For Immediate Release
Date: February 21, 2008

Contact:
Paige Buck, State Public Affairs Specialist, (217) 353.6606

IL State Conservationist Recognized for Commitment to Forestry

Champaign, IL — Bill Gradle studied Forestry at the University of Illinois back in the 1970’s. He spent the last 11 years as USDA NRCS’ State Conservationist for Illinois. Recognizing trees as a solution in assisting agricultural producers in their quest to protect soil and water resources, Gradle was recently presented a national award from the American Forest Foundation (AFF) for his efforts to support and promote forestry here in Illinois. “Forestland has been a somewhat forgotten land use that I and a number of people realized needed some attention,” says Gradle.

Attending the NRCS National Leadership Team meeting in conjunction with NACD’s annual conference in Reno, NV last week offered Gradle a short break from cold Illinois temperatures. Much of the discussions were about budgets, goals and Congressional progress on the new Farm Bill. However, Thursday afternoon on February 14th, three State Conservationists received an award, recognizing their individual efforts, commitment and passion for forest resources.

The award, given by AFF recognized Gradle’s efforts for incorporating forest issues and solutions into his agency’s primary conservation program, the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). By offering special assistance and financial incentives and demonstrating ways to help private landowners plan and manage their forested acres better, Gradle has made a significant contribution to Illinois’ 4.8 million acres of forestland. NRCS State Conservationists from Idaho and Ohio were recognized for their forestry efforts as well.

Kurt Bobsin from Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Jay Hayek of the University of Illinois have worked closely with Gradle over the years and have witnessed first-hand just how committed to Illinois forestry he is. “When we saw the description of the type of forestry leadership the AFF was looking to reward, we knew Bill fit the bill,” says Bobsin. ”We’ve been able to accomplish things for Illinois that are making a difference. Bill has been a critical part of the progress we’ve made recently through the leadership his agency has taken in addressing forestry issues. He and his staff have been instrumental in encouraging action on the part of so many others as well.”

According to Hayek, “I’m very encouraged how far we’ve come with the new grass-roots organization Bill helped initiate, the Illinois Forestry Association. Bill was well aware of the growing need for advocacy and a unified, statewide voice regarding Illinois forestry issues..”

“He’s been great to work with and we wanted him to know just how much we appreciate his support over the last few years,” adds Bobsin.

‘I was pretty surprised when they called me up on stage. I always come back from national meetings with lots of notes and work, but rarely do I come back with a smile on my face. I am honored to have been nominated by all my great friends and partners here in Illinois. I look forward to making more progress and improvements for Illinois and her beautiful forest resources,” adds Gradle.

Illinois’ State Conservationist for NRCS
William J. Gradle receives award from
Kathy McGlauflin, Senior Vice President
of Education at the American Forest
Foundation at a National Leadership Team
meeting held February 14th in Reno, Nevada.

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