The Carson Water Subconservancy District (CWSD) Board of Directors presented the 2026 Andy Aldax Carson River Watershed Award to former United States Geological Survey (USGS) State Office Chief Terry Katzer and longtime Douglas County dairy farmer and CWSD Board Director Fred Stodieck during their monthly meeting Jan. 21.
The award, named for longtime CWSD Director Andy Aldax, recognizes the exemplary service of individuals and organizations who devote 10 years or more to conserving and protecting the Carson River Watershed.
“Katzer’s lifelong commitment to the Carson River has left an enduring impact on the region’s water resource management,” said CWSD Board Director Lisa Schuette in her award nomination letter. Throughout his career, Katzer focused on science, publishing several Carson River-related reports and maps that collectively formed a reference for subsequent watershed research. He also served as Assistant Federal Watermaster for the Truckee-Carson River System and CWSD Secretary-Manager. “He has made this community a better place…and we are honored to honor you,” added Schuette.
Stodieck, a CWSD Board Director for 31 years, operates Stodieck Farm, which has been in his family since 1868. His lifetime of experience in the Carson Valley informed not only his Board tenure but also his 17 years on the Douglas County Water Conveyance Advisory Committee and his time as Nevada Farm Bureau President.
CWSD General Manager Ed James thanked Stodieck for introducing him to the region. “When I was first learning where the Carson River Watershed and Carson Valley were, Fred was very helpful…Fred has always been a great support for the watershed,” said James.
Nominating Board Directors Ernie Schank, Doug Johnson, and Stacey Giomi reinforced this sentiment in their award letter, stating “Fred’s knowledge of all areas of concern in the Carson River Watershed has been a historical treasure.”
After introducing several family members in attendance, Stodieck joked about who would be able to meet Andy Aldax’s years on the CWSD Board.
The two award winners found a common history: Early in his career, Katzer often found himself working with or consulting Stodieck’s father, Cecil, who had once been the Carson River’s Federal Water Master.
The presentation of the Andy Aldax Carson River Watershed Award is an annual highlight for the CWSD Board of Directors. Created in 2007, the award honors the legacy of the late Andy Aldax, a 53-year CWSD Board Director and a tireless agricultural advocate and watershed steward for the Carson River Watershed.
