Nikki Lohse Recognized as a Builder of Successful Partnerships
District Manager for the Lake DeSmet Conservation District (CD) Nikki Lohse was one of four individuals recently presented with a 2008 Two Chiefs’ Partnership Award.  The joint award recognizes exemplary employees who have worked collaboratively on projects with NRCS, the USFS, State forestry agencies, and conservation districts that support conservation and forest stewardship.  “Nikki’s leadership and a motivated and enthusiastic group of partners have done some amazing things for natural resource conservation in Johnson County,” said NRCS State Conservationist Xavier Montoya.
 

NRCS Public Affairs Specialist Honored
Texas NRCS public affairs specialist Quenna Terry was recently presented with a Distinguished Alumnus Award by Texas Tech University’s College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources officials for her "significant contributions to society."  Quenna was one of six outstanding alumni whose career accomplishments were recognized for bringing distinction to the university.

South Carolina Family Farm Wins National Environment Award
Yon Family Farms of Ridge Spring, South Carolina, was recently recognized as the 2009 National Environmental Stewardship Award winner for its whole-farm commitment and leadership in conserving natural resources.  The award program -- now in its 18th year -- is made possible by the National Cattlemen’s Foundation with sponsorship from Dow AgroSciences, NRCS, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. “The Yons are what you would call everyday environmentalists,” said Dave Petty, chairman of the Environmental Stewardship Award selection committee and 2001 national award winner.  They protect water quality, improve soil health and have enrolled every acre they manage into some type of conservation program or easement. The Yon family is proof that environmental and economic sustainability go hand-in-hand. "
 

March 2009 Is Women's History Month
The theme of this year's Women's History Month is Women -- Taking the lead to save our Planet.  The 2009 the National Women's History Project honors women who have taken the lead in the environmental or "green" movement.  The project features Rachel Carson, the founder of the contemporary environmental movement, as the iconic model of the theme.  Rachel Carson's work provides an admirable model for comparison.  The 2009 Honorees are scientists, engineers, business leaders, writers, filmmakers, conservationists, teachers, community organizers, religious or workplace leaders or others whose lives show exceptional vision and leadership to save our planet.

PLANTS Update
The National Plant Data Center and the Information Technology Center have been working the past several months on the conversion and migration of parts of the PLANTS Web site.  The Plant Materials Publications and Distribution Update modules are the pieces remaining to address. 

Jane Zook -- Kansas Earth Team Volunteer
Jane Zook, the conservation district manager for the Pawnee County Conservation District, enjoys being involved in conservation education and especially working with children.  By volunteering, she has been able to bring natural resources conservation into the classroom at the Larned, Kansas Alternative Learning Center.  "The kids are just so enthusiastic about learning something new and responding with eagerness to learn about natural resources," says Zook, about the Center students.
 

Soil Conservationists at War
This photo is from a December 1943 Soil Conservation magazine article Soil Conservationists at War by Soil Conservation Service Personnel Management Division Chief William R. Van Dersal and Personnel Management  Division Assistant Chief Verna C. Mohagen (NRCS photo -- click to enlarge).

NRCS This Week features a weekly historical photo and caption.  NHQ, districts, States, RC&D councils, and all other NRCS entities are invited to submit a historical photo of activities or individuals who have worked or are working for the agency along with a caption. 

NRCS This Week features a weekly historical photo and caption.  NHQ, districts, States, RC&D councils, and all other NRCS entities are invited to submit a historical photo of activities or individuals who have worked or are working for the agency along with a caption. 
 

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