The Colorado State Conservation Board (CSCB) has elected its first all-woman executive officer team for 2026. This marks a significant milestone as it aligns with the United Nations’ designation of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, an initiative that aims to recognize women’s contributions to food systems and highlight the challenges they face.
Nikki Brinson, Director of the Colorado State Conservation Board Program, commented on the announcement: “The leaders of the Colorado State Conservation Board bring together deep conservation expertise, strong practical knowledge and visionary stewardship leadership. This executive team is uniquely positioned to navigate the future in our local, state, and federal conservation partnerships, ensuring forward progress for our land, our producers, and our communities through locally led conservation.”
The CSCB operates under the Colorado Department of Agriculture and represents 74 Conservation Districts across the state. These districts have advocated for private landowners’ interests in conservation since 1937. The board provides support through technical assistance programs and cost-sharing opportunities aimed at promoting conservation practices among landowners.
The newly elected officers are President Maggie Hanna, Vice President Tammy Ridennoure, and Secretary Alysen Tarrant.
“It’s an honor to step into this role, especially as we get ready to celebrate the International Year of the Woman Farmer,” said Maggie Hanna. “Women have long been leaders in agriculture and conservation, and this executive team reflects the strength of locally led conservation. Together, we’ll support Conservation Districts and Colorado’s agricultural producers in maintaining resilient operations, healthy landscapes, and strong rural communities.”
Hanna serves on both the Upper Arkansas Watershed and El Paso Conservation District. She manages her family’s ranch near Fountain using sustainable practices such as Holistic Resource Management and rotational grazing; part of her property is protected by a conservation easement. She also leads grassland conservation efforts across North America as Director of the Central Grasslands Roadmap Initiative.
Vice President Tammy Ridennoure represents the Lower Arkansas Watershed on the West Otero Timpas Conservation District board. Her family operates Edgar Ranches, Inc., a seven-generation farm in Otero County focused on holistic management for both land health and business sustainability.
Secretary Alysen Tarrant represents the San Juan Basin Watershed on High Desert Conservation District. With two decades of experience in western U.S. conservation efforts across various industries, she is currently developing a small-acreage farm with her family to create a lasting homestead.
The mission of CSCB is to promote conservation of natural resources in Colorado by supporting local districts and developing cooperative programs for soil and water resource protection. The board plays a key role within the Colorado Department of Agriculture’s Strategic Plan under its Environmental Stewardship and Climate Resilience direction.
