Mary Ann Bower, former Conservation District Manager honored

by Christopher Miller

MILL HALL – Tears, smiling faces, and congratulatory remarks were all the rave Thursday evening at the Clinton County Conservation District office near Mill Hall.

Long-time and recently retired District Manager Mary Ann Bower was honored and celebrated with a gift that will last in perpetuity: the naming of the Learning Center at the District office.

History will now remember the building, which stands at 45 Cooperation Lane in Porter Township, as the Mary Ann Bower Learning Center.

Mary Ann started her career with the Conservation District in December of 1986, being named District Manager in 1997. Wade Jodun, current District Manager, applauded her commitment to the district and environmental education. “It was seen as an afterthought in the ‘80s, but today we are much more environmentally-minded citizens who equip children, tomorrow’s leaders, for environmental change and influence,” said Wade.

The rock that bears Mary Ann’s name, and those surrounding, are of very special meaning to the Conservation District. “These rocks are from local AMD (Acid Mine Drainage) sites that we cleaned up, and some weigh nearly 300 pounds,” Wade exclaimed, which is a very fitting tribute to Mary Ann’s career with the District.

The Board of Directors was on-hand for the stone unveiling, as well. Board member and vice-chairman Charlie Dotterer spoke about Mary Ann’s willingness to always be available to answer questions, and that her help goes far beyond what she was able to accomplish with the Envirothon, running the day-to-day in the office, fundraising for projects and initiatives, and for being a helping hand when he needed it most, jokingly, when his car wouldn’t start late one night. Her flexibility was also lauded for being able to move in and out of four physical office plants during her leadership.

When Mary Ann spoke, tears filled her eyes as she did her best to hold back the emotions.

“I don’t deserve this recognition, but I would not be here without the Board’s support or my Staff, definitely Susie Peters,” Mary Ann said. “In this position, there was always something new to work towards, such as the knowledge that we spread to the young people, and environmental education that we provided for both children and adults…I am so happy that these projects can continue to be carried on.”

Mary Ann then went on to say, “thank you very much for this honor, I am really, very touched.”