Crystal Sauder - Resource Conservationist

Emilie Watkins -  Remote Grant Writer & Project Manager

Matt Raymond - Conservation Coordinator

Linda Settle - Administrative Coordinator

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See our Staff Bios below!

I grew up on my family's farm right outside of Roanoke. My passion for conservation has been influenced by growing up in an agricultural community and my experiences at Olivet Nazarene University. In May of 2019, I graduated from ONU with a B.S. in Zoology.​

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After serving as the District's Education Coordinator for 2 years, I transitioned into the role as the Resource Conservationist. I currently oversee the day-to-day operations of the District and assist Emilie and Matt with projects happening around the County. I enjoy providing urban conservation projects and programs to community members around Kankakee County.

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In my free time I enjoy birding, wildlife photography, hiking with my dog, Ducky, drinking coffee, and working on projects around my house!

I grew up on a five acre hobby farm in the rural outskirts of Peotone. Growing up surrounded by fields and forest instilled in me a passion for the outdoors, and an appreciation for country living. In 2016, I graduated from Olivet Nazarene University with a B.S. in Zoology.

After serving as the Resource Conservationist for the Kankakee County SWCD  for 5 years, I transitioned to a remote grant writing & project management position in 2021. My husband is an Army Nurse and we are currently stationed in San Antonio, TX (but who knows where we'll end up next!). I enjoy seeking out funding opportunities and facilitating collaborative projects that further clean water and healthy soil in Kankakee County and beyond.

In my free time I enjoy hiking and camping with my outdoorsy husband, wildlife photography, birding, and FaceTime Czech cooking dates with my Mama back in Illinois!

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