SALEM, Ore.,  Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that Bruce Taylor, the Oregon Biodiversity Program Director of Defenders of Wildlife and the Director of the Oregon Habitat Joint Venture, is this year’s winner of the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s (NRCS) Excellence in Conservation Award.

“Excellence in natural resources conservation is achieved when people put their commitment to conservation into action,” Vilsack said. “Bruce’s outstanding leadership in bringing together private landowners, conservation organizations and state and federal agencies proudly displays that commitment.”

Vilsack’s announcement was read at an award ceremony held at the Oregon State Capital. A tireless advocate for biodiversity, Taylor is known nationwide for partnership efforts that have protected and restored thousands of acres of wetlands and other native habitats in Oregon.

NRCS Oregon State Conservationist Ron Alvarado and leaders of state agriculture and natural resource agencies joined Secretary Vilsack in recognizing Taylor’s leadership and accomplishments.

“Bruce has an amazing gift for bring people together,” Alvarado said. “The benefits that have come from the partnerships that he has put together are absolutely invaluable.”

“USDA, NRCS and the entire state of Oregon owe Bruce Taylor their gratitude,” said NRCS Chief Dave White. “Because of his efforts, conservation in Oregon and the entire region is thriving.”

The NRCS Excellence in Conservation Award honors those outside the Federal government for their work in conservation.

For information on NRCS programs and projects, and its nationwide conservation partnership, stop by your local USDA service center or visit NRCS online at www.nrcs.usda.gov.

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