SDARL Program Director Jennifer Henrie provided an interactive training segment on communication skills for NRCS. The week-long NRCS program for newer members of NRCS, Conservation District, and partner organization staff provided training on information and planning tools that help landowners better manage and conserve their soil and water resources. Interacting with members of the public plays a large role in their work and communication skills are vital as they deliver technical advice and expertise to farmers and ranchers and explain the benefits of conservation practices.
Based on SDARL’s expertise and track record in leadership development, NRCS partnered with SDARL to provide a training segment in communication skills. Topics Henrie presented included active listening and how to network. About 20 participants received this training and had the opportunity to learn and practice skills to help them interact with their clients.
NRCS is a strong supporter of SDARL and regularly nominates candidates for the SDARL program. Alumni include Shane Reis (SDARL VIII), Ryan Beer (SDARL IX), Tanse Herrmann (SDARL X), Colette Kessler (SDARL XI), and Matt Odden (SDARL XI), with Justin Boerboom an incoming member of SDARL XII.
