Outstanding Conservationist Award
Each year an individual, conservation organization, or others that demonstrate outstanding accomplishments with implementing conservation practices that improve Minnesota's natural resources are recognized in Freeborn County.
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The Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts with support from The Farmer magazine offers the Outstanding Conservationist Award each year and those recognized are honored during the MASWCD Annual Convention.
Wayne and Linda on their easement.
2025 OUTSTANDING CONSERVATIONISTS
Wayne & Linda Nelson
The Freeborn County Soil & Water Conservation District is proud to recognize Wayne & Linda Nelson as their 2025 Outstanding Conservationist!
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When Wayne and Linda Nelson of Alden Township began planning for their retirement in 2015, they reached out to the Freeborn County SWCD to explore conservation programs that would suit their 250 acres of land.
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After many years of working closely with Chad Billat at the Freeborn County SWCD, the Nelsons’ dedication and love for their land led to its permanent restoration. In 2019, construction was underway to restore wetlands and native prairie through the CREP and RIM/WRP program.​
Their journey to restore their land brought them closer to neighbors, who followed the Nelsons’ lead and enrolled their own land into conservation programs. This created a nearly 500-acre restored natural area!
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Now the Nelsons spend their years in retirement enjoying the beautiful views, abundant wildlife, and have now been named Freeborn County Soil & Water Conservation District’s 2025 Outstanding Conservationist!
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Congratulations to Wayne and Linda Nelson!
PAST OUTSTANDING CONSERVATIONISTS
