Dodge County Welcomes new County Conservationist

JUNEAU, Wis. — Dodge County is pleased to announce the hiring of Melissa Knipfel as the County’s new Conservationist, bringing more than three decades of conservation and land management experience back to the community where her career first began. 

“Melissa brings a tremendous depth of knowledge and hands-on conservation experience, along with a strong understanding of Wisconsin agriculture and land stewardship,” said Cameron Clapper, Dodge County Administrator. “We’re excited to welcome her back to Dodge County, where her leadership will help us continue supporting farmers, landowners, and communities in protecting our natural resources for future generations.” 

Knipfel, a graduate of UW–Stevens Point with a Bachelor of Science degree in Resource Management – Land Use Planning, holds certifications as an NRCS Level III Certified Conservation Planner and Wisconsin DNR Firefighter II for wildland fire suppression. 

Knipfel began her career here in Dodge County as a Farmland Preservation Technician before expanding her experience across Wisconsin. Her career has included roles with the Taylor County Land Conservation Department and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), where she served as an Office Automation Clerk, Soil Conservationist, District Conservationist, and most recently as a Wisconsin Area Program Specialist overseeing nine staff members. 

Throughout her career, Knipfel has worked with agricultural and forestry landowners across Dodge, Taylor, Price, Buffalo, Marathon, and Portage counties. She has helped implement conservation practices through programs such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), supporting operations ranging from livestock and grazing to cash grain and forestry management. 

As Area Program Specialist, Knipfel reviewed and approved more than 750 conservation contracts, helping deliver over $25 million in conservation funding to northeastern Wisconsin. She also provided program training, guidance, and policy interpretation for NRCS staff across the region. 

Her appointment was confirmed by the County Board of Supervisors at the Feb. 11 board meeting, and she began her roll with the county on Feb. 19. She replaces John Bohonek as County Conservationist after his retirement in December.