MACD 2025 Annual Conference
Michigan’s conservation community—together for healthy soil, clean water, resilient forests, and thriving communities.
Stewardship in Changing Times — Building Resilience, Together
Our annual conservation conference is an exciting, multi-day event packed with over 70 insightful speakers, networking opportunities, and time to relax with social activities. The festivities kick off at 12 pm on December 7th with our State Council meeting and Director training.
December 8th opens our general conference with our Partner Luncheon, featuring updates from state and federal agencies. After this opening event, attendees can choose from a variety of specialized tracks — covering topics like invasive species, district management, agriculture, innovative conservation technology, improving your soft skills, and more.
After attending your sessions each day, enjoy a break browsing the silent auction or visiting exhibitors before our evening social hour and networking opportunities.
This conference is a can't-miss opportunity to gain valuable industry insights, make new connections, and get recharged for the year ahead. Register now to secure your spot at this premier conservation event. Every registration supports our mission of providing support for Conservation Districts throughout Michigan. Together we can lead the future of conservation!
Conference Agenda
Sunday, December 7, 2025 ➤
Agenda/packet via email. Zoom access available for council members.
Overview of Michigan Conservation Districts, roles, funding, and partner relations. Networking + dinner included.
Speakers: John Switzer (MDARD), Rivka Hodgkinson (MACD), Steve Law (MACD)
Dinner for State Council members and invited guests.
Monday, December 8, 2025 ➤
Set up tables, get check-in materials, and prep for the conference. Thank you sponsors & volunteers!
Check in, pick up your name badge, and visit the silent auction and exhibitor tables.
Official MACD board meeting with resolutions, financials, and elections (incl. Regions 4, 6, 8, 10). One vote per District in good standing.
Lightning talks from technicians: high CTAP metrics, outreach wins, time management, and more. “Ideas worth spreading.”
Speaker: TBD
Updates and Q&A with State Conservationist Diane Gray.
Group-based MAEAP/RAP scenarios; interactive problem-solving for real on-farm situations.
Speaker: TBD
Updates from NRCS, MDARD, NACD, MACD; programs, funding, success stories, and youth highlights (Envirothon).
Overview of OMA & FOIA + board ethics for Conservation Districts.
Speaker: Brad Deacon, MDARD Director of Legal Affairs
TBD.
What affects stumpage value and current timber market trends in Michigan.
Speaker: Raju Pokarel (MSU Forestry)
Plain-language intro to micropropagation for threatened/endangered plants; collaboration opportunities with labs/nurseries.
Speaker: Della Fetzer — Rebel Cultures
Benchmarking, total comp statements, and onboarding practices to hire/retain talent.
Speakers: Heather Batson & Veronica LaBar (MERS)
Financial responsibilities of Districts; QuickBooks tools & best practices.
Speakers: Nadene Berthiaume & John Switzer (MDARD)
Year in review; FY26 preview; Q&A.
Speakers: Erik Palm & Shelby Burlew
TBD.
Speaker: Thi Mai Anh Tran
Help shape funding & TA priorities—share needs/opportunities in your communities.
Speaker: Cheyenne Liberti (MDARD F2F)
TBD.
Board culture, recruiting, onboarding, succession — the full board member lifecycle.
Speaker: Patrice Martin
Expectations, opportunities, and best practices. TBD.
Best practices, organizing, simplifying grant reporting + Q&A.
Speakers: Brook Baumann, Dani McGarry & NCCISMA Team
Setting up the CD chart in QuickBooks; tracking/reporting grant funds.
Speakers: Nadene Berthiaume & Kelly Parker
Panel on co-designing GLRI-funded cost-share to reduce nutrient losses and engage beyond early adopters.
Speaker/Facilitator: Alison Bressler • Panelists: Allegra Baird, Jackson Cenusa, Brady Hess
CTAI program updates and networking.
Recognition of outstanding technicians; MAEAP first verifications + special awards from MAEAP and RAP.
Speakers: Erik Palm & Shelby Burlew
Ways directors can promote, participate, and expand grant programs (forestry and beyond).
Speaker: Ben Schram
TBD.
Speaker: Melissa Zelenak
Plain-language frameworks to make district messaging click with the public.
Speaker: Mia Mahaney
Compare tests; how results inform management.
Speaker: Christine Charles (MSU Extension)
How agrivoltaics supports soil health, preserves farmland, and strengthens rural economies.
Speakers: Davina Bryan (Farm To Power), Madeline Krol (UM/EGLE)
Free & open to all. Shuttle every 15 min from the conference center. Wristband required.
Snacks, drinks, connection. Bring cards for euchre!
Tuesday, December 9, 2025 ➤
Network, share takeaways, and fuel up for Day 2.
TBD.
Speakers: Rivka Hodgkinson (MACD), Jerry Miller (MACD)
Get bids in; auction closes at 5 PM.
Wednesday, December 10, 2025 ➤
Enjoy the final day breakfast in Parlor ABC.
TBD.
Speaker: Steve Law