Association of Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts

News Release

Soil and Water Conservation District Directors Honored For Service and Dedication

SPRINGFIELD, IL, July 30, 2007—At the Association of Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts (AISWCD) 59th Annual Meeting and Illinois Land and Water Resources Conference held at the President Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center in Springfield, Illinois, two outstanding district directors were honored for their service and dedication to soil and water conservation districts in the state of Illinois.

Stephen Owens, from Henry County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) has been a board member for the past seven years and is currently serving as the Secretary/Treasurer. Over the years Stephen has served on many SWCD committees which have kept him heavily involved and knowledgeable at the local, state and national level. Whether the SWCD is working on budgets, the annual plan or work, new ideas, or personnel issues Stephen’s input is very beneficial. Stephen is also able to contribute a great deal of knowledge and experience to the district from involvement in other civic organizations as well as his own personal experiences.

Stephen is proud to be a part of organizations that care about the environment. Through Stephen’s dedication to the SWCD, he shows his need to give to others, the effort necessary to build a better tomorrow. Stephen’s hard work, his analytical style, genuine warmth and friendliness produce results.

Gary Jensen, from Warren County SWCD has been involved with the SWCD for the past eight years.  As a director, Gary always seeks to administer SWCD policy with fairness and equity while being reliable and dependable. He has also volunteering countless hours of his time and equipment to the SWCD's, Cedar Creek Conservation Area.

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Gary is a true leader in the local community in his use of conservation initiatives and practices. He has taught by example and has inspired several local agriculture education students to explore best management practices. Gary has installed a streambank stabilization project, implemented and maintains no-till practices, and utilizes rotational grazing. Gary has done much to advance and sustain conservation efforts and conservation stewardship in Warren County and the State of Illinois.

“Illinois’ 490 Soil & Water Conservation District Directors are dedicated, locally involved community leaders,” stated AISWCD President Terry Davis.  Directors Owens and Jensen nominated as outstanding District Directors from among their peers exemplify that dedication and commitment with their many year’s of service to the betterment of our State’s valuable natural resources

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