Steve Besser finds comfort just about any time he’s in the great outdoors, and he says nothing is more therapeutic than water.

“Woods and water are my psychologists,” Besser said. “Especially water. I love being on it, looking into a clear, northern lake and hearing waves hitting the boat.”

His affinity for Minnesota’s greatest natural resource was one reason Gov. Mark Dayton appointed the attorney to serve as the fishing representative on the state Water Council, and his BSU education contributed as well.

A native of Frost, just 10 miles north of the Iowa border, Besser was drawn to Bemidji State by his interest in the outdoors and biology. He furthered his study at North Dakota State University. After exploring employment options, he decided to become a lawyer.

“I thought about environmental law but really got interested in tort law,” the 1979 BSU graduate said. “I have described myself as a biologist gone bad after abandoning science for the law.”

Now a partner in the general practice firm of Dolan & Besser, he lives in Litchfield with his wife, Tracey. They have two adult children.

The Water Council advises Minnesota government on implementation of the Clean Water Legacy Act, which is a major undertaking with, more than $200 million in recommendations for the 2018-19 biennium alone.

“By using the term ‘clean water,’ nobody in this state will argue with you,” Besser said, hinting at the complexity of stakeholders and opinions involved in the issue. “My assigned task is to report what is important to fishing interests.”

He remembers advice from his father, an educator and financial advisor who encouraged him to stand up for his beliefs and give back. “Clean water is not just good for us,” Besser said. “It is essential for life on Earth.”