USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Announces Sarah Trichel Selected as Louisiana State Conservationist

ALEXANDRIA, May 15, 2026 - The USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has announced the selection of Sarah Trichel as the new Louisiana State Conservationist. Trichel, a native of Natchitoches, Louisiana, has been acting in the role since July 2025. She will officially assume the position on May 17, 2026, and brings more than 16 years of dedicated service and leadership in conservation.

"It is an honor to be selected as the next State Conservationist of Louisiana. I am looking forward to serving our amazing farmers and producers and working together with our dedicated NRCS team and partners to continue our conservation efforts to protect the natural resources of our great state." - Sarah Trichel

Sarah began her journey in conservation as an NRCS Earth Team Volunteer in 2007. She advanced through several key positions including Soil Conservationist, District Conservationist, and State Program Specialist. Her commitment and expertise led her to join the Louisiana State Leadership Team as Assistant State Conservationist for Programs in 2020.

In 2023, Sarah extended her impact to the national stage, serving as the Conservation Stewardship Program Team Lead in the Financial Assistance Programs Division at the NRCS National Office. Throughout her career, Sarah has demonstrated a passion for conservation and a strong commitment to Louisiana's agricultural and natural resources communities.

Sarah holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Northwestern State University. She and her husband, Daniel, are proud parents to Alden and Brynlee. Outside of her professional responsibilities, Sarah enjoys spending time with her family outdoors hunting, fishing, and hiking, as well as supporting her children's many athletic activities.

NRCS welcomes Sarah Trichel to her new role and looks forward to her leadership in advancing conservation initiatives across Louisiana.

More Information

To learn more about NRCS programs, producers can contact their local USDA Service Center. Producers can also apply for NRCS programs, manage conservation plans and contracts, and view and print conservation maps by logging into their farmers.gov account. If you don't have an account, sign up today.

For more than 90 years, NRCS has helped farmers, ranchers and forestland owners make investments in their operations and local communities to improve the quality of our air, water, soil, and wildlife habitat. NRCS uses the latest science and technology to help keep working lands working, boost agricultural economies, and increase the competitiveness of American agriculture. NRCS provides one-on-one, personalized advice and financial assistance and works with producers to help them reach their goals through voluntary, incentive-based conservation programs. For more information, visit nrcs.usda.gov.

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