Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board Celebrates Conservation and Stewardship at 86th Annual Meeting
The Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB) and the Association of Texas Soil and Water Conservation Districts (ATSWCD) welcomed almost 600 conservation leaders, partners and guests from across the state to the 86th Annual Meeting of Soil and Water Conservation District Directors, held September 28–29, 2026, at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Round Rock.
Centered around the theme “Stewardship Through Every Season,” the meeting celebrated the continued commitment of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs), agricultural producers and conservation partners to protecting Texas’ soil, water and natural resources through every season of change.
The Annual Meeting provides an opportunity for SWCD directors and employees, conservation professionals, agricultural producers and agency partners to come together to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships and gain resources to support locally led conservation efforts in communities across Texas.
“Bringing together nearly 600 individuals who share a commitment to conservation is a powerful reminder of the dedication behind locally led stewardship in Texas,” said Kendria Ray, TSSWCB Executive Director. “Our Soil and Water Conservation Districts are the foundation of conservation efforts across the state, and this meeting provides an invaluable opportunity to strengthen relationships, share knowledge and celebrate the important work being done in our communities. No matter the season or challenges we face, our commitment to protecting Texas’ natural resources remains strong.”
Aaron Alejandro, Executive Director of the Texas FFA Foundation, delivered the keynote address, sharing a message on leadership, service and the importance of investing in the future of agriculture. Alejandro’s address highlighted the role individuals and organizations play in creating a lasting impact within their communities and inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Throughout the meeting, attendees participated in educational breakout sessions covering topics relevant to SWCDs and conservation efforts across Texas. The event also created opportunities for attendees from across Texas to connect, share experiences and learn from one another.
A highlight of the Annual Meeting was the recognition of outstanding conservation efforts through the Texas Conservation Awards Program. This year’s honorees included Boening Bros. Dairy Co. from Floresville as Conservation Farmer of the Year; Sneary Cattle Co. from Bay City as Conservation Rancher of the Year; Brittany Kuykendall from Woodson as Conservation Teacher of the Year; Harris Ranch in Uvalde as Wildlife Conservationist of the Year; Anne Thornton from Farmersville as Friend of Conservation; and Trinity-Neches SWCD #422 located in Athens as Outstanding Soil and Water Conservation District.
Youth conservation award winners were also recognized for their achievements, highlighting the important role the next generation will play in the future of natural resource conservation in Texas. The youth winners were Xavian Flores, Junior Essay; Karlee White, Senior Essay; Hattie Rollins, K-2nd Grade Poster; and Anastasia Miller, 3rd-6th Grade Poster.
For more than eight decades, Texas’ Soil and Water Conservation Districts have worked alongside landowners, agricultural producers and conservation partners to address local natural resource concerns. The Annual Meeting continues that tradition by bringing the conservation community together to recognize accomplishments, strengthen relationships and prepare for the opportunities and challenges ahead.
Through changing conditions, evolving challenges and new opportunities, one commitment remains constant: stewardship through every season.
The Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board extends its appreciation to all who attended, presented, and sponsored this year’s meeting, helping make it a tremendous success.
For more information about the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board and its programs, visit www.tsswcb.texas.gov.
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