Local Conservationists Ryan and Elizabeth Benedict to be Honored as Area Finalists at State Soil & Water Conservation District Convention

The Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (MASWCD) has named Ryan and Elizabeth Benedict of Lamberton, MN as one of the eight Area Finalists in the 2023 Outstanding Conservationist Award Program.  Ryan and Elizabeth Benedict will be recognized at the December 13, 2023 luncheon at MASWCD’s 87th annual convention in Bloomington.  The awards program recognizes farm families, individuals, conservation organizations, and other groups for their accomplishments in implementing conservation practices and improving Minnesota’s natural resources.

Of the eight finalists, one will be announced as the State’s Outstanding Conservationist of the Year at the December 13th luncheon.

“We’re proud of Ryan and Elizabeth for what they’ve done in conserving the natural resources in our area” said Nick Brozek, District Administrator, Redwood SWCD, which nominated Ryan and Elizabeth Benedict for the award. “It’s great to be able to recognize the work they’ve done locally. They’ve provided a wonderful example for us by constructing many structural practices to stop gully erosion, planting cover crops in the fall to protect the farm from erosion, as well as providing a home and a source of food for the local wildlife. The Benedicts are excellent caretakers of the land and believe in protecting our soil and water resources for future generations.

MASWCD sponsors the Outstanding Conservationist Award Program, with support from The Farmer magazine.