April is National Volunteer Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the incredible impact of USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Earth Team volunteers who dedicate their time, energy and talents to strengthening our conservation communities. Since 1985, Earth Team volunteers have provided a valuable source of talent to NRCS by working directly with conservation professionals on private lands to improve soil quality, conserve water, improve air quality and enhance wildlife habitat. In 2024, more than 450 Earth Team volunteers contributed 3,100 hours to conservation causes across Indiana. Their selfless service not only addresses critical conservation needs but also fosters a spirit of generosity and unity across the state.
During this month, we would like to acknowledge one state and two nationally recognized award winners:
Indiana Earth Team Volunteer Individual Award
Gary Struben received the 2024 Indiana State NRCS Earth Team Volunteer Award for his outstanding volunteer commitment and contributions to the Pathway to Water Quality (PWQ) exhibit at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Gary dedicated an impressive 67.5 hours of his time to help maintain and enhance this vital educational resource, adding to his more than 750 total volunteer hours at the exhibit.
PWQ is a collaborative effort of the Indiana Conservation Partnership and is the cornerstone of environmental education at the Indiana State Fair, drawing in tens of thousands of families, students and visitors of all ages to learn about water quality, soil conservation and the interconnectedness of our natural resources. This exhibit serves as a living classroom, demonstrating the importance of water and soil stewardship in a way that is accessible and engaging. Gary was instrumental in preparing and cultivating the soils area, a centerpiece of the exhibit designed to educate visitors about the critical role soil plays in supporting our ecosystems. His dedication to this area not only maintained the exhibit’s physical appearance but also enhanced the educational experience for the thousands of people who visited. By carefully preparing the soil displays, Gary made it possible for fairgoers to gain a deeper understanding of soil health, erosion prevention and sustainable land practices.
National Earth Team Volunteer Employee Award
Jennifer Walker is the recipient of the 2024 National NRCS Earth Team Volunteer Employee Award, recognizing her exceptional dedication and contribution as the Northeast Area Earth Team Volunteer Coordinator. Jennifer has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the success of the Earth Team Volunteer Program, going above and beyond to support her colleagues and ensure the program's effectiveness.
Jennifer works tirelessly with her area staff, helping them understand the program's nuances and assisting them in identifying ideal volunteers. Her guidance has been invaluable in helping the team match the right volunteers with the right opportunities. Her efforts have not only contributed to the program’s success but have also strengthened the sense of community and collaboration within her team. In 2024, she logged 515 hours for 21 offices in Indiana.
National Earth Team Volunteer Group Award
The Blazing Stars Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA), led by the Bartholomew County Soil and Water Conservation District, has made a tremendous impact on their county through dedicated volunteer work in invasive species management. Over the course of seven separate weed wrangle events in 2024, volunteers generously worked 431 hours, tackling invasive species at key locations like Mill Race Park, Blackwell Park and Owen's Bend. Their commitment and energy in removing invasive plant species have revitalized these spaces and brought new life to the natural ecosystems that are essential to our community.
Invasive species removal is critical to the mission of NRCS because these plants threaten the biodiversity and resilience of native habitats. By eliminating invasive plant species, the Blazing Stars CISMA has contributed to restoring native plant communities that provide habitat for wildlife, protect soil health and support clean water. Their dedication exemplifies what it means to protect our natural landscapes, allowing future generations to enjoy the beauty and ecological benefits of Bartholomew County’s green spaces.
As we celebrate National Volunteer Month, we extend our deepest gratitude to all the dedicated individuals and groups who make a difference in Indiana every day. Their unwavering commitment to conservation inspires others to get involved and helps build stronger, more compassionate communities. We encourage all Hoosiers to take this opportunity to recognize and thank the volunteers around them and to consider finding ways to give back themselves.
For more information about the Indiana NRCS Earth Team Volunteer Program, visit: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/about/volunteers or contact your district conservationist https://www.farmers.gov/working-with-us/service-center-locator.
Source : usda.gov