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Last week the National Association of Conservation Districts held their 80th Annual Meeting, sharing the work of Conservation Districts and programs around the United States. One of the key parts of the meeting was presenting awards for their stewardship photo contest, poster contest, and recognizing Conservation Districts and individuals serving conservation.

Poster Contest Winners

Michigan students and their Conservation Districts were recognized in multiple categories of the NACD Poster Contest:

  • Additional Assist 4 to 6: Kashton Kandal, Arenac Conservation District
  • Additional Assist 10 to 12: Joe Carlos OOsse, Leelanau Conservation District
  • Braille 7 to 9: Chase Parker, Tuscola Conservation District

These contests continue a long tradition of connecting young people to conservation through creativity and local district programs.

 

NACD Poster Contest Award Winners(fix)

Photo Contest Winners

Michigan was also represented in the NACD Photo Contest:

  • Youth Division, Agriculture and Conservation Across America: Molly Hill, Arenac Conservation District
  • Close-Up Conservation: Emily R. Sekelsky, Lapeer Conservation District

NACD Photo Contest Award Winners

NACD Distinguished Service Award

 

The NACD Distinguished Service Award was presented to Dr. Gerald “Jerry” Miller of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Dr. Miller has devoted his career to conservation through science, service, and leadership. He serves as Chair of the Kent County Conservation District, represents Michigan on the NACD Board of Directors, and has played a key role in strengthening Conservation Districts across the state.

As President of the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts since 2019, Jerry has helped secure historic increases in state funding and has championed the work of local districts. His background in agronomy and soil science, along with decades of research, teaching, and public service, has supported conservation professionals and communities nationwide. His leadership continues to leave a lasting mark on conservation in Michigan and beyond.

distinguished service award winner jerry miller

Friends of NACD District Grants in Michigan

Two Michigan Conservation Districts were selected to receive funding through the Friends of NACD District Grants Program, which supports locally led conservation education and community projects.

  • Alger Conservation District
    Tree Sale Workshops and Conservation Speed Dating
    This project will expand workshops during the district’s annual tree sale and introduce a Conservation “Speed Dating” opportunity where residents can meet with district staff to learn how to better manage their land.
  • Allegan Conservation District
    Ecological Treatment and Restoration Strike Team
    The district will develop a self sustaining strike team focused on invasive species treatment and native plant establishment, helping landowners build native plant communities at many scales.

These recognitions reflect the ongoing work happening across Michigan’s Conservation Districts every day. From youth education to restoration efforts and leadership at the national level, Michigan Conservation Districts continue to carry forward the tradition of caring for the land and natural resources that sustain our communities.

About NACD

The National Association of Conservation Districts is a nonprofit that represents more than 3,000 Conservation Districts and thousands of local leaders across the United States. These local units of government help landowners care for soil, water, forests, and wildlife through voluntary, locally led conservation. NACD supports this work through advocacy, education, partnerships, and programs that strengthen districts and the communities they serve.

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