National Association of Conservation Districts

News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MONTANA FARMER HONORED WITH 1ST ANNUAL NACD/NRCS OLIN SIMS CONSERVATION LEADERSHIP AWARD

RENO, NV., Feb. 13, 2008—The 1st Annual NACD/NRCS Olin Sims Conservation Leadership Award was presented to Montana farmer Milo L. “Buzz” Mattelin for his leadership and service in conserving natural resources on privately owned land.

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Chief Arlen Lancaster and Steve Robinson, Acting President of the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD), praised Mattelin for his contributions to conservation. “Buzz Mattelin’s leadership has been instrumental in establishing conservation partnerships at all levels. His efforts have produced real conservation benefits on the land and inspired others to be better stewards,” said Lancaster.
Mattelin, a third-generation Montana farmer, has helped establish working relationships with federal, state, and local government agencies; tribes; and private and nonprofit conservation organizations.

Established in tribute to the late NACD President, the Olin Sims Conservation Leadership Award was established to recognize outstanding conservation leadership at the state and local level. Sims, a rancher from McFadden, Wyoming, lived a life distinguished by years of volunteer service to conservation at the state and national levels.

“Olin was a true conservationist who was equally committed to practicing conservation and advocating for it,” said Robinson. “ This award epitomizes the conservation leadership and integrity that was his life and highlights the leadership of other conservationists who assume the mantle of conservation leadership into the future.”
Mattelin was presented the award during the Appreciation Banquet of NACD’s Annual Conference in Reno.

The NACD/NRCS Olin Sims Conservation Leadership Award will be presented annually to a district or state-wide individual or organization demonstrating excellence in promoting and leading voluntary conservation on private lands.

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NACD is the non-profit organization that represents America’s 3,000 conservation districts and 17,000 men and women who serve on their governing boards. For almost 70 years, local conservation districts have worked with cooperating landowners and managers of private working lands to help them plan and apply effective conservation practices. NACD’s website is at www.nacdnet.org.

Since its inception in the 1930’s, NRCS’s conservation delivery system continues a unique partnership, delivering conservation that respects local needs, while accommodating state and national interests. For more information on NRCS, the conservation partnership, and conservation programs available in your community, stop by your local USDA service center, or visit NRCS online at www.nrcs.usda.gov.