Is Your District Relevant Enough for the Future?
The Kansas Association of Conservation Districts (KACD) is pleased to announce Kimberly Bartley, Environmental Science Consultant with the Kentucky Division of Conservation, as a featured presenter at the 2026 KACD Annual Convention, November 22–24 in Wichita, Kansas.
Bartley will present “Is Your District Relevant Enough for the Future?”, an engaging session focused on helping conservation districts adapt to changing communities, strengthen leadership, and develop programs that meet the evolving needs of the people they serve.
As communities grow and priorities shift, conservation districts face new challenges and opportunities. Remaining effective requires more than continuing established programs. It means understanding community needs, building strong relationships, encouraging new leadership, and finding innovative ways to demonstrate the value of local conservation efforts.
During her presentation, Bartley will encourage district leaders, board members, and staff to take a closer look at their organizations and consider an important question: Are we doing enough to ensure our conservation districts remain relevant for future generations?
The session will explore practical ways districts can strengthen their impact, engage their communities, and position themselves for long-term success. Attendees will be encouraged to think beyond traditional approaches and consider how their districts can continue serving as trusted resources for conservation education, technical assistance, and natural resource stewardship.
Bringing More Than 25 Years of Conservation Experience
Bartley began her career with the Kentucky Division of Conservation in 2001. As an Environmental Science Consultant, she currently represents 17 of Kentucky's 121 conservation districts, working closely with district boards and staff to support local conservation efforts.
She also serves as a Nutrient Management Planner, assisting landowners throughout Kentucky with practices that support responsible agricultural production and natural resource conservation.
A graduate of the University of Kentucky, where she studied Agricultural Communication, Bartley has built her career around a passion for agriculture, conservation, and the people who make local conservation efforts possible.
Her work extends beyond Kentucky, as she has had opportunities to collaborate with conservation district boards across the United States, sharing ideas and encouraging leaders to strengthen their organizations.
Bartley considers the opportunity to inspire and support the conservation community both a challenge and an honor. Her experience working directly with districts provides a valuable perspective on the importance of strong leadership, community engagement, and adapting to changing needs.
Outside of her professional work, Bartley lives in Springfield, Kentucky, with her husband, Brian, and their two children, Taylor and Timothy. She enjoys spending time with family, being outdoors on the farm, and working in the garden.
Building Stronger Districts for Tomorrow
Bartley's presentation aligns with the theme of the 2026 KACD Annual Convention, “Founded in Dust: Leadership Growing a Stronger Future.”
The theme recognizes the history of conservation districts, which emerged from the environmental challenges of the Dust Bowl era, while emphasizing the leadership, innovation, and commitment needed to carry their mission forward.
As conservation districts look toward the future, Bartley's message will challenge attendees to consider how their organizations can continue growing, adapting, and making a meaningful difference in their communities.
Join Us at the 2026 KACD Annual Convention
The 2026 Kansas Association of Conservation Districts Annual Convention will take place November 22–24, 2026, in Wichita, Kansas, bringing together conservation district supervisors, staff, partners, and conservation professionals from across the state.
Attendees will have opportunities to connect with fellow conservation leaders, exchange ideas, learn from experienced presenters, and explore strategies for strengthening conservation efforts throughout Kansas.
Learn more about the convention and registration opportunities at KACD.net.