The National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) gave the Distinguished Service Award to Hans Lawaetz at its 2022 annual meeting in Orlando, Fla., on Feb. 15.
This award recognizes someone who has made significant contributions to the conservation of natural resources. Hans Lawaetz has been a conservation leader for more than 50 years.
V.I. Commissioner of Agriculture Positive T.A. Nelson gave a speech honoring Lawaetz and his contributions to the territory at NACD’s Annual Meeting and Appreciation Banquet.
Crucian cattle rancher and businessman, Lawaetz has been a conservation leader in the United States Virgin Islands (St. Croix, St. Thomas/ St. John) for over 50 years. He helped found the Virgin Islands Conservation District (VICD) in 1965 and served as its president from 1965-1975 and 1991-2002. He also served on the NACD Board of Directors and the chair of NACD’s Education Committee.
“NACD is honored to present the Distinguished Service Award to Mr. Lawaetz,” said Crowder. “We appreciate his many years of conservation leadership in the Virgin Islands and nationally, serving six years, from 1968 to 1974, on NACD’s Board of Directors. We are grateful for the history and experience Mr. Lawaetz continues to share as the Virgin Islands Department of Agriculture, NRCS, and NACD partner to help revive the Virgin Islands Conservation District.”
For more information about the NACD visit www.nacdnet.org. For information on VIDA programs and services in the Caribbean Area, visit www.doa.vi.gov.
