Pictured above: D. Gary Reents, Randy Pederson, Holly Kovarik, Keith Nygaard, and Randy Mitteness
Pope Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Manager Holly Kovarik has been honored with the 2025 Outstanding SWCD Administrator Award during the Minnesota Association of Soil & Water Conservation Districts annual convention, held December 1–3 in Bloomington. The award was presented by the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR).
Kovarik leads a team of five full‑time employees and two to four seasonal staff. Over the past five years, she has worked closely with the SWCD Board and staff to install nearly 60 conservation projects across Pope County. In addition to her leadership at Pope SWCD, she also serves as fiscal agent for the Chippewa River Watershed, a joint powers entity.
“BWSR greatly values the passion and accomplishments of conservation professionals like Holly Kovarik, who works diligently to improve and protect Minnesota’s water and soil resources, working in broad coalitions to achieve her district’s goals,” said John Jaschke, Executive Director of BWSR.
The Pope SWCD staff and board expressed their excitement at the recognition, noting her dedication and leadership make a positive impact on both the office and the community. “We are proud of Holly and so happy she received this award,” said Keith Nygaard, Chair of the Pope SWCD Board of Supervisors. “She runs a great office, engages fully with staff and partners, and is always open to work with landowners on new projects that improve Pope County’s land and water resources.”
Congratulations to Holly on this well‑earned honor!