Natural Resource Conservationist Honored

Sally Lobel, manager of the Jefferson Conservation District, recently accepted an award from the Colorado Conservation District Employees Association. She was honored for her longtime service and as a person of exceptional work ethic, dedication, and patience.

According to the association, Ms. Lobel is a great natural resource steward through her work with private landowners, local governments, and students on numerous projects.

She has touched hundreds, if not thousands, of future conservationists and community leaders by teaching environmental and conservation programs in schools across Jefferson County. She is helping us bring up the next generation of conservationists, a vital part of Jefferson County and Colorado's conservation future.

She made valuable behind-the-scene contributions to the rehabilitation of the Hayman, Buffalo Creek, and High Meadow Fires. Sally, always patient and concerned, listened to countless people who had lost their homes or businesses and helped them through bureaucratic mazes and mounds of paperwork. She skillfully handled contractors and hundreds of volunteers.

"Throughout her career in conservation, Sally has worked to create outstanding relationships with all stakeholders involved in decisions that concern our natural resources, creating win-win situations for stakeholders, as well as for the environment. She has made exceptional conservation contributions through skilled use of the 4C's - communication, consensus building, and collaboration all in the service of conservation", said Jefferson District Board Member Karen Berry.

The mission of the Jefferson Conservation District, a nonprofit organization, is to educate, promote, and provide information on issues and programs aimed at protecting natural resources. The district works with private landowners and local governments in Jefferson County.