Karen Hadley Lyman was named 2024 Conservation Woman of the Year, and received her award from AISWCD President Tom Beyers at the MAGIC of Conservation conference in July.
The Association of Illinois Soil & Water Conservation Districts’ Conservation Woman of the Year Award is a distinguished honor that recognizes significant contributions to conservation. This award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, dedication, and a profound commitment to the preservation and sustainable management of our natural resources.
Karen Hadley Lyman was honored with the 2024 Conservation Woman of the Year award. Karen’s roots in agriculture run deep, having grown up on a family farm in Henry County and actively participating in 4-H and FFA. With a B.S. in Agronomy from Iowa State University, she has made significant contributions as a Soil Conservationist in Iowa, serving in various counties from 1984 to 1994. After a period of involvement in her husband’s family farm, Karen returned to her family’s beef and crop farm in 1997, where she has been a driving force in their farming operations. Her leadership on the Henry County Soil and Water Conservation District Board and her efforts in building a modern cattle barn with a pollution control structure highlight her commitment to sustainable farming practices.
Karen’s dedication extends beyond her own farm. She has been actively involved in county Farm Bureau activities, serving on the board for six years and participating in the Agricultural Leaders of Tomorrow program. Her involvement with the Henry County Beef Association, Illinois Beef Association, and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, as well as her participation in the Masters of Beef Advocacy program, demonstrates her passion for advocating for agriculture. Karen also enjoys gardening, genealogy, and photography, and has a deep love for her grandchildren. Her contributions to the agricultural community, commitment to conservation, and dedication to her family’s farming legacy make her a truly deserving recipient of this award.
