Nebraskan named to national conservation Hall of Distinction

SYRACUSE – A 30-year member of the Nemaha Natural Resources District Board is the first Nebraskan selected for the National Association of Conservation Districts Hall of Distinction.

Dr. Orval Gigstad is described as a steadfast champion for natural resource stewardship.

Gigstad: “I just never had any idea that I would get on that hall. It was a humbling experience. It’s a big honor to be named up there.”

Nemaha NRD Manager Kyle Hauschild said there has always been a Gigstad on the NRD board as Orval followed his dad, A.O. Gigstad, as a director.

Hauschild: “Orval has always been a great ambassadors for the NRDs and for conservation around the state and obviously it’s been around the country. To be nominated and achieve this award, obviously he’s doing good things for Nebraska, but also at the national level.”

The Nemaha NRD has completed its watershed structure priorities over the past three decades and is turning its attention toward maintenance of 400 dams and weirs, as well as groundwater quality. Gigstad said he is proud to represent Nebraska.

Gigstad: “Maybe the biggest thing I’m proud of is I’m a lucky guy because I get to go these national meetings and represent Nebraska. With our NRD system we’re just light years ahead of a lot of the states in what we do with natural resource conservation. Because we have an NRD system that enables us to do a lot of this work locally, without having to go to the state or county and beg for money.”

Gigstad also has 25 years on the state association is currently on the national association’s forestry subcommittee.

Gigstad: “That would be my legacy. I hope I represented Nebraska well because they have something to be really proud of with the NRDs.”

He said it’s important for NRDS to work with the state authorities on conservation goals, including water quantity and quality.

Here is the Hall of Distinction press release

Narrative Statement

Nebraska proudly nominates Dr. Orval Gigstad for induction into the NACD Hall of Distinction in recognition of his extraordinary leadership, vision, and decades-long commitment to advancing the nation’s conservation movement.
 For more than 30 years, Dr. Gigstad has been a steadfast champion for natural resource stewardship at the local, state, regional, and national levels. His service embodies the mission and spirit of NACD and has left an enduring impact on conservation practice and policy across the country.

Local Leadership and District Contributions

 Dr. Gigstad has served on the board of the Nemaha Natural Resources District since 1993, providing strong grassroots leadership that has shaped conservation outcomes across southeast Nebraska.

His guidance has helped the district address critical issues including flood control, water quality protection, and public recreation. A hallmark of his leadership has been his support for multi-purpose watershed and recreation projects that safeguard water quality while enhancing public access and outdoor enjoyment. These efforts have contributed to reduced soil erosion, improved watershed health, and strengthened community resilience.

Statewide Conservation Impact

Since 1996, Dr. Gigstad has been an influential leader on the board of the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD), including two terms as president. His leadership helped unify Nebraska’s 23 Natural Resources Districts around shared conservation priorities and strengthened districts statewide. Dr. Gigstad advanced strategic planning efforts, supported policy improvements, and ensured strong alignment between local district initiatives and statewide conservation goals. His steady leadership and collaborative approach earned the trust and respect of officials across Nebraska.

 Regional Leadership and Collaboration

 Dr. Gigstad’s conservation influence extends well beyond Nebraska. As Chair of NACD’s Northern Plains Region, he led collaboration among conservation districts across multiple states, encouraging the exchange of best practices in soil health, forestry, and water management. After many years of distinguished service, he recently transitioned to vice chair, providing continuity and mentorship for the next generation of regional leadership. His work has strengthened the voice and cohesion of the Northern Plains Region within NACD.

National Contributions to Conservation

 

 At the national level, Dr. Gigstad has devoted countless hours to NACD committee service, contributing to policy discussions that guide conservation work nationwide. His service on the Water Policy, Forest Resources, Communications, and Natural Resources Committees has brought both technical expertise and practical district-level experience to national decision-making. He currently serves on the Forestry Subcommittee, where he continues to advocate for sustainable forest management and healthy rural landscapes.

 His national involvement has not only advanced NACD’s mission but has enriched conservation programs back home in Nebraska.

Community Service and Youth Engagement Complementing his professional leadership

Dr. Gigstad has invested in community service. He has volunteered with 4-H, served as a Boy Scout leader, and been active in local agricultural, civic, and youth programs. Through these efforts, he has inspired young people to value conservation and understand their role in environmental stewardship. This underscores his belief that conservation is a generational responsibility.

Comprehensive Summary

 Dr. Orval Gigstad exemplifies the highest ideals of conservation service. His unwavering dedication, strategic leadership, and lifelong commitment to public service have strengthened conservation efforts in Nebraska and across the country. From the local watershed to the national policy arena, Dr. Gigstad has consistently advanced practical, effective conservation approaches. For his profound contributions, lasting impact, and more than three decades of leadership, Nebraska is honored to nominate Dr. Orval Gigstad for induction into the NACD Hall of Distinction.