Luther's Retirement Wishes by

Luther's Retirement Wishes by https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement Add your well wishes, photos, videos for Luther to enjoy! en-us 2021-12-13 23:48:38 UTC 2023-04-03 15:23:47 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet.net/icons/png/1f3a3.png Congratulations https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1947510413 Well, it had to happen sometime. :) I've enjoyed working with you and learning not just about river restoration but many other things as well. You have been an amazing mentor and caring colleague. You will be missed is a complete understatement. Stay in touch and enjoy your retirement; you've definitely earned it!!!
Amanda Hillman]]> 2021-12-14 16:46:15 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1947510413 Congratulations! amyrchilders https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1947521603 Luther, you literally have made the world a better place! What an amazing career! Thank you for your years of dedication to our natural resources, especially our rivers and streams, and your greatly valued mentorship. We will do our best to continue your work with as much passion and determination as you have.
Amy Childers]]> 2021-12-14 16:50:50 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1947521603 Congrats & Many Thanks! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1954288674 Luther, What a legacy you leave for others to carry forward! Accumulated (& applied) expertise + great dedication. On top of that, I've appreciated your warm, generous spirit and your gift for teaching others. I regret not having more opportunities to work with you in the field. Even if we didn't often work together directly, it was good knowing that you were out there doing good. I'll miss you but I'm sure your adventures aren't done yet. Best wishes on the next legs of your adventure! --Lisa Gelvin-Innvaer]]> 2021-12-17 20:59:23 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1954288674 Happy Trails from PAT https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1954294991 I can't believe you are retiring! It has been so great working with you on the Mound Creek restoration. There were alot of opinions on which direction to go and your extensive knowledge and ability to explain it to us non-hydro folks was so valuable for steering us in the right direction. I learned so much working with you! I had a good laugh at this picture because you worked so hard to pull out all those beaver dams and at the end of the day we decided that it was okay to let the beavers be beavers! You will be missed!
-Molly Tranel Nelson]]> 2021-12-17 21:09:39 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1954294991 I’ve heard so many great things about your work. Congratulators on your well-deserved retirement. https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1954298450 Katie Smith]]> 2021-12-17 21:15:05 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1954298450 Congrats! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1954311293 Congratulations, Luther! Enjoy retirement!
-Christine Eck]]> 2021-12-17 21:36:00 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1954311293 Congrats! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1954340304 Luther, Thanks for all of your efforts to restore rivers! A great legacy. The elimination of low head dams will also save lives!
Stan Linnell]]> 2021-12-17 22:26:41 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1954340304 https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1954509135 Congratulations! Your thoughtful work and ability and willingness to drive around the state to educate and influence dam owner's will be greatly missed. I enjoyed working with you on the many dam removal/modification projects and wish you the best! The Drayton Dam modification permit was signed today, seems like a great project to go out on!
Jason Boyle]]> 2021-12-18 03:37:31 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1954509135 Congrats Luther! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1956860785 Hope you enjoy retirement by getting outdoors and enjoying Minnesota's water resources you've worked so hard to improve/save. All the best to you and please stay in touch Sir.
Kevin Z]]> 2021-12-20 12:52:48 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1956860785 Enjoy your retirement! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1956923696 I only worked with you briefly Luther but you made a great impression! I'm glad that I could be a part of such a well designed and cool project. On behalf of MN DNR Helitack, Thank you and have a great retirement! Mike Lichter]]> 2021-12-20 13:26:38 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1956923696 Congratulations https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957035759 Luther,
I regret that I did not get the chance to work with you more during my DNR career. You should feel gratified with your accomplishments in the state and impact to river ecology science. The best part is that the legacy of your work will now carry on through the numerous colleagues that you mentored. Enjoy your retirement!
Cheers,
Megan Moore]]> 2021-12-20 14:19:03 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957035759 Congrats! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957039835 Luther, congratulations on your retirement, enjoy!!
Lindsay Ohlman]]> 2021-12-20 14:20:44 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957039835 Congrats and time to hit the lakes and streams and enjoy what it has to offer. Nice photo of Yelloweye's in your party flyer. Enjoy your well deserved retirement! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957093802 - Val Fellows]]> 2021-12-20 14:45:58 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957093802 Thanks for all you've done to reconnect our rivers and streams for herps, fish, mussels, etc! Best wishes on your retirement and reconnecting with your other passions! Congratulations, Carol Hall https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957120341 2021-12-20 14:58:52 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957120341 Congratulations! Peter Leete forwarded this on to me and I wanted to drop a quick note. We (MnDOT) have really appreciated your guidance and help throughout the years on various projects. You helped make the right decisions, while being very pragmatic in your approach. We use your book regularly. Good luck in retirement, enjoy the fishing! Nicole Bartelt https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957314992 2021-12-20 16:36:04 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957314992 You will be missed! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957383146 I can't believe you want to quit walking Duluth streams during floods and thunderstorms! All joking aside, you have made a great impact all over the state, and it has truly been a pleasure working with and learning from you. Hope you are able to find equally exciting adventures in your next chapter of life! Deserae Hendrickson]]> 2021-12-20 17:19:31 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957383146 Congratulations Luther! Your passion and perseverance for restoring rivers and streams the way nature intended will be missed. Enjoy your time meandering through retirement! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957706116 Nicole Lehman]]> 2021-12-20 21:27:34 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957706116 Congratulations barbaraweisman https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957745121 Luther, we didn't work together but I know of your work from afar, because you are the stuff of DNR legend! I'm grateful for your contributions to the art and science of river ecology in Minnesota. Wishing you all the best in retirement. ~Barbara Weisman]]> 2021-12-20 22:13:36 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1957745121 Luther, Congrats, but we all know you can't hang it up just yet... :) I have had the distinct honor to work with you on several projects, ideas over the years and to be able to call you a friend. I can't say enough how much of an inspiration you have been to me and so many others, with the passion and technical expertise you bring to the table. You will be dearly missed in the DNR!!! Wishing all the best in your retirement! Please don't hesitate to get in touch if fishing on the jet rig, is something you want to do again in the future!!! - Eric Altena https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1958698695 2021-12-21 12:40:28 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1958698695 Congratulations https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1958804430 Congratulations Luther! Thank you for all you have done and I hope you have a wonderful retirement. Jeramy Pinkerton]]> 2021-12-21 13:39:56 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1958804430 https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1958995003 Hi Luther, It has been great working with you on the Grindstone EIS. Thanks for all your help and explanations. And also thanks for your knowledge and expertise in restoring rivers. We'll miss you. Enjoy your retirement.
Becky Horton]]> 2021-12-21 15:09:19 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1958995003 Congrats-Luther https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1959424128 I want to wish you the best. I learned a lot by working with you. You helped restore many miles of stream in the Red River valley through your efforts. The Red River of the North is once again a connected river. The fish and users of the resource recognized your efforts with each modification or removal of a dam. When the Drayton Dam is done, it will be wonderful. At least 25 people have lost their lives at that lowhead dam. I will be in Texas but thinking of you on your retirement. We will schedule a party when I return. Retirement is great. Do something fun each day.
Michael Larson]]> 2021-12-21 19:57:59 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1959424128 WOW is all I can say, what an impact you have had!! Congratulations and thank you for being an extraordinary resource to MN DNR and specifically to the resources in Parks and Trails. You have left your mark in so many of our units. It's been an honor to work with you. Thank you doesn't seem enough. Enjoy the next adventure you choose to take on. https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1959555434 Melody Webb]]> 2021-12-21 22:22:10 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1959555434 Congratulations! Much health and happiness in retirement. https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1962186201 2021-12-23 14:54:51 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1962186201 scottmackenthun https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1962313279
Luther,

Congratulations on a great career. "No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it's not the same river and he's not the same man." - Heraclitus.

I too won't look at rivers the same way since having the opportunity to work with you and learn from and with you within MN DNR. I'm grateful for the opportunity to work on stream projects and improve stream health and functionality. Every day is another chance to do the job better, to improve things for the biota like the fish I'm tasked with managing, but also to see things as a holistic and harmonious ecosystem. Restoring those ecosystems is very fulfilling; we are lucky to do this work.

Thanks for hosting many of us stream practitioners at your place a few years back, for giving me insights into your youth on the Cottonwood, and for always showing and documenting that what is good for the stream is good for the fish, and vice versa. Best of luck, this isn't good bye so much as see you later as I know you'll still be working with us but enjoying a little more time to wet a line in the Ottertail and visit family and friends.

Best wishes and fishes,

Scott Mackenthun]]> 2021-12-23 16:52:36 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1962313279 https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1965733143 Luther, congratulations and all the best as you transition to retirement. You did fantastic things with stream functions and ecology. Fair well and stay healthy. Tim Brastrup]]> 2021-12-27 19:28:38 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1965733143 https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974174104 Congrats, Luther. You are leaving behind a legacy! We will miss you! Kristi Coughlon]]> 2022-01-04 13:38:21 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974174104 Luther in action https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974180817 2022-01-04 13:41:05 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974180817 Luther in his element at Itasca headwaters https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974190777 2022-01-04 13:44:45 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974190777 Luther and the restoration team at Itasca headwaters https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974195265 Unforgettable! Wishing you all the best! Kristi Coughlon]]> 2022-01-04 13:46:46 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974195265 Congratulations! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974251934 From studying the "Reconnecting Rivers" book in grad school, to working by your side on multiple projects now, I am forever grateful for your legacy on Minnesota rivers. Retire with ease, knowing the momentum you have built is going to continue to increase as we continue restoring the ecological functions of rivers in Minnesota. I'm hopeful our paths continue to cross, as your experience will certainly be needed in future projects!

Thank you for your service to the environment!

Jon Lore]]> 2022-01-04 14:10:31 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974251934 Congrats! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974276721 Luther,

Congratulations on a very well deserved retirement. Your work and dedication will benefit many generations. Attached is a picture sent to me of a Northern Pike caught by a young angler on the Sand Hill River about 15 miles upstream of Fertile. His mom said he caught about 20 pike that day. Your work to reconnect river systems provided the memorable fishing opportunity for this young angler and illustrates the long-lasting benefits of your work.

Personally, you inspired me to pursue work focused on river restoration when I first met you 25 years ago when I was in grad school. I was excited to read that you will be continuing to work on river restoration in some capacity. Hopefully our paths will cross once again!

Jamison

]]> 2022-01-04 14:20:21 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974276721 https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974300497 If a river had a voice, I think it would sound like Luther…strong and sure, a teacher with laughter just below the surface.

Luther quote (Healthy Rivers) 'Humanity tends to think along straight lines in the things we build and the way we often think. But rivers don't tend to follow this same linear form. In fact, rivers follow a meander pattern...everything from tiny rivulets on glacial ice to the Gulf Stream in the ocean.'

Best wishes!
Beth Knudsen]]> 2022-01-04 14:29:24 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974300497 Congratulations!! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974342704 Luther, congratulations! I can't believe you are retiring. Thank you for all you've done as a scientists to better our world. The DNR will miss you and all you bring to your work. I will also miss your voice for the waters. Enjoy!!

Ann]]> 2022-01-04 14:45:19 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974342704 You have made an impact! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974346887 Thank you Luther for spending countless hours measuring, monitoring and restoring streams in Minnesota and around the country! Your efforts and impact are significant. Thank you also for offering the river ecosystem trainings. I enjoyed learning from you and the River Ecology Unit team. Best wishes on your future endeavors in retirement! Enjoy what life brings your way. ~Jennifer Olson]]> 2022-01-04 14:47:01 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974346887 CONGRATULATIONS!! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974348329 Congratulations and best wishes for a long and happy retirement, Luther!! We will miss your expertise, for certain. Thank you for your guidance and help with bringing my understanding of rock arch rapids further ahead. I truly appreciated your leadership and guidance with regard to Melrose (even if they didn’t listen to sound science).

Take care and enjoy all life has to give you!

Warm regards,

Nicki Blake-Bradley

]]> 2022-01-04 14:47:37 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974348329 Congrats on your retirement! Thank you for all your work on Minnesota streams. -Heidi Rantala hrantala74 https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974349155 2022-01-04 14:47:54 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974349155 Congratulations https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974371136 It's been fun getting to know you and learn from your experiences. Given your history on the Red and how that set your trajectory in some ways, I was glad the timing work out so you were involved with the modification of Drayton. I hope you enjoy the next phase of things.

On a different note, I also chuckle about learning to properly pound sand (literally) at project sites. Nick Kludt]]> 2022-01-04 14:56:52 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974371136 Congrats! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974376148 Some of Luther and the River Ecology Unit's amazing expertise and experience, lead to a project that has received state recognition, clean water awards and local partners and citizens impressed with the work and knowledge that the DNR has on staff. Thank you again Luther for the support, expertise and communication that lead to the San Hill River "ditch" restoration project, which was a conceptual project-20 years in the making. You will be missed!
https://youtu.be/WpBk0mt20lU

]]> 2022-01-04 14:58:46 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974376148 Congratulations on your retirement https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974431193 Luther,
It has been wonderful having your expertise and knowledge within the DNR. You have done so much for the betterment of our natural world. Especially considering that a lot of the notable work you have been involved with oftentimes dealt with changing a communities identity.
Alas, you persevered, you kept the channels of communication open, you completed projects when they presented themselves. You reconnected our rivers and streams. You taught so much to so many and are leaving behind a vast legacy not just in the projects completed and lessons learned, but also in the colleagues you helped mentor who can build upon your foundations in river restorations in Minnesota and beyond.
At one point, it seemed insurmountable to restore Minnesota's rivers. But dam by dam, you showed us that if you take it one dam at a time, you can start to see a finish line for our environmental goals.
I am honored to have been able to call you a colleague.
Enjoy your retirement and all your future goals.
-Lucas Borgstrom]]> 2022-01-04 15:20:46 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974431193 https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974432477 Luther: Thanks for your service, leadership, wisdom and practical thinking....I think of you when I see a sturgeon. Molly MacGregor]]> 2022-01-04 15:21:19 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974432477 Kettle River connectivity https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974468142 Luther, there are probably only a couple staff left that have a pink sandstone brick on their bookshelf or desk. You were the most instrumental person to lead the Kettle River Sandstone Dam removal project in 1994-95. That was a big feat then to convince stakeholders and landowners why to restore the Kettle River riverine habitat, mussel colonies, and native fish passage. From there came many more large and small projects, all of them equally important to restore connectivity. Your dedicated work, mentoring others, and enthusiasm to this unique but most important restoration responsibility goes unmatched. It is truly a career legacy of lasting excellence. Very well done and thank you! -Jack Lauer

]]> 2022-01-04 15:35:09 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974468142 Congratulations, Luther! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974469926 Thank you for all you've done at the DNR! May your retirement be full of fish! (My catch is not as impressive as yours, but the fly fishing trip in CO was fun!)

You are now a DNR Alumni and will be hearing from me occasionally! Take care!

Renee Hartwig, Volunteer Programs]]> 2022-01-04 15:35:51 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974469926 Congrats and Paddle On! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974472259 "Water in the boat is the ruin of the boat, but water under the boat is its support." (Jalauddin Rumi)

Thanks for the supportive work you've done and will continue to do for MN's water resources!
Donna Perleberg]]> 2022-01-04 15:36:46 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974472259 Thank you for all you accomplished Luther, and even for efforts that fell somewhat short of your goals. Your career stands as an outstanding example for dedicated biologists and resource managers to follow. Your farewell note to the DNR was spot on without being offensive, something increasingly rare in today's society. You will be missed in this agency. Best wishing going forward. https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974513688 2022-01-04 15:53:43 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974513688 Luther: LEGEN-(wait for it)-DARY!!! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974514398 I think we all aspire to make your level of contribution to the DNR and, more importantly, to make our small part of the world a better place than we found it by the time we retire. Seeing what all you have achieved provides continued motivation to keep going despite the innumerable hurdles, setbacks, and disappointments in our way. THANK YOU and congratulations on your retirement!
Krista Larson]]> 2022-01-04 15:54:01 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974514398 Contratulations https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974689883 Hey Luther,
Congratulations on an impressive career and impending retirement! Thanks for your passionate work on restoring natural aquatic systems and protecting native fishes. Your passion and dedication to the cause have been evident. How great to have your day-to-day work mesh with your personal interests! I hope you enjoy your retirement and have many, many years of fun in Minnesota's rivers, streams, lakes, woods and prairies. Thanks again for your contributions which benefit us all. -- Lyn Bergquist]]> 2022-01-04 17:08:13 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974689883 https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974710816 You have a career to be proud of....
I am grateful for all the time you devoted to teaching us about the ecological functions of river ecosystems. I will always remember the 'relaxing human constraints' definition. Especially, I am thankful for your visits and projects in southern Minnesota (you did not write off the degraded systems and you have extraordinary communications skills).
Brooke Hacker]]> 2022-01-04 17:17:57 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974710816 Hey Luther - congrats and thanks for all of the great work! I cannot thank you enough for all the time, expertise, phone calls, public meetings, etc. that you gave to help me out on many projects. Thankfully there is no such thing as Lake Shady anymore! One of my fondest memories is a "meeting" after hours in Breckenridge with ND Game and Fish, DNR folks from DL, Fergus, Baudette where we hatched the idea of re-introducing lake sturgeon into the Red River. Must have been about 1996(?). Thanks again and enjoy retirement! Kevin Stauffer https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974744947 2022-01-04 17:34:34 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1974744947 https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1975028340 Luther - congratulations! All the best to you as your Retire! ENJOY! -Bernice]]> 2022-01-04 19:51:56 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1975028340 Congratulations, Luther! I wish you a long, happy, and healthy retirement. ENJOY IT! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1975054185 Christine Eck / Acct Tech - OMBS]]> 2022-01-04 20:07:57 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1975054185 https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1975068211 Congratulations Luther on your retirement! Streams and aquatic habitat around the state are so much better off because of you and the teams you have led.

I learned so much from you at the DNR's stream restoration courses. I tried to use those lessons as much as possible, especially post-construction monitoring with a fishing pole!

Wishing you all the best and many tugs on your line.

Jeff Weiss]]> 2022-01-04 20:16:06 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1975068211 Congratulations! Many Thanks! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1975113030 Congratulations on your retirement, Luther! Thank you for your remarkable service and for sharing your passion, knowledge and expertise. Best wishes for new adventures in your retirement! -Diane Anderson (PAT)]]> 2022-01-04 20:44:48 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1975113030 Congrats! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1975163073 Congratulations on your retirement Luther! It's been a great privilege to work with you. All the best, Emily Siira]]> 2022-01-04 21:22:50 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1975163073 A legacy to be proud of. https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1975192141 Not many of us have some many tangible products to look back at over the course of our careers. The miles of streams restored in perpetuity that you've had a hand in is awe inspiring. Beyond those tangible contributions, you've also been part of a reshaping of how many people think about rivers through things like the 5 component framework, and the students you've taught at numerous courses. I appreciate that you saw that it wasn't enough just to go out and to stream restoration work. There is also a need to nurture more practitioners so that the work can be spread wider, and carried on into the future. I'm one of the many people who have benefitted from that. Getting the chance to work on projects back when I started in Fergus Falls propelled me to several years of stream habitat work that I enjoyed immensely and I feel could make a positive difference. Thanks for all of your contributions, and best of luck in the next chapter of your life! - Brian Nerbonne]]> 2022-01-04 21:47:56 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1975192141 Congratulations! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1975753809 Luther, hearty congratulations and best wishes to you on your well-deserved retirement. I've enjoyed the opportunities to work with you in Fergus Falls on dam restoration and renewable energy hydropower projects. You've contributed to and left so much of a legacy of science and improving ecosystems. I highly recommend retirement and you are ready to enjoy yours and the chances to direct your passions to fishing, hunting, woodworking, and enjoying the outdoors. In your reflections, you refer to that you will continue to work on restoring river ecosystem in a different capacity; a signal we can look forward to seeing you with Kleinschmidt, Normandeau, and Mead and Hunt? I know your retirement wouldn't be complete without the ability to ruminate from another copy of the 2017 aquatic survey for the Otter Tail Power Company's hydropower relicensing. Thank you.
- Charlotte Cohn, J.D. ]]> 2022-01-05 05:59:58 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1975753809 https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1976613847 Kudos to you Luther for a well deserved DNR retirement! It's been great working with you from the start when I was a trainee at one of the original DNR stream workshops lead by you and other EWR staff. It was always a pleasure and a learning experience working on habitat projects with you. I'll always remember the lightning day tree drop (not these photos above) - just glad you only got a "little shock". Thanks Luther for being a great mentor and advocate for our stream and fish resources! And also for helping me out with MN AFS events. Take care and enjoy all those pursuits you never had nearly enough time for before.
Edie Evarts]]> 2022-01-05 15:08:39 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1976613847 https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1976617661 2022-01-05 15:10:03 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1976617661 https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1976844831 Congrats on your retirement, Luther! It's been a real pleasure learning from you through the many stream restoration workshops you've hosted over the years to the small dam removal projects you shared your expertise on with the Chippewa National Forest. You'll be greatly missed. Happy trails! - David Morley]]> 2022-01-05 16:34:39 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1976844831 Wishing You The Best Luther https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1977008661 I remember as a newer SWCD employee I had the opportunity to attend the DNR Stream Restoration courses. When you started to speak, I remember saying "who is this guy?". You are always so passionate, know your stuff and willing to assist people like me who had no idea the dynamics of streams when I started. I appreciate everything you have done for the Stream Ecology world to change the thought process and create a small army of people working on the same goals. Most of all enjoy your retirement and all of things you have on your list. I am sorry I cannot make the official party. Have fun and cheers - Greg Berg ]]> 2022-01-05 17:45:56 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1977008661 Congratulations Luther! I always learned so much from you whether we were in the classroom talking about fish, on the streambanks learning about geomorphology, paddling down the stream looking at human impact, or cooking in your back yard and hearing great stories around the campfire that only fish biologists can tell. You touched the lives of folks in so many agencies and organizations. We'll truly miss all your passionate words of wisdom and will think of you every time we are working removing a dam, no matter what state. Happy paddling & fishing! Heidi Keuler https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1977085631 2022-01-05 18:19:45 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1977085631 Your Bright Star Will Keep Shining! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1977501470 Luther, you have made such a huge difference for rivers and streams and their ecosystems, and you've had such a positive influence on those you have worked with in Agencies and the public! This indeed is a rare legacy! Enjoy your well deserved retirement. It will be the best job you've ever had! You can do what you want now for both the resource and your personal endeavors! Wishing you all the best! Pam Thiel]]> 2022-01-05 22:27:51 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1977501470 Luther- Glad you get to go enjoy the fruits of your labor, and spend some more time recreating on the streams you have spent so much time working on. I have had fun learning and even assessing some of the projects you were involved in the area! Thanks for being a leader and a role model for how we should look at, and treat rivers. Mike Kelly https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1977513325 2022-01-05 22:41:01 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1977513325 https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1977515548 Straight River Tree Drop Browns!]]> 2022-01-05 22:43:41 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1977515548 Congratulations my friend https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1978917997 We go way back, to your first days in the MN DNR, working on the development of warmwater fish habitat suitability criteria on the Zumbro, Snake and Yellow Medicine rivers. Wow, what a ride the last 35 years has been! You have without a doubt left your mark advancing the science of river ecology and restoration in Minnesota and across the country. I feel privileged and honored to have worked with you for the past 35 years. I look forward to sitting in a boat with you, sipping good whiskey and reflecting on our careers and the great fishing and hunting that lies ahead.

With warmest regards,

Henry Drewes]]> 2022-01-06 15:30:56 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1978917997 Thank you! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1978951976 Luther, you have INSPIRED so many people to put in the hard work of restoring streams and river ecosystems. You've created a movement here in Minnesota that can't be stopped, like the free flowing rivers you restore :)
I hope the rivers thank you in return with bountiful fish and game! -Jaime Thibodeaux]]> 2022-01-06 15:43:28 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1978951976 Thank you Luther! amymikus https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1979117543 Thank you for all your hard work on behalf of Minnesota's rivers and streams, and for all the time and effort you have invested in teaching people across the state and the country about restoration and dam removal. You have so much to be proud of. Best wishes for a wonderful retirement! - Amy Anderson]]> 2022-01-06 16:56:18 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1979117543 Congratulations! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1979190455 We've worked literally side by side both with our offices and the in the field for all my years with the DNR. It's been a privilege both personally and professionally to have had that opportunity. You have taught me a lot along the way. I wish you all the best on your retirement and look forward to our continued friendship. Congrats!

-Neil Haugerud]]> 2022-01-06 17:33:27 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1979190455 Luther, you have had a great deal of influence on how riverine habitat is viewed along the Roseau River. Through the classes offered by the River Ecology Unit you were a part of, a seed was planted of what the Roseau River should be and, with the help of like-minded conservationists, we now have a major project underway to restore the ecological functions of this stream. Thank you for the impetus to this and other similar efforts, and congratulations on your retirement--it is well earned! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1979250942 2022-01-06 18:04:47 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1979250942 Enjoy what lies ahead https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1979653311 Congratulations on the work you have accomplished with the DNR. You leave a great legacy and difficult shoes to fill. Bummer I did not get an opportunity to learn more from you in the brief time we worked together.
Next time you head to Alaska- be sure to give us a call and we call assist in some amazing fishing adventures and bear viewing etc etc etc.
Enjoy semi-retirement! and time.
Best, Denise Elston

]]> 2022-01-06 23:04:16 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1979653311 Fish On https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1981584711 Luther so many Fantastic comments, all deserved! I will add a thanks for helping Randy and I make sturgeon swim more freely on the White Earth Reservation! Your assistance and guidance was very much appreciated!
All the best and speaking from experience you will love retirement and do it with grace as you did with all your hard work!
Scott Yess ]]> 2022-01-08 10:51:56 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1981584711 Congratulations! https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1990382857 The waterways in Minnesota were so lucky to have you as was the DNR staff here with all of your excellent teaching. I can just echo all the wonderful accolades on this page - you are amazing Luther. Thanks for your service!
- Gretchen Mehmel]]> 2022-01-13 13:56:11 UTC https://padlet.com/amyrchilders/Luthers_retirement/wish/1990382857