Conservation District recalls 2023 activities

Crockett County—Time certainly has fast feet which have carried us quickly into 2024. The Crockett County Soil & Water Conservation District would like to recap some of the things that happened in 2023.

The 6th graders had their annual Conservation Poster Contest. The theme was “One Water” and was more difficult than usual. The winners were: 1st-Amelia Youngblood, 2nd-Landon Martinez, 3rd-Aleah Sarabia, and Honorable Mention went to Kaylee Magness. The Ozona Bank and Wool Growers helped sponsor the contest.

In March, Philip Walker was recognized for his work promoting conservation. The Crockett County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) presented this award for the many ways he promoted conservation over multiple years. This sent him to the Texas Conservation Area II Awards program where he placed 2nd. The level of competition this year was high. In fact, the first-place winner of Area II went on to win State.

The “One Water” theme was also the theme for Stewardship Week, April 30-May 7, 2023. The Crockett County SWCD promoted the week and Judge Tambunga signed a proclamation to show the support of Commissioners Court. Stewardship Week focused on healthy soil and clean water. Effective conservation practices ensure the soil, water, animals, plants, and air all benefit. The event encouraged people to help conserve our natural resources.

In October 2023, the 6th-grade students participated in the 35th annual all-day conservation field day. This was held at Jack and Jodie Baggett’s ranch, 12 miles south of town. The weather was outstanding and the students, as well as adults, enjoyed the day and the conservation information. The presenters covered wildlife habitats, erosion, soil identification, native plants, the aquifer, how to read aerial maps, and the many common products derived from different animals.

The Crockett SWCD chairman, Paul Perner III, was recognized at the 83rd Annual State Meeting of Soil & Water District Directors with the 30-year service award.

Triple C Hardware, Wool Growers and Pleas Childress for donated items for the silent auction held at the Annual Meeting that helps provide scholarships.

The Crockett County SWCD and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) work closely together to provide services, information, and education to landowners. Due to the partnership & programs, payments of $1,065,076 were received in Crockett County in 2023 to help promote good stewardship practices to help restore and conserve our natural resources.

The SWCD’s Board of Directors consists of Paul Perner, III (Chairman), Jack Baggett, Jr (Vice-Chairman), Pleas Childress, III (Secretary), Ira Childress (Director), and Ty Allen (Director). The SWCD’s office is in the USDA/NRCS building located at 201-D 11th St.