
A River Runs through Him
Most humans are 60 percent water; Stephen Born is 100 percent.
September 15, 2025
Field Notes
Student dispatches from courses, fieldwork, internships, and research.
Field Notes: Beaver Dam Lake
Join a team of WRM students as they dive into hands-on learning and community collaboration.
September 15, 2025
Unearthed
Nelson Institute experts share five things you didn’t know about an environmental topic.
Unearthed: Five Things You Didn’t Know about Springs
Our most critical resource is one you can’t see. It’s beneath your feet, way beneath, supporting life in uncountable ways.
September 15, 2025
Abstracts
The latest research highlights from Nelson Institute faculty and students.
When Waters Rise, so Do Health Risks
Nelson faculty member Jonathan Sullivan coauthors national study linking severe floods to higher hospitalization rates and unequal impacts across communities.
September 15, 2025
Searching for Answers on “Forever Chemicals”
UW–Madison study reveals what people want to know about PFAS in drinking water and how insights can guide better public health communication.
September 15, 2025
Uncovering Microplastic Pollution in Iowa Lakes
Nelson Institute ecologist Grace Wilkinson coauthors study revealing prevalence, sources, and risks of microplastics in freshwater ecosystems.
September 15, 2025
