Stephanie Hatzenbihler Receives Deborah L. Swackhamer Award for Excellence in Water Resource Management
The Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is pleased to announce that Stephanie Hatzenbihler, Water Plan Coordinator, has been selected as one of the recipients of the 2024 Deborah L. Swackhamer Award for Excellence in Water Resource Management.
This award honors individuals who are early in their careers and are making significant contributions to the enhancement of Minnesota's water resources. To qualify, candidates must have 10 years or less of relevant experience.
“We are extremely proud of Stephanie,” said Dennis Fuchs, Administrator. “Her dedication to educating and engaging the community about the vital importance of protecting our water resources is notable. Stephanie’s efforts not only raise awareness but also inspire action, making a meaningful impact on our environment and future.”
Stephanie began her career with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Western New England University and jobs in environmental education. After completing a fellowship at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center in Southeastern Minnesota, she shifted to nonprofit management positions while pursuing a master’s degree in Natural Science and Environmental Education from Hamline University.
In 2017, Stephanie joined the City of Rochester as an Environmental Education Specialist with the stormwater team. She exceeded minimum permit requirements by focusing on inclusive public engagement for surface water management, behavior change research and programming for chloride and pet waste pollution reduction and utilizing Co-Design for Community Resilience Hub visioning.
Stephanie also facilitated effective collaborations between city departments, Olmsted County SWCD, MPCA, and other stakeholders. Her efforts to reduce barriers to participation and build trust included working with DEI specialists for inclusive community engagement, mentoring future water resource champions through MN Green Corps and MN Water Stewards programs and engaging the community with programs like Adopt-a-Drain, Litter Bit Better, and residential rain garden grants.
In March 2023, Stephanie joined Stearns County SWCD as a Water Plan Coordinator. She leads the efforts for the Mississippi River–Sartell One Watershed, One Plan, supports Wellhead Protection Plans, and hosts initiatives like the We Are Water exhibit. Stephanie also coaches the Sauk River Watershed Collaborative in Community-Based Social Marketing and serves as co-chair of the Minnesota Source Water Protection Collaborative and the Blue Thumb Steering Committee.
Hatzenbihler was honored at the Minnesota Water Resources Conference in St. Paul on October 15, 2024.
To learn more, visit: https://ccaps.umn.edu/minnesota-water-resources-conference/swackhamer-award
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