2015 Stewardship Winner Honored at Banquet

The Madison CD has selected William T. Jackson of Harrison as the 2015 Stewardship award winner.  Still living on the ranch that he was born on, Bill has a 90 year history of managing the resources associated with the ranch that his Granfather purchased.  Bill was nominated by a collection of folks including Terrance Drodge, Dean and Debbie Jackson, Debra Jackson, Ron Carlstrom, and Dr. Bruce Maxwell.  Bill was selected to receive this award because he has dedicated his entire life to his land, horses and cattle, with the goal of continually improving the health of his land.  He has combined traditional practices and innovative practices to keep his farmland and grazing land at peak performance, through efforts in the areas of water efficiency, weed control, soil production and decreased erosion.  He continues to follow the latest research to best care for the ranch and his herd, and he continues to play an instrumental part in 25 years of agricultural research completed on the ranch by Montana State University.  His involvement with the Willow Creek Allotment includes active efforts to manage weeds and create a well-managed grazing system.  This past year was Bill’s 87^th cattle drive to this allotment.  He is a quiet but dedicated member of the community, serving over the years with several boards and several local and national organizations.   On behalf of the Madison Conservation District, we proudly recognize William T Jackson as the 2015 Stewardship Award Winner.