Too often, our true conservation heroes go unrecognized for all they do to ensure South Dakota wildlife has abundant habitat to thrive. Second Century Habitat Fund recognizes this in our community and has made it a priority to annually recognize a homeowner from South Dakota. , farmer or rancher who has done his best to give back to the land he manages. This year we had several excellent nominees, but one stood out above the rest for his many years of service to the conservation community and proven land management practices to maximize habitat for all species.
“Terry Ness is our Habitat Steward Award winner for 2022 and we couldn’t be more honored to recognize him for all his efforts. Terry has been practicing soil management for years on his property and has proven very successful with the abundant amount of wildlife that inhabits his property. Terry also hosts military members and junior hunters on his property to experience excellent pheasant hunting as he continues the rich traditions of South Dakota’s hunting heritage,” said Brian Bashore, SCHF Executive Director.
Terry received a $2,000 cash prize and a plaque presented to him during the Aberdeen (North East) Pheasant Forever chapter’s Fall Flush fundraiser. You can read Terry’s nomination letter in its entirety here: Nomination Letter. You can find more information or submit a nominee for the 2023 Habitat Steward Award at sdhabitatfund.org
About Second Century Habitat Fund, South Dakota
The Second Century Habitat Fund is a 501 c3 nonprofit corporation that works to educate homeowners about the importance of grasslands to improving pheasant habitat in South Dakota. The Fund is governed by a Board of Directors that represents landowners, business owners, pheasant reserve operators, and community leaders throughout South Dakota.