July 19, 2026
From extreme heat and wildfire smoke to local leadership transitions and community festivals, VernonReporter.com covered a diverse range of issues over the past week. Whether highlighting environmental conservation efforts, tracking federal disaster relief, or sharing the triumphs of local youth, our reporting captured the events shaping Southwest Wisconsin. Here is a look back at the stories we brought to you, starting with the latest news.
Nate Torres takes the helm as Vernon County administrative coordinator
Nate Torres has officially assumed the role of Vernon County administrative coordinator, taking the helm as the county navigates structural shifts, including centralized accounting and a new finance department. Torres, who previously served as the City Administrator for Viroqua, aims to bring stability to the county management team and will oversee county administration while supporting the County Board of Supervisors.
Two Viroqua properties damaged in separate weekend structure fires
The Viroqua Fire Department responded to two separate structure fires over the weekend, resulting in property damage but no injuries. A fire late Thursday on Cherry Grove Road in the Town of Viroqua caused major smoke and water damage, while a Sunday afternoon blaze at 701 Power Drive within city limits was quickly extinguished with minor damage.
Second Nature announces Third Thursday Market in the Garden returns this week with food, music, gardening & community
Second Nature at Reads Creek is hosting its Third Thursday Market in the Garden on July 16, inviting the community to enjoy a free evening of artisan shopping, food trucks, and live music by The Lovelys. The event will also feature a free conifer garden tour, a culinary presentation by Noble Rind Cheese and Latarnia Guest House, and a special Moon Garden design workshop.
Communities along the Mississippi River are leaning into tourism and outdoor recreation to counter rural challenges like declining tax bases. The river remains a vital economic centerpiece for operations like the Trempealeau Hotel, Stockholm Pie, and the 90-year-old Clements Fishing Barge in Genoa, helping connect locals and visitors alike to the region’s rich history.
Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Southwestern Wisconsin residents urged to prepare for upcoming heat wave
With dangerously hot temperatures expected, local health officials are urging residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses. The Crawford County Health Department recommends drinking plenty of water, limiting outdoor activity, utilizing cooling centers, and checking on vulnerable neighbors as the extreme heat bears down on the region.
Local teen awarded premier aviation scholarship at Viroqua airport during Fly-In Drive-In Breakfast
Bentley Nelson, a 16-year-old student pilot, was awarded a $7,200 Ray Aviation Scholarship during the Viroqua Municipal Airport’s Fly-In Drive-In Breakfast. Administered by the local EAA Chapter 1439, the highly competitive scholarship will fund Nelson’s private pilot certificate training, recognizing his deep dedication and volunteer work at the airfield.
Coulee Antique Engine Club to host 55th annual show in Westby
The Coulee Antique Engine Club will host its 55th annual show just north of Westby, featuring a weekend of agricultural history and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy live demonstrations of threshing and sawmill operations, an antique tractor pull, a flea market, and a Sunday car show.
Vernon County Sheriff’s Report for the week ending Saturday, July 11, 2026
The Vernon County Sheriff’s Office released its weekly report detailing calls for service across the county.
Viroqua narrows administrator search, Hanson Farm Development street names chosen
Viroqua Mayor Krista Browne announced that the search for the new city administrator has been narrowed down to a pool of seven strong candidates following the resignation of Nate Torres. Meanwhile, work at the Hanson Farm development is progressing, with initial paving underway and the city council finalizing farm-themed street names for the site.
Combatting caregiver burnout: Viroqua’s ‘Time for Joy’ provides relief for families facing dementia
The “Time for Joy” program at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Viroqua is providing much-needed relief and support for local families and caregivers dealing with dementia.
A statewide air quality advisory has been extended as thick smoke from wildfires in Canada and Minnesota blankets Wisconsin, pushing air pollution into the “Unhealthy” and “Hazardous” ranges. The Vernon County Health Department is urging residents, especially vulnerable populations, to stay indoors, limit physical activity, and monitor for symptoms of respiratory distress.
Registration continues for after school program at the Mc Intosh Memorial Library in Viroqua
Registration remains open for the free After School Program managed by the McIntosh Memorial Library in Viroqua. The program, now led by manager Aris Lara, serves students in grades 1-4 with nutritious snacks, outdoor activities, and homework help Monday through Thursday, beginning September 8.
Vernon County Sheriff releases additional details in fatal State Highway 35 crash
The Vernon County Sheriff’s Office has released further details regarding an investigation into a fatal crash that occurred on State Highway 35.
Emplify Health by Gundersen Hillsboro Hospital is hosting a free Safe@Home class on July 28 for students in grades 4-6. The introductory program teaches young students safe habits, how to respond to emergencies like power outages, and basic first aid to build their confidence when staying home alone.
Peace Torch relay team will pass through Viroqua on Monday, July 20
The Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run, featuring an international relay team from seven different countries, is scheduled to pass through Viroqua on July 20. The team is embarking on a four-month journey across all 50 states in honor of America’s 250th anniversary, spreading the message that peace begins with the individual.
Vernon County partners with local conservation groups to battle invasive mud snails
To protect native trout populations, Vernon County is utilizing grant funding to battle invasive New Zealand mud snails in local waterways. The county plans to install 20 boot brush stations and educational signage at public fishing easements along the West Fork Kickapoo River and Seas Branch to encourage anglers to clean their waders and prevent the snails from spreading.
De Soto School District maintains third-lowest mill rate in CESA #4 as board weighs fall referendum
The De Soto Area School Board held a special meeting to discuss school district financing and options for a potential operational referendum this fall. A presentation from Baird Public Finance highlighted that De Soto is facing financial and structural challenges similar to many rural Wisconsin schools, primarily driven by declining student enrollment.
In his latest “Grouse Hollow Journal” column, Greg Koelker chronicles his recent visit to Cassville’s Bicentennial Celebration. Koelker shared fond memories of the community’s historic Twin-O-rama parade while humorously detailing his efforts to find shade and escape the sweltering July heat dome.
FEMA has approved Individual Assistance for Vernon County residents impacted by the destructive April 13-23 severe weather and hailstorms. This federal disaster declaration provides a critical safety net for underinsured renters and homeowners, particularly in the hard-hit community of Westby, where a physical Disaster Recovery Center is expected to open soon to assist applicants.
DNR Senior Fisheries Biologist Kirk Olson recently presented the latest fisheries survey results to the Coon Creek Community Watershed Council. The ongoing summer studies include tracking 19 tagged brown trout—some of which have already swum 30 miles upstream—and monitoring stream temperatures to better understand the local ecosystem.
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