The festival was a joint effort between several federal agencies (Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service), state agencies (Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, University of Wisconsin Extension Service) and local chamber and tourism departments (Cit of Ashland, Bayfield County, City of Washburn) and local volunteers.  The local chambers obtained a marketing grant from the state to promote the festival.

Katie Goodwin, Visitor Services Manager for the Whittlesey Creek National Wildlife Refuge, was instrumental in organizing programs and expeditions.  Other Whittlesey staff, Rice Lake NWR staff, Necedah NWR, and Ashland Fishery Resources Office staff helped lead walks and programs during the festival.