Rural Community Builder Name: Herb Winters
Community: Condon and Fossil, OR
Role: District Manager – Gilliam Soil & Water Conservation District
Recognized by: K’Lynn Lane
What is one word or phrase that describes this person as an RCB: Dedicated
Tell us a bit about what you appreciate about them as an RCB:
It’s an honor to celebrate Herb Winters, as a Rural Community Builder in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the economic sustainability and conservation efforts in the lower John Day River Basin.
Herb has devoted his career to educating and assisting the community in conservation practices that safeguard our soil and water resources for future generations. His leadership has been instrumental in fostering collaboration and bringing together diverse stakeholders, including district directors, the Oregon Department of Agriculture, the Natural Resource Conservation Service, the Oregon Association of Conservation Districts, and the Gilliam-East John Day Watershed Council. In addition to his leadership roles, Herb plays a pivotal role in restoration projects that work with private landowners to enhance their upland and riparian properties. These restoration initiatives include off-channel water developments, juniper removal, invasive weed treatment, and riparian & wetland fencing.
Herb’s commitment to these projects reflects his dedication to the long-term health and resilience of the community’s natural environment. It’s clear that Herb embraces the value of working together and building a sense of community alongside projects and initiatives.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Herb is actively involved in the community, coaching baseball, cheering on young athletes from the sidelines, and supporting local fundraisers. His commitment to community building extends to his personal life, where he shares these experiences with his wonderful family.
Herb Winters is a visionary leader whose dedication to the rural communities of Eastern Oregon has left an indelible mark.
