The National Association of Conservation Districts recently honored conservation leaders from across the country during the organization’s 72nd annual meeting in Nashville, Tenn., at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center. 

The Olin Sims Conservation Leadership Award is presented annually to an individual, district or organization that has gone above and beyond in promoting conservation on private lands. This year’s award was presented by Natural Resources Conservation Service Acting Chief Leonard Jordan to Kris Swartz, a Wood Soil and Water Conservation District supervisor.

Swartz is a fifth-generation farmer from Perrysburg, Ohio. He and his wife, Sue, operate a 2,000-acre farm in Wood County where they grow soybeans, corn and wheat. Swartz is the past president of the Ohio Federation of Soil and Water Conservation Districts. Under his leadership, Ohio became one of the leading states in adding Soil Health Champions to NACD’s Soil Health Champion Network, according to NACD.

Additionally, his efforts have brought more attention, funding, training and education centered on water quality, 4R’s, and nutrient stewardship activities carried out by Ohio’s SWCDs, NACD reported.

“I am deeply honored to receive this award,” Swartz said. “This award belongs to my conservation family in Ohio and our efforts to strive daily to make a positive impact on our soils and water.

“Thanks to NACD and NRCS for this recognition,” he added. “Our collaboration is vitally important as we seek to keep lands productive and waters clean for future generations.”

Source: NACD