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By definition, conservation involves the protection, preservation, and sustainable management of natural resources, environments, and cultural artifacts to prevent their depletion or destruction. While often associated with a few highly visible roles, the field is driven by a diverse range of specialists working behind the scenes to make these efforts possible.

Meet Hannah Ziegler, nutrient management technician and social media content creator for Crawford and Wyandot Soil and Water Conservation Districts. Outside of the office, Ziegler, alongside her dad, raises corn, soybeans, and wheat and uses overwintering and cool-season annual cover crops to improve soil tilth, increase soil microbiology and supplement forage for their cow herd.

Day in the life

No two days are alike, which is what keeps my job exciting. I might be writing nutrient management plans for local producers, assessing warm- and cool-season pasture grasses, interviewing SWCD board members, or designing our next nutrient management and grazing newsletter. Outside of work and farming, I stay deeply involved in my community as a registered EMT, a Wyandot County Farm Bureau trustee, and an active member of both the Upper Sandusky Lions Club and St. Bernard’s Catholic Church.

Conservation chose me

I often joke, “I didn’t choose the world of conservation; the conservation world chose me.” I graduated from The Ohio State University with my bachelor of science in agricultural communication and animal sciences, thus I am a unique case when it comes to working in the conservation field. Not having studied crop science, agronomy, or natural resources, I am completely self-taught and have learned a great deal from hands-on training, conferences, collaboration with colleagues, and utilizing my own on-farm conservation experience. I am fascinated by the positive results we have seen from implementing an array of conservation practices across the landscape.

An impactful career

I think it’s often portrayed that farmers and consumers have differing views or outlooks on how the Earth should be taken care of, when in reality we all want the same thing: to make the world a safer, cleaner, and better place. That being said, just as there is a lack of education in other facets of the agriculture industry, conservation is no different. My role affords me the opportunity to share with consumers about the steps farmers are taking to improve water quality and the environment, while also working with farmers to implement best management practices keeping their bottom line in the forefront of discussion.

Serving as a trustee on the Wyandot County Farm Bureau Board has allowed me to strengthen my interpersonal connections with fellow farmers and conservationists alike. From cover crops, to new precision technology, and everything in between, I’ve been able to serve as a sounding board and see a different perspective as I field the good, bad and ugly conversations as a farmer and conservationist.

My uncle Fred once told me, “You can’t stub your toe standing still” meaning if you want to blaze a trail and chase your dreams, you cannot be afraid to fail. Don’t be afraid to walk through a door that may take you on an uncharted journey; those opportunities could be far greater than you imagine, and conservation may just be one of them.

Upcoming Deadlines and Events

Are you an early-stage business owner looking for grant assistance to reach your long-term goals? Look no further than the Growing Tomorrow Grant. Applications are due July 31. 

The Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation is looking for its next YAP foundation director. This is a unique leadership development opportunity for an active Young Ag Professional (ages 18–35) to hold a voting seat on the foundation’s board of directors for the 2027 term. Application deadline is July 31. 

Curious about diverse careers in agriculture? Learn more at one of Ohio Farm Bureau’s remaining ExploreAg one-day camps for students entering grades 9-12! See the full list of camp descriptions and application deadlines.

AgriPOWER is an elite 12-month leadership program that empowers and connects Ohio’s agriculture’s rising leaders in every sector. Application deadline is Aug. 1. 

Ohio Farm Bureau has teamed with Collette Tours to take guided travel experiences to a new level, starting with France, March 11-22, 2027. From the opulent Palace of Versailles to the enchanting streets of Paris, grab a baguette and rendezvous with the best of France. Bask in the rich history, culture, and romance of these celebrated cities, fairy-tale Loire Valley châteaux, and charming towns. The registration deposit deadline is Sept. 12.