Jason and Maureen operate their family ranch along the banks of Bitter Creek in northwest Campbell County, near the Montana state line.  The Oedekoven’s have always viewed conservation as a staple of ranch management, and it is apparent if you have stepped foot on their ranch. Their stretch of Bitter Creek is full of native birds, reptiles, amphibians, pheasants, and deer raising their fawns. The forests on the ranch are also teeming with wildlife, including mule deer, wild turkeys, and the occasional elk. This is a testament to their passion and commitment to managing the land in a manner that benefits not only livestock, but wildlife alike.
 
The Oedekoven’s not only are dedicated to practicing conservation stewardship on their ranch, but they have always been huge advocates for conservation in the community. Jason served on the Campbell County Conservation District Board of Supervisors from 2008 to 2012. During that time, Jason learned about the wide array of conversation programs that different natural resource land management agencies had available for private landowners and spread the word to all of his neighbors. Many terrific conservation projects have come about at as a result of Jason putting in a good word for conservation. 
 
Jason and Maureen are highly deserving of this award, not only for the conservation actions that they practice on their ranch, but also for their dedication to spreading the word to their fellow neighbors. They have been terrific partners in spreading the word of conservation in northern Campbell County.