790 Cleveland Avenue So.

Suite 201

St. Paul, MN 55116

(651) 690-9028

Fax (651) 690-9065

 

 

for information on

please visit the web site of the

MN Association of Conservation District Employees (MACDE), www.macde.us

2008 SWCD Candidates Profiles

 

Sorted alphabetically by SWCD

 


ANOKA

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1

KARLA M. KOMEC

 

 1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

There are several strengths I have that will be of benefit to a SWCD Board.   I have previous board experience, with 4 years on the boards of two different non-profits.  I also have a BS degree in Biology and a strong interest in conservation issues.  I am a good listener and have strong attention to detail.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

My primary experience has been with maintaining our own property.  I have been restoring native plants to our pond's shoreline, working on eradicating buckthorn and removing turf grass and replacing it with flower gardens and prairie plantings.   Also, I am a member of multiple conservation organizations and keep up with the issues by reading their publications.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

I have been trying to get more involved in conservation-related causes.   I am on our "conserve" team at work.   When I found out about the opening for a Supervisor in our district I knew this was the ideal opportunity for me to meet like-minded people and get involved with conservation in my neighborhood.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

I think it is important for the landowner to voluntarily take steps to improve their land and water.   That's part of the importance of the SWCDs in providing educational opportunities and resources to enable people to do so.  There, however, has to be a certain level of regulations in place to help us deal with cases where there is disregard for the environment.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

I currently have no firm ideas for improvements in my district.   I will come into this position with an open mind and no set agenda.

 

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ANOKA

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2

JIM LINDAHL

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I have a strong professional knowledge base of environmental regulations and regulatory interpretation.  I have had the opportunity to witness the growth and development of Anoka County since the 1970’s.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

Bachelor’s Degree in Earth Science

• Familiar with and have completed field work for air, water and soil sampling.

• Participated in the Cedar Creek Watershed study (2000)

• Licensed as an on-site septic inspector (1998-2001)

• I am currently serving as the Vice-Chair for the City of Andover Parks Commission.  I have previously been appointed as Chair for three (3) separate terms during my tenure on the commission (1989-present)

• Residence of Andover since 1987

• Self-employed as an environmental consultant since 1992

• Active member of many wildlife/conservation groups starting with 4-H, MN Deer Hunters Association, Pheasants Forever, MN Conservation Federation and the Freshwater Society.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

I feel that we all have an obligation to protect the natural resources to the best of our knowledge and ability.  I want to be able to provide a clean and healthy environment to my children and help teach them how to enjoy the benefits of our natural surroundings without impacting others.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

I think education of landowners is ultimately the best tool available for promoting conservation and management practices.  If we can teach people to become stewards instead of users of the properties/resources, it will perpetuate itself to future generations.  Additionally, I would look to promote this training concept into all the local city governments, especially the planning and zoning staff.  Regulatory enforcement should be a last resort.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

We need to promote the upside of each of our local landscape features and the interdependence of the features.  Quality agricultural land must be viewed as an asset and efforts should be made to keep the better quality soil areas producing, while marginal till areas may be more suitable to building development.  Wood lots should also be cared for with limited disruption and only clearing in specified quantifies and timeframes (i.e. oak wilt concerns).  Water quality is probably the biggest concern we will face in the next 30 years.  Anoka County has many valuable water resources that need to be carefully monitored and cared for both for now and future generations.

 

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ANOKA

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2

KIM KOVICH

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I have a lot of strengths to bring to the ACD (Anoka Conservation District) board.  I have been in a number of leadership roles in the community including some with ACD.  I have lots of experience working with the many conservation partners that cooperate and work with the ACD.  My professional background includes education, real estate, and ecological sciences which fit in well with the mission of the Anoka Conservation District (ACD).

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

I have been a supervisor with ACD for the past fourteen years.  For the last twelve years I’ve been the chairman of the board.  I have been working on conservation issues and providing answers and guidance on their solutions for my three terms as a supervisor.  I complement the dedicated staff of the ACD in the great job they are doing in helping the citizens of Anoka County solve their conservation issues.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

My educational and work experiences have provided me with a lot of knowledge and experiences that make me a good fit for the job as supervisor.  That was the reason I first ran for the position in 1994.  The past fourteen years as a supervisor has allowed me to gain the experiences and make the relationships that I believe make me a valuable asset of the ACD.   I know the conservation issues Anoka County is facing and I know how to work with the four other dedicated supervisors in finding their solutions.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

The Anoka Conservation District has no regulatory authority.  ACD works as an advisory district.  I believe that most landowners and citizens want to use and enjoy their land or public land with a conservation ethic in mind.  I think that when landowners are educated as to what the best management practices for their land is that they may be inclined to apply those practices.  That information combined with resources that may be available to help the landowner with those practices provides a winning combination. I think that is where the Anoka Conservation district does an outstanding job.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

Anoka County being one of the counties making up the seven county Twin Cities Metropolitan Area has become very urban in character.  Even though we do have some agriculture occurring in our county it is not a major user of services of the Anoka Conservation District.  Agriculture in Anoka County is being serviced by other government agencies.  I believe the major issue threatening the natural resources of Anoka county is development.   Development when done with conservation in mind is the best scenario for protection of our natural resources.  Our increasing population needs a place to live and prosper.  However, the impacts on our natural resources can be minimized through proper planning and wise conservation minded decision making.  I believe the Anoka Conservation District is an important part of the proper planning side of this solution.  By working with landowners, developers, and local government units we can achieve this goal and thus help preserve and maintain the rich natural resources of Anoka County.

 

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BECKER

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2

CAROLYN ENGEBRETSON

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I look for solutions to problems.  I bring my experience of having served on the Becker County Board of Commissioners, the MN EQB and the International Coalition as well as the Red River Basin Commission.  This has provided me with an opportunity to listen and to question.  It also required study of the issues.  I know many of the folks in the environmental community and this is an asset.  I have the time and have always been committed to environmental issues and concerns.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

The boards on which I have served addressed soil and water issues.  On the EQB, we had the issues of feedlots, power plants/lines, wind farms to name a few.  On the County “Board it was planning and zoning issues such as PUD’s , feedlots lakeshore, and ordinances dealing with land use and forestry practices.  On a personal level, I subdivided a parcel of land with lake shore….328 acres into three parcels after I had wetlands delineated and other concerns identified in order to lessen the human impact on this land.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

My motto is:  Water is more precious than oil, be it on the surface or below the surface.  I take seriously the challenges facing the citizens of this world and I want to help ensure that good environmental practices are a number one priority.  I live in a county with two major river basins….The Red River and the Mississippi…one empties north, the other south.  We have a tremendous responsibility to be good stewards of the land and the water.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

We need both.  If we could always count on landowners to use BMPs it would be wonderful.  We need governmental regulations as we have a responsibility to those around us.   As the Native Americans say, “Plan for the next seven generations.”

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

The Becker County SWCD has done a good job.  We need to work closely with other agencies such as the watershed districts, and other governmental units as well as private organizations.  The Statewide Conservation d Protection Plan will be a good springboard for discussion, planning and implementation of BMP.  We need to study this plan to see how present practices fall in line and we have to be open to change.  The new plan is exciting and challenging.  We cannot continue to let development practices take our critical land be it farm land, lakeshore, or forests.  Education will be a key in the process.  It will take money and that is another good reason to work together in partnerships.

 

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BECKER

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5

DALE E. LUBITZ

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

Was a farmer all my life, so protecting the environment comes naturally.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

After 26 years as supervisor many issues surfaced, from spray issues to lake shore restoration to river stabilization.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

The pride of working with nature’s issues.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

I believe both approaches may be necessary but am leaning to the voluntary approach.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

Promote the safe use of fertilizer application in both urban and rural use.  Promote safe containment of runoff storm water in both rural and urban areas.

 

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BELTRAMI

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4

JAY BACKSTROM

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

Throughout my life, I have been actively involved in agriculture, including many years producing a wide variety of commodities and also seed production for the State of Minnesota Foundation Seed Department. I understand the complex issues involved with finding a balance between land use and conservation of resources. I own a sizeable acreage of farmland in NW Minnesota, own, operate a marina on Lake Irving, and live on the Mississippi River. These experiences give me daily contact with our land, lakes and rivers and their importance in our lives.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

In my agricultural experience, I used filter strip drainage conservation and tree row wind break planting as well as other up-to-date farming measures to preserve the soil and water quality. I was an innovator in using minimum tillage for protection from soil erosion.  I was involved with the Middle River-Snake River Watershed District. At the University of Minnesota – Crookston, I helped teaching staff give students practical knowledge about conservation tillage practice.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

I have demonstrated a life-long commitment to soil and water stewardship. I am interested in making a difference and protecting our future.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

Neither of these approaches can work alone. I support using a combination of listening to the needs and viewpoints of landowners and then implementing workable conservation plans established by knowledgeable government leaders and agencies.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

I expect to listen and learn the most practical ways to protect land and water resources for the future, being most conscious of water quality issues on our lakes and soil and water conservation with the agricultural community in the county.

 

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BENTON

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5

CHUCK RAU

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I have connections with many businesses and environmental sportsman’s groups in the district.  I hope to help these groups work together to support the SWCD.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

I have implemental management practices on my own land and have participated with sportsman’s groups to manage their land projects.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

A keen interest in ground water issues in Benton county, particularly the clean-up of Little Rock Lake.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

I feel both need to be brought into play to insure proper execution of well designed plans.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

Education and support of Best Management Practices (BMP’s) throughout the district.

 

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BIG STONE

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3

MIKE JORGENSON

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I have a strong educational background and hold a degree from the University of Minnesota in Agronomy and Plant Genetics.  I have developed communications skills that I think would serve me well in an SWCD position.  I have a strong commitment to making sure that the farming lifestyle that we enjoy is sustainable and that we as farmers are able to utilize management practices that protect our environment while providing us our livelihood.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

Before recently moving back to the farm I was employed as the environmental manager for a construction firm in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.  This position gave me vast experience with water and soil conservation issues.  I think that this experience coupled with my farming background qualify me to be an effective SWCD Supervisor.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

The SWCD allows me the opportunity to be involved in improving and protecting our environment at a grassroots level.  My past experience as a dairy farmer and my recent experience as an environmental manager in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area give me a unique perspective on the challenges that local farmers face in Big Stone County.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

I feel that voluntary adoption of BMP’s will be the most effective approach to protecting our soil and water resources.  In today’s intensively managed agricultural production systems, BMP’s need to be constantly modified and refined to meet the needs of farmers while continuing to protect the environment. 

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

I think that most (if not all) farmers in our area try hard to be good stewards of their land.  I think that education programs that show the value of alternative sustainable farming practices that protect our soil resource could be very valuable.   For example, the use of cover crops and crop rotations have been proven to not only protect our soil and water, but also to improve water and nutrient holding capacity of the soil.

 

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BIG STONE

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4

IRVIN ADELMAN

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I am real interested in our natural resources, soil and water and air.  We are only here to use them good and leave it for the next generations as good or better as we got them.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

I farmed all my life and I used many conservation practices.  Put in contour terraces, grassed waterways and lately the cut and fill terraces, grass turn strips and some C.R.P. and planted a farmstead windbreak.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

I have been a SWCD supervisor for 31 years in Lac Qui Parle and now that I am winding down from farming and live in Big Stone County, I have the time to promote conservation.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

I would like to see more voluntary adoption of practices, along with a little government help.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

We have to educate the farmers of the long term effect of conservation.  I know the top dollar in return is a high priority, but somehow we have to change that.

 

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BLUE EARTH

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1

RYAN SWAFFORD

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

As a current employee of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency working as a Pollution Control Specialist in Waste Water and as an 8 year combat veteran of the Iraq War and Kosovo Force Protection missions, I still serve as a staff Environmental Scientist with the Minnesota National Guard, so soil and water conservation are my daily business.  With my deployments, education and experience I bring a wealth of institutional knowledge in regards to the rulemaking process, compliance and enforcement of soil and water environmental regulations, and process negotiation.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

Everyday as a function of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency I work with homeowners, communities and business owners in efforts to improve the water quality, sustainable development and the enhancement of natural resources in the Minnesota River Basin, as well as the state if Minnesota.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

I am motivated to try and further help the local communities, landowners and business owners in Blue Earth County to strive for active innovative reform to water quality initiatives in the Minnesota River Basin and to educate constituents on the structure, function and value of our states wetlands, nature resources and wildlife areas.  Through education, passion and action we can improve, preserve and maintain our backdoor treasures.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

Protecting, improving and managing natural resources is part of our environmental stewardship towards the environment, our neighbors and our children.  We have an obligation to our children’s grandchildren to leave the environment in a better or sustained condition than from which we have found it.  It is our duty as US citizens and Blue Earth County residents to do everything in our power to fulfill that obligation.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

Increased knowledge of new and innovative techniques, tactics and procedures is imperative to the future of our environment.  We as the environmental stewards must meet the increasing environmental and natural resource demands of the 21st and 22nd Century.  We have to use new ideas to maintain, manage and preserve local sustainability of all agriculture and natural resource on our land.  This new focused implementation will guide Blue Earth County to the future and beyond for sustainable development and growth.

 

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BLUE EARTH

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2

JOHN SHANAHAN

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I farmed and managed a farm operation for 40 years.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

Have owned land along a river. Have land in CREP program.  Have dealt with soil conservation SCS on waterways and filter strip

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

I am interested in the program. I am interested in the area watershed and its affects on area streams.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

I think a combination of both if it was just left to landowners they would look out for there best interest which is human nature.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

I think if we are to allow so much drainage tile to be installed we have to take a long look at how it is affecting our rivers.  I see much erosion of river banks and rivers changing course.  I think we have to improve the quality and flow of these channels.  Sometimes just minor little changes can do so much like clear a tree or remove some obstruction from the channel.  A also think CREP and CRP land should not come out of these programs.  They have done so much good for conservation and wildlife.  I love what I see in these programs and it’s to bad when I see them plowed up.

 

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CARVER

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2

HARLAN DOBRATZ

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

Life long farm operator and experience in local government.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

I have grass waterways and land in CRP for wildlife and water quality improvement.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

Working together with other landowners to improve land and water for the future generations.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

Sometimes landowners need a little nudge from the government to see the benefits of SWCD programs.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

As we see less livestock, (hence less grass and alfalfa) we will need more water control structures.

 

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CASS

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3

JAMES E. BALLENTHIN

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

vision, purpose, and goal orientation.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

Trustee, Great Lake Forest Alliance; Minnesota Forestry Association; volunteer for shoreland ordinance development in Cass County; facilitated conservation design development ordinance in Cass County.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

To encourage responsible conservation for sustainable use of resources.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

Both are needed in a balance to achieve long term sustainable use of resources.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

ability to do this is very restricted by limited funding by state and federal governments; SWCD’s provide voluntary services with incentives through public funding; would like to see increased funding for wetland protection and preservation, conservation easements for shoreland, forest and marginal lands, mandatory buffer areas to protect watersheds, updated ground water resource information related especially to increasing use of irrigation and water for ethanol production, more emphasis on the “conservation” role of SWCD’s.

 

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CHIPPEWA

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3

STEVEN SUNDERLAND

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I have 20 years of experience as a local supervisor.  12 years as an officer at some level within the organization.  I am also a graduate of the MASWCD leadership program.  I take very seriously my elected position as a supervisor and have worked to promote conservation, strengthen districts and support MASWCD.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

As a past Area director I helped carry district resolutions to strengthen conservation programs.  As a State board member I represented districts at numerous legislative meeting.  I chaired the local TSA “technical Service Area” committee, the county water planning committee and the local SWCD board.  When I was the vice-president of the MASWCD I testified before a MN. Legislative committee on the districts ability to deliver local conservation.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

As a farmer it would be very short sited to not care for the land and water we use.  This land was handed down through 4 generations of my family and I am committed to passing it along better able to sustain future generations.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

Government may or may not set certain standards we should reach in conservation practices.  The way to reach these goals works much better if people understand and believe they are bettering our soils and water.  This takes education and examples so people voluntarily adopt the best practices for their areas.  The takes more time but has much better results when people believe in what they do.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

Many of the basic ideas for sustainability of agriculture are already here.  Our natural resources are being strained more everyday by supplying a growing demand here and abroad.  The basics of conservation work, but we must always be willing to watch for “new ways and new science” and allow for change.  It’s the way we adapt that changes the world.

 

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CLAY

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2

CAROL J. SCHOFF

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

The strengths I will bring to the SWCD board is friendship and cooperation with staff, knowledge of programs that are being used in Clay SWCD district.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

The experience with conservation issues that qualify me to be an SWCD supervisor is solving water drainage problem that created soil erosion, promoted and created wildlife habitat.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

My motivation for being an SWCD supervisor is to utilize conservation planning, continue to be informed about programs, participate at Area meeting, other educational meetings also to assist staff.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

The most effective approach to protecting our natural resources both voluntary adoption of best management practices with landowners and government regulations as guide.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

To ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in Clay county, erosion by water both over land flooding and river bank erosion.  Preventing wind erosion by encouraging practices such as no till, crop rotation, tree planting, etc.

 

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CLAY

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2

MARVIN BLAKEWAY

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

My strengths that I would bring to the SWCD Board are that I have farmed most of my life all of it being in Clay County. I am familiar with the soil types, terrain and water shed in the townships I live near.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

My past experiences with the conservation issues are that I have used many methods of tillage systems. First using the moldboard plow to conservation tillage using the chisel plow to the no till that I am currently using. I have planted trees as field windbreaks and farmstead shelterbelts. In my CRP acres I have restored some wetlands and installed grassed waterways.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

My motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor is that I have always been interested in conservation and protecting the environment. For the past 46 years I have received the Minnesota Conservation Volunteer magazine and still to this day enjoy reading the articles. Clay County is projected to increase in population by 25% by the year 2035.  This increase in population will put more demand on all our natural resources including water and land use. We need to protect our prime farmland for production and the more marginal land from erosion. Whether it be for farming or future development. Most everyone enjoys wildlife and nature and for our own benefit we must also ensure it survives in our community.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

I feel the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources are stopping soil erosion and protecting both surface and groundwater. I think people are becoming better educated in regards to conservation and protecting our natural resources and many are doing it on their own. I still think we need government regulations.  The government at whatever level is the people and elected officials should listen to and consider the input of the people in the area they represent.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

The conservation ideas and changes I have would be to use more buffer strips around wetlands, waterways and the restoration of previously drained wetlands to slow the flow of water and filter it at the same time.  Compensation should be made to the landowners who are doing this. To me this would be better than taking large areas of prime farmland out of production to use as temporary holding areas.  It would also create a habitat for wildlife.

 

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CLAY

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5

DUANE JANSSEN

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I have applied many of the practices promoted through the SWCD on my own farm.  I also have been an SWCD Supervisor since 1995.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

I have been the SWCD’s representative to the WesMin Resource Conservation & Development (RC&D) Council for over 20 years.  I’ve used No-Till, Ridge-Till, and Minimum-Till on my farm.  Also, I’ve enrolled land in the CRP to reduce erosion on my farm and create wildlife habitat.  Presently, I’m signed up to plant 2 wildlife food plots on my CRP.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

I’ve always been interested in conservation and preserving our natural resources.  I enjoy working with the excellent SWCD Board and Staff in making decisions affecting the natural resources in Clay County.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

Voluntary.  Educating the public on available programs and through demonstration projects (i.e. Districts No-Till Drill rental program, SWCD Conservation Tours, etc.)

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

Continue to Work with programs available to conserve soil, maintain air and water quality.

 

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CLEARWATER

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1

ROBERT A. BILDEN

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I have been a SWCD supervisor for 37 and half years.  I will simply continue to serve my district in the best ways that I can.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

Over the period of time I have served as a supervisor, I have been involved with a good number of both conservation issues and corrective follow-ups; and with co-operator projects.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

I believe in wise use of land and water.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

I would prefer voluntary adoption of BMP’s where possible and do not like over-regulation by government.  Sadly, land owners and businesses by violating principles of good land and water conservation, invite government regulation.

 

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CLEARWATER

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2

HARLAN STRANDLIEN

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

As a present SWCD board member, I am well acquainted with the programs we administer.  I have served on the Lake Bemidji Watershed Committee and the Giziibii Resource, Conservation and Development Board.  I have farmed all my life.  I enjoy working with landowners, lake associations and cities.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

I have been a SWCD supervisor for a number of years and I have learned a lot about the programs we administer and promote.  I enjoy seeing conservation practices that we have assisted with, such as stream bank protection, lake shore restoration, filter strips, tree planting etc.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

I enjoy being a SWCD supervisor, working with the staff and other agencies, county commissioners, local property owners and SWCDs from other areas.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

I believe most landowners are good stewards and voluntary best management practices are a natural part of their life.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

We need to continue supporting and cost sharing on programs that protect our lakes, rivers and streams from run-off from feed lots, fertilizer from fields, etc.  This could be accomplished with filter strips, use of wetlands as filters, and when necessary, holding ponds.  Windbreaks, shelterbelts and living snow fences are also good practices.

 

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CLEARWATER

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2

JAMES MICHEL

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

Experience as a government employee, experience in labor/management, dispute resolution, business experience.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

Served on Clearwater County Water Plan Task Force.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

I would like a proactive role in dealing with the issues in the future.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

I believe in a combination of education and enforcement in protecting the future.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

I would strive for continuing education for land owners relating to the advantages of following the rules of best management practices.

 

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CLEARWATER

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3

VIC THOMPSON

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

Through supervising men on an aircraft carrier in the navy ('66-'69), training police officers ('71-'91), and running my own business as a location     manager on movie sets in Los Angeles ('91-'00), I have learned to work with the public, which would help me in the job of district supervisor.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

The experience I have with conservation issues is personal.  As a land owner and past farmer of a homesteaded century farm, I am extremely concerned for maintaining the land in a condition that will promote healthy trees, be a safe home for wildlife, and will keep the water in the brook clean for fish to live.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

I am motivated to become an SWCD supervisor because of a strong desire to manage our land in a way that secures the needs of our farmers, at the same time preserving our environment.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

As a third generation landowner I believe in the sovereign ownership of my land, and therefore believe in voluntary management practices.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

The first task that I feel would be helpful would be to find out which landowners are interested in preserving the natural resources on their land, and then individually or in group meetings to discuss the different ways to accomplish the cattle, crop, and logging industries to coincide with the preservation of the land owners' natural resources.

 

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CLEARWATER

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5

CAROL KLEPPE

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I will bring to the SWCB Board creativity and problem solving skills.  I am willing to listen and look at both sides of an issue with an open mind and have the ability to focus on the center of an issue and address the core issue of the problem.  As a farmer I know that we need to balance our ability to use the land in a profitable manner with the need to conserve our natural resources.  I firmly believe that by being good stewards of our natural resources we will ultimately maximize both our long term profitability and our enjoyment of life.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

Arne and I are self employed by our dairy farm.  Managing this farm, which is by Stony Lake, we have implemented many soil and water conserving practices such as rotational grazing, windbreaks, water run off diversions, proper manure and crop nutrient management, buffers around the lake, and wildlife and forest plantings.  Some of these have been implemented using our own resources and research; we have also used various technical and cost share assistance programs.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

It is necessary that we are good stewards of the natural resources of our community.  Good conservation practices, profitable agricultural practices, and recreational land use projects must be implemented and should be a winning situation for everyone.  I would like to be a part of the effort to help our community make the most efficient, environmentally friendly, and practical use of our natural resources

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

People will respond with more interest and personal involvement by voluntarily protecting our natural resources.  Educating and demonstrating that best management practices can be beneficial both for the resource and the landowner; encouraging landowners to voluntarily adopt best management practices because it is a benefit to them either financially or by getting greater recreational enjoyment through the wise use of the resource will ensure that the landowner feels ownership in the conservation practice.  True conservation is not a one-time program but a mind set that should endure for a life time.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

We need to encourage landowner buy in to various programs by allowing greater flexibility and creativity in how projects are planned and implemented.  Each project needs to consider the needs and expectations of the landowner as well as the overall benefit to our community and society from the improved stewardship of our natural resources.  Original ideas and practices should be allowed and encouraged as well as proven practices, often solutions come from looking ‘outside of the box’.  We need programs that will draw people into the idea of conservation and make it a life time endeavor.

 

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CLEARWATER

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5

JOHN GUNVALSON

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I have a technical degree in soil, water and civil engineering from the University of Minnesota, Crookston and also a Bachelor of Science degree in soils from NDSU.  I have essentially the same educational background as most NRCS conservationists.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

I've been on the advisory board for the Red Lake Watershed the past several years and was part of the task force that developed a ten year flood plan for the Red River Basin.  Jay Huseby, under the supervision of Dr. Daniel Suedarsky of UMC obtained his doctorate in wildlife management doing a study on our wild rice farm.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

I've had a deep commitment to natural resource conservation from a very young age and want to continue to contribute to making Clearwater County a good place to live while being fair to farmers.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

Voluntary adoption is certainly to be encouraged and over time landowners can be educated as to their moral responsibility to protect tour natural resources for future generations, however some government regulation is in the public interest to prevent those that would plunder the earth for short term gain.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

Encourage good farm management practices such as crop rotation, minimum tillage, improving wildlife habitat and keeping our water clean.

 

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CLEARWATER

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5

NOLAN ECK

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I grew up in Clearwater county.  I know the people, and I know the area.  I was born and grew up on a farm, and I am actively farming myself.  In 2004 I graduated from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point with a BS in Forest Management.  I feel that my experiences as both a farmer and a land manager will be helpful in my role as a SWCD supervisor.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

I have been employed by the Red Lake DNR for the past 3 years, and deal with numerous conservation issues as a Timber Sale Forester.  I have also been directly involved in tree planting and CRP projects on my families farm.  The education I received at UWSP has exposed me to many of the conservation issues that we face today in Clearwater county.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

I have enjoyed fishing, hunting, and trapping throughout the county.  I want to ensure that future generations have the same business and recreational opportunities that I have been given.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

I believe that voluntary adoption of Best Management Practices is always the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources.  I believe government should be limited in its regulatory role, and focus more on making information and education available to private landowners.  Most landowners want to protect the resource and are capable of doing so when provided with good information.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

I don’t see any major problems or the need for major change in current management.  I do believe it will become more challenging in the coming years to protect our resources with agricultural practices becoming more intensive, and development increasing exponentially.

 

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COOK

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3

THOMAS ALVIN

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I am a good listener.  I like researching an issue and am willing to make decisions based on facts and without making political considerations.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

I have been involved in lake associations, lake monitoring programs.  I was in law enforcement for 28 years and was involved in ordinance compliance and investigations.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

I want to contribute back to this unique Cook County area.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

I would choose both.  Voluntary compliance ideal but not always possible.  Voluntary adoption is often the result of education.  That said, there are occasions where the only choice is enforcement.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

In Cook County agriculture is limited.  So, I see stream, lakeshore and "runoff" issues as paramount.  Conservation education should be a priority.

 

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COTTONWOOD

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2

VERLYN NICKEL

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

Thirty one years of experience with a life long interest in soil and water issues.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

Dealing with the public, office staffing issues and legislature concerns. Strongly promotes getting conservation on the land, education and water quality.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

To take care of the earth.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

Best practice management with the financial support of the government.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

Continue to use best management practices on all lands.

 

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CROW WING

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5

ROBERT ALBRECHT

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

ability to learn and adapt

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

Hunter - fisherman - boyscout - landowner

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

To help people achieve the land goals

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

Voluntary because landowner makes the choice

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

performance standards regarding storm water and nutrient runoff on property

 

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DAKOTA

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2

MARIAN BROWN 

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I have served on the SWCD board for four years.  I took the orientation session in which we learned how the SWCD works and what is expected of a supervisor.  I am also a graduate of the Leadership Institute.  This year-long series led by University of Minnesota professors and also taught by experts in the field took me to various parts of the state in order to understand the diversity of agricultural, forestry,  and conservation concerns in Minnesota.  We studied topics such as ethical leadership, working together as a team with our many partners.  On the trip to Washington, D.C. we met with our Congressional Delegation and Senators, and some of the highest officials in the Department of Agricultural and related agencies.  I know my larger district well as I have served on the Metro Association and am secretary-treasurer of the Area Association.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

I grew up in a family that was concerned about conservation.  We grew much of our own vegetables and fruit, planted Soil Conservation Service trees to protect the property.  Later my family ran a nursery and taught many new residents to our area the importance of trees to the environment. I have a minor in biology with major interest in botany.  As a member of the SWCD Board, I have had the opportunity to tour many conservation sites and visit with many concerned citizens about both their rural and urban practices.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

My family taught me the importance of volunteering.  My many years as a 4-H leader led me to seek a position in the community where I could be of service to a larger population.  I live in a suburb and many people don't understand the importance of conservation.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

For any program to be effective people have to want to participate; therefore, I believe that voluntary adoption of new and better practices is most effective. On some occasions government regulation may be necessary to provide the most good to the population as a whole but voluntary participation should always come first.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

Education is the most important practice in the suburban area in which I serve.  We need more understanding of both the citizens and the governing bodies of the cities and growing townships of the dangers of the huge areas of impervious surfaces and large tracts of meticulously kept lawns which send gallons of water into our waste water systems and use more gallons of water to keep the short rooted grasses green.  I want to continue and expand the Blue Thumb program in our district which helps people build rain gardens, native plantings, and shoreline stabilization. We need to continue our work with feedlots and gully improvement and protection.  I would like to see more work with schools at all levels including the private and home-based education programs.

 

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DAKOTA

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2

SCOTT NORSTAD

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

Have been involved within natural resources since an early age which included course studies. An environmentalist with a strong ethic and open minded to understanding of conversation issues and introducing practices.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

A combination of soil and water conservation measures of land issues. Keeping rain water under control from the time the rain fell to which then emptied into river. Building issues and how these practices can change the natural flow of soil & water.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

Believe in community involvement - building a strong educational responsive program that would provide customer service within the community. would allow ideas to be shared - discussed which would include budgeted conversation plans.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

Property voluntary approach to water & soil conservation can go above and beyond environmental regulations when commitments are made to improve management programs.  Environmental programs  Strategies - that would help maintain improve the community district for both rural  and urban as the main focus.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

Community - conservation - natural resources can promote and encourage awareness within our districts which everyone can have a part in. Looking at past projects - allocation of funds - educational resources - would bring benefit to the district.

 

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DAKOTA

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2

VICTORIA A. DVORAK

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I am an outgoing individual with a passion for preserving the environment for future generations.  I am comfortable as a team member and leader having served on several committees.  I have fifteen years experience in the environmental industry dividing my time equally between the office and the field.  I work well with a diverse cross section of people with different levels of responsibility.  I am a member of the Minnesota Erosion Control Association.  I am certified as an Erosion/Sediment Control Specialist through the University of Minnesota.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

In my present position at JM Waller as a contractor for the US Army Reserve, I am Water Program Manager for a six state region with 180 facilities.  Job duties include identifying point source and non-point source pollution, developing Best Management Practices (BMP) to prevent sediment and other erosion items from reaching the waterways.  I have updated and implemented storm water (SW) management plans, long term SW pond maintenance plans for facilities as a BMP.  Budget and project management for SW repair construction projects throughout the six states are my responsibility.  I planned and organized a group of volunteers to eradicate garlic mustard plants, remove buckthorn and collect rubbish throughout the Fort Snelling Park.  In addition, I’ve volunteered to remove invasive plants at the Minnesota Wildlife Sanctuary and planted wild flowers and native plants along the Mississippi River bottom.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

In the seventeen years residing within Dakota County I’ve observed an increase of pollution in our waters and land.  It is my wish to help make a difference by improving the water and soil quality for all residents of Dakota County.  I believe we need to collaboratively develop an education partnership with the residents, agricultural and businesses within Dakota County to help improve the conditions of the water and soil to work towards sustainability for future generations.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

Both approaches are equally important to protecting our natural resources.  Voluntary adoption of BMP by land owners and businesses would be my preferred approach to implement pollution prevention ideas that would provide information regarding sustainability attributes to plan for future generations with land and water usage.  If the voluntary BMP approach fails, and a land or business owner intentionally or unintentionally pollutes, then government regulations will be necessary to persuade the offenders to change course and meet compliance requirements.  Policies are in place but not always understood by all land and business owners.  It is the government’s responsibility to educate residents and business within Dakota County so they can cooperatively protect our natural resources.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

I would promote farmer’s markets and local sustainable agricultural Co-ops by advertising to the residents with regard to where and when the events take place.  Implement a program for people who are sentenced to serve to donate time to help with conservation projects throughout the county in lieu of fines.  Synchronize energy solutions between farmers, residents and businesses.  Develop a program to eradicate invasive species from our soils and waters within the county.

 

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DAKOTA

SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4

PETER THOMAS SCHAFFER

 

1.     What strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?

I am a Supervisor on the Castle Rock Township Board, Commissioner on the Vermillion River Watershed Planning Commission, Representative on the North Cannon River Watershed & Chub Creek Advisory and a Representative on the Vermillion Watershed.  I have dealt with a wide range of conservation issues and believe I will bring that experience to the SWCD board.

2.     Tell us about your past experience with conservation issues that make you qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.

I grew up on a large dairy family farm where we used sustainable farming practices.  I currently own 55 acres next to a creek that I have in the CRP program to protect the water, land and wildlife habitat.

3.     What is your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?

I have six children and want to leave the land better for them and for all future generations.

4.     What do you feel is the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources:  voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners or use of government regulation?

I believe in a blend.  Voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners but with the education to the landowners of the importance of implementing these practices.  Where it comes to bodies of water, I believe if the government mandates of buffer zones should be implemented with compensation to landowners.

5.     What conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?

I would implement buffer zones around bodies of water to filtrate and protect water quality.  We also need to look at programs to enhance and protect small tracts or unusual pieces of highly erodible areas in the county.  Finally, I want to say the SWCD has done a great job and has a good history of working with local sportsman/citizens groups and I would like to see that continued.

 

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