Get Involved w/ CCCD
Careers
At this time, we do not have any open positions available. However, as our projects and community initiatives grow, we frequently look for dedicated people who share our passion for protecting and enhancing our natural resources.
We encourage you to check this page periodically for future full-time, part-time, and seasonal employment opportunities. You can stay updated on our district's work, upcoming events, and future job postings by following us on our socials, or by subscribing to our newsletter (coming soon!).
Volunteer!
Volunteer for one of our upcoming events! Our dedicated and passionate volunteers are crucial to the success of District programs. You can also contact us to be notified of upcoming events and opportunities.
CCCD Conservation Awards
Each year the Cass County Conservation District recognizes community members for their excellence in conservation and stewardship.
2025 Awardees
Conservation Farmer of the Year
Presented to: Barnett Farms LLC
In recognition of Barnett Farm’s long-standing efforts employing sustainable best management agricultural practices.
Ag-Tourism Educator of the Year
Presented to: Renee Robinson-Seelye, Jake’s Country Meats
In recognition of Renee’s successful digital outreach of farm living, including agricultural education, promotion of local farm-to-table resources, and a strong commitment to conservation-based farming.
Wildlife Habitat Restoration Award
Presented to: Jennifer & Paul Miller
In recognition of the Miller’s intense efforts of invasive species removal, pollinator prairie establishment, and educational outreach related to native species diversity.
Lake Stewardship Award
Presented to: Dewey Lake Property Owners’ Association
In recognition of DLPOA’s water quality efforts by initiating a biocontrol program to remove invasive purple loosestrife at Dewey Lake, and establishing precedence for a county-wide program.
Volunteer of the Year Award
Presented to: Deb Smith
In recognition of your dedication of many years of volunteer work helping to make CCCD’s annual Tree & Plant Sales successful.
Prior CCCD Conservation Awards
2024
Conservation Farmer of the Year: Vanessa Frias, Willowbrook Farms
Conservationist of the Year: Gary Carlile
2023
Conservation Farmer of the Year: Angel Acres
Recycling/Waste Management Award: Camp Friedenswald
Forestry/Wildlife Stewardship Award: Bianca May
Conservation Educator of the Year: Hidden Acres Farm
Ag-Tourism Award: Marion Magnolia Farms’ Artisan Market
Volunteer of the Year: Jennifer Miller
2022
Conservation Farmer of the Year: Eckler’s Produce Farms
Shoreline Stewardship Award: Jake & Gretchen Young
Conservation Business of the Year: Dussel’s Farm Market
Board Member 15+ Years recognition: Scott Wyman
Lifetime Volunteer Award: Helga Richards
2021
Conservation Farmer of the Year: Bennett Farms
Stewardship Award: Partnership for MEANDRS
Educator of the Year: Robert Parrish, Dark Sky Advocate
2020
Conservation Farmer of the Year: White Yarrow Farm
Wildlife Stewardship Award: Lake Milton Raptor Center
2019
Conservation Farmer of the Year: Cade Klein
Conservation Educator of the Year: One World Center
Conservation Partner of the Year: Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy (SWMLC)
Conservation Ambassador of the Year: Jim Kings
2018
Conservationist of the Year: Kenneth Kesson, Michigan DNR SW Region
Conservation Farmer of the Year: Kevin Hershberger
Environmental Awareness Advocate: Marcellus News + Ramona Moormann (posthumously)
Volunteer of the Year: Jeffrey Blyveis
2017
Conservationist of the Year: Gertrude “Gertie” Temple (posthumously)
Conservation Farmer of the Year: Chris Rosselit
Wildlife/Habitat Stewardship: Gordon Seyfarth
Ag-Tourism: A-Mazing Acres
Conservation Educator: Nelson’s Herbs