WASHINGTON (Sept. 24, 2020) – The Public Lands Council (PLC) during the 52nd Annual meeting today, announced that John Falen was selected as the 2020 PLC President’s Award. PLC leadership also announced they selected Aaron Schlagel as the 2020 Friend Of PLC. Both awards acknowledge individuals who have made significant contributions to the public lands ranching community.

Each year, the current PLC President selects an exemplary member of the public lands ranching community who has made a notable contribution to promoting livestock production on federal lands. John Falen has more than 30 years of service to PLC and its affiliates, serving as PLC president, a regional representative for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and president of Nevada Cattlemen’s Association.

“John is deserving of this award because of his dedication, commitment, and tireless service to the Public Lands Council and the livestock industry as a whole,” said PLC President Bob Skinner. “During his years on the Executive Committee, he was an influential part in establishing the Public Lands Endowment Trust, served as a member of the National Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Committee, and worked hard to defend the rights of the ranching industry. John has truly been a war horse for our industry and I am honored to be able to present him with this award,”

The Friend of PLC award recognizes a person outside of PLC, who has gone above and beyond their duties to help the mission of public lands ranchers. Aaron Schlagel is a senior director at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and has provided logistics support to PLC for many years.

“We thank Aaron for his tireless help behind the scenes. Aaron makes himself available day-in and day-out to ensure our team is well-prepared and well-housed. Whether we need assistance with travel, getting out of a snow storm, or finding the best hotel rates, Aaron has always been there to help. Numerous events have only been possible due to his quick thinking and expertise. I can think of no other person more deserving of this award.”