Each year the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB) and the Association of Texas Soil and Water Conservation Districts recognize and celebrate individuals that dedicate themselves to the conservation and management of renewable natural resources. These outstanding conservationists will be recognized during an awards luncheon on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at Kalahari Resorts in Round Rock, TX.
The Texas Conservation Awards Program began in the late 1970s to recognize the state’s conservationists and the vital role they play in managing Texas’ natural resources. The program provides an opportunity for competition and incentives to expand and improve conservation efforts and natural resource development, as well as the wise utilization of renewable natural resources. Categories recognized through the Conservation Awards Program are: Conservation Farmer, Conservation Rancher, Conservation Teacher, Wildlife Conservationist, Friend of Conservation, Outstanding Soil and Water Conservation District, Junior Poster Contest, Senior Poster Contest, Junior Essay Contest, and Senior Essay Contest.
The subject for the 2025 Poster Contest was “Home Is Where the Habitat Is.” Noah Sanchez, representing the Upper Clear Fork Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) #165, was chosen as this year’s Junior Division Winner (kindergarten – second grade). Anayah Serna, representing Austin County SWCD #347 won the Senior Division (third – sixth grade). Both posters will advance to the National Association of Conservation Districts Poster Contest in December 2025.
"Home Is Where the Habitat Is” was also the topic for the 2025 Essay Contest. Tyler Ashton Woodall, representing the Freestone County SWCD #424, took first place in the Junior Division of the essay contest. Kalli McCoy representing the Mills County SWCD #554, placed first in the Senior Division of the essay contest.
Below is a list of the 2025 Conservation Award Winners:
Conservation Farmer – Roger & Zachary Glass, Tom Green SWCD #248
Roger and Zachary Glass manage around 2,500 acres of farmland in West Texas, focusing on sustainable practices that protect the land and water. Roger, who began farming in 1989, and his son Zach have implemented innovative conservation strategies, such as no-till farming, cover cropping, and terracing to combat wind and water erosion. They rotate cotton with cover crops to enhance soil health and use efficient irrigation systems on nearly 600 acres. A unique roof runoff system collects 54,000 gallons of water, reducing reliance on wells for herbicide application. The Glass family also grows alfalfa, Bermuda, and wheat hay, offering high-quality feed to local ranchers. Their conservation efforts not only preserve the land for future generations but also support the community around them, reflecting their deep commitment to both farming and sustainability.
Conservation Rancher – L Cross Ranch, Bandera SWCD #229
L Cross Ranch, a 3,600-acre family-owned operation in Vanderpool, Texas, has been stewarded by the Short family for four generations. With a deep commitment to land stewardship, the ranch raises beef cattle, meat goats, and manages native wildlife while implementing conservation practices to enhance both the land and the aquifer beneath it. Brush control, especially of Ashe Juniper, is a key focus, and they’ve used a mix of equipment, goats, and cost-share programs to reduce overgrowth without disturbing the delicate Hill Country soil. Their efforts improve forage production and wildlife habitat while also increasing aquifer recharge; vital in this karst landscape near the headwaters of the Medina, Sabinal, Frio, and Guadalupe Rivers. Water distribution has been upgraded through new wells, solar pumps, and pipelines, enabling better grazing management and wildlife access. Seven cross-fenced pastures support rotational grazing, which has revived native grasses like little bluestem and big bluestem. Beyond the ranch, the Shorts are committed conservation educators, offering their land as a training site for United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resource Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS) staff and students, mentoring through camps, and even contributing to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) educational videos. L Cross Ranch stands as a proud example of conservation-driven ranching rooted in family values and long-term sustainability.
Conservation Teacher – Jenna Cotter, Wilson County SWCD #301
Jenna Cotter has made conservation a cornerstone of her teaching philosophy at Stockdale Junior High. With deep roots in Stockdale, Texas, and a childhood steeped in outdoor experiences, 4-H, and sustainability practices like vermicomposting, Jenna’s passion for environmental education was forged early. After earning a degree in Entomology from Texas A&M, she returned home and discovered her calling in the classroom. For the past 15 years, she’s taught 7th and 8th Grade Science, using her curriculum to emphasize soil, water, and wildlife conservation. Her students regularly participate, and succeed, in SWCD essay, poster, and photography contests, earning awards and grants that support hands-on projects like an outdoor pollinator garden. Jenna partners with organizations like the San Antonio River Authority to connect her students to real-world conservation work and careers. Beyond the classroom, she leads the Wilson County 4-H Entomology Team, which has claimed over a dozen state titles under her guidance, and she volunteers with FFA, UIL, and her church. Whether she’s teaching science, raising awareness at youth events, or passing her values on to her own children, Jenna is inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards through every aspect of her life.
Wildlife Conservationist – David Motl, Hill Country SWCD #534
David Motl, along with his wife Sylvia, have transformed their 750-acre cattle and wildlife operation in Lampasas County into a showcase of thoughtful land stewardship and wildlife conservation. Since purchasing the property in 2017, the Motls have worked tirelessly to restore the land by balancing a productive cow/calf operation with a thriving wildlife habitat that supports species such as Axis deer, Black Buck, Whitetail deer, Gemsbok, and countless birds and pollinators. Central to their efforts is a focus on providing food, water, and cover for wildlife. David has reseeded native grasses after removing invasive mesquite and juniper, planted hundreds of trees and shrubs; including oaks, elms, pecans, and redbuds, and regularly waters them by hand to ensure survival through drought conditions. Around 1,000 trees have survived and now contribute to the diversity of the land. Brush management has been carefully planned to leave cover for animals while also increasing usable pasture space, and water accessibility has been greatly improved through the installation of a solar-powered well, large storage tanks, and a network of water troughs. Through NRCS EQIP contracts, David has implemented over 50 conservation practices including prescribed grazing, cross fencing, and pollinator habitat establishment. He continues to work closely with the local SWCD and recently hosted a range tour to share his conservation strategies with others. David’s thoughtful, hands-on approach to conservation proves that livestock management and wildlife preservation can go hand-in-hand, and his work stands as a testament to what dedication, planning, and passion can accomplish.
Friend of Conservation – Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), Creekside Conservation Program, Llano County SWCD #233
The Lower Colorado River Authority’s Creekside Conservation Program has been named the State’s Friend of Conservation for its exceptional, decades-long commitment to land and water stewardship in the lower Colorado River Basin. For 35 years, LCRA has partnered with local Soil and Water Conservation Districts, the NRCS, and the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board to deliver impactful conservation practices to agricultural producers. Through this collaborative effort, over 230,000 acres of private land, 93,000 in Llano County alone, have been brought under conservation plans. The program has implemented thousands of acres of brush management and range planting, installed nearly 100 miles of cross fencing, and developed vital water infrastructure including wells, ponds, and troughs, all aimed at reducing erosion and improving water quality. The Creekside Program stands out not only for its $6.5 million investment in conservation, but for its outreach: educating producers and students alike through field days, workshops, and school safety programs that reach over 1,200 students each year. By combining on-the-ground conservation with a strong focus on education, community involvement, and public recognition of landowner efforts, the LCRA Creekside Conservation Program exemplifies what it means to be a true champion of Texas’ natural resources.
Outstanding Soil and Water Conservation District – Kleberg-Kenedy SWCD #356
John Prukop. - Chairman
David Schubert - Vice Chairman
Alan Wheeler - Secretary
Ernest Bippert - Member
Vern Crocker - Member
The Kleberg-Kenedy Soil and Water Conservation District #356 has earned the prestigious title of Texas’ Outstanding SWCD of the Year for its exceptional dedication to conservation, education, and community involvement. Since its establishment in 1997, the District has managed a robust conservation program across 1.6 million acres of cropland, pasture, and rangeland within their districts boundaries. With over 100 years of combined experience, the five-member Board of Directors leads with passion and expertise, advancing critical initiatives that protect natural resources and promote sustainable land management. Their efforts include groundbreaking projects like the Clean Water Act 319 Watershed Protection Plan for the Baffin Bay area and educational outreach through programs like Soil Stewardship Week, Earth Day demonstrations, and youth engagement at the Ag Fair – Path to Plate. The District’s innovative events such as the region’s first-ever Soil Health Workshop, small acreage landowner seminars, and crop symposiums, bring vital conservation information directly to local producers. Their commitment to future generations shines through their annual poster and essay contests, which consistently engage hundreds of students, and the $21,000 in scholarships awarded to area high school seniors over the past nine years. From partnering with state and national conservation organizations to maintaining a strong presence at local and regional events, the Kleberg-Kenedy SWCD has built a legacy of leadership and service that makes them truly deserving of this statewide honor.
More information about the Texas Conservation Awards Program is available at: https://www.tsswcb.texas.gov/programs/public-information-and-education/texas-conservation-awards-program
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