On April 23, Ivan Dozier was named State Conservationist for Illinois' Natural Resources Conservation Service.

The selection, made in early April by NRCS Chief Dave White, ensures a continued commitment to quality conservation and support of NRCS' broad partners and clients statewide.

Dozier was selected for this leadership position from a pool of applicants from across the country. Dozier holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy and a Master's in Environmental Studies from the University of Illinois.

NEWLY APPOINTED: Ivan Dozier was appointed as State Conservationist for Illinois NRCS in late April. He previously served as assistant state conservationist for programs.

Dozier served six years in the U.S. Army Reserve and is a 28-year veteran of NRCS, having worked in seven locations across Illinois as a soil scientist, soil conservationist, and a district conservationist. For the last eight years, Dozier served alongside former NRCS leader Bill Gradle as the Assistant State Conservationist for Programs.

In addition to his work history with NRCS, Dozier served as President of the Illinois Chapter of the Soil and Water Conservation Society, was the American Indian Male representative to the National Civil Rights Committee and served as national president of NRCS' American Indian and Alaska Native Employee Association.

"Mr. Dozier has first-hand experience at leadership positions for the agency," says Paige Buck, NRCS State Information Officer. "He's familiar with NRCS programs and federal policies and he has well-established relationships with key partners and staff. He'll hit the ground running."

Dozier notes what a critical time this is for agriculture and for conservation—even more so with formation of the new Farm Bill so close. "I am honored to take on this challenge and to continue working with so many talented people here in Illinois," Dozier adds.

Because Dozier's previous position was located in NRCS' State Office facility in Champaign, he begins his new duties immediately and without travel, transfer or relocation delays and expenses. This makes Dozier's selection valuable and cost effective in many respects, especially during current tight budget limits. 

Dozier was raised on his family's grain and cattle farm located just outside of Mill Shoals in White County, Illinois. Dozier, his wife, sons Alex and Wyatt reside in rural Ivesdale in Champaign County.