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North Dakota Conservationist receives Hugh Hammond Bennett award for conservation excellence

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Darrin Olin, center, District Conservationist with the NRCS in Mott, North Dakota, has been named the recipient of the prestigious National Conservation Planning Partnership Hugh Hammond Bennett Award for Conservation Excellence for the Northern Plains Region.

Olin was recognized for his outstanding achievements in conservation planning and unwavering commitment to protecting natural resources across the state. 

BISMARCK, N.D. – Darrin Olin, District Conservationist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Mott, North Dakota, has been named the recipient of the prestigious National Conservation Planning Partnership (NCPP) Hugh Hammond Bennett Award for Conservation Excellence for the Northern Plains Region. This award recognizes his outstanding achievements in conservation planning and his unwavering commitment to protecting natural resources across the state.

Named after Hugh Hammond Bennett, widely regarded as the father of soil conservation, the award honors conservation planners and producers who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to developing and implementing effective conservation practices. Olin’s nearly 30-year career with NRCS has been marked by remarkable accomplishments in conservation planning, innovative practices, and fostering strong relationships with producers and partners.

“Darrin’s ability to connect with producers, understand their needs, and develop tailored solutions is truly exceptional,” said Dan Hovland, NRCS North Dakota State Conservationist. “He embodies the spirit of conservation that Hugh Hammond Bennett stood for, and we’re incredibly proud to have him represent North Dakota on a national stage.”

Olin’s accomplishments are vast, with conservation practices implemented on over 417,000 acres of upland wildlife habitat, 94,000 acres of conservation crop rotation, and 86,000 acres of no-till management. His hands-on approach and dedication to fieldwork have earned him a reputation as a trusted partner among farmers, ranchers, and conservation organizations alike.

Hovland highlighted Olin’s significant contributions to advancing conservation practices in North Dakota, noting his role in training NRCS staff and fostering partnerships with organizations such as North Dakota State University, Pheasants Forever, and local Soil Conservation Districts. “Darrin has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of conservationists and has left a lasting legacy on countless producers across the state,” Hovland said.

Olin’s innovative work, which includes developing solutions for soil pH, soil salinity, wetland restoration, wildlife conservation, and rangeland management, has positioned him as a leader among his peers. His achievements underscore NRCS’s mission of helping people help the land, and his recognition with the Hugh Hammond Bennett Award serves as a testament to his tireless dedication.

For more information about conservation programs and the NCPP Hugh Hammond Bennett Award, visit Hugh Hammond Bennett Awards | National Conservation Planning Partnership.