Steve Nelson Memorial Scholarship Fund

Steve Nelson was a member of the Cherokee County Conservation Board for 23 yrs before stepping down in January 2020.  He was very interested in the outdoors throughout his life, graduating from Iowa State University with a degree in Fisheries & Wildlife Biology and continuing on to receive his Master’s of Science degree in Environmental and Forest Biology from State University of New York College of Environmental Science of Forestry. Steve was a lifelong learner who continued to research in order to improve his conservation efforts and farming practices. In addition to his service on the Conservation and church boards, he served on the Board of Directors for the First Cooperative Association from 2005 to 2011.

Unfortunately, Steve passed away due to an ATV accident in July 2020. To celebrate his life and legacy, his family established this scholarship through the CCCB to assist students in their lifelong learning.

Every year, a graduating senior from either the Cherokee High School or MMCRU High School will be awarded $700. This individual must be pursuing a college degree that will allow them to enter into a career in fisheries and wildlife conservation or environmental sciences. 

For more information on the scholarship or Steve Nelson or to access the scholarship application, please click the link below:

Steve Nelson Memorial Scholarship

By donating funds to the scholarship, you are not only helping keep Steve's legacy alive, but also assisting graduating seniors financially as they pursue a degree to help conservation!

Shooting Range Improvements

This county-owned property has a long history of being managed by a local conservation & environmental education-oriented group known as the Little Sioux Wildlife Association. The management of the property was transferred to the Cherokee County Conservation Board in 2023 and named the Licklider Shooting Complex. This 50-acre property currently consists of a rifle/pistol range with 25, 50, and 100 yard shooting distances. 

We have several improvements in the future. These include a trap area, archery range with a 3-D target trail, new shooting tables, new roof on the 100 yard shooting shelter, development and installation of a 50 yard shooting shelter, updated electrical in the buildings, a storage building/office, and a rentable 3 season day-use facility. 

We are looking for donations and sponsorships to complete these projects. If you are interested in being a sponsor, please contact our office at 712-225-6709.