PLYMOUTH, N.H. — The New Hampshire Association of Conservation Districts (NHACD) held its annual meeting on November 14th in Plymouth, NH, bringing together conservation leaders, farmers, educators, and community members from across the state to celebrate achievements in environmental stewardship. As part of the meeting, NHACD, in partnership with the Cheshire County Conservation District, proudly presented two prestigious awards recognizing exceptional contributions to conservation and community engagement.
The Conservation Educator of the Year Award was presented to Susie Spikol, Community Programs Director and Teacher-Naturalist at the Harris Center for Conservation Education. For over three decades, Susie has inspired people of all ages to explore and cherish the natural world. Her programs and writing emphasize the interconnectedness of humans and the environment, fostering curiosity and respect for wildlife. Whether leading outdoor adventures or publishing works like The Animal Adventurer’s Guide, Susie’s impact as an educator and advocate for nature is profound. Her commitment to inclusivity in the outdoors and dedication to teaching others to find wonder in everyday wildlife have left a lasting legacy in New Hampshire’s conservation community.
The Conservation Partner of the Year Award was presented to Pete’s Stand, a third-generation family farm owned and operated by Teresa and John Janiszyn. With 50 acres of farmland spanning New Hampshire and Vermont, Pete’s Stand exemplifies sustainable agriculture and community engagement. Beyond providing fresh, affordable produce, they have championed food security initiatives such as the Granite State Market Match program and donated over 40,000 pounds of food in 2022 alone. Teresa and John have also implemented conservation practices to protect and enhance the land they farm, ensuring its productivity for future generations. Their commitment to fostering connections between people, food, and the land embodies the heart of conservation.
The Cheshire County Conservation District, as the sponsoring district for these awards, is proud to celebrate the dedication and leadership demonstrated by Susie Spikol and Pete’s Stand. Their innovative efforts and community focus serve as a model for conservation practices throughout New Hampshire.
For more information about NHACD, the Cheshire County Conservation District, and their programs, please click here.
–Cheshire County Conservation District
New Hampshire Association of Conservation Districts
