Judy Johnston is retiring!

Judy Johnston is retiring in July after almost 30 years with Stevens SWCD! She has worked with many different staff and supervisors over the years and has seen many changes in conservation and conservation education during those 30 years. She has done a little of everything at Stevens SWCD, pitching in to get the job done, whatever that job might be.

Over the years, Judy has amassed a long list of accomplishments and contributions, and she has put in a ton of hard work towards conservation in Minnesota. She’s worked with countless other SWCDs and partner agencies to provide educational opportunities for youth and adults throughout the area and state.

One of her biggest undertakings has been the coordination of both the Area 2 and State Envirothons, which she has done for many years. She has also served as the Education Committee Chair for the West Central MASWCD Area 2. She is well-known in area elementary and high schools, where she visits classrooms and organizes various in-school presentations. Judy also co-coordinates the Stevens & Pope Conservation Day and Pope & Stevens Water Fest, two hands-on outdoor learning opportunities for area students.

Judy has organized several other educational opportunities for youth and adults, and has been a great conservation educator over the years. She also put together information for the SWCD web site and social media, and has organized events such as water testing clinics, conservation tours of Stevens County, fair and expo booths, and more.

The Stevens SWCD will be hosting an open house for Judy on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 from 2:00-5:00 p.m. here in the SWCD office. Please join us to help us thank Judy for her contributions to conservation education throughout the state and congratulate her on her retirement!