Congratulations 2025 WADE Awards Nominees and Honorees!
We are proud to recognize the incredible talent and dedication of our colleagues through this year’s 2025 WADE Awards. Congratulations to all the nominees for your outstanding service to conservation efforts across Washington State!
2025 Nominees:
- Emily Bustamante, Education Lead – Okanogan Conservation District
- Tony Fyrqvist, Finance Manager – San Juan Islands Conservation District
- Ryan Gelwicks, Farm Planner – Skagit Conservation District
- Carly Lemon, Professional Engineer – Underwood Conservation District
- Eli Loftis, Wildfire & Community Resiliency Lead – Okanogan Conservation District
- Susan Shelton, Finance & Administration Director – Thurston Conservation District
- Matt Stewart, Quarry Stewardship Coordinator – Spokane Conservation District
- Jan Thomas, CTD Program Manager – Underwood Conservation District
- Kim Williams, Executive Director – Clallam Conservation District
- Courtney Woods, Grants Manager – Washington State Conservation Commission
- Sierra Young, Conservation Planner – Jefferson County Conservation District
Award Recipients:
Grit & Grace Award Kim Williams, Clallam Conservation District
Kim has shown remarkable strength and resilience during a challenging time, keeping her district afloat through sheer determination and leadership. Her integrity, insight, and commitment to doing what's right have made her an inspiring example of courage under pressure.
Special Service to Conservation Districts Courtney Woods, Washington State Conservation Commission
Courtney plays a vital role in nearly every aspect of SCC’s financial operations and training support. Her deep institutional knowledge, strong work ethic, and ability to bridge communication across the conservation network make her an indispensable partner to districts across the state.
Special Service to Conservation Districts Carly Lemon, Underwood Conservation District
Carly brings exceptional technical skill and professionalism to her engineering work statewide. She’s a thoughtful collaborator, a steady leader, and a generous mentor—always willing to share knowledge and support successful outcomes for colleagues and landowners alike.
WADE Employee of the Year Jan Thomas, Underwood Conservation District
Jan’s work leading the Center for Technical Development has had a profound impact on the training and support available to all conservation district staff. Her strategic thinking, clear communication, and dedication to building capacity across the state reflect her quiet yet powerful leadership.
Congratulations to all the nominees and this year’s award recipients!
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