Teton Conservation District is proud to announce that Rob Dearing is the recipient of the inaugural Teton Conservation Vision Award for his contributions to wildfire risk reduction in our community.
As a volunteer firefighter with Jackson Hole Fire/EMS for 18 years, Dearing has fought wildfires, protected homes, and captained the Adams Canyon Firehouse. He also volunteered his time to build Teton Conservation District’s Wildfire Risk Reduction Program alongside Robb Sgroi, Land Resources Specialist for the district. “In his typical friendly, constructive, thoughtful, and thorough manner, Rob helped envision our wildfire program, and in doing so directly enhanced both firefighter and resident safety,” says Sgroi.
Photos by Taylor Glenn, courtesy of Rob Dearing
The Teton Conservation Vision Award seeks to recognize people like Dearing whose vision influences the trajectory of conservation in our community. With Dearing’s guidance, the district’s wildfire program has served 392 properties and grown to include road corridor and common space wildfire risk reduction projects. Sgroi sincerely appreciates Dearing’s contributions beyond the district as well. “Rob’s Fire/EMS colleagues and friends are all effusive in their praise and gratitude for his dedication to our community. Jackson is a better place for the spirit of volunteerism that Rob has offered behind the scenes,” says Sgroi. Dearing has served our community while also raising two children and owning and operating Dearing Furniture Workshop.
As compensation for Rob’s significant contributions, this award will be accompanied by a $500 credit to the Slow Food of the Tetons year-round Online Marketplace. Slow Food of the Tetons Executive Director Scott Steen explains, “Mr. Dearing will be able to choose from the array of locally produced food from the 30 different vendors available through the Online Marketplace.”
Carlin Girard, Executive Director of the Teton Conservation District is proud to promote both the volunteer efforts of Rob Dearing and the production of local food. “Teton Conservation District is a partnering organization though-and-through. It is rare that we accomplish our goals without partner support,” he says. “Many of our partners carry a lot of weight, sometimes in their free time, to the benefit of the entire community. Rob Dearing is one of those people.” Carlin adds, “Conservation Districts are here to fill those important natural resources gaps, and wildfire risk reduction and increasing local food production are two of our large priorities. Congratulations Rob and thanks for helping us showcase and support these crucial community resources.”
Photos by Taylor Glenn, courtesy of Rob Dearing