Friends of the Refuge Headwaters present “A Visit from Will Dilg”

This summer marks the 100th anniversary of one of the most remarkable conservation efforts in American history—a movement that began right here, along the banks of the Mississippi, here in Winona.

Will Dilg was a summer resident who spent his days bass fishing from a humble boathouse. But in 1920, after the tragic drowning of his only son, Dilg channeled his grief into action—rising from personal loss to lead a nationwide environmental crusade. Alarmed by plans to drain and deforest the backwaters of the Upper Mississippi, he founded the Izaak Walton League and mobilized a surprising force: the women of America.

Together, in less than a year, they secured federal protection for 261 miles of river backwaters—what we now know as the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. The legislation was signed into law by President Calvin Coolidge on June 7, 1924.

In a new multimedia performance, Steven Marking brings Dilg’s story to life using the conservationist’s own powerful words. Set against vivid imagery of the native flora and fauna he fought to protect, this 50-minute presentation is both a tribute and a call to action. A Q&A will follow the show.