Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies
University of Wisconsin–Madison

WRM@60

A Legacy of Ripple Effects

Water resources management program at 60For six decades, the Nelson Institute’s water resources management (WRM) program has empowered students to become collaborative, systems-thinking leaders — tackling complex water challenges across Wisconsin and beyond.

Having celebrated our 60th anniversary, we’re looking to build the future of this one-of-a-kind program and shape the next generation of water resource professionals.

Support Water Resources Management

Gifts to the Water Resources Management Program play a crucial role in enhancing the reach and quality of our research and educational programs and support and advance WRM’s legacy of excellence in water science.

Make a gift today

WRM@60 Celebration Highlights

On September 19, 2025, students, faculty, and alumni gathered on campus to celebrate the WRM program’s past and highlighted actions for ensuring its continuing success.

Agenda and Presentations

Maps and More

WRM Through the Years

From muddy fieldwork to memorable practicums, WRM alumni have made their mark on water and each other.

Water resources management field trip
Two people examining sedge meadow vegetation on a sunny day, one wearing a wide-brim hat and the other a red cap with a backpack.
Two men standing in a wooded area holding a large color-coded map with wetlands and topographic features visible.
Two people standing in a shallow stream; one adjusts equipment attached to a pole while the other looks on.
WRM students conducting field work
Ken Potter speaking during the water resources management program's 25th annivesary
WRM students Thea Showalter and Jake Pinion assist practicum project lead Mike Miller in taking a kickboot sample for macroinvertebrates present in Fancy Creek
A page from the water resources management program 1967 brochure
A second page from the water resources management program 1967 brochure

In Their Own Words

To celebrate the 60th year of the water resources management program, we asked alumni to share their favorite memories.

Read the memories

About the Water Resources Management Program

Since 1965, WRM has trained future water leaders through a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach. Students gain real-world experience working in teams on practicum projects that serve communities, agencies, and ecosystems.

With coursework spanning ecology, policy, hydrology, and planning, WRM prepares graduates to understand water at every depth — and to face the complexities of managing this critical natural resource.

Meet Our Students and Alumni