Rudy Rice of Perry County honored with SWCD Director of the Year

The board of the Association of Illinois Soil & Water Conservation Districts named Rudy Rice of Perry County Soil & Water Conservation District as 2024 SWCD Director of the Year in July at the MAGIC of Conservation convention in Springfield.

The SWCD Director of the Year Award is a new and prestigious recognition bestowed upon an outstanding director who exemplifies exceptional dedication, leadership, and a commitment to going above and beyond their role. This accolade celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exemplary service, made significant contributions to their district, and have shown a deep passion for conservation.

For the past 50 years, Rudy has been a dedicated director of the Perry County SWCD, holding various offices and demonstrating unwavering commitment to soil and water stewardship. His leadership has extended to serving as State President of the AISWCD and National President of the National Association of Conservation Districts. In these roles, Rudy has traveled extensively across the United States and the globe, advocating for and promoting sustainable stewardship practices that enhance and preserve our vital soil and water resources.

Currently, Rudy serves as the AISWCD Area IV Vice-President and as chairman of the board for the Shawnee Resource Conservation & Development Area, Inc. This organization is instrumental in Southern Illinois, providing volunteer-led prescribed burning programs, invasive species detection and control, and forest preservation. Additionally, Rudy has contributed significantly to the Southwest Land Use Council #15, supporting soil and water conservation districts in Jackson, Perry, Pulaski-Alexander, Union, and Williamson counties. The SWLUC #15’s annual Envirothon, which Rudy is involved in, educates and engages high school science and FFA students in environmental science. 

Alongside his professional contributions, Rudy and his wife, Mara, are active members of the First Baptist Church in Du Quoin, participating in numerous local and international mission trips. Rudy’s extensive service, leadership, and dedication to conservation make him a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Also honored were SWCD directors for their milestone years of service.

These individuals, elected by their fellow citizens, hold a pivotal position in the conservation landscape, acting as the voice and vision for the sustainable management of our soil and water resources. The importance of publicly elected SWCD directors cannot be overstated. They serve as advocates for the environment, ensuring that our natural resources are protected, preserved, and utilized wisely.  By working closely with farmers, landowners, government agencies, and community organizations, these directors foster collaboration and bridge the gap between landowners and government conservation programs. They play a vital role in educating the public, raising awareness about the value of conservation practices, and empowering individuals to become active participants in preserving our natural heritage. 

The board of the AISWCD has the privilege of recognizing and honoring those directors who have dedicated significant years of their lives to this noble cause. Their steadfast devotion, wisdom, and tenacity have left an indelible mark on our landscapes, shaping the future of conservation in our region. We extend our deepest appreciation for their selfless service and congratulate them on reaching these milestone years. Their tireless efforts are an inspiration to continue striving for a healthier, more sustainable future.

50 Years
John Maudlin – Vermilion County
Rudy Rice – Perry County

40 Years
Julian Huffman – Cumberland County
David McCormick – Brown County

25 Years 
Michael Bingham – Bond County
Mike Kelley – McLean County
Richard Reynolds – Iroquois County
Stan Jansen – Effingham County
Dick Howell – DeWitt County
Dean Sasse – Logan County

20 Years 
Laura (Shad) Te Grotenhuis – Clark County
Tony Kuenstler – Richland County
Sean Sherrod – Effingham County
Dave Asbury – Knox County

15 Years 
Randy Molitoris – DeWitt County
Alan Buckner – Clark County

10 Years 
Darrin Schertz – Woodford County
Dennis Hand – Montgomery County
Gordon Douglas – DeWitt County
Paul Kuhn – DeKalb County
Cody Considine – Ogle County
George Cummings – Knox County
Jim Morrison – Winnebago County

5 Years
Jim Frogge – Kankakee County
Brad Zimmerman – Tazewell County
Ken Book – McHenry-Lake County
Jon Pearson – Ogle County
Brian Friedrich – Knox County