Brent M. Haglund, Ph.D., was a pioneering ecologist, conservation leader, mentor, and storyteller whose life bridged rigorous science, ethical conviction, and "hands-on" stewardship of the natural world. Over more than five decades, he helped shape private lands conservation in the United States and beyond, guided by his commitment to individual responsibility in conservation. Brent, age 78, died at his home in Madison on June 12, 2026.

Raised in Isle, Minnesota, amid lakes and pine forests, Brent was the son of Bob and Irene Haglund. His mother was an energetic Scout leader and encouraged him to embrace both the outdoors and Scouting.

Brent thrived in Scouting, earning the rank of Eagle Scout, the God and Country Medal, the Hornaday Medal, and selection as a Report to the Nation Scout. He was also selected to be the American Legion's Scout of the Year in 1966. Also as a teenager, he was introduced to Aldo Leopold's A Sand County Almanac by his high school biology teacher, a book that became both his compass and calling.

Brent studied biology at the University of Minnesota - Duluth, where he helped organize the first Earth Day in 1970. After wildlife management training in Germany, he went on to earn an M.S. from Montana State University and a Ph.D. in Ecology from the University of Georgia.

Though he began his career in academia, teaching at Augustana College and Montana State University, Brent soon found his vocation in applied conservation. In Wisconsin, he became State Director of The Nature Conservancy, leading efforts to protect and restore some of the state's most significant natural areas, including Lulu Lake, Baxter's Hollow, and Spring Green Prairie. Known for his persistence and collaborative spirit, he excelled at forging unlikely partnerships and navigating complex land conservation projects.

In 1988, Brent became President of the Sand County Foundation, leading it for more than 30 years. Under his direction, the Foundation became a national force for conservation; advancing practical, science-based stewardship grounded in Aldo Leopold's "land ethic." He championed prescribed fire, quality hunting ecology, floodplain restoration, river dam removal, and farmer-led conservation. He was especially proud of celebrating conservation-minded farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners by expanding the Leopold Conservation Award program.

Brent believed conservation was a human endeavor as much as a scientific one. He could talk with a farmer, a policymaker, or a student, and had an uncanny gift for inspiring others. His wit, curiosity, and capacity for connection made him a beloved mentor.

Brent loved Buddy Holly, world history, Georgia football, prime numbers, and classic country music. His laugh was unmistakable and contagious. Trips with friends in the outdoors sustained him. An avid ecological hunter, he delighted in passing on this ethos to others, including his daughter Krin, son-in-law Christopher, and grandson Ole.

The First Unitarian Society, Ygdrasil Literary Society and Rotary Club of Madison were some of the recipients of Brent's community service. He was named a Paul Harris Fellow for his contributions to Rotary Youth Exchange Programs.

Wild Wisconsin and the co-authored Hands-On Environmentalism, were both books by Brent grounded in the belief that conservation must be lived, not just studied. In 2012, he was inducted into UMD'S Academy of Science and Engineering. He received the Boy Scouts of America Distinguished Conservationist Award in 2021.

At the center of Brent's life was his wife of 55 years, Dayle. Together they paddled, hiked, birded, and enthusiastically supported their daughter Krin's international circus career. Brent checked in with Dayle every single day, a quiet ritual that reflected his enduring love for his college sweetheart, and best friend.

Brent is survived by Dayle; daughter Krin Maren; son-in-law Christopher Sweetnam-Holmes; and grandchildren Ole and Perseïd, Montreal, QC, Canada. Brent is also survived by his siblings Brenda Christensen (Tom Barry), Woodside, CA, Kurt Haglund (Gayle), Richmond, VA, and Lana Mulder (Jim), Mulino, OR.  

A Celebration of Brent's Life will be held on July 18 at 2 p.m. at the First Unitarian Society of Madison and will be available by livestream and recorded video. Memorials may be made to the Sand County Foundation's Haglund Ecology Fund, supporting environmental education and conservation.     

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