He founded and co-chaired the Illinois Legislative Sportsman’s Caucus, an organization that raised money and awareness for outdoor activities for disabled youth.
[1] In 2003, Governor Rod Blagojevich appointed Brunsvold to serve as the Director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources where he managed a budget of $700 million.
Mr. Brunsvold died September 7, 2010, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics after a massive stroke.
Pat Quinn referred to him as "a good man and a devoted public servant.
[4] In the following session, Senator Jacbos proposed legislation to rename the Department of Natural Resources's headquarters after Joel Brunsvold.