By Christina Stock, The Roswell Daily Record — The Chaves Soil and Water Conservation District was named New Mexico’s Soil and Water Conservation District of the Year by the New Mexico Association of Conservation Districts’ (NMACD) 80th annual conference in Albuquerque on Oct. 22, recognizing its outstanding conservation work during the 2024-25 year.
Selected from among 47 soil and water conservation districts statewide, CSWCD demonstrated strong leadership in addressing regional natural resource challenges through local projects, community education and strategic partnerships, it stated in a press release.
The award was given due to the district’s efforts that are focused on improving irrigation efficiency, controlling invasive salt cedar and other noxious weeds, restoring rangelands and riparian areas, improving soil health and protecting wildlife habitat.
Projects supporting cover crops, water resilience, Pecos River restoration, grasslands and pronghorn habitat reflect the district’s broad approach to conservation.
CSWCD also secured hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants and agreements and collaborated with state and federal agencies to help landowners and agricultural producers access resources for conservation improvements.
Education and outreach remain central to the district’s mission, it stated. Its programs engage producers and community members while creating opportunities for young people to explore careers in agriculture and conservation.
The statewide award recognized the collective efforts of the district’s board, staff, landowners, producers and conservation partners.
The NMACD congratulated CSWCD on this achievement in the press release, highlighting its role as leader in “protecting New Mexico’s water, soil, agricultural heritage, wildlife and rural communities for future generations.”
On its website, CSWCD voiced its gratefulness: “A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported our district and contributed to this achievement. This accomplishment belongs to all of you!”
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