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RSA celebrates Earth day with Hi-Line Retirement

To celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd, The Ranchers Stewardship Alliance (RSA) donated and planted an apple tree in honor of the Hi-Line Retirement Center residents. Sheila Walsh, RSA Board Member welcomed the residents, reviewed the history of the organization and then talked about the fencing, water development and grass seeding projects RSA offers through grant rewards they have received in the past few years. She thanked the residents for their hard work on their farms and ranches as conservationists which in turn allowed their families to continue farming and ranching. Paula Enkerud, Exec. Director of RSA led a discussion with the residents. They shared stories of their past experiences of summer-fallowing, planting trees, digging wells, surviving droughts, and harsh winters. They even shared a few pointers when it came time to plant the apple tree Katie Brown, member of RSA, provided to be planted on the west side of the Center. While Katie assisted the residents in planting the tree, she spoke to them about being a fourth-generation rancher herself. Katie thanked the residents for the great conservation management of the prairie and handing down their knowledge to generations such as hers. "This tree is a small token of our appreciation. It may only be a tree, but, in spirit, it means so much more."

RSA was formed in 2003 and was given 501 (c) 3 nonprofit status in 2006. Since its inception, RSA has been a volunteer-led organization. Last November they were able to hire its first full-time Executive Director, Paula Enkerud. Since 2017, RSA has been rewarded two National Fish and Wildlife Foundation grants. These grant monies allow RSA to assist landowners to develop and/or enhance grazing systems and restore native pasture for the benefit of livestock, wildlife, and birds. To date, conservation projects' total acres in Blaine, Phillips, and Valley counties consist of 6,515, acres reseeded for ranching use; 4,116 with improved management of crested wheatgrass and 7,512 acres of grazing systems established on expired CRP. RSA is regionally known for its local landowner-led conservation committee which collaborates with 9 local, state and national partners including governmental and private agencies. Paula mentioned RSA's 2018 annual report is available and to stop by the office located in Ste.3 in the Business Center if you would like a copy or for more information about RSA.

 

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