Alan Westad is named the East Otter Tail SWCD Outstanding Conservationist
Each year Outstanding Conservationists are chosen for their dedication to the environment through wise land use, soil and water conservation programs, wildlife conservation practices, and their reputation as successful farmers and leaders in their community. Alan Westad of rural Parkers Prairie has been selected by the East Otter Tail Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) to receive the 2025 Outstanding Conservationist Award for East Otter Tail County. The Farmer magazine will present a “Certificate of Merit” to the Outstanding Conservationist from each Soil and Water Conservation District at the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Districts (MASWCD) annual convention. The 2025 convention will be held December 2 – 3 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Bloomington.
Alan Westad’s farm in rural Parkers Prairie is the embodiment of the family farm. Upon retirement from his career in the Army, Alan returned to raise cattle on the 320 acre farm. Alan knows the importance of good land stewardship and looks for ways to improve his land, utilizing rotational grazing for his pastureland and uses crop rotation and cover crops on his cropland to protect and improve soil health. Alan has also planted additional trees and shrubs over the years, further enhancing habitat for wildlife as well as soil and water quality benefits. In 2024 Alan applied for the Minnesota Ag Water Quality Program and his farm received certification in February, 2025. The Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program (MAWQCP) is a voluntary opportunity for farmers and agricultural landowners to take the lead in implementing conservation practices that protect our water.
Local Soil & Water Conservation District award winners are nominated to the MASWCD Area and State levels for further recognition.
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