Who We Are

Who We Are:

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KACD Staff

Ms. Crystal D. Renfro, Executive Director

Ms. Crystal D. Renfro, of Richmond, Kentucky, is the Executive Director of the Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts (KACD), a role she has held since 2018. With a rich background spanning over 20 years, she brings deep expertise in soil science, conservation education, and grassroots leadership to her position.

Her love for the land began in high school, where she was part of the National Champion FFA Land Judging Team at Madison Central High School in Richmond. She pursued her passion at Eastern Kentucky University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with an emphasis in Soil Science. Early in her career, Crystal served as a Soil Conservation Technician for the Madison County Conservation District. She then advanced to Field Representative at the Kentucky Division of Conservation, overseeing technical and cost-share programs across 15 central counties. Later, as Program Manager for the Estill County Conservation District, she led regional conservation initiatives, from field practice implementation to collaboration with local and state agencies.

At KACD, Crystal coordinates efforts among 121 Conservation Districts, representing 847 elected supervisors, and works closely with the National Association of Conservation Districts. She is known for her pragmatic leadership, “helping people help the land,” and for championing soil and water stewardship, youth involvement, and interagency cooperation.

Crystal’s professional demeanor, technical knowledge, and enduring love for Kentucky’s natural resources have solidified her reputation as a visionary leader in the state's conservation and agricultural communities.

Please contact Crystal at any time at: Crystal.Renfro.KACD@outlook.com for any questions or concerns you may have about the association and our mission.

Mrs. Kayleigh Evans,

Farm Bill Engagement and Training Coordinator

Mrs. Kayleigh Evans is the Farm Bill Engagement and Training Coordinator for the Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts, a role she has held since July 2025. Prior to holding this position, Kayleigh worked for the Harrison County Conservation District in Kentucky for 16 years. Through her career in conservation and experience as a landowner/farmer, Kayleigh brings a unique perspective to this role.

Throughout the 16 years of Kayleigh Evans’ career with the conservation district, she served in multiple leadership roles within the Kentucky Association of Conservation District Employees, notably President 2016-2020; in the Southeast Conservation District Employees Association, notably President 2021-2023; as well as the National Conservation District Employees Association, serving as a Region Director and the Board Secretary. Kayleigh credits much of her passion for conservation to her participation within the employee associations.

As the KACD Farm Bill Engagement and Training Coordinator, Kayleigh Evans works to strengthen outreach, education, and partnership efforts related to federal conservation programs and Farm Bill initiatives across Kentucky. In this role, she coordinates training opportunities, supports stakeholder engagement, and helps to connect farmers, conservation districts, and community partners with resources that promote agriculture and conservation practices. Her work focuses on building collaborative relationships and increasing awareness of opportunities that benefit both agricultural producers and local communities.

Mrs. Kayleigh Evans is excited and grateful for her opportunity to work with the Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts!

Mr. Seth Smallwood,

Public Affairs Specialist

Seth Smallwood serves as the Public Affairs Specialist for the Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts (KACD), where Seth leads statewide communications efforts that highlight the work of Kentucky’s 121 Conservation Districts and their partners. In this role, Seth develops strategic messaging, manages digital outreach, and supports media engagement to strengthen public understanding of conservation priorities across the Commonwealth.

Seth’s work includes producing articles, photos, videos, graphics, and social media content that showcase conservation programs and success stories. From documenting field projects and filming educational videos to developing statewide outreach materials, Seth helps districts and partners share their impact in clear and compelling ways.

As the KACD Public Affairs Specialist, his efforts support the shared goal of helping people help the land by elevating the stories, stewardship, and community commitment that define conservation in Kentucky.