We want to thank one of our board members for years of leadership and service to the Fox Locks. Jean Romback-Bartels, our representative from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, will be retiring from her day job in January, and also retiring from the board of directors. Her investment of professional and personal time in the operation of the locks system has been invaluable.

Q: Why are the Fox Locks important to the DNR?

A: Anything that enhances the public’s ability to get out and enjoy the natural resources of this amazing state is important to the Department of Natural Resources. And to have this unique and historic feature traversing the popular and populous Fox River Valley–well, it goes without saying that we at the DNR are interested and invested in this state treasure.

Q: How does this unique attraction support the DNR’s mission? 

A: Our mission statement is all about preserving and protecting the natural resources for all people to enjoy. Having the lands held by the state, for the people of the state, and available for their use to walk on, fish from, or voyage through on a boat is what we want, what we need the people to do in order to stay connected to the resources. People who are connected care.

Q: Why was public service on the board important to you personally? 

A: As you know, the DNR has an obligation to be a member of the board of directors, but it goes beyond that. Public service is an honor. The public is, by default of my being hired into this position as Secretary’s Director in northeast Wisconsin, expecting me to serve in all of my duties with their best interest at heart and to the level of their expectations. I took that charge seriously when I was hired into my first job and will until I step away and retire from my position. I serve the people of the state, those who live, work, and/or play in the state. Whether you have ever visited northeast Wisconsin or not, my job was to ensure that if you did, it would be a good experience with resources to explore.

Q: What is your best hope for the future of the Fox Locks? 

A: My best hope for the lower Fox River locks is a long existence, where history and people come together and we slow down, take the time to really look at the cultural, historical, and natural resources at hand and appreciate all the river has to offer.