The Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (MASWCD) and the DNR awarded the Minnesota Outstanding Forest Steward award to Erik and Amanda Nelson family for their leadership and protection to forest resources. They were nominated by Itasca Soil and Water and NRCS. 

pictured left to right: Andy Arens, District Manager; Don Simons, Itasca Soil & Water board supervisor; Marge Sella, NRCS District Conservationist; Amanda Nelson, award recipient; Erik Nelson, award recipient; Elizabeth Nelson, award recipient; and Calvin Sarri, Itasca Soil & Water board supervisor.