Every year the Union SWCD selects a recipient for the Good Steward Award that is presented at the Union County Farmer Merchant Banquet.

The Good Steward Award is sponsored by the Union SWCD and presented to individuals or groups that have promoted conservation and land stewardship in coordination with agricultural operations. For agriculture to be successful over the long term, it is necessary to be good stewards of the land we manage. The Union SWCD selects a recipient that manages property for agricultural use within the District boundary, considering:

• Partnerships with the District to complete projects or manage land for the purpose of conserving natural resources and promoting sustainable agriculture.
• The amount or intensity of conservation practices implemented.
• Projects that provide significant support to conservation and restoration of natural resources.

The 2025 winner of the Good Steward Award:  Hassinger Farms

The Elmer Dam, located on the lower reaches of Catherine Creek, has long provided irrigation water to farm ground. However, the structure also impeded fish migration to the important upper spawning and rearing habitats used by native salmon and steelhead. Recognizing the significance of this challenge, the Union SWCD and Trout Unlimited began a collaborative effort with the landowners to improve both fish passage and irrigation efficiency at the site.

The Hassinger Family played a key leadership role in this project, working closely with the District and partners to find practical solutions that met the needs of agriculture while restoring ecological connectivity. Their willingness to innovate and collaborate resulted in a project that supports both productive farming and healthy fish populations.

Through their dedication to stewardship and community partnership, Hassingers have set a powerful example of what can be achieved when landowners and conservationists work together.