It's time to party!
On February 21st, 2024 Pierce Conservation District hosted its Annual Celebration! We welcomed nearly 200 people into the Pioneer Park Pavilion in Puyallup to celebrate a year of accomplishments and look forward to a fantastic new year. This event also offered an opportunity for members of the public to vote in our Board of Supervisors election.
Board Member John Hopkins and a youth sign in for the celebration, ready to take on the raffle scavenger hunt!
Guests and community partners were welcomed to an informative evening of refreshments and recognition, as staff showcased completed and ongoing projects from the year prior. Guests enjoyed catering, courtesy of Sweet and Savory Catering company, and had the opportunity to snack and network with other community members in their area. There was even an opportunity to see a newly planted rain garden just outside the doors of the building as an example of Pierce Conservation District's work.
PCD Staff member Sarah Pyle speaking with a member of the community about a depave project in Tacoma.
We also honored and celebrated the following Conservation Award recipients:
| Conservation Practitioner of the Year | Emily Tzeng, Local Color Farm & Fiber |
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| Partner of the Year | Diane Evans |
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| Educators of the Year | Laura Young, Emerald Hills Elementary Teacher |
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| Volunteer of the Year | Jessica Hannity |
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| Partner Agency of the Year | Robby Wright, City of Sumner |
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| Community Food Garden of the Year | Mother Earth Farm (Emergency Food Network) |
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The Ernie Bay Lifetime Achievement award was also presented to Ken & Nell Batker for their lifetime efforts in preserving natural spaces and supporting the Conservation District. This award isn't given out every year, and is awarded in honor of a long-time Board Member and his conservation work in Pierce County.
Awards made by Aaron Goodge, from Toolbox Laboratories, using upcycled materials.
If you were unable to attend, we've recorded the award ceremony:
New this year, participants were welcomed to take home tree saplings, which were donated via a partnership between PCD and Tacoma Tree Foundation. Nearly 50 trees wandered out the door with guests and are now improving water quality in Pierce County.
Trees awaiting a new home.
Our staff want to extend their gratitude for everyone in attendance, and to those who were with us in spirit. We can't wait to see you next year!
