2024 Conservation Awards

On November 12, 2024, the South Platte Natural Resources District and the Natural Resources Conservation Service hosted the 2024 Conservation Awards Banquet. This year three awards were presented: Conservation Farm, Tree Planter/Caretaker, and Community Environmental Impact. We hope you enjoy the videos.

Conservation Farm Award

Steve Palser, Deuel County, was awarded the Conservation Farm Award. This award recognizes producers that use best conservation practices and incorporate a total farm plan that benefits not only their operation but helps preserve natural resources for future generations. Steve participates in several conservation practices to help balance environmental and economic needs. He works closely with an Agronomist for water and nutrient management and utilizes strip-tilling and other practices to maintain crop residue. Steve was instrumental in the effort to help recharge the aquifer by allowing four recharge pits on his property. Primarily an irrigated corn and wheat farm, they are also home to Nebraska’s largest lavender farm. Our Lavender Co., an online shop and small storefront, is owned and operated by the Palser family.

Tree Planter/Caretaker Award

Matt Elston, Cheyenne County, was awarded the Tree Planter/Caretaker Award. This award recognizes the commitment to tree plantings and the care and maintenance that has been given after the initial planting. The Elston family vision is “Ten thousand trees in ten years in Cheyenne County”. Since 2019, 2,536 trees and shrubs have been planted on their farm/ranch near Gurley. Additionally, the Elston’s are commended for their ongoing care and appreciation of their trees. Corporate IT by trade, Matt is a first-generation farmer and has collaborated with FSA, NRCS and SPNRD. Through these partnerships, shelterbelts and native grasses have been planted. Also, fencing and a water source for livestock have been installed. Matt and Sarah are also owners of the Elston House located in downtown Sidney, a makerspace business that encourages creativity.

Community Environmental Impact Award

Potter-Dix Public School received the Community Environmental Impact Award. This award recognizes programs carried out by groups, individuals, agencies, or businesses which have a significant environmental benefit for an urban area within a town or city. This project was a joint effort started by Superintendent Kevin Thomas with the help of Joe Larson from NRCS. The project also received support from the Village of Potter and SPNRD. Designed specifically for wind protection, the plantings also serve as an outdoor classroom, a wildlife zone, as well as enhancing aesthetics. Yearly, teachers and students continue to plant trees around the school during Arbor Day at both the Potter and Dix sites. Students, the community, tourists, and travelers have benefited from the plantings for over twenty years and will continue to benefit for years to come.