National Association of Conservation Districts

Remembering Olin Sims

NACD President Olin Sims died unexpectedly in from injuries suffered in a ranching accident on December 7, 2007. He was many things to many people, but to conservation districts, he was our President, our leader, our friend and a man who lived what he preached. He was raised on a ranch in McFadden, Wyoming, where he his family put a high priority on caring for the land. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will remain in our lives and hearts.

Tribute to a Cowboy
Maybe you knew Olin for 20 years, maybe you just met him once, or maybe you never saw him in person but heard his voice on his prized "America's Voice for Conservation" audio clips. He's an easy man to remember; he didn't know a stranger. We have collected your stories, thoughts and memories and shared them with his family and posted them on this web page. If you want to read memories of Olin, click here.

Sims' Services Honor a Man Who Gave His All
Freezing temperatures, blowing wind and a long trip did not deter over 1000 folks from making the trek to Rock River, Wyoming on December 15, 2007 to celebrate the life of NACD President Olin Sims. The ceremony clearly depicted the life of a man who followed his passions, touched lives across the nation and gave more of himself in 47 years than many of us could give in 100. There was an outpouring of love and support from the conservation district family, both at the services and in many, many phone calls, letters and emails. NACD leadership and staff thank you for your support during this difficult time.

Condolences to the family can be addressed to:y

Sims Family
HC 64, Box 106
McFadden, WY 82083

The family has requested that contributions be made to one of the three funds below in lieu of flowers:

Rock Creek Fire Department
Arlington Rt.
McFadden, WY 82083

Wyoming Natural Resource Fund
517 East 19th St.
Cheyenne, WY 82001

NACD Endowment Fund
Attn: Arthur Ganta
509 Capitol Ct., NE
Washington, D.C. 20002