PRESS RELEASE
RBC | White River and Douglas Creek Conservation District will host its 80th annual meeting and banquet to present both current and upcoming projects, programs, events, and collaborations that promote the wise use of natural resources and the implementation of best management practices. The evening will also feature highlights from 2024, a dinner, entertainment, and a keynote speaker.
The White River and Douglas Creek Conservation Districts are pleased to announce its upcoming Annual Meeting and Banquet on Wednesday, Feb. 12 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Fairfield Center.
This community event, with tickets priced at $30 each, will provide a platform for landowners, district staff, and community members to discuss local conservation practices.
The Districts will review progress on ongoing and new projects, plan for future initiatives, and share information about their efforts to effectively manage and protect natural resources within our district boundaries. The keynote speaker, USDA research ecologist, Dr. Robert Srygley, has dedicated 17 years to studying Mormon Crickets and will share his recent groundbreaking discoveries.
Event Highlights:
Expert Presentations: Discover pioneering research on Mormon crickets conducted by Dr. Robert Srygley, a Research Ecologist from USDA in Sidney, Montana. Dr. Srygley is published in over 46 ecology journals and will present his recent findings on the role of Mormon cricket egg banks in population outbreaks. He will also discuss the potential for biocontrol by augmenting their natural enemies.
Entertainment: Chad Lore, also known as “Wyoming’s One-Man Band”, is like no entertainer on earth. He will surprise you with his uniqueness in show and song. He is hard to classify because he pretty much does everything with his music, from acoustic folk to electric rock.
CACD Hall of Fame: A resident of Meeker will be inducted into the Colorado Association of Conservation Districts Hall of Fame for their outstanding efforts in promoting the wise use of natural resources in Rio Blanco County and throughout Colorado. They have made significant contributions to agriculture, the multiple uses of public lands, and the conservation of natural resources in the region.
NACD Annual Poster Contest: The Districts will honor the three Meeker semi-finalists from the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) annual poster contest. This contest provides sixth-grade students in Rio Blanco County with an opportunity to showcase their artwork on a national level, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts within their district. The theme for 2024 was “May the Forests be with you.”
Conservation District project managers: Join project managers, Tristan McGee, Liz Chandler and Vanessa Trout, as they share their achievements and teamwork in Rangeland, Water and Forestry projects throughout 2024. They’ll also discuss their goals for 2025 and the collaborative efforts with partners, volunteers and the board of directors who have contributed to their success!
Dinner and Cash Bar: Join us for dinner and a cash bar, along with prizes and plenty of fun.
Who Should Attend: Individuals interested in conservation efforts in Rio Blanco County, including landowners, ranchers, homeowners, political representatives, partners, agencies, organizations, media representatives and community members should attend.
Conservation Districts Interim Executive Director, Vanessa Trout, said, “We are thrilled to host this annual event. It’s a great opportunity to share what we’ve been up to in 2024 and what we have in store for 2025. Together, we will highlight the resources we offer to landowners for the protection of Rio Blanco County’s natural resources. Plus, you won’t want to miss our incredible keynote speaker!”
Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Location: 200 Main St., Meeker, Colorado
Admission: $30 per person (cash or check only)
To learn more and register, please visit www.whiterivercd.com or call 970-878-9838.
