The statewide IASWCD conference organized for Indiana’s 92 Soil and Water Conservation Districts offers a chance for professionals, researchers, academics, industry leaders, farmers, and other stakeholders in natural resource protection to come together.
The conference includes an exhibit hall and sponsor booths where companies, organizations, and vendors present their products, services, and initiatives. Networking opportunities, workshops, and training sessions are available to promote education and exchange ideas.
Save the Date for the next IASWCD statewide conference held in downtown Indianapolis on January 25-26, 2027.
IASWCD Business Meeting
The December 19, 2025 IASWCD Business Meeting featured a panel with lively discussion and information regarding talking and relating to legislators and policymaking. Senators Fady Qaddoura and Spencer Deery shared their insights from both sides of the aisle. Dan Boritt, Executive Director, Indiana Wildlife Federation and Desi Rybolt, Indiana Conservation Voters, joined the panel and provided a “layman’s” perspective on educating and engaging with legislators.
Lunch was provided and the business meeting was held with resolution discussion and an update from Liz Rice, Executive Director, IASWCD. Minutes from the business meeting are forthcoming.
Two awards were presented by the IASWCD President, Marc Roberts.
Thank you to all the districts and partners who were able to join us!
President’s Award: Kenny Cain
The President’s Award was presented to Kenny Cain, Cain’s Homelike Farms in Montgomery County.
Kenny’s passion for protecting natural resources runs deep. For decades, he and his family have demonstrated what long-term conservation looks like in action—through no-till and cover crops, wildlife habitat, over 70 acres of filter strips and countless other conservation practices. But what makes Kenny especially deserving of this award is not just what he has done on his land—it’s how generously he has shared that commitment with others.
For 25 years, Cain’s Homelike Farms has hosted Montgomery County’s 4th Grade Field Days, welcoming over 400 students each year. That means nearly 10,000 young Hoosiers have stepped onto this farm to learn about conservation of soil and water and wildlife with a focus on encouraging the students to appreciate and protect natural resources.
Kenny has given countless hours in service, including many years on the Montgomery County SWCD Board, the state association board and currently serving on the State Soil Conservation Board. His leadership has always been steady, thoughtful, and humble — focusing not on recognition — but on doing what’s right for the land and the people who depend on it.
A Legacy of Advocacy: Honoring Cress Hizer
Statehouse lobbyist, Cress Hizer, has been a tireless advocate for IASWCD and Indiana’s 92 Soil & Water Conservation Districts, working day in and day out to ensure conservation voices were heard, understood, and respected.
He didn’t just represent us, he equipped us. Through legislative tours, one-on-one introductions with lawmakers, training on government structure and history, and constant communication during legislative sessions, Cress helped districts become confident advocates for conservation.
Because of his leadership, districts were better prepared to engage legislators, share local conservation stories, and speak clearly about the importance of soil health, water quality, and stewardship. His guidance played a key role in advancing support for the Clean Water Indiana Program, which recently received increased funding in the state budget – an impact that will benefit Indiana’s land and waterways for generations to come.
Delegate Notebook
Delegate Notebooks were prepared for the annual IASWCD business meeting. These booklets include essential materials such as the agenda, minutes from the previous year, the officer slate, legislative district maps, IASWCD region director maps, Submitted Resolutions, IASWCD financial summaries and more.
Resolutions
Resolutions can be found in the Delegate Notebook.
Indiana Conservation Awards
The Indiana Association of Soil & Water Conservation Districts (IASWCD) hosts the Statewide Conservation Awards, with support from numerous partners across the state. These awards are presented during the annual SWCD conference.
Sponsors & Exhibitors
Special Thanks to the 2025 IASWCD Conference Sponsors. We appreciate your support!
Additional sponsors include Chattin Brothers and Indiana Conservation Voters.
There will not be a 2026 IASWCD Conference in downtown Indianapolis,
but stay tuned for other events currently being planned.
Next IASWCD Conference, January 25-26, 2027 at The Westin, downtown Indianapolis.