Governor’s Agricultural and Urban Conservation Award winners honored

A ceremony held April 29 in Dover marked the presentation of the annual Governor’s Agricultural and Urban Conservation Awards.

State officials led the event recognizing this year’s honorees and issuing a proclamation officially designating April 27 to May 4 as Stewardship Week in Delaware under the theme Home is Where the Habitat is.

They included Gwen Pierce, Delaware Association of Conservation Districts president; Dayna Cobb, Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control deputy secretary; and Shantel King, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service acting state conservationist; joined by Nikko Brady, deputy chief of staff for Gov. Matt Meyer.

“This year’s theme highlights the essential role that both natural and managed habitats play in supporting biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. But this theme is more than just a catchy phrase – it’s a reminder that every habitat, from sprawling forests to bustling urban parks, contributes to the health of our planet,” said Pierce. “Stewardship Week helps to remind us all of the power each person has to conserve natural resources and improve our world. The stewardship concept involves personal and social responsibility, including a duty to learn about and improve natural resources as we use them wisely, leaving a rich legacy for future generations.”

This year’s Sussex County honorees are Jerry Dukes, a third-generation farmer operating near Laurel whose commitment to conservation and sustainability has impacted Delaware agriculture; and the Chapel Green Homeowners Association, which turned an unused community drain field into a thriving, multi-habitat ecosystem.

“Delaware is fortunate to have a wonderful partnership between its conservation districts, DNREC and NRCS, who provide invaluable support to our cooperators, said Pierce. “These awards highlight the beneficial outcomes of these relationships, and we’d like to take a moment to recognize the hard work that’s been done.”

Delaware’s Conservation Districts, one in each county, work in partnership with DNREC to provide technical and financial assistance to help Delawareans conserve and improve their local natural resources. This includes solving land, water and related resource problems; developing conservation programs to solve them; enlisting and coordinating help from public and private sources to accomplish these goals; and increasing awareness of the interrelationship between human activities and the natural environment.

Jerry Dukes is a dedicated steward of the land and a proud Sussex County native. Managing 1,800 acres of crops and a broiler operation, Dukes has spent decades integrating conservation-minded practices into his operation to ensure the health of his land for future generations. He understands the importance of balancing production with environmental stewardship. His willingness to embrace new ideas and innovative conservation strategies has not only improved the productivity of his operation, but also enhanced the overall health of the soil and water resources in Sussex County.

The Chapel Green Homeowners Association had an unused community drain field, and rather than allowing the space to be developed, President Jean Rothenberger led efforts to transform 10 acres into 20 pocket forests set within a native meadow. Partnering with DNREC’s Water Quality Improvement Program and the Center for the Inland Bays, using funding from state and community grants, nearly 100 donated loblolly pine seedlings and 150 volunteer hours, residents planted, mulched and protected the young trees. This forest-meadow complex reduces stormwater runoff, filters nutrients, improves air and soil quality, and provides pollinator habitat and wildlife corridors, all while enhancing community green space.

Rep. Jesse Vanderwende, R-Bridgeville, was recognized as DACD’s Legislator of the Year. A Sussex County native and lifelong farmer, he brings firsthand experience to his work in the General Assembly, ensuring that Delaware’s top industry – agriculture – remains strong and sustainable. Since taking office, Vanderwende has been a tremendous advocate for funding cover crop programs and voluntary conservation practices that protect water quality and soil health. He is also a strong supporter of Delaware’s tax ditch system, recognizing its vital role in both residential and agricultural areas.