2026 MACD Annual Conference Awards Ceremony Winners

The Michigan Association of Conservation Districts (MACD) celebrated the people and organizations making a meaningful impact in conservation across Michigan during its 2026 Annual Conference Awards Ceremony on Thursday, October 22, at the Lansing Center. 

Eight awards were presented, recognizing outstanding contributions through Board leadership, volunteer service, conservation partnerships, participation in conservation programs, and legislative support of conservation throughout the state. 

Honoring Outstanding Contributions to Conservation

 

Three awards were presented based on approximately 25 nominations submitted to MACD highlighting individuals and organizations whose commitment and service have made a meaningful impact on conservation in Michigan.

Outstanding Board Director 

Sue Nyce, Missaukee Conservation District 

 

Sue has made a lasting contribution to conservation, particularly in protecting and preserving water resources. Her efforts include: 

• Consistently advocating for the preservation and continuation of a stream monitoring program 
• Championing the district’s restoration efforts and expanding public awareness of local conservation initiatives
• Building strong relationships between the Board and staff members while serving as the Board liaison 
• Serving as the Region 4 Chair and advocating for Conservation Districts at legislative events 

Sue’s steady dedication and service has strengthened Michigan conservation efforts.

Outstanding Board Director Nominees: 

• Patricia Denig
• James DeYoung
• Barb Iverson
• Janis Ransom
• Paul Sawin
• Susan Schwager
• Mark Sweatman
• Adrienne Wolff

Outstanding Volunteer 

Mary Jane Emery, Missaukee Conservation District 

Mary Jane has been a steadfast supporter of conservation efforts and contributions spanning from hands-on volunteer service to community engagement and conservation advocacy. Her efforts include:  

• Supporting local conservation through educational and outreach efforts, restoration projects, and children’s activities 
• Establishing the Friends of the Missaukee Conservation District and securing its 501(c)(3) status while organizing river clean ups, outdoor recreation events, and community gatherings
• Building connections and identifying opportunities to strengthen the Conservation Districts 
• Continuously advocating for Conservation Districts through participation in legislative events, trainings, and conferences 

Mary Jane’s passion for conservation inspires those around her and strengthens the conservation community throughout Michigan. 

Outstanding Volunteer Nominees: 

• Denise Coykendall
• Anne Crawford

Conservation Partner 

Oakland County Parks and Recreation (Oakland County CISMA)

This organization has been a driving force in bringing partners together to coordinate invasive species work in Oakland County by:

• Coordinating invasive species management across public and private lands by connecting Conservation Districts, municipalities, watershed groups, and volunteers around shared goals
• Leading regional collaborative efforts by serving as the host and fiduciary of the Oakland County Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA) and growing the partnership from 19 organizations in 2014 to 45 today
• Expanding conservation education and technical assistance by sharing field expertise, developing educational resources, and engaging residents through community outreach events 
• Strengthening local conservation partnerships by collaborating with the Oakland Conservation District at various events and development of invasive species education materials 

Conservation Partner Nominees: 

• Joan Parker
• Alison Bressler, Western Lake Erie Basin Advisory Group
• Beth Schrader, Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians

Celebrating Conservation Participation and Leadership

 

MACD also celebrated individuals and Conservation Districts for their engagement in Michigan conservation efforts and active participation in district leadership. 

 

Most Involved Conservation District Board

 

Missaukee Conservation District 

Missaukee Conservation District received the Most Involved Board award, recognizing the Board’s active engagement and commitment to the district’s mission. Strong board participation helps guide local conservation priorities, strengthen local and statewide relationships, and advance conservation efforts. 

 

Envirothon Volunteer 

 

 

Heidi Schuitema, Cedar Springs High School Envirothon Team Advisor 

 

Heidi Schuitema was recognized as the 2026 Envirothon Volunteer for her contributions to the Michigan Envirothon program. Heidi guided a team competing in Envirothon for the first time to win the state Envirothon competition. Through the dedication and leadership of volunteers like Heidi, students have opportunities to expand their knowledge of environmental science and become the next generation of conservation leaders. 

Honoring Outstanding Leadership with the President’s Citation

 

 

In addition to the annual awards, MACD presented its 2026 President’s Citation to Albert Jones, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Area Conservationist, in recognition of his exceptional leadership, longstanding dedication, and contributions to conservation in Michigan.

 

The President’s Citation honors individuals who go above and beyond expectations for contributing to programs which support Michigan’s natural resource conservation needs. 

 

Albert Jones was recognized for his partnership with Conservation Districts, his dedicated leadership, and his continued support of conservation programs across Michigan. 

 

MACD extends its appreciation to Albert Jones for his service and strong support of Michigan’s Conservation Districts and programs. 

Recognizing Legislative Leadership and Support for Conservation

 

MACD presented two Legislative Awards to recognize individuals who have demonstrated support for Michigan’s Conservation Districts and conservation priorities. These awards celebrate legislative partners who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing conservation priorities.

 

Legislative Award - Senator Sam Singh, Senate District 28

 

 

MACD recognized Senator Sam Singh, representing Michigan’s 28th Senate District, for his leadership in advancing legislation to protect Michigan’s water resources. As the Senate Majority Floor Leader and Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources, Senator Singh has helped advance important conservation priorities. 

Senator Singh’s Senate Bill 771 will create Michigan’s first statewide septic code. In 2022, the MACD Assembly adopted a resolution calling for a statewide septic system code. MACD applauds Senator Singh’s leadership in advancing this initiative and his commitment to protecting Michigan’s water resources. 

 

Legislative Award - Representative Ken Borton, House District 105

 

 

MACD recognized Representative Ken Borton, representing Michigan’s 105th House District, for his continued advocacy and support of Michigan’s Conservation Districts. Serving on the House Appropriations Committee and chairing the Agriculture and Rural Development and Natural Resources Committee, Representative Borton has helped elevate conservation priorities and strengthen the partnership between state government and Conservation Districts. 

Representative Borton has consistently provided opportunities for MACD leadership to share the work and needs of Conservation Districts with legislative leaders. During development of the fiscal year 2027 state budget, he proposed increased operational funding for Conservation Districts to $3.5 million dollars. Although the proposed increase was not retained in the final budget, his efforts demonstrate his commitment to supporting locally led conservation across Michigan. MACD applauds Representative Borton’s leadership, advocacy, and continued support of Michigan’s Conservation Districts. 

Celebrating Michigan’s Conservation Community 

The 2026 MACD Annual Conference Awards Ceremony recipients and nominees exemplify the dedication, leadership, and collaboration that strengthen conservation efforts across Michigan. 

MACD congratulates this year’s award recipients, and extends its appreciation to all of those who contribute their time, expertise, and resources to supporting and sustaining conservation efforts across Michigan.