Delaware Soil and Water Conservation District announces annual awards
The Delaware Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) presented their 2023 conservation awards in
December. The awards recognize landowners and operators in Delaware County that have taken
outstanding action to conserve natural resources.
——————————————————————————————————————————
Conservation Farm Award – from left Steve Lueken, Delaware SWCD Chairman; Dick Ludwig;
Chris Eibey, Treasurer Delaware SWCD
Dick and Brenda Ludwig received the Conservation Farm Award in recognition of their work to reduce
soil erosion, improve water quality, lessen the impact of flooding, improve wildlife habitat, trap
sediment, and build soil health on their farm 2 miles Southeast of Colesburg. During their time on the
farm they have implemented and maintained miles of terraces, multiple ponds and sediment control
basins, filter strips along waterbodies, a no-till cropping system, tree plantings, forest management, and
grassed waterways.
Don Eibey Memorial Award – from left Dave Mack, NRCS District Conservationist; Chris Eibey,
Delaware SWCD Treasurer; Chad Robinson.
Chad and Jenny Robinson received the Don Eibey Memorial Award in recognition of their work to reduce
soil erosion and protect water quality on the farm they operate approximately 1 mile Northwest of
Greeley. A no-till cropping system and grassed waterways are a few of the tools used on their operation
to keep topsoil and nutrients in place and to ensure their land stays productive for generations to come.
Arnold Lueken Fish and Wildlife Habitat Award – from left Chris Eibey, Delaware SWCD
Treasurer; Mary Fransen; Parker Fransen; Steve Lueken, Delaware SWCD Chairman.
Mary and Parker Fransen received the Arnold Lueken Fish and Wildlife Habitat Award for their work to
improve, create, and conserve wildlife habitat on their property near Backbone State Park. Mary and
Parker have planted thousands of trees using seedlings and by seed. They have seeded native grasses
and flowers to create habitat for many species or wildlife including pollinators, songbirds, pheasant,
deer, and turkey. Parker and Mary plant food plots and fruit trees to provide wildlife food and are active
managers of their woodlands to maintain the health of their forests.
