Our Team

At the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts (MACD), our team is made up of dedicated leaders, staff, and partners who share a common passion: protecting Michigan’s natural resources and supporting the vital work of local Conservation Districts. Together, we bring diverse expertise in conservation, education, and community engagement—working side by side to ensure healthy soil, clean water, and thriving landscapes for generations to come.

Rivka Hodgkinson

Executive Director, MACD

Rivka leads the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts (MACD) with a deep commitment to supporting local leadership and practical, community-based conservation. She first got involved by serving on the Board of Directors for the Ottawa Conservation District, where she saw firsthand the critical role districts play in protecting Michigan’s land, water, and natural resources. Subsequently, she was elected as Vice Chair for Region 7 on the State Council and was then selected to serve as Interim Executive Director.

With over 15 years of experience in strategic growth, outreach and marketing, project coordination, and leadership, Rivka brings a collaborative approach to helping Michigan’s Conservation Districts grow their impact. Her work focuses on building strong partnerships, expanding resources, and advancing innovative, locally-led solutions. She believes that when communities are empowered, they create meaningful, lasting change for both people and the environment.

Outside of work, Rivka enjoys spending time outdoors in the many beautiful Michigan landscapes, is an avid reader, and loves to cook and bake to center herself after a long day of conservation work.

Want to collaborate or learn more about Michigan’s Conservation Districts? Connect with Rivka on LinkedIn

Amber Butterfield

Grants Administrator

Amber serves with the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts (MACD) with a strong dedication to strengthening Michigan’s locally led conservation network. Her connection to conservation began at the grassroots level in 2017, where she recognized the unique and vital role that Conservation Districts play in supporting landowners, protecting natural resources, and building resilient communities.

With a background in program management, partnership development, and strategic communication, Amber brings a practical and people-centered approach to her work. She is passionate about creating opportunities for districts to thrive—whether through increased visibility, expanded collaboration, or more effective engagement with partners and the public. She believes that strong relationships and clear communication are the foundation for impactful conservation.

Outside of work, Amber enjoys exploring Michigan’s natural beauty, spending time with her family, and finding joy in gardening.

Karl Henderson

Website Designer, MACD

Karl brings fresh updates to the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts website! With an Associates in Arts from Kellogg Community College, Karl helps MACD showcase their online presence with graphic design.

After editing webinars for the MACD YouTube channel, Karl officially joined the team. He brings a creative-edge to the Conservation of Michigan districts that's rooted in his passion for plant-based nutrition and farming.

Jerry Miller

President (Kent Conservation District)

Jerry Miller serves as President of the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts (MACD) and is Chair of the Kent County Conservation District Board of Directors. A dedicated leader in Michigan’s conservation community, Jerry has been active with MACD since 2014, first as Region 7 Vice-Chair and later as Vice President before being elected President in 2019.

Originally from Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, Jerry grew up on a crop and livestock farm, cultivating an early passion for land stewardship. He earned his degree in agronomy from Virginia Tech and went on to complete his M.S. and Ph.D. in soil science at Iowa State University (ISU). Over the course of his distinguished career, Jerry served as a professor and Extension specialist at ISU, where he led applied research in soil, water, and watershed management as well as soil survey and land use planning.

He continues to stay engaged in the field as an emeritus professor of agronomy. With more than 40 years of experience working alongside conservation districts, Jerry brings both academic expertise and practical knowledge to his role. He is committed to advancing the mission of Michigan’s Conservation Districts through collaboration, science-based leadership, and a deep respect for the farmers, landowners, and communities who steward the state’s natural resources.

Nancy Szikszay

Nancy Szikszay - Secretary / Treasurer (Genesee Conservation District)

Nancy has been a dedicated leader in Michigan’s conservation community for more than two decades. She began her Conservation District journey over 21 years ago when she was appointed to the Genesee Conservation District Board of Directors.

Just a year later, she was elected to represent Region 9 on MACD’s State Council, where she has continued to serve as a strong voice for her region. Within the Genesee Conservation District, Nancy has held the roles of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Treasurer, bringing steady leadership and a deep commitment to conservation.

In addition to her Conservation District service, Nancy is a longtime farmer who understands firsthand the challenges and opportunities facing Michigan’s agricultural community. She is actively involved in her local Farm Bureau, where she works to bridge the interests of farmers and conservationists, ensuring that practical, land-based perspectives are always part of the conversation. Nancy often shares that it is her sincere hope to give back to Conservation Districts as much as they have given to her. Her blend of farming experience, organizational leadership, and passion for conservation make her an invaluable part of MACD’s executive leadership team.

Steve Law

MACD Vice President

Steve Law serves as Vice President of the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts (MACD) and Chair of the Jackson Conservation District. He also has served as a past chair of Region 10 and guided the Legislative Committee for the past four years. In addition, Steve volunteers as MACD’s Capacity Programs Manager, where he has been instrumental in advancing the Association’s advocacy and fundraising efforts.

A passionate champion for Michigan’s Conservation Districts, Steve has played a central role in strengthening their capacity and elevating their voice at the state level. His current priority is securing $13 million in state operational funding to ensure districts can continue delivering critical conservation services to their communities.

Steve brings to this work more than 40 years of experience with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), specializing in soil and water conservation. His deep understanding of conservation practices, combined with his collaborative leadership style, makes him a trusted advocate for districts, landowners, and policymakers alike. Through his vision and dedication, Steve continues to build momentum for MACD and its member districts, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to protect Michigan’s natural resources for generations to come.