The 2026 Michigan Association of Conservation Districts (MACD) Annual Conference brought conservation professionals from across Michigan together in Lansing, October 20–22, for a few days of learning, collaboration, networking, and celebrating the people who make conservation happen.
This year was especially memorable for the Berrien County Conservation District, as we had the opportunity to recognize some incredible accomplishments of our own!
A Big Congratulations to Emily!
One of the biggest highlights of the conference was celebrating our very own Emily Kerlikowske, BCCD's MAEAP Technician. Emily had an outstanding couple of days, receiving multiple recognitions for her dedication and contributions to conservation and agriculture.
Emily was recognized with the MAEAP Award of Excellence and the 2026 Regenerative Agriculture Program Achievement Award. She was also named to the 2026 Bold Women of Business class, recognizing women making a meaningful impact in their industries and communities.
And if those accomplishments weren't enough, Emily also broke a state record! What an incredible milestone and a reflection of the hard work, commitment, and passion she brings to helping farmers and protecting our natural resources.
Emily works closely with farmers throughout Southwest Michigan, helping them identify opportunities to improve their operations, implement conservation practices, and protect the land and water resources we all depend on. Her dedication goes beyond the work itself. She builds relationships, shares knowledge, and makes a lasting difference in our agricultural community.
We couldn't be prouder of Emily and are so fortunate to have her on our team. Congratulations, Emily! These recognitions are so well deserved.
Bringing Home New Ideas for Berrien County
Along with celebrating Emily, the conference provided a wonderful opportunity for our team to learn, connect, and bring fresh ideas back home.
Lisa, Amber, Brittany, and Emily all attended this year's conference and enjoyed several workshops, presentations, and opportunities to connect with conservation professionals from across the state.
From natural resource conservation and regenerative agriculture to community outreach, education, and new ways to engage landowners, there was no shortage of inspiration.
We returned to Berrien County with new ideas, helpful resources, and plenty of things we'd love to explore as we continue finding ways to better serve our community.
Whether it's helping farmers improve soil health, protecting our waterways, creating educational opportunities for the next generation, or connecting residents with conservation resources, learning from others helps us continue growing as a district.
One of the greatest benefits of attending events like this is the opportunity to share experiences with other districts, learn what's working in their communities, and bring those ideas back to strengthen conservation efforts right here at home.
Thank You, MACD!
A big thank-you to the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts for yet another great conference! We appreciate all the work that goes into bringing conservation districts together and creating opportunities for education, collaboration, and professional growth.
We're proud to be part of such a dedicated conservation community and grateful for the people who continue to inspire us to do more.
Congratulations again to Emily, and thank you to everyone who made this year's conference such a success.
We're already looking forward to next year!
Together, we're making a difference for Berrien County's natural resources, farms, and future generations.