NEW PARIS — The 67th Preble Soil and Water Conservation District Annual Meeting was held Sept. 8, at Today’s Harvest Farm in New Paris.

Prior to the meeting, a few guests were able to enjoy the Today’s Harvest corn maze before the storm clouds and rain rolled in. The Board of Supervisors election was held, and Bear Paw Catering served the meal.

Following the meal, Shelby County Sheriff and SWCD Board Member John Lenhart spoke on the current drug crisis. Attendees were able to ask him questions, and then this year’s conservation award winners were recognized.

Robert Bowman of Dixon Township was selected as the Cooperator of the Year for the work he has done on his cattle and grain farm. Dennis Bunger was inducted into the Conservation Hall of Fame. Dennis worked for the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Preble County for over 27 years prior to his retirement in 2014.

Results of the board of supervisors election were announced. Donn Kolb was re-elected for a new three-year term to begin in 2017. Returning board members include Kip Denlinger, Keith Schmidt, Mike Broermann, and Jim Leedy.

The SWCD would like to thank everyone who helped with the annual meeting, including Tom Jordan and Today’s Harvest employees, John Lenhart, National Trail FFA members, and the following door prize donors: Auto Zone, Buckeye Farmers, Crop Production Services, Michael Murphy Insurance, Preble County Historical Society, Quality Tile & Drainage, RayLynn Outfitters, the Preble County Solid Waste Management District, Superior Ag. Solutions, Steinke Tractor Sales, and Tractor Supply. Thanks also to everyone who attended the meeting. The SWCD looks forward to working with residents of the county in the coming year.