The 2025 Senate Joint Resolution 71 honors Jerry Apps for his significant contributions to Wisconsin's heritage. Jerry Apps, who became involved with the Waushara County 4-H club at a young age, has dedicated his life to advocating for 4-H and supporting agricultural education. His professional journey includes serving as a county extension agent, teaching at the University of Wisconsin College of Agriculture, and authoring over 50 books that delve into Wisconsin's history and rural life. His works, which cover a wide range of topics from farming to conservation, have not only educated thousands but have also received numerous accolades, including awards from the Wisconsin Historical Society Press.

In addition to his writing, Apps has made a lasting impact through his engaging newspaper columns, television and radio appearances, and by teaching aspiring writers. His documentaries on rural life have garnered regional Emmy Awards and other honors, further solidifying his status as a key figure in preserving Wisconsin's agricultural heritage. The resolution recognizes Apps' unwavering dedication to connecting Wisconsinites with their past and fostering a sense of community, placing him alongside notable environmental thinkers in the state’s history.