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Cowgirls ‘n Conservation event celebrates 12 years

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Cowgirls n Conservation 2025 group photo

NRCS, in coordination with the McKenzie County SCD, hosted the Cowgirls 'n Conservation annual women’s event January 17, 2025, at the McKenzie County Ag Expo to promote the importance of conservation, environmental stewardship, and the cultural heritage of the American West.

WATFORD CITY, N.D. - Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), in coordination with the McKenzie County Soil Conservation District (SCD), hosted the Cowgirls 'n Conservation annual women’s event January 17, 2025, at the McKenzie County Ag Expo to promote the importance of conservation, environmental stewardship, and the cultural heritage of the American West.

The event featured a blend of guest speakers, local artist displays, and dinner all while fostering community spirit that focused on conservation and environmental stewardship. 

The evening kicked off with the Rural Rendezvous Cowgirls 'n Conservation program, featuring a review of accomplishments from the McKenzie County NRCS and SCD. Notable projects included selling 8,414 trees, implementing the No-Till Drill program, and executing the Tree Enhancement program. Conservation and outreach events recognized Kindergarten Day on the Farm, Farm to Table Day, and Soil Education.

“Cowgirls 'n Conservation stands as a testament to the remarkable influence women have in shaping the future of our natural resources. For 12 years, this event has brought women together to take the lead in conservation efforts, proving that their voices are essential in agriculture and conservation,” said Watford City Field Office District Conservationist Nicole Darrington. “Tonight, we celebrate our uniqueness and recognize the amazing talents of this community.” 

Featured speakers for the "Women in Our Neighborhood" included Renae Mogen and Cheyanne Thompson. 

Mogen, a flower and berry farmer with Bloomberry Farm in Watford City, shared her story of starting her own business. "Don't wait," said Mogen. "Jump in and do what you want to do!" 

Thompson, a leather designer with "Hang it on the Line," drew inspiration from journals of pioneers and settlers, incorporating her love of gardening, flowers, and folk art into her work.

Kam Elliott, keynote speaker, spoke about her experiences with cancer detection and advocacy for agriculture. She shared her story of being diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, undergoing reconstruction surgery and then being diagnosed with melanoma. "It's amazing what can come out of a hard situation," said Elliott.

The evening concluded with the presentation of the Women in Conservation Award to 
Vawnita Best, a horse and cattle rancher, wife, and mother of a teenage son.

With each passing year, Cowgirls 'n Conservation demonstrates that the communities of McKenzie County, with women at the forefront, are dedicated to sustainable practices and stewardship of the American West's rich natural heritage.

Nikki Darrington, District Conservationist, Watford City Field Office welcomes attendees to the 12th annual Cowgirls ‘n Conservation
Nikki Darrington, District Conservationist, Watford City Field Office welcomes attendees to the 12th annual Cowgirls ‘n Conservation held January 17, 2025, at the McKenzie County Ag Expo to promote the importance of conservation, environmental stewardship, and the cultural heritage of the American West. (Photo: Anne Polasky, Public Affairs, NRCS)
Kam Elliott Cowgirls 'n Conservation keynote speaker
Kam Elliott, Cowgirls 'n Conservation keynote speaker, shared her experiences with cancer detection and advocacy for agriculture. NRCS, in coordination with the McKenzie County SCD, hosted the annual women’s event January 17, 2025, at the McKenzie County Ag Expo in Watford City to promote the importance of conservation, environmental stewardship, and the cultural heritage of the American West. (Photo: Anne Polasky, Public Affairs, NRCS)
Vawnita Best receives the Women in Conservation Award
Vawnita Best, far right, receives the Women in Conservation Award. NRCS, in coordination with the McKenzie County SCD, hosted the Cowgirls 'n Conservation annual women’s event on Friday, January 17, 2025, at the McKenzie County Ag Expo in Watford City to promote the importance of conservation, environmental stewardship, and the cultural heritage of the American West. (Photo: Anne Polasky, Public Affairs, NRCS)
Group photo at Cowgirls 'n Conservation
From left to right, Kam Elliott, Kara Dahl, Karissa Frick, Liz Langwald, Katie Signalness, 
Nikki Darrington, Marianne Gartner, and Jason Andrews share a moment in the spotlight during the Cowgirls 'n Conservation annual women’s event January 17, 2025, at the McKenzie County Ag Expo in Watford City to promote the importance of conservation, environmental stewardship, and the cultural heritage of the American West. (Photo: Anne Polasky, Public Affairs, NRCS)

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