2026 DCB Conservation Award
Date Published: 3/30/26
Dakota College at Bottineau (DCB) is excited to announce two recipients of the 2026 DCB Conservation Award. The recipients will be recognized at DCB’s Earth Day celebration, Friday, April 24, 2026, at 12:00 pm on the DCB Campus in the Alumni Center located on the second floor of Thatcher Hall.
DCB has a long-standing focus on providing educational programming for students choosing careers that promote care and concern for the environment. Founded in 1906 as a forestry school, DCB continues its focus on practical and efficient training in forestry, horticulture, agriculture, and natural resources, and advocates for those who are inspired by the natural world to make a difference in their communities.
The 2026 Conservation Award is presented by DCB to an individual who has demonstrated leadership and has made notable contributions to the conservation, preservation, and enhancement of our precious natural resources. This person will have contributed in an exceptional way that has had a significant impact on their communities.
Young Conservationist Award – Kita Montejo, was born in Rugby, ND. Having lived in different areas, Kita’s observations ignited a passion to take action for preserving nature, which brought her to DCB. After earning an Associate of Arts in Science and an Associate of Arts in Art, she is excited to be moving on to earn her Bachelor's of Environmental Stewardship in Colorado and to work in the environmental field to help protect these wild and beautiful spaces and all their flora and fauna.
Conservationist Award – Darrell Oswald, after graduating from DCB, ventured into the Natural Resource and Soil Conservation District realm. Over the years, he has worked for Morton County SCD and Burleigh County SCD, holding various roles. In recent years, he has become the district manager and plays a key role in the creation and growth of Menoken Farms. He has helped lead Burleigh County SCD and Menoken Farms to national recognition for their advancements in soil health.
The recipients have received a special invitation. Guests are welcome and are asked to contact Sandy Hageness in the Campus Dean’s Office by April 20, 2026 in preparation for the recognition.