TEMPLE - To celebrate 75 years of soil and water conservation, the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB) held an open house ceremony. This ceremony brought together past and present staff, board members, directors, and many others who have played a role in soil and water conservation.
To mark this monumental event an unveiling of the historical marker in front of the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board Headquarters took place. This marker explains the true definition and start to the TSSWCB. Pictured: Executive Director Rex Isom; Governor Appointed Board Member Joe L. Ward, Telephone; Governor Appointed Board Member Larry D. Jacobs, Montgomery; State District IV Board Member Jerry D. Nichols, Nacogdoches; State District V Board Member Barry Mahler, Iowa Park; State District III Board Member José Dodier, Jr., Zapata; State District II Board Member Marty H. Graham, Rocksprings; State District I Board Member Scott Buckles, Stratford]
To kick off the event the TSSWCB Chairman Scott Buckles, of Stratford, welcomed the attendees, and thanked those that played a role in making this event possible.
Former Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives Pete Laney, of Hale Center, was the keynote speaker. Mr. Laney spoke of the accomplishments that the TSSWCB through the local soil water conservation districts have done throughout the state.
TSSWCB Executive Director Rex Isom, recognized his staff, board members past and present, and stated, "This program, from the landowner to the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board, is made up of real people that are genuinely concerned and caring about the natural resources of Texas. These people are the true conservationists of this great state."