Chief Oshkosh was inducted into the Wisconsin Forestry Hall of Fame last year at the Society of American Foresters annual meeting at Wisconsin Dells.
Next month, the Menominee chief will again be a topic of discussion when the Forest History Association of Wisconsin holds its fall conference in Keshena.
Among the panel discussions will be how Chief Oshkosh’s vision of sustainable practice continues to guide modern silvicultural practice in the present day.
Chief Oshkosh (1795-1858) is celebrated by the Menominee community for his commitment to ensure the tribe stayed on its ancestral lands, negotiating treaties and meeting the federal government with persistence against a proposed move to Minnesota.
He is credited most for a famous, prophetic quote shared regarding the land ethic of the Menominee people: “Start with the rising sun and work toward the setting sun, but take only the mature trees, the sick trees and the trees that have fallen. When you reach the end of the reservation, turn and cut from the setting sun to the rising sun and the trees will last forever.”
The forest management practices of Menominee Tribal Enterprise, Menominee Tribal Forestry and Menominee Environmental Services have been rooted not only through this quote but in recognition of Chief Oshkosh’s dedication to the protection of the future generations of Menominee people.
Chief Oshkosh and the Menominee endured great hardship within his lifetime. Chief Oshkosh fought to resolve conflict and provide a model of guidance that ultimately led to the 220,000 acres of diverse, rich forest.
The Wisconsin Forestry Hall of Fame was founded in 1984 by 10 public and private forestry organizations to honor those who have made exceptional contributions to the field of forestry in Wisconsin.
The Forestry Hall of Fame exhibit is located in the College of Natural Resources at UW-Stevens Point. It is open for viewing during school hours.
Chief Oshkosh to be discussed at forestry conference
