Association of Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts

News Release

NOTE: The Annual Meeting is open to the press.

SPRINGFIELD, IL, July 17, 2006-- The Association of Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts (AISWCD) will hold their 59th Annual Meeting and Illinois Land and Water Resources Conference at the President Abraham Lincoln Hotel in Springfield, Illinois July 29-31.  This year’s theme is “Follow the Legacy.” Rich Nichols, Executive Director, stated, “This three-day conference serves as an opportunity for conservation leaders and decision-makers from across the state to meet, discuss issues affecting agriculture and conservation, and strategize for the future”. 

At the Farm Family Banquet held on Sunday evening, outstanding conservation farm families from across Illinois will be honored and one family will walk away with the prestigious Governor’s Conservation Farm Family Award.   The winning family will receive a John Deere x304 lawn tractor courtesy of John Deere & Company.

Other individuals will also be recognized and honored during the conference. Award presentations will be made for the Conservation Teacher of the Year, the George McKibben Scholarship, winning Envirothon team, Poster contest winners selected from K-12 students, Outstanding District Director, Outstanding Forestry Contribution Award, and more.

Monday during the general session a “Juggling Elephants?” will be presented by Jones Loflin.  The presentation will discuss balancing work and personal lives. 

The AISWCD provides leadership for wise use of Illinois’ natural resources and for the future growth and responsibilities of the 98 Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts.
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