County conservation board receives state tourism award

The Iowa Tourism Office and the Travel Federation of Iowa presented 21 awards to industry members during the 2010 Iowa Tourism Conference in Burlington Thursday, including the Natural Resources award to the Jefferson County Conservation Board.

Judging was largely based on outstanding contributions and efforts for a tourism-related activity or attraction that focused on the state?s natural beauty or outdoor recreation.

Like many other conservation boards in Iowa, the Jefferson County Conservation Board acquires, develops and maintains parks, recreational areas, forest, wildlife and other conservation areas in the county. The local conservation board manages 11 areas covering more than 1,363 acres. But it is the staff that makes these areas come alive for residents and visitors and who have made a significant contribution to Fairfield?s tourism efforts, said Rustin Lippincott, executive director of the Fairfield Iowa Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The board has a deep understanding that their unique offerings are an economic boon to the community and help enhance the quality of life, continued Lippincott. Nature lovers from a documented 30 states have made use of the facilities and activities from hunting and fishing to camping and hiking.

For the complete article and photo, see the Friday, Oct. 22, 2010, printed edition of The Fairfield Ledger.