Presented by Carol Higgins, St. Joseph County CD (Region 8 Rep)
It has been my pleasure to work with Rivka, Jerry, Melissa Eldridge, and Becky Huttenga to select the 2025 winners of MACD awards from approximately 30 nominations across five categories:
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District of the Year
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Emerging Leader
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Outstanding Board Member
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Champion of Conservation
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Champion of Conservation Partner
There are so many of you who give greatly of your time, talent, and enthusiasm towards conserving the amazing natural resources in the state of Michigan. We are here first of all, to thank all of you. You are making a difference!
District of the Year
District of the Year: Allegan Conservation District
Allegan CD is an outstanding example of how local voter support can empower a district to thrive. With millage funding of $650,000 per year since 2020, the district has:
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Recovered from the 2008 recession (which left only 1 part-time staff)
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Grown to include 7 specialists, including an educator and a restoration coordinator
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Invested in cost shares for farmers, community grants, and a new headquarters building
With over $700M in annual agricultural value, diverse ecosystems from Lake Michigan shoreline to state forests, and vibrant agritourism, Allegan CD is a powerhouse in conservation and community partnership.
Emerging Leader Award 2025
Emerging Leader Award: Chandra Kinney, Kalamazoo CD
Just over a year into her role as District Manager, Chandra has:
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Boosted board engagement and recruited associate members
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Expanded the district’s website and social media reach
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Implemented QuickBooks Online
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Diversified grant applications
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Earned a scholarship to Purdue University's Watershed Management Program
Her leadership is energizing Kalamazoo CD with new momentum.
Board Director of the Year
Board Director of the Year: Shannon Brines, Washtenaw CD
Shannon has built strong partnerships with legislators, community orgs, and conservation agencies. His work includes:
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Serving on multiple advisory commissions (Greenbelt, Public Market, etc.)
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Practicing agroecology & agroforestry on his own farm
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Hosting field days and leading pilot projects
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Chairing both the Washtenaw CD Board and Region 10
A true role model in environmental leadership and action.
Champion of Conservation 2025
Champion of Conservation: Patricia Osburn, Otsego CD (Retiring)
With 30 years of service, Patricia has built enduring programs like:
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The Demonstration Garden (1997)
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A native plant nursery promoting Michigan-native flora
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The Nature Center for environmental education and tree sales
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The 8th Grade Natural Resource Day (300+ students annually)
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Wildlife habitat projects and riparian buffer restorations
Her legacy is a thriving educational and ecological footprint in Otsego County.
Champion of Conservation Partner: Growing Pontiac
Champion of Conservation Partner: Growing Pontiac
This grassroots organization is transforming the conservation landscape in Pontiac and Oakland County by:
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Promoting urban gardening, sustainable agriculture, and eco-education
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Expanding outreach beyond Pontiac to foster regional conservation networks
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Co-hosting events with Oakland Conservation District
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Uniting residents and partners through inclusive, hands-on environmental programming
Thank You to All Nominees!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the nominees recognized this year for their unwavering commitment to conservation across Michigan. Your hard work, vision, and leadership uplift our communities and inspire a new generation of stewards.
Each nominee represents the values that MACD upholds—service, sustainability, and dedication to the land and people of Michigan. Whether you're in the field, in the office, or behind the scenes, your contributions are essential to our shared mission.