Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Bookhout.
Melissa, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started working for Dixon Ranches as Treasurer after the death of Roger M. Dixon in 2005. Before Mr. Dixon’s death, he asked Clint Josey, my father to take over the foundation he started in 1994. In 2010 I transitioned into the Dixon Water Foundation as Treasurer and later Secretary and North Texas Education Director.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My experience working with everyone associated with the foundation has been first class.
I have learned so much over the years.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Dixon Water Foundation – what should we know?
The Mission for the Dixon Water Foundation is to promote healthy watersheds through sustainable land management to ensure that future generations have the water resources they need. We have 2 cattle ranches out in West Texas and 4 cattle/sheep ranches in North Texas. We have partnerships with several groups that do research, promote and teach water conservation.
Our ranches are a demonstration of regenerative agriculture which means we are using animals as a tool to improve our soil health and increase the diversity of our native grasses. We have have been recognized by several groups for our land management. This year we received the Leopold Conservation Award. This is the states top conservation award and all of us at Dixon are so honored to have received it.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I think my most important quality is my tenacity. When my father told me about taking over the Dixon Water Foundation in 2005 I very much wanted to be a part of it. I did everything I could to be of value to this foundation and never said no to anything that needed to be done.
Contact Info:
- Address: 4528 County Road 398
Decatur, TX 76234 - Website: www.dixonwater.org
- Phone: 940-768-2740
- Email: mbookhout@dixonwater.org
- Facebook: Dixon Water Foundation
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