After 25 years of dedicated service, Cynthia Purcell is retiring as district manager of the San Juan Conservation District (SJCD) and as program support specialist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service for the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Since the SJCD encompasses Archuleta, and parts of Hinsdale and Mineral counties, Purcell was involved with many projects over her career.
Among her many accomplishments during her tenure, she helped lead numerous conservation initiatives, worked closely with local landowners and partners, and guided the district through significant changes.
Purcell was instrumental in initiating the Stollsteimer Creek Watershed Committee and Plan, developing a targeted conservation project with the NRCS at the Elk Park subdivision, and the rehabilitation of the Navajo River for improved fish habitat.
She also supported the agricultural community with the development of an updated inventory and assessment of the county’s irrigation ditches, among many other initiatives.
Reflecting on her career and her legacy for future generations, Purcell wants young people to know that they too can make a lasting impact on the land with their future decisions.
With her retirement, she looks forward to doing things on her own schedule.
Purcell has given our community a legacy of conservation stewardship and service.
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