Potawatomi Wildlife Park awarded 2024 Friends of Conservation Award at state convention of IASWCD

On January 27, Potawatomi Wildlife Park Manager Lacey Pfeiffer traveled to Indianapolis to accept the 2024 Friends of Conservation Award on behalf of Potawatomi Wildlife Park at the Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts Annual Conference.

The Friends of Conservation Award is an annual honor recognizing individuals, government agencies, non-profits, and corporations who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to conservation and sustainability. Up to three awards are given annually in each category: Individual, Government/Non-Profit, and Corporate.

Jodie Overmeyer, from Marshall County Soil and Water Conservation District, nominated Potawatomi Wildlife Park for this prestigious recognition. In their annual report, she wrote: “Director Lacey Pfeiffer and her team work diligently to promote conservation and environmentalism through events, social media outreach, newsletters, community and school partnerships, and collaboration with the District. The Park has participated in several conservation programs to install habitats and is actively managing invasive plants to restore health to its riparian woodlands. We are so proud of the county residents who have participated in conservation and are being recognized. Congratulations!”

Pfeiffer said Overmyer and her team have been invaluable partners to the park. They help them navigate available programs, collaborate on invasive species education and workdays, and encourage them to continue their conservation efforts.

“This award is only possible because of our community,” said Park Manager Lacey Pfeiffer. “We love serving you, we sincerely appreciate our donors for their support in keeping us operating and serving, and we are grateful for the numerous volunteers who dedicate their time throughout the year. We also thank all past and current employees and board members for their countless behind-the-scenes efforts. We are truly blessed to be part of such a wonderful community.”