Conservationist honored

Warren Tester was recently honored as an outstanding conservationist at the annual meeting of the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts last month in Bloomington. He was selected by the Carlton Soil and Water Conservation District for the award. Each year, the state's districts recognize individuals and organizations for outstanding accomplishments in implementing conservation practices and improving Minnesota's natural resources. The award program is conducted with support from The Farmer magazine. Warren was recognized for his conservation ethic in managing 160 acres he purchased in Clear Creek Township in 1978, said Carlton SWCD manager Brad Matlack. Warren realized the importance of management on his property because the north fork of the Nemadji River, a designated trout stream, flows right through the property. Starting with a forest stewardship plan completed in 2008, Warren completed projects to increase his forest's diversity and improve wildlife habitat, keeping the sensitive soils on his property in mind.

"It has been fun and rewarding to improve the habitat on this property," Tester said.