Earlier this year, the Town Run Steering Committee gathered for its annual retreat to reflect on progress, strengthen collaboration, and identify priorities for the coming year. The retreat provided an important opportunity to step back from day-to-day activities and take a broader look at the direction of the watershed program.
A special thank you is extended to Kristen Saake Blunk, Field Liaison for the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, for her skilled facilitation and thoughtful guidance throughout the planning discussions.
Reflecting on Our Mission and Work
During the retreat, the Steering Committee revisited the four overarching mission subgroups that guide Town Run’s work:
- Monitoring and Reporting
- Outreach and Education
- Restoration and Protection
- Communications and Administration
Each group reviewed its progress over the past year, highlighting accomplishments while also identifying opportunities for continued growth and collaboration. A consistent theme throughout the discussion was the importance of nurturing and strengthening partnerships with local organizations, community members, and regional collaborators.
Planning for the Future
The group also reviewed a broad outline of a Town Run watershed management approach, focusing on long-term sustainability, organizational capacity, and future direction. Conversations included thoughtful consideration of how the watershed group can continue to grow while maintaining effectiveness and community engagement.
Participants explored different organizational structures used by watershed organizations in other regions, including:
- Traditional watershed management models
- Community-based models
- Partnership-based models
These examples helped frame discussion around capacity, sustainability, and how Town Run can best position itself for continued success.
Celebrating Connection and Community
The retreat also included moments of connection and reflection that highlighted the strong sense of community within the group. One memorable moment was a lighthearted and educational water cycle song with motions, shared by Sandy and Diane, which brought energy and engagement to the discussion while reinforcing the importance of water systems in a memorable way.
The retreat concluded with a shared appreciation of the progress made so far and a renewed focus on the work ahead.
Looking Ahead
As Town Run continues to grow, the insights and conversations from this retreat will help guide future planning, strengthen partnerships, and support ongoing watershed protection efforts.
We are grateful to all Steering Committee members for their time, commitment, and shared dedication to the health of Town Run.