Skip to main content

Highlights from Our Annual Meeting

The Harney Soil & Water Conservation District held its annual meeting Thursday, February 27th at The Historic Central Hotel in Burns.  OSU Grad student Richard Rich gave a presentation on ravens, their effect on sage-grouse population, and various methods of control. 

Robert Gaslin of Gaslin Accounting provided an financial overview of the district.  District Manager Jason Kesling discussed with landowners how the district can help them with conservation projects.

Local rancher Fred Otley was recognized as the 2024 Partner in Conservation.  While not present Board Director Stacy Davies and his wife Elaine Davies were honored for their generous use of their building on W. Washington during the USDA Service Center's extensive building remodel.

Kathi Wenick of Feed Barn Catering provided a terrific smoked brisket dinner.  We want to thank HSWCD's Alex Dohman for these photos.

Two men at a table, engaged in conversation. One wears a cowboy hat, the other a cap. Background is a stone wall.
HSWCD Board Directors Ken Bentz and Scott Franklin.  Board directors generally serve four year terms.  Harney County is divided into five zones with a board director for each plus two at-large positions.
Two people talking indoors, both wearing hats and casual jackets.
Board Director Scott Franklin and speaker Richard Rich.  Mr. Rich spoke on the subject of ravens, their threat to sage-grouse and methods of control.
Three people sitting and conversing at a table with empty plates and drinks; one man is gesturing in the background.
Left to right:  Braden O'Connor, HSWCD staff Breanna O'Connor and Fred Otley having a post meal discussion.
Two people posing with a certificate, one wearing a hat, standing indoors.
HSWCD staff member Danielle Reynolds presents Fred Otley with the 2024 Partner in Conservation award.  The district  "helps those who help the land."
A group of people indoors, some sitting and some standing, with a stone wall and signs in the background.
In the background is the door prize crew.  CWMA's Tyler Goss, HSWCD's Braden Morris, and Barbara Pearson sort through prizes.  Reese Franklin handed out prizes.  HSWCD's Sarah Mundy is standing next to Reese.
Two people talking indoors. One has long hair and holds a drink and papers. The other wears a cap and has arms crossed. "HOTEL" sign behind.
Oregon Department of Agriculture's Maria Snodgress traveled to join us.  She and District Manager Jason Kesling discuss projects.
Three people in casual clothing are indoors; one holds a jar with flowers. They're engaged in conversation.
Left to right:  Fred Otley, HSWCD's Kaylee Littlefield, and Spencer McCall.  The annual meeting was held at The Historic Central Hotel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Join our mailing list