2025 WACD Annual Conference & Business Meeting
Conference News
Conservation Connections: Connecting Land, Water, and People.
Schedule
Hotel Registration
WACD is excited to be hosting our 2025 Annual Conference and Business Meeting at the Northern Quest Resort and Casino this year from Monday, December 1st to Wednesday, December 3rd. We’ve secured a group rate at the state per diem amount of $126 for conference attendees.
To secure the discounted rate, you will have to call the Northern Quest Casino Reservation Department at 1-877-871-6772 and reference either the “Washington Association Conservation Conference” group rate or mention the Group Discount ID 30560. You can only utilize the discount over the phone, it will not be possible to make hotel reservations with the group discount online.
Our group rate at the Northern Quest runs until Friday, October 31.
Conference Registration
Registration for the Annual Conference on Monday and Tuesday and for the Business Meeting on Wednesday, whether you’re planning to participate online or in-person, can all be done on one form – just click here.
WACD is offering a single price for conference registration and meals at $550 per person. The cost to attend virtually will be $150/per person. If your district sends 3 or more supervisors to attend in person, your entire district can attend virtually for only $75.00.
As in years past, we are discounting registration for new supervisors and new district staff to encourage their attendance and meet the statewide community. The first 15 to register as first-time conference attendees pay 50% of the regular registration price. There will be a dedicated new supervisor and manager training session on Monday morning for new managers/executive directors and supervisors elected or appointed in 2023, 2024, or 2025.
Regular registration ends November 21st.
Cancellation Policy
The head count for our in-person attendees is due to the venue one week in advance. We cannot accommodate late cancellations after we have already reported the head count to the venue, as WACD will still be charged by the casino for that person’s food and attendance.
For in-person events, registrants will be billed the full price of the event if a cancellation is not received by November 21st, the deadline for regular registration. For virtual events, registrants must cancel at least 1 day prior to the event to receive a refund. Refund requests due to medical or weather emergencies at the time of the conference may be eligible for a 50% refund.
To cancel an existing reservation, please send the names of the attendees to wacd@ncia.com.
Speakers
Scroll down to learn more about our featured speakers!
Bonnie Arthur, Remedial Project Manager, Environmental Protection Agency
Bonnie Arthur has more than 35 years of experience in Superfund project management with a focus on site characterization and remediation. Her professional career began working for an aerospace company that became one of California’s first Superfund Sites. Bonnie then moved into a regulatory role, working first for the State of California, then for EPA. She has been with the EPA for 32 years and has worked on a broad range of investigations and remediation efforts involving sediment, groundwater, and soil contamination resulting from mining, smelting and military operations.
Mike Baden, Regional Manager, Washington State Conservation Commission
Mike Baden started as the North Central and Northeast Regional Manager in January 2015. Prior to joining the Commission Mike spent almost 18 years working at Conservation Districts – most of that time with the Pierce Conservation District. During his time with districts he worked in several areas including conservation planning, project management, grant administration, contracting, invasive weed control, and property management. Mike grew up on a dryland wheat and legume farm in south Spokane County and attended Washington State University graduating with a degree in Crop Science. When not at work Mike enjoys spending time with his wife and two children.
Mike serves the following conservation districts: Cascadia, Ferry, Foster Creek, Grant County, Lincoln County, Okanogan, South Douglas, Pend Oreille, Stevens County, and Spokane.
Brook Beeler, Eastern Region Director, Washington State Department of Ecology
Brook has served as Ecology’s Eastern Region Director since 2019 and has been with the agency since 2005. Growing up in a small farming community just southeast of Spokane gave her a strong connection to the land and environment. She has fond memories of spring calves, alfalfa fields, and helping barn cats find mice in hay stacks. Brook studied Biology at Whitworth University and was called to environmental and science education to help student understanding of natural systems. Throughout her career, her work has centered around building collaborative partnerships through community outreach and education, strategic communications, and facilitating conversations about shared values that lead to achieving environmental goals. Brook lives in Spokane with her family, which includes a few city chickens.
Addie Candib, Pacific Northwest Regional Director and Western Managing Director, American Farmland Trust
Addie oversees American Farmland Trust’s programs and policy advocacy across the Western U.S. She has worked at the intersection of agriculture and the nonprofit sector for over fifteen years. Addie is trained in conflict resolution and volunteers as a mediator with a community-based dispute resolution center. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Swarthmore College and a Master of Public Administration from The Evergreen State College, where her capstone work explored financing strategies for farmland protection. She lives with her family in Bellingham, Washington.
Roylene Comes At Night, State Conservationist, NRCS
Roylene M Comes At Night, USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) State Conservationist (formerly Rides at the Door) is the 5th generation raised on her family’s cattle and horse ranch located on the Blackfeet Nation in northwestern Montana. Her family continues to reside on the original allotment the government assigned to her great-great grandfather, Rides at the Door.
Comes At Night graduated from Montana State University (MSU), where she majored in Range Science and minored in Soils Science. She grew up in a traditional environment on her family’s ranch and was raised with cultural values of caring for the land. Her father’s work in natural resources and her mother’s role as a science teacher contributed to what she felt was her destiny – a career in conservation. Roylene enjoys mentoring up and coming employees in NRCS. She also enjoys and participates in many tribal ceremonies.
Roylene began work with United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) 32 years ago as a student trainee. After graduation, she worked full-time as a Soil Conservationist in several local field offices in Montana working with local ranchers, farmers, landowners, and tribes. Her leadership career began when she was promoted to District Conservationist in Shelby, Montana where she supervised employees and directed operations of the local county office. Roylene’s next career move took her to Phoenix, Arizona where she was asked to serve as one of the nation’s first State American Indian Tribal Liaisons. Comes At Night continued her leadership development through a promotion to Assistant State Conservationist for Field Operations where she led the operations for 21 local field offices and supervised directly and indirectly 63 employees in South East Oklahoma.
In 2005, Roylene was selected as NRCS’s first American Indian Female State Conservationist of Rhode Island. In this capacity, she worked with the Governor’s office and partners to expand conservation efforts especially involving conservation easements. In 2008, Comes At Night was named State Conservationist of Washington State. She has strengthened agricultural and conservation partnerships, improved outreach to underserved communities and bridged together Tribes, agriculture and conservation partners to better preserve the lands of Washington State. Roylene currently serves as the second longest standing State Conservationist in the nation and resides in Spokane, WA with her husband, Michael and two cocker spaniels Rex and Cody.
Kate Delavan, Director of Policy and Intergovernmental Affairs, WSCC
Kate joined the Washington State Conservation Commission in June 2020. She brings a broad understanding of food systems to her work, with experience in farmland conservation transactions and policy, land-use planning, farmers markets, food assistance programs, and the grocery industry. Kate holds a B.S. in Global Business from the University of Redlands and a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Washington. She enjoys gardening, cooking, and exploring Washington’s scenic and wild places.
Sarah Doar, Legal Consultant, Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC)
Sarah Doar is a Legal Consultant with Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC), where she provides general legal guidance to Washington’s local government entities on all matters of municipal law. She presents extensively on Washington’s Public Records Act, including a popular “PRA Deep Dive” series and “PRA Basics & More” trainings. Sarah is the author of the chapter Governing in Glass Houses: Protection of Third-Party Private Information and Confidential Records in the ABA publication Ensuring an Informed Public, Chumbler and Dunlap, eds. She holds a B.A. in Biology from Case Western Reserve University and a J.D. with a certificate in environmental and land use law from Florida State University College of Law.
Jon Paul Driver, Chair, Stevens County Farm Bureau
Jon Paul Driver grew up on a family farm in Washington State. He attended Washington State University and received his bachelor’s in Agribusiness, Management and Economics.
After graduating, Jon Paul worked for the Washington State University Western Center for Risk Management Education focusing on dairy and crop insurance policy. He worked for Northwest Farm Credit Services as an agricultural economist and industry analyst for five years before rejoining WSU. Jon Paul is a farm and ranch management specialist for WSU Extension.
His community service activities include board/supervisor roles for the Pend Oreille Conservation District, Stevens County Farm Bureau, Northeast Washington Hay Growers Association, and Washington FFA Association.
He also graduated from AgForestry Leadership class 37 and remains actively engaged in the family farm.
Sarah Groth, Chief Financial Officer, Washington State Conservation Commission
Sarah joined the State Conservation Commission in January 2015 as a fiscal analyst. She was promoted to her current role as the director of accounting and budget in 2019. In this position, she holds responsibility for all financial and budgetary affairs at SCC and supervises the six-person fiscal team. Sarah boasts an impressive background of over two decades of financial expertise in both the public and private sectors.
Her wealth of knowledge encompasses the intricacies of state government operations, with a particular emphasis on budgeting. Before her tenure at SCC, Sarah served as a Fiscal Analyst in the Department of Enterprise Services, specifically within the Small Agency Client Services division. She also gained experience working for the state printer.
She currently resides in Olympia, Washington, with her husband, two daughters, and two rambunctious pups. Sarah also serves on the Olympia Education Foundation board of trustees and enjoys traveling with her family.
Seth Hulett, Senior Program Manager, Audubon Washington
Seth Hulett is the Senior Program Manager for Audubon Washington, where he leads the Columbia Plateau Working Lands Program. His work focuses on supporting both wildlife habitat and the long-term sustainability of working cattle operations.
Throughout his career, Seth has concentrated on protecting and restoring the sage-steppe ecosystem across the western United States. He has worked for state and local agencies, leading collaborative, partner-driven projects that address resource concerns and enhance private lands to achieve landscape-scale conservation goals. These experiences have also given him the opportunity to work with sensitive species such as Greater Sage-Grouse and Ferruginous Hawks.
Originally from a small town in Central Oregon, Seth now lives in Eastern Washington with his wife, young daughter, and two dogs. In his free time, he enjoys exploring the Pacific Northwest and applying permaculture methods to his own land. He is passionate about bringing innovative approaches to conservation that both sustain working lands and protect the fragile, yet resilient, ecosystems of the Columbia Plateau.
Brad Johnson, Resource Conservation Program Manager, Palouse CD
Brad Johnson has worked for and with CDs since 1996. Currently, he is the Resource Conservation Program Manager with the Palouse CD. Hi also serves as the VSP lead for both Whitman and Garfield Voluntary Stewardship Programs. “Working with farmers and ranchers is a passion for me, and seeing all the great voluntary stewardship that is accomplished with partnerships is very satisfying.”
Mya Keyzers, Recycling Market Development Specialist, Washington Department of Ecology
Mya Keyzers works for the Recycling Market Development Center (Center), within the Solid Waste Program of Washington State Department of Ecology. The Center is a partnership between Washington Department of Commerce (Commerce) that focuses on Circular Economy principles by developing domestic markets and processing infrastructure for Washington’s recycled commodities and products. The Center provides research, innovation, and technical assistance to convene equitable stakeholder engagement that builds a stronger circular economy for Washington.
Mya is passionate about disrupting the status quo and implementing systematic changes that build a more resilient economic model that is equitable and integrates foundational circular principles. Her research and material expertise spans from glass, paper, agricultural plastic, mattresses, and textiles. Areas of growing knowledge are policy support and grant administration.
She has experience designing and maintaining data systems that ensure accuracy, integrity and provide information sharing for stakeholder engagement across sectors and industry leaders. She received the program “Energizer Bunny Award” which was an acknowledgment of her drive and persistence to solve complex problems facing our society.
Dani Madrone, Legislative Director, Washington State Conservation Commission
Dani joined the Washington State Conservation Commission in November 2024 as the Legislative Director, bringing over 15 years of experience protecting natural resources and food systems. With expertise in advancing policy through state and local government, she previously led the Pacific Northwest policy agenda for American Farmland Trust, focusing on farmland protection and agricultural viability. Before that, she supported tribes in implementing Puget Sound recovery projects at the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission. Dani holds a Bachelor of Science in chemistry and a Master’s in Public Administration from The Evergreen State College.
Amy McKay, President, Washington Association of Conservation Districts
Conservation issues are of great significance to Amy, as her family’s farming and ranching livelihood relies heavily on sustainable conservation practices. These efforts are crucial for maintaining healthy land, ensuring that both crops and animals can thrive. Amy’s dedication to agricultural conservation is rooted in her personal and professional experiences. Amy’s passion for conservation led her to join the Whitman Conservation District in 2017, where she took on the role of supervisor. Her commitment and leadership abilities were quickly recognized, and in 2018, she was selected to serve on the WACD State Board of Directors as one of two Southeast Area Directors. Amy continued to take on greater responsibilities, being chosen as Secretary of the Association at the 2019 Annual WACD Meeting. Her leadership trajectory continued with her election as Vice President in 2021 and, most recently, as President of the Association in 2024. Amy believes that harmonious coexistence between animals and people depends on unique approaches to conservation practices. By acknowledging the individuality of each situation, people can successfully earn a living while providing flora and fauna with the habitats they need to thrive. She emphasizes the importance of educating landowners regarding conservation practices, as this not only improves their land but also enhances the surrounding ecosystem. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Eastern Washington University. Outside of her contributions to the conservation district, she supports her husband in their agricultural and ranching operations, which include caring for cattle, horses, dogs, cats, and chickens.
Laura Meyer, Vice President of Creative Strategy, KR Creative Strategies
Laura learned about conservation districts while finishing her Master’s degree in Environmental Communication. Since then, she’s devoted her career to promoting CDs and their importance. Laura is Vice President of Creative Strategy for KR Creative Strategies (KRCS), a Washington-headquartered communications company that specializes in serving clients in natural resources and agriculture. She’s the lead for all KRCS conservation clients, including many conservation districts across the country. Prior to joining KRCS, Laura served as Communications Director for the Washington State Conservation Commission and chaired the Communications Committee for the National Association of State Conservation Agencies. She lives in Decorah, Iowa with her husband and long-haired Weimaraner, and she enjoys regular trips back to Washington — a state she proudly called home for 13 years.
Sarah Moorehead, Executive Director, Thurston CD/WADE Co-President
Sarah became Thurston CD’s Executive Director in August 2019 after serving as Interim Executive Director for 2 years.
Prior, Sarah has been with the Thurston Conservation District since 2010 in a variety of roles and positions.
Sarah graduated from The Evergreen State College in March of 2011 with a Bachelors in Environmental Science, focusing in Natural Resources Science Education. Her coursework included: chemistry, aquatic ecology, education, grant writing and photography. She has additional skills in outreach, marketing, event coordination, educational material development and water quality monitoring.
Sarah is passionate about youth outdoor education and working with rural communities, local food systems and agriculture. Sarah is devoted to the work that conservation districts do and believes in the power of voluntary conservation. She plans to continue to help the district grow and respond to the changing needs of the community long into the future. Wise use of our shared resources will continue to be the most important conversation in our lives, and Sarah hopes to help further this discussion. We live in a beautiful place, that with knowledge and a little help, can be just as breathtaking and thriving for generations to come. Sarah hopes to help leave a legacy of clean water, fertile soil, sense of community, recreation, knowledge and happiness for her son and family.
Sarah is currently Co-President of WADE and serves on several statewide committees and coalitions relating to conservation policy and agricultural viability.
Sara Morrison, Business Development & Workforce Training, Associated Industries
Sara joined Associated Industries in 2021, bringing extensive experience in Sales, Employee Development, Corporate Training, and Human Resources. Her diverse background enables her to effectively navigate the complex challenges that employers face in today’s ever-evolving workplace.
In her role, which focuses on business development and workforce training, Sara works closely with the HR advisor and legal teams at Associated Industries to help member businesses achieve compliance with federal and state regulations. She also develops customized training programs tailored to each business’s unique needs, ensuring they are equipped with the tools and knowledge to thrive in a competitive environment. Sara is passionate about fostering cultures of respect, collaboration, and growth within organizations.
Craig Nelson, Co-President WADE and Executive Director, Okanogan Conservation District
Craig Nelson has served as the Executive Director for the Okanogan Conservation District since December 1996. He and his district have extensive experience with community collaborative projects, voluntary conservation, and disaster resiliency and recovery. During his time with the district Craig has served in many leadership roles with the Washington Association of District Employees, National Conservation District Employee Association, Washington Association of Conservation Districts, and several other organizations.
Craig earned a bachelor’s degree in Geography and Land Use Planning from Central Washington University in 1995 and is a 2006 graduate of the Washington State Agricultural and Forestry Education Foundation Leadership Program. In his off time, he enjoys spending time with his family traveling or enjoying his hobby of sports photography.
Hannah Poush, Leadership & Cultural Catalyst
Hannah Poush is a facilitator and leadership coach who partners with agriculture, natural-resource, and community-based organizations. Raised in a family orchard and shaped by hands-on operational experience, she helps leaders uncover their values, build courage, and turn insight into practical next steps in their teams. She is a graduate of the AgForestry Leadership Program, KAI-certified, an LPI 360 Coach, and trained in ToP facilitation. Hannah holds a BA in Social Science and is completing her Master of Business Leadership at Whitworth University. She lives in Spokane with her husband and their three kids.
Sabrina Sawyer, VP of HR & Business Solutions, Associated Industries
In her role as Vice President of HR & Business Solutions, Sabrina brings a wealth of experience and expertise. Her career is rooted in leadership, strategic planning, organizational management, and organizational development. Sabrina is skilled at identifying and addressing challenges with creative, results-driven solutions and systems. She has a passion for helping companies build effective processes to drive organizational success and increase profits, with a particular emphasis on nurturing high-performing teams.
In her current role, Sabrina leads the HR team, manages member projects, and provides innovative HR solutions to enhance operations. Sabrina graduated from Whitworth University summa cum laude with a degree in Organizational Management, which proves as an asset to her role in improving member processes and internal HR operations and collaborating on strategic planning and product development. Sabrina’s extensive experience and unwavering commitment make her a valuable asset to Associated Industries and its members.
James Thompson, Executive Director, Washington State Conservation Commission
James joined the SCC in December of 2023, a native of Castle Rock, grew up working in his family’s local newspaper business. Through college he spent several seasons as a contract logger, which led him to appreciate the importance of natural resource conservation. He studied history and political science at Whitman College and has worked in personnel management and leadership roles at state government agencies. Previously he worked as Director of International Trade and Logistics for the Terex Corporation, North American Transportation Manager for Starbucks, and Operations Manager for International Paper. James comes to SCC from the Washington Public Ports Association, where he spent nearly ten years — three as executive director. James is an avid sea kayaker, an active member of the Mountaineers, and lives with his family in Olympia.
Robyn Whitney, Strategic Advisor to the State Forester, DNR
Robyn Whitney is the Strategic Advisor to the State Forester and joined WA DNR in May 2025. Robyn has over ten years of experience across a broad range of government affairs, environmental policy, political, and natural resource management positions. Most recently he served as the Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs Specialist with the United States Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service, Southwestern Region in Arizona. Prior to that he served as the Senior Director of Government Affairs for the National Association of State Foresters in Washington DC where he led state forestry agency efforts related to national forest policy, cooperative forestry, and wildland fire. He also served in the Office of the Secretary of Agriculture as USDA’s Congressional Liaison for the Forest Service in Washington DC. Robyn began his career in natural resources as a member of the Trails Crew for the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument, and as Assistant Climbing Guide for the Mount Saint Helens Institute. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy Analysis from Washington State University and a Master of Science in Natural Resource Management from the University of Denver.
Ryan Williams, Co-Chair CTD Leadership Team and Executive Director, Cascadia Conservation District
Ryan has a combined 17 years of experience with Washington State Conservation Districts working on conservation programs. This includes 11 years at Snohomish CD, 2 years at Mason CD and 4 at Cascadia CD. Ryan began at Districts in water quality and riparian restoration and worked into management of Districts. He is the co-chair of the Center for Technical Development and is a graduate of the AgForestry Leadership program (class 40). At Cascadia CD he serves as the District’s Executive Director working to build impactful conservation programs with sustainable funding mechanisms.
Ryan also serves as the Co-Chair of the Center for Technical Development Leadership Team. The Center for Technical Development (CTD) was created for the purpose of ensuring that Conservation Districts and employees have the proper tools and expertise to consistently plan and implement conservation programs in collaboration with the Washington State Conservation Commission (WSCC), Conservation Districts in Washington State, Washington Association of District Employees (WADE), the Washington Association of Conservation Districts (WACD), and other key conservation partners.
Jessica Wilson, Chief Engagement Officer, WSCC
Jessica Wilson has been helping governments in Washington think strategically about their communications while developing operational efficiency for over a decade. At the Washington State Auditor’s Office, she worked for the Center for Government Innovation helping small local governments better understand how to operate with transparency and accountability. At the Washington Public Ports Association, she led communications, development, and operational strategy during the pandemic. Most recently, she served as the Public Information Officer at Tacoma Public Utilities, one of the largest municipal utilities in the United States, steering the organization’s communication strategy through complex challenges.
She holds a Master of Business Administration, a Master of Humanities, and is a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt. Growing up in rural Northern Illinois, she volunteered with her county conservation district as a child and participated in many volunteer efforts to restore native tall grass prairie and improve the health of the local river. She currently resides in Lacey with her family.
Sponsors
We welcome our sponsors for the 2025 WACD Annual Conference! Sponsor support of the Annual Conference helps us hold costs down for members and partners, meaning more people can attend and participate. Sponsors also provide great value through the information they share with attendees and the relationships they form with members and partners.
Sponsorship levels
| Sponsor level: | CHAMPION | LEADER | SUPPORTER | FRIEND | HELPER |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sponsorship value: | $3,000 or more | $1,500 | $750 | $250 | $100 |
| Website (1 year): | Logo | Logo | Logo | Logo | Logo |
| Newsletter (1 year): | Logo | Logo | Logo | Logo | Logo |
| Conference materials: | Logo | Logo | Logo | Logo | |
| Showcase videos: | Up to 60 minutes of video | Up to 30 minutes of video | Up to 15 minutes of video | ||
| Sponsor table in hallway: | Yes! | Yes! | Yes! | ||
| Session Introduction: | Yes! Up to 10-minutes | Yes! Up to 5-minutes | |||
| Dedicated Zoom room: | 2 - 1 hour Zoom rooms | 1 - 1 hour Zoom room | |||
| Publish to the Hub: | Invited | Invited |
Sponsor descriptions
| Logo | Description |
|---|---|
 | Springbrook – CHAMPION sponsorOver 30 years ago, Springbrook’s founders recognized a need for the power of digital technology to create new efficiencies in the delivery and administration of local government services. From the first line of code ever written, Springbrook’s mission has been to develop tools that help people do their jobs more efficiently and accurately, and to make government work better, for the citizens. As a digital member of your office, Springbrook provides extra hands and eyes, with solutions designed to reduce the burden on personnel. Find out more at https://springbrooksoftware.com/. |
 | Conservation Commission – CHAMPION sponsorThe Washington State Conservation Commission (SCC) works to conserve natural resources on all lands in Washington state, through voluntary and incentive-based programs, in collaboration with conservation districts and other partners. SCC is the coordinating state agency for all 45 conservation districts (CDs) in Washington State. Together, the SCC and CDs provide voluntary, incentive-based programs that empower people to practice conservation and ensure healthy natural resources and agriculture for all. Find out more at https://www.scc.wa.gov/. |
 | NRCS – CHAMPION sponsorFor more than 80 years, we have helped people make investments in their operations and local communities to keep working lands working, boost rural economies, increase the competitiveness of American agriculture, and improve the quality of our air, water, soil, and habitat.Our Mission: We deliver conservation solutions so agricultural producers can protect natural resources and feed a growing world. Our Vision: A world of clean and abundant water, healthy soils, resilient landscapes, and thriving agricultural communities through voluntary conservation. Find out more at https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/. |
 | envu – LEADER sponsorEnvu is a new vision for a company built not from the ground up but on top of 50 years of environmental science experience. Our legacy products are at the core of our new identity and will remain central to all the innovations we will create moving forward. With the right ideas and technology, humanity and nature can bring out the best in one another. At Envu, that’s our mission. Every day, we’re finding breakthrough solutions to reduce threats, restore natural spaces, and respond to any challenge with confidence and precision. https://www.us.envu.com/ |
 | Enduris – LEADER sponsorEnduris is a member-owned, local government risk pool of over 500 special purpose districts in the state of Washington offering comprehensive property and liability coverage along with value-added risk solutions. Enduris serves members who serve their communities! Find out more at https://www.enduris.us |
 | Odessa Trading Company – SUPPORTER sponsorWe Are A Company For Farmers and Agriculture People. Odessa Trading Company is a division of Ritzville Warehouse Company, a farmer-owned cooperative serving the Northwest since 1928. We are a full-line Case IH agriculture equipment dealer serving our customers at two locations offering Parts, Service, Heavy Hauling, Welding/Fabrication, and Sales Departments. We're not just a dealer that works on selling, we are here to help you find equipment or parts you need so that you can continue working on your farm, ranch, or turf without any distractions. We want to make sure you get the best outcome out of your situation, and whatever issue you may be experiencing with your machinery, our experts have the solution. Find out more at https://www.odessatrading.com/ |
 | Aspect Consulting a Geosyntec Company – SUPPORTER sponsorFounded in 2001, Aspect is hydrogeologists, geologists, and engineers focused on earth + water solutions. From seven Northwest offices, we provide earth science and engineering consulting services in five key practice areas: Environmental Services, Water Resources, Geotechnical Engineering, Stormwater, and Data & Mapping. Like our clients, we focus on implementation and outcome. Aspect delivers value.In 2023, Aspect Consulting joined Geosyntec Consultants—an environmental consulting and engineering firm founded in 1983, now with more than 2,600 professionals in 130 offices worldwide. This integration expanded our team in the Pacific Northwest to over 200 professionals while preserving what clients value most: the same trusted local experts, in the same offices, focused on delivering practical, outcome-driven solutions. Find out more at https://www.aspectconsulting.com/. |
 | Riparia Environmental – SUPPORTER sponsorRiparia Environmental, formerly Olson Environmental and now a subsidiary of MacKay Sposito, has a longstanding history of serving the Pacific Northwest with trusted expertise in environmental compliance, ecological restoration, stormwater management, and landscape services. Our experienced team is dedicated to building resilient ecosystems through responsible solutions. By collaborating with MacKay Sposito’s engineers, scientists, surveyors, and construction managers, we integrate a broad range of disciplines to meet clients’ diverse needs. Find out more at https://www.riparia-env.com/. |
 | Ducks Unlimited – SUPPORTER sponsorDU got its start in 1937 during the Dust Bowl when North America's drought-plagued waterfowl populations had plunged to unprecedented lows. Determined not to sit idly by as the continent's waterfowl dwindled beyond recovery, a small group of sportsmen joined together to form an organization that became known as Ducks Unlimited. Its mission: habitat conservationThanks to decades of abiding by that single mission, Ducks Unlimited is now the world's largest and most effective private waterfowl and wetlands conservation organization. DU is able to multilaterally deliver its work through a series of partnerships with private individuals, landowners, agencies, scientific communities and other entities.Find out more at https://www.ducks.org/ |
 | Rainier Seeds – SUPPORTER sponsorRainier Seeds produces high-quality grass seed for pastures, habitat, revegetation, conservation, and more. We are a vertically integrated seed company. We don't rely on other vendors to ensure our seed is high-quality. From growing stock seed to harvesting, processing, and packaging our product, we ensure consistent quality by performing all of this in-house. Rainier Seeds’ production fields lie in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, primarily located in the Columbia Basin of Eastern Washington. Our expert agronomists monitor crop quality from the ground up throughout the growing season. State seed certification inspectors visit our sites to verify compliance with every aspect of the seed production process. Find out more at https://rainierseeds.com/. |
 | BFI Native Seeds – SUPPORTER sponsorBFI Native Seeds LLC is committed to preserving local genetics and keeping native grass and forb source-identified seeds available for restoration.Over 1.4 million pounds of native, source-identified seeds have been provided to our customers over the last 5 years. You want to ensure that our habitats are responsibly taken care of, and using genetically-appropriate native seed is part of that goal. So thanks to, You, our customers, we do what you do. Full-service site and habitat restoration from project inception to final site monitoring and maintenance with all the steps along the way. Find out more at http://www.bfinativeseeds.com/. |
 | KR Creative Strategies – SUPPORTER sponsorWe offer efficient and effective creative communication strategies. Our people, experience, and passion for the physical world make us a unique fit for those seeking new solutions. We are not just a contractor for our clients. We serve as members of their team, offering creative solutions to complex problems and exciting opportunities. We are committed to championing their goals and sharing their vision. Grounded in sincere, honest communication both internally and externally, we walk with our clients through it all. Through thoughtful, genuine, and creative conversations we build strategies that connect people and impact communities. It's our job to make people care. Find out more at https://www.krcreativestrategies.com |
 | Audubon Washington – SUPPORTER sponsorAudubon Washington inspires diverse audiences to conserve natural ecosystems and build healthy communities for people, birds and other wildlife.Audubon Washington is a state field office of the National Audubon Society. The National Audubon Society was founded in 1905. Local chapters began in Washington in 1916, and the state office, Audubon Washington, was created in 1981 at the request of the chapters. Today, Audubon Washington informs National Audubon Society's policy and science staff, and develops and manages our own conservation priorities in Washington state. Together with our network of 25 local Audubon chapters, we conserve and restore natural ecosystems for the benefit of humanity and the earth's biological diversity. Find out more at https://wa.audubon.org/ |
 | WildLands Inc. – SUPPORTER sponsorFor over 20 years, WildLands, Inc. has been preserving native plant communities and enhancing the beauty of natural landscapes through environmental restoration and revegetation services. We work for federal, state and local agencies and clients in the private sector helping them achieve their objectives for site restoration, habitat enhancement, natural resource management, reclamation, fire recovery, landscaping, and erosion and sediment control.We specialize in native plants and natural vegetation and have extensive experience across diverse ecosystems, including deserts, drylands, forests, wetlands, riparian zones, and agricultural and range lands. We operate our own native plants nursery, WildLands Nursery, which provides hardy plant stock in the species and sizes needed for our revegetation projects. Headquartered in southeastern Washington State, WildLands, Inc. has the resources and capabilities to take on large and complex projects throughout the western United States. Find out more at https://www.wildlands-inc.com/ |
 | THe Orion Companies – SUPPORTER sponsorThe Orion Companies (TOC) was formed in 2023, directly after the consolidation of major service businesses in the Integrated Vegetation Management industry.Our mission is to provide innovative solutions for our partners in the industrial vegetation management, range & pasture, aquatics, forest management, agriculture and Turf & Ornamental segments. The Orion Companies offers enhanced services including technical support and sales, custom blending, and program stewardship. Find out more at https://theorioncompanies.us/ |
 | Forth – SUPPORTER sponsorForth's mission is to electrify transportation by bringing people together to create solutions that reduce pollution and barriers to access.Forth envisions a world where clean and equitable transportation systems move everyone and everything. We work in partnership to build lasting program and policy models that significantly expand equitable access to electric transportation in the U.S. and beyond. Forth's E-Farms Program is looking for several host locations in Washington in 2026 where we will lend electric farm equipment. Participating agencies gain direct experience by borrowing/using a 40-70 hp electric tractor and/or electric UTV on their working lands, and report about the experience through storytelling to their constituents. Ideal sites would include agencies and/or organizations within PSE territory, such as: Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs), Ag Extension offices, and/or non-profit farms. $2,500 CBO Compensation included. Find out more at https://forthmobility.org/ |
 | Tom Salzer – FRIEND sponsorTom serves Washington's 45 conservation districts as Executive Director of the Washington Association of Conservation Districts. He has been a member of the conservation district family for 31 years. |
 | AC GEO – FRIEND sponsorAC Geo is a professional land use planning, GIS, and spatial analysis company. We prioritize practical, locally driven solutions to complex land use and natural resource projects. We map, analyze, visualize, and communicate spatial data to unlock powerful insights for our clients. We specialize in land use, water, natural resources, and conservation-related projects.Find out more at https://acgeospatial.com/. |
 | Plants of the Wild – FRIEND sponsorOur nursery was started in 1979 by a local farmer who saw a need for himself and other farmers in the area to be able to fulfill their Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) contracts. The contracts called for plants and seeds to be planted on farming acres that were being taken out of crop production, to get them back to a natural state. Since 1990, Plants of the Wild is proud to be a division of Seeds, Incorporated, a Kentucky Bluegrass processing company that is locally owned by Paul and Jane Dashiell & Ross Dashiell. The Seeds, Inc. company motto is “Progressive business with old-fashioned values”, and that trickles down through all parts of our company. Find out more at https://plantsofthewild.com/. |
 | Bill Knutsen – FRIEND sponsorIn May 2024, Bill completed 18 years as a member and Chair of the King Conservation District Board of Directors. |
 | AgWest – FRIEND sponsorAgWest Farm Credit is an agricultural lending cooperative with more than a century of experience serving farmers, ranchers, timber harvesters, and aquatic producers throughout the West. We are committed to providing consistent, reliable credit, insurance and financial services to the people who feed and clothe the world, from Alaska to Arizona. We serve all of agriculture from the smallest operations to the largest – and everything in between. As your trusted source, we’ll share our knowledge, insights and financial acumen to help you build strong, thriving businesses that last generations. At AgWest, we are people and purpose first. We champion the growth and advancement of agriculture and the value of rural communities. We work alongside you—offering dependable credit, risk management tools, and business resources to solve tough problems and ensure your enduring success. We understand the challenges you face and celebrate the rewards you’ve earned. Find out more at https://agwestfc.com/. |
 | Ceiba Consulting – FRIEND sponsorCeiba Consulting was created in 2014 in order to realize Brynn's talents in advocacy and facilitation. In Olympia, she has represented clients with a variety of interests including general government, public health, health care, transportation, and natural resources.Based in Tacoma, Washington, Brynn Brady brings more than 16 years of experience building relationships with state and local elected officials, city and county governments and non-profit communities. Find out more at https://www.ceibaconsulting.com/. |
 | Larry Davis – FRIEND sponsorIn May 2021, Larry completed 12 years as a member of the Whatcom Conservation District Board of Directors. At that time, he self-termed out and shifted his status to Associate Supervisor. He remains involved with the Washington Association of Conservation Districts (WACD) as a member of the Tribal Relations Committee. He also is a member of the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) Tribal Special Committee. Away from these responsibilities, Larry is a member of the Washington State Envirothon Committee and is a long-time member and President of the Washington Conservation Society. |
 | WA Mint Commission – HELPER sponsorDid you know? Three main mint varieties are grown in Washington (Peppermint and two varieties of Spearmint: Native and Scotch). Other privately developed and owned mint varieties are also grown in Washington for commercial purposes and are used to create specialty flavor combinations. One drum of mint oil flavors 5,200,000 sticks of gum or 400,000 tubes of toothpaste. Research at the University of Cincinnati has shown that sniffing mint improves concentration.Find out more at https://www.wamintgrowers.org/wa-mint-commission.html/ |
 | Chukar Cherries – HELPER sponsorOn daily walks around her family’s orchard after cherry harvest with 3 young daughters in tow, Pam Montgomery discovered ripe Bing cherries drying naturally on the branches. Although studies at UC Davis had concluded that drying cherries without added sugar or preservatives was not plausible, Pam believed the natural sugars in tree-ripened cherries were enough. She was right—and the seed for Chukar Cherries was planted.Chukar partnered with family farmers in Washington and Oregon who agreed to leave their unpicked cherries hanging on the tree a week longer to increase the sugars, there by naturally preserving the fruit. This resulted in a new market for local cherry growers. In 1988 Pam moved her budding enterprise into a manufacturing facility in Prosser—the center of Washington’s wine and cherry growing region—where she began dehydrating the local cherries in warm air tunnels with no added sugar and selling them in snack-size boxes. When Chukar opened in 1988, our founders promised that Chukar® fruits would be regionally sourced, crafted with minimal or no added sugar, and free of preservatives and artificial ingredients. Responsible sourcing, low-impact packaging, and minimal waste are touchstones of Chukar’s operation. Learn more about our current efforts on our Responsibility page. Find out more at https://www.chukar.com/ |
Virtual Presentations
WACD is pleased to present the following FREE virtual presentations to our entire conservation community. The presentations will cover a variety of topics and are brought to you by our Leader and Champion level sponsors.
Wednesday, November 19th
10:00 am – Ecosystem and Wildlife Habitat Response Following Invasive Annual Grass Control with Rejuvra
Join Dr. Derek Sebastian, Envu Range and Pasture Government Stewardship Manager, to learn about invasive annual grasses like cheatgrass, medusahead, and ventenata are widespread and abundant in western North America, where they compete with native plants that are important components of wildlife habitat. By removing cheatgrass in critical habitats prior to a burn, these winter range shrubs can more efficiently and vigorously re-occupy the site or survive the burn. Thus, effective cheatgrass management may reduce competition and increase winter forage availability for mule deer. Rejuvra + imazapic combination treatments have been adopted for landscape scale treatments throughout the west because it can provide multi-year control needed for seed bank depletion. Some land managers have concerns over utilizing imazapic in a tank-mix with Rejuvra because of previous experience observing injury to antelope bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata) and other shrubs. With the combination treatment of Rejuvra and imazapic, the imazapic rate can be reduced limiting non-target impacts; however, no published research studies have evaluated shrub sensitivity following treatment. Results indicate that a reduced rate of imazapic (3-5 oz/acre) in the fall resulted in minimal (0-10% injury) of the four shrub species evaluated in this study. This is confirmation for land managers that the Rejuvra + imazapic is a viable treatment to restore mule deer critical over-wintering habitat that is being invaded by invasive annual grasses. Zoom in to find out more.
Register in advance for our November 19th Webinar:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/o3eVpNzMQg6pYq8wz9SrLg
Partners
Partner reports
Envirothon
Call for Envirothon Auction Items
The Washington State Envirothon Auction is back at the WACD Annual Meeting in Spokane on Tuesday, December 2, and we need your help gathering items. This is one of our few annual fundraisers, and your efforts directly support Envirothon programming, student learning opportunities, and travel for the winning Washington team to the North American Competition.
Last year, generous donors and bidders helped raise $9,506. Local business contributions have always been strong, but anything unique, useful, or memorable can help make this year’s auction a success. Please reach out to coworkers, board supervisors, and community contacts to grow the list of donations.
Experiences can be a great addition and don’t conflict with state audit rules, think guided tours, farm stays, workshops, drone flights or hosted dinners, along with tangible items like:
- Gift cards
- Outdoor gear
- Signed memorabilia
- Themed baskets
- Event tickets
- Resort or trip packages
- Local art or products
Feel free to use the donation form and auction item request templates in your local outreach. This printed copy of the donation form is also available, if needed.
Visit the Envirothon website to learn more: https://waenvirothon.org/support-envirothon/auction/
Awards
Award nominations are due October 31st!
Find information about past award winners and nominations forms at https://wadistricts.org/wacd-awards.
2025 award winners will be announced at the WACD Conference.
Resolutions
WACD policy committees review resolutions adopted at area meetings and present one of three non-binding recommendations to the membership:
- Vote to recommend passage
- Vote to recommend passage with amendments; or,
- recommend do not pass
Resolution Recommendations from the Natural Resources Committee
- 2025-01 Release CREP Audit Results – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-02 Clarify CREP Agency Responsibilities – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-03 Shellfish Aquaculture Practices – Do Not Pass
- 2025-04 Evaluating Impacts to Ag Viability – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-05 Mid-Contract Mowing – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-06 State CREP Agreement – Do Pass
Resolution Recommendation from the Legislative, Bylaws, and District Policies Committee
- 2025-07 Protecting Agriculture – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-08 Adding WADE as an SCC Voting Member – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-09 Conservation Commission Priorities – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-10 Conservation District Day – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-11 Sustainable District Funding – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-12 Support ENABLE Conservation Act – Do Pass
Resolutions Adopted by Area Associations
- 2025-01 Release CREP Audit Results (212 downloads )
- 2025-02 Clarify CREP Agency Responsibilities (207 downloads )
- 2025-03 Shellfish Aquaculture Practices (229 downloads )
- 2025-04 Evaluating Impacts to Ag Viability (227 downloads )
- 2025-05 Mid-Contract Mowing (186 downloads )
- 2025-06 State CREP Agreement (193 downloads )
- 2025-07 Protecting Agriculture (195 downloads )
- 2025-08 Adding WADE as an SCC Voting Member (209 downloads )
- 2025-09 Conservation Commission Priorities (191 downloads )
- 2025-10 Conservation District Day (181 downloads )
- 2025-11 Sustainable District Funding (182 downloads )
- 2025-12 Support ENABLE Conservation Act (230 downloads )
Background Info on WACD Resolutions
2025 Business Meeting
For online participants
Zoom Link – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82366697407?pwd=7AyKPASM8HBQnSoacU4QE5V6ji6hRG.1
Zoom Number – 1-253-215-8782
Meeting ID: 823 6669 7407 | Passcode: 863922
WACD Annual Business Meeting
8:30 am – 11:30 am
- 8:30 AM – Meeting called to Order/Roll Call of Member Districts
- 8:45 AM – Rules of Order & Meeting Procedures Briefing
- 9:00 AM – Approval of 2024 Business Meeting Minutes
- 9:05 AM – Public Comment Period
- 9:10 AM – Treasurer’s Report for FY 25 & Report on Current Fiscal Year
- 9:20 AM – Plant Materials Center Status Report
- 9:30 AM – Special Committee Reports
- 10:30 AM – Resolutions as Recommended by the Natural Resources Policy Committee
- 2025-01 Release CREP Audit Results – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-02 Clarify CREP Agency Responsibilities – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-03 Shellfish Aquaculture Practices – Do Not Pass
- 2025-04 Evaluating Impacts to Ag Viability – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-05 Mid-Contract Mowing – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-06 State CREP Agreement – Do Pass
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
- Lunch Recess
12:30 pm – 3:00 pm
- 12:30 PM – Resolutions as Recommended by the Legislative, Bylaws, and District Policies Committee
- 2025-07 Protecting Agriculture – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-08 Adding WADE as an SCC Voting Member – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-09 Conservation Commission Priorities – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-10 Conservation District Day – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-11 Sustainable District Funding – Do Pass As Amended
- 2025-12 Support ENABLE Conservation Act – Do Pass
- 2:00 PM – Other Business (If necessary)
- 2:15 PM – Election of WACD Officers
- Secretary
- Treasurer
- National Director
- 2:30 PM – Tentative Business Meeting Adjournment
Recordings
We are still processing a couple conference recordings. You can access what we have uploaded to date here: https://vimeo.com/showcase/12028322?share=copy&fl=sm&fe=fe
Sponsors
