The Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is proud to announce Jeannine and James “Jim” Nayes as their 2025 Outstanding Conservationist.
The Dakota SWCD Board selected the Jeannine and James “Jim” Nayes as this year’s Outstanding Conservationist. The Nayes Family were nominated for this year’s award as Jeanine and Jim have worked closely with the SWCD over the last decade plus to implement several conservation projects on their property near Sunfish Lake, Minnesota. From installing a residential raingarden and stabilizing an eroding shoreline to more recently undertaking a 0.5-acre native prairie restoration, Jeannine and Jim have continued to demonstrate their commitment to protecting our natural resources whenever the opportunity arises.
Jeannine grew up on a farm operating tractors and driving trucks. After several different careers, she currently works as a Professional Services Delivery Manager of IT Services for CDW. In her free time, she loves to garden and grow enough to can fruit, vegetables, pickles, and applesauce.
Jim was active in Future Farmers of American (FFA) and served as the State Secretary for North Dakota while in high school. More recently, he owned and operated Living Sculpture Tree and Shrub Care, is a Past-President of the Minnesota Society of Arboriculture, has been active in the landscaping industry for more than 35 years, and currently serves as the City Forester for the City of Sunfish Lake. Fishing, gardening, forest and meadow building bring him joy.
Every year, the SWCD honors a landowner, business, or organization for their contributions to conserve or restore natural resources in Dakota County. The SWCD commends Jeannine & James Nayes for being leaders in conservation and supporting water quality and soil health practices.
If you would like more information on this award program or other SWCD programs and activities, you may visit www.dakotaswcd.org or contact their office at 651-480-7777.