"Defenders of soil, air, woods, waters, and wildlife."

Since June 5th 1986, the Southern Brown Conservation Club (SBCC) has been a chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America (IWLA), actively protecting the natural resources in Southern Brown County and the surrounding area. We strive to protect the clarity of air, the purity of water, and the wise stewardship of the land and its resources, while guiding the youth of our community to appreciate the value of wildlife, waterways, woodlands, and open spaces. The Izaak Walton League of America exists as the nation's oldest conservation group and is one of the few organizations to aim for protection of all natural resources. The National League was formed in 1922 by a group of 54 anglers and was named in honor of Sir Izaak Walton, an avid fisherman who wrote the book "The Compleat Angler." The Southern Brown Conservation Club continues to respect and value the conservation policies of the League, seeks to share these values with the public, and prides itself in providing varied opportunities for children and families to reconnect with nature.

What Does the League Do?

Through its local chapters, state divisions, and national organization, we work to conserve wetlands, clean the air, reduce energy consumption, preserve wilderness areas, protect fish and wildlife habitat, and improve management of our farmlands and forests. Through the League's, as well as our Chapter's, publications, workshops, events, Web site, quarterly magazine and numerous on-the-ground projects across the country, we provide citizens with the knowledge and tools necessary to be responsible stewards of the outdoors.

At the state and national levels, the League's volunteers and staff work collaboratively to promote common-sense, practical policy solutions to critical conservation issues. Our goal is to ensure that America's natural resources are protected, managed, and utilized in a sustainable manner for generations to come.

History of the Izaak Walton League:

The Izaak Walton League of America (IWLA) was among the nation's first conservation groups. Since 1922, the League has been working at the local, regional, and national levels to advocate sensible solutions to the most pressing challenges facing America's natural resources. Today, the League's more than 36,000 members and supporters come from all walks of life. Many harness a keen interest in hunting, fishing, camping, and other outdoor recreation. Most belong to one of the League's nearly 300 community-based chapters across the country. All share a passion for protecting the outdoors.

Mission Statement:

To conserve, restore, and promote the sustainable use and enjoyment of our natural resources--including soil, air, woods, waters, and wildlife.

Member's Pledge:

"To strive for the purity of water, the clarity of air, and the wise stewardship of the land and its resources; to know the beauty and understanding of nature and the value of wildlife, woodlands, and open space; to the preservation of this heritage and to man's sharing in it. I pledge myself as a member of the Izaak Walton League of America."