Senator Carrie Ruud (R-Breezy Point) was recognized last week by both the Crow Wing and North Central Area 8 Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD) for her career-long dedication to soil and water conservation efforts. Ruud has also previously received the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts Legislator of the Year Award in both 2017 and 2021.
SWCDs work with private individuals, local governments, and statewide agencies to positively impact water quality in our communities. As chairwoman of the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Policy and Legacy Finance Committee, Sen. Ruud has been instrumental in ensuring the voice of SWCDs around the state are heard when it comes to protecting Minnesota’s soil, water, and natural resources.
“I am humbled and honored to be recognized once again by the Crow Wing SWCD,” said Ruud. “Our SWCDs are the boots on the ground—they are instrumental in preserving water quality throughout our state, and it’s important that we work together to maintain a wonderful environment for our children and future generations to enjoy. It has been a privilege to collaborate with SWCDs throughout my time in the Senate.”
According to Melissa Barrick, District Manager for the Crow Wing Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), “A local partnership for over 15 years has recognized landowners, contractors, and elected officials for doing outstanding conservation in the Brainerd Lakes Area. The Crow Wing SWCD Board and Minnesota Association SWCDs Area VIII wanted to recognize Senator Ruud for her long-term commitment and support for continued SWCD funding and programs. Senator Ruud has been an active leader in local conservation efforts, including Pine River Fish Passage, conservation protection programs, and watershed-based implementation funding. We are proud to have her as our senator and grateful for her work and contributions to conservation in her district and the State of Minnesota. The donated Jerry Raedeke print ties together the value of conservation through an artist’s eye. Jerry has donated over 85,000 prints for conservation and is renowned for his wildlife and landscape painting (Local art gallery in Nisswa for over 16 years).”
Alongside the award, the organization gifted Sen. Ruud a Raedeke art print, honoring her years of conservation work.