Mark Larsen Earns Alan George Conservation Award Honor

Award Highlights Larsen’s Impact on Regional Water Resources

• Bonnie Johnson
• August 31, 2026
• Media Article

Mark Larsen, recipient of the Alan George Conservation Award, is being recognized for his leadership in water management, conservation, and fostering collaboration between agricultural and environmental interests.

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Veteran Tulare County water manager Mark Larsen will be honored with the Alan George Conservation Award during Sequoia Riverlands Trust’s annual “Evening Under the Oaks” event on Oct. 1 at Kaweah Oaks Preserve near Visalia. The award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to conservation, natural resource protection, and environmental sustainability.
 

Larsen, a Fresno native, has spent more than two decades working in the Kaweah watershed and currently serves as general manager of the Greater Kaweah Groundwater Sustainability Agency. He also serves as general manager of the Kaweah Delta Water Conservation District and watermaster for the Kaweah and St. Johns Rivers Association.
 

In addition, Larsen spent 18 years on the Sequoia Riverlands Trust board of directors, including a term as board chair, helping guide the organization through a period of growth and development.
 

Throughout his career, Larsen has worked to improve cooperation between agriculture and conservation interests. He has focused on finding common ground and supporting projects that benefit both natural resources and local communities.
 

One example was a groundwater recharge project at Kaweah Oaks Preserve. Although concerns related to cattle grazing initially delayed the effort, stakeholders ultimately found a solution that allowed both activities to continue successfully.
 

“Long story short, we found that the cattle had no problem with the recharge activities,” Larsen said.
 

Larsen said successful projects require persistence and a willingness to find practical solutions. “It’s too easy to say no. Sometimes we just have to find a way to go through, around, or under an issue.”
 

Sequoia Riverlands Trust Executive Director Logan Robertson Huecker praised Larsen’s commitment to protecting land and water resources. The Alan George Conservation Award honors individuals who demonstrate leadership, stewardship, and collaboration in advancing conservation efforts across the region.
 

Photo Credit: sjvwater.org