Endangered species protections, Involuntary commitments, Eau Claire war veteran

Air Date:
Heard On Wisconsin Today
A monarch butterfly flies above a cluster of purple milkweed flowers surrounded by green leaves.
A monarch butterfly flutters away from a flower Monday, July 14, 2025, at Olin Park in Madison, Wis. Angela Major/WPR

We look at how rollbacks to the Endangered Species Act could affect Wisconsin wildlife. Then, we learn about state laws regarding committing people for mental health treatment. Then, we hear the story of an Eau Claire veteran and how serving in Iraq affected his life.

Featured in this Episode

  • What overhaul of Endangered Species Act could mean for threatened wildlife in Wisconsin

    The Trump administration is rolling back protections created by the Endangered Species Act. It could affect the monarch butterfly and other endangered species in Wisconsin. We look at how endangered species are doing in Wisconsin and what the changes could mean for conservation efforts.

  • Involuntary mental health commitments in Wisconsin

    Last month, a mental health-related tragedy resulted in a Milwaukee woman’s death. We examine Wisconsin laws around civil commitment — the process of forcing a person into mental health treatment if they pose a risk to themselves or others. 

  • NPR podcast features Eau Claire war veteran on returning to civilian life

    Eau Claire veteran Dave Carlson served two tours in Iraq. The war had lasting impacts on his life. He’s been to prison, dealt with post traumatic stress and now advocates for homeless veterans. His story is being told in an NPR podcast, “Carlson’s War.” Carlson and the podcast’s creator join us.  

Episode Credits

  • Rob Ferrett Host
  • Kate Archer Kent Host
  • Stan Temple Guest
  • Sarah Henrickson Guest
  • Elizabeth Rich Guest
  • Quil Lawrence Guest
  • Dave Carlson Guest
  • Richelle Wilson Producer
  • Beatrice Lawrence Producer
  • Mackenzie Krumme Producer
  • Sarah Hopefl Technical Director
  • Tyler Ditter Technical Director
  • Dean Knetter Executive Producer
  • Tim Peterson Managing Producer

Related Stories