The Nebraska Wildlife Federation has awarded the 2009 Professional Conservationist Award to the director of a group that helps manage one of the state's most scenic rivers.
Kalli Kieborz, executive director of the Niobrara Council, received the award last month.
The council helps protect portions of the river designated as scenic stretches.
The wildlife federation said Kieborz's behind-the-scenes work has motivated people to accomplish an impressive number of projects through the years.
Three others also received conservation awards: Dr. Lee Simmons,
director of Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha; Dave Hendee of the Omaha
World Herald; and Alec Engebretson, a professor at
Doane College.
