An Icon Retires
There are people who become the face of where they work. Their work grants them entrance into a place of respect that classifies them as iconic. I know such a person, this humble person would probably cringe when I define her as, “iconic.” That’s okay, it’s true and I will do it only once, she certainly deserves it.
The Pennington Soil and Water Conservation District was formed in 1948 and celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2023. 60 percent of the very existence of the Pennington SWCD has included Barb Molskness as an employee. She has served in some capacity for over 46 years with the Soil and Water. Her current position is District Coordinator.
I worked with Barb as an SWCD Supervisor for 8 years and recently in my position as Ag Services Coordinator. Some employees establish themselves the first year or two of their employment and then just do the same thing over and over until they retire, which is fine for them. Barb’s career has been one of growth as she developed her skills and accepted new responsibilities, every year has been one of growth and excellence for Barb.
Here is what former District Manager Bryan Malone told me about Barb, “Barb’s ability to provide great customer service is the foundation to our success at the SWCD. She would greet our clients with a smile and a welcoming demeanor. If she didn’t know them, she would know their parents or grandparents. When children were in the office, she would find a coloring book or small toy to keep (them) entertained” Last week several of us gathered to present the 6th Grade Outdoor Education Day. Barb helped create this event in 1998, it is valuable information for the kids and they really enjoy it. Over time, many of you have joined us for the Annual Pennington SWCD Banquet. This banquet features a chance for residents to see what their Soil and Water does against a background of a nice meal and entertainment.
There are few banquets like this and you will find Barb’s handiwork woven into the tapestry of this important event. She even has a three-ring binder that diagrams table and chair placement, Barb is very detail-oriented!
I want to mention that Barb would say all of this is teamwork and she would graciously defer any praise or glory. She is genuinely humble and shows grace when accepting accolades as well as dealing with challenges. The Conservation Reserve Program was such a challenge when the program was created to stabilize farmer income and remove environmentally sensitive land from production. Barb was there with her typical good character and hard work to help sign up landowners for this detailed program.
There’s typically one person in any organization that helps bind people together; Barb is this person. I think Barb unites people with her enthusiasm, impeccable communication and kindness. It’s really her kindness that creates such trust between fellow employees. I think this bond is part of what makes them such an effective team and one big reason that they do such good work.
I asked Peter Nelson, SWCD District Manager, to sum up what Barb has meant to the lives she touched and the programs she worked to support. “Barb’s wealth of knowledge and experience has been vital to the success of the District. She has seen many changes in staff, programs, and funding but her dedication and enthusiasm to conservation remain steadfast and I truly believe our community is a better place because of her.” Yep, that sounds about right.
Have a good retirement, Barb. We will all miss you.
Matt Breuer Kara Super-Peterson Val Truscinski
Thank You!!
