By Ken M. Blomberg

Aldo Leopold coined the phrase. In his Sand County Almanac essay, “Thinking Like a Mountain,” he used two words, green fire, to describe the life being sucked out of a dying wolf.

As a young man, Leopold, like most hunters of that era, shot wolves. “In those days, we had never heard of passing up a chance to kill a wolf…young then, and full of trigger-itch…fewer wolves meant more deer…but after seeing the green fire die, I sensed that neither the wolf or the mountain agreed with such a view.”

Later in life, he wrote those celebrated words to make a point on the wolf’s role in nature. And in the process, gave us two words that put together instill a deeper meaning, and have since inspired writers, poets, film-makers and conservation organizations.

Last week, I attended the Wisconsin Outdoor Communicators Association (WOCA) 42nd annual convention in Eagle River. Outdoor writers from across the state gathered at the Trees for Tomorrow Conference Center for three days of informative sessions, panel discussions, business meetings, informal interface and meals, including a cookout.

Retired DNR scientist Bob Martini, spoke at the Wisconsin Outdoor Communicators Association (WOCA) annual meeting in Eagle River last weekend. (Ken Blomberg photo)

To read the rest of the story, pick up a copy of the Portage County Gazette at one of the many newsstands in the area, including gas stations and grocery stores. Or subscribe at https://www.shopmmclocal.com/product/portage-county-gazette/ to have weekly copies delivered by mail.

For more information or to subscribe over the phone, call 715-343-8045.