Conservation District Supervisor leaves behind lasting impact

PRESS RELEASE

 The West Virginia Association of Conservation Districts wants to recognize James “Jim” Foster as he retires after five decades of service with the West Fork Conservation District (WFCD), serving as a board supervisor. WFCD covers Doddridge, Harrison, Gilmer, and Lewis Counties. Foster joined the U.S. Air Force at 19, which brought him to the state. He served for 23 years and in time, chose to start a farm in the hills of Doddridge County and eventually became a WFCD supervisor in 1988. 

Over the years, Foster has been inducted into the West Virginia Agriculture and Forestry Hall of Fame, named the 2006 Grassland Farmer of the Year, the 2006 Conservation Supervisor of the Year, and the 2003 National Grange Family of the Year. 

Foster’s 53-years as a supervisor and leader in agricultural conservation extend beyond his district’s borders, but to every corner of the state. His counsel has helped local, state, and federal partners with local insight on conservation and agriculture practices. 

He has also been a monumental advocate for instilling and guiding young West Virginians in agricultural pursuits through his work with West Virginia Envirothon,

helping them better understand conservation practices and possibly guiding them in future endeavors within the conservation and agriculture career field. 

Remarks from partnering agencies and friends about James “Jim” Foster’s contributions to agricultural conservation in West Virginia.

“Jim Foster’s conservation expertise has been invaluable for many years,” said West Virginia Conservation Agency Executive Director, Judith Lyons. “His counsel on matters has long been appreciated, and his dedication to the West Fork Conservation District and to the growth of his fellow conservation district supervisors is unmatched. His legacy is one of honesty, dedication and advocacy for conservation in West Virginia.” 

“In all of the years I’ve known Jim, I feel that you always knew where you stood with him,” said NRCS District Conservationist, Katy McBride. “He wasn’t afraid to stand up for what was right and he was never one to back down from anything or anyone. A lot of people could learn a lot from him, how to work hard, how to put others first, and be a good steward of the land.”

“He was on the board when I started working for the district,” said Elk Conservation District Supervisor, Shirly Hire. “He’s been very dedicated for the association and for the WFCD whether it was watersheds, pastures or environmental education, he was good at just everything.” 

Even though the West Virginia Association of Conservation Districts wishes Jim Foster a happy retirement from his supervisor position, we know his impact on West Virginia agriculture and future generations of agriculturalists is far from over.