During the meeting, Dr. Orval Gigstad of Syracuse, Andy Bishop of Grand Island, and Jeff and Jolene Steffen of Crofton were honored for their outstanding commitment to natural resources conservation and stewardship. The awards recognize leadership, partnerships, and agriculture producers.
Dr. Orval Gigstad, with the Nemaha Natural Resources District was named to the Hall of Distinction for his more than 30 years of being a steadfast champion for natural resources stewardship at the local, state, regional, and national levels.
He has served on the Nemaha Natural Resources District board since 1993 and on the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts board since 1996, including two terms as president.
At the national level, Gigstad has devoted countless hours to NACD committee service and policy development, helping guide conservation efforts nationwide. He previously served as chair of NACD’s Northern Plains Region and currently serves as vice-chair, providing leadership continuity and mentorship. Gigstad is the first Nebraskan to be inducted into the NACD Hall of Distinction.
The Hall of Distinction honors current and past NACD leaders who have made significant contributions to the nation’s conservation movement.
