FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 22, 2007
Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District acknowledged notable contributions to conservation efforts at the District’s 61st Annual Banquet on October 18, 2007.
 Bill Resch was recognized for his long-term commitment to environmental education and community outreach in New Albany Schools and the Big Walnut Watershed. Bill involves students in outdoor classrooms and their communities, learning about the environment and our natural resources. He was instrumental in the development of outdoor learning labs at the New Albany High School and K-1 building. Bill Resch leads field trips through wetlands, natural study areas and local streams. Bill collaborates with Franklin Soil and Water and is actively involved with Friends of Big Walnut to promote protection of wetlands and water quality.
The City of Westerville was recognized for their active partnership with Franklin Soil and Water to promote water quality protection. Westerville was the first community partner with Franklin Soil and Water in actively promoting and implementing rain gardens, a natural storm water solution, for residents. With the city’s support the District provided workshops and cost-share to residents interested in installing rain gardens. Westerville is also implementing conservation practices into Lake Otterbein, which is also being placed into a Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program project through Natural Resources Conservation Service/ USDA. Finally, Westerville has gone the extra mile in identifying potential pollution sources in their community in partnership with Franklin Soil and Water and the County Board of Health. Frank Wiseman, Service Director, and Eric Beverly accepted the award for the City of Westerville.
 Volunteer Alex Fraser was recognized for her ongoing assistance with Community Displays. She has volunteered many hours, sometimes at a moment’s notice, to assist Franklin Soil and Water in educating community residents about water quality and conservation.
Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District promotes responsible land use decisions for the conservation protection and improvement of soil and water resources through partnering, technical guidance and education.
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