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   BLOOMINGTON — Every year, Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) across Minnesota come together to celebrate exceptional achievements in conservation and the enhancement of the state’s natural resources.

   At the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (MASWCD) annual convention in Bloomington, Thomas and Cyriana Stattelman of the Stattelman Family Ranch in Pine River were honored as Outstanding Conservationists. Nominated by both the Cass and Crow Wing SWCDs, the Stattelmans were selected as the Outstanding Conservationists for North Central Minnesota.

Thomas Stattelman posed with representatives from the Cass and Crow Wing Soil and Water Conservation Districts after receiving his Outstanding Conservationist award. Photo submitted.

   “We’re really proud of the Stattelmans and what they have done for conservation in Cass County,” said Aly Bergstrom, Cass SWCD Resource Conservationist. “Thomas provides a wonderful example for conservationists by implementing practices that improve the integrity of the soil and overall productivity.”

   The Stattelman Family Ranch has worked with Cass and Crow Wing SWCDs on multiple projects to enhance their beef cattle operation with the goal of increasing the grazing season and improving nutrient cycling. The Stattelman’s conservation practices include rotational grazing, bale grazing, and temporary fencing. Most recently, the Stattelmans have expanded these practices to rented land, implementing a new prescribed grazing plan. Their work has yielded tangible benefits, and they remain committed to long-term soil health and productivity.

   “Conservation practices help protect Minnesota’s land and waters, and landowners like the Stattelmans are working hard to make a lasting impact,” said Melissa Barrick, Crow Wing SWCD manager. “Their recognition at the state level is well deserved.”

   For more information on implementing conservation practices, contact Cass County’s SWCD at (218) 547-7407, or Crow Wing County’s SWCD at (218) 828-6197.

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