Tracy Larson

How did you get connected to the Great River Road Visitor & Learning Center?

I had just recently moved here to be closer to my family and to be in the Driftless region. Back in February, my aunts invited me to a native prairie seed planting at Freedom Park. I had the joy of meeting Israel and Emily, and learned about native species to the area, how to grow seeds, and how the plants support local fauna. That got me so energized to work on a plan to restore the native prairie and oak savannah on my personal property.

What part of the mission gets you most excited?

I get most excited about connecting people to the confluence. I just love to share this gem with others so that they too can enjoy it, and ideally connect to the mission that we need to protect it.

What makes this organization special?

I believe the deeply committed people to this organization make it very special. From the dedicated volunteers, to the long serving board members, to the excellent executive director. A great mission without great people, may never be fully realized, and we are lucky to have the people we do. I love that there is such dedication by those that love this park and what it can be.

How long have you been involved with the Friends of Freedom Park?

2 months.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Traveling is my number one interest. I also love gardening, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, photography, being out on the water, camping, hiking, cooking, puzzles, restoring our prairie and oak savannah bluffs, and exploring without a map. I'm also just starting to learn how to play the piano!