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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DODGE
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1
MURIEL L.
FRENCH
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
We operate a
management intensive grazing dairy farm. Our whole farm is in pasture
and hay. And has been for 16 years. I understand the necessity of
keeping the soil in place and not letting it all be washed into the
river or blown away.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have been
involved in the past with organizations that believe very strongly in
the taking care of our soil and keeping our waters clean. We have been
involved in many projects with scientist to develop programs to help do
this on our own farm and other farms without heavy involvement from the
government.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
There was an
opening a few years ago and I was asked to apply. This is my second
term. We have obligations to our community to do what we are able to do
and have knowledge about. I feel strongly about the need to protect the
soil from erosion, keep our aquifer waters pure and keep our rivers
clean.
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 of best management practices is the best approach. We
shouldn’t expect the government to take care of our land.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
There needs to
be many more grassy crops planted to cover the soil. There needs to be
no row crops planted on steep inclines and more and better grass
waterways in fields. In very flat regions, more windbreaks to slow the
wind erosion.
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DOUGLAS
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
DAVID WOLF
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I have a long
history of working with the USDA, experience with participating on a
number of boards, I am genuinely concerned about rural conservation
issues and I have time to contribute, ensuring the mission of the SWCD
board is met.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Although, I am
unsure of the exact qualifications that a person would require to be a
SWCD Supervisor; I have a strong interest in participating in effective
governance and management of our natural resources.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I would like
to learn more about various conservation programs and methods that have
been developed to improve the water quality in our region. Furthermore,
I’d like to be part of how these established programs are presented to
landowners, lakeshore associations and various branches of our local
government.
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?
Obviously a
blending of both approaches would be more effective then either alone. I
think a solid partnership needs to be maintained between the landowners
and Government. While regulations and policies are important, they
should be viewed as a guide landowners can use to ensure land use and
development doesn’t negatively impact 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 focus on
metrics and raw data extensively. I feel the data currently gathered by
the SWCD needs to continuously compared to historical data to help
demonstrate what policies are working, and which policies aren’t. I
also feel it is important for the SWCD to continue promoting various
conservation programs to Lake Associations, youth groups, land owners
and others.
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DOUGLAS
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4
JON SCHNEIDER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I am a
certified wildlife biologist and professional wetlands scientist, and
have worked in the conservation field for over 15 years. I am a
dedicated conservationist and trained resource professional that is
dedicated to the improvement of our soil and water resources in
Minnesota. I am very knowledgeable about water and wetland conservation
issues, especially as they pertain to lake ecology and wildlife habitat.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
In my
professional life, I have worked with wetland conservation programs,
including the USDA’s Wetlands Reserve Program, for over 15 years in both
Minnesota and Arkansas. I am also very experienced with most soil and
water conservation issues currently facing citizens of Minnesota,
including our impaired waters and loss of wetlands.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I am motivated
to serve as an SWCD Supervisor by the need to improve and protect
Minnesota’s important natural resources, especially our water related
resources that makes the land of 10,000 lakes such a wonderful place to
live and raise a family.
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?
Strong
government regulation (e.g., WCA, Swampbuster, Sodbuster) combined with
attractive conservation incentive programs that encourage landowners to
restore and protect their land and that promote the voluntary adoption
of best management practices is required to effectively restore and
conserve our most sensitive natural resources such as wetlands and
native prairie on a large scale. Strong local zoning and land use
planning combined with proactive conservation programs and options for
landowner and developers should be promoted by counties to also further
help protect our lakes and water resources.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
It is
difficult if not impossible for one person to implement change. Rather,
I will work with other supervisors, staff, other state, county and local
units of government, and landowners/stakeholders to suggest changes that
allow our work to adapt to the changing environment of conservation and
landuse. This is especially important in developing counties such as
Douglas, where restoration of wetlands and prairie lost of the past is
still an important issue while we also strive to protect the integrity
of our remaining wetland and lakes. This requires more proactive
landuse planning, and more integrated conservation work with other
agencies and landowners. As we proceed, the SWCD will need to adapt to
these challenges and evolving dynamics, and take a proactive leadership
role in promoting strong natural resource monitoring, conservation, and
landuse planning. In particular, our remaining wetlands and shallow
lakes (basins <15 feet deep) are in dire need of aggressive protection
and restoration, and this is an area I will encourage Douglas SWCD to
focus on in the future.
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FILLMORE
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5
TRAVIS
WILLFORD
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Long family
history of conservation practices, terraces, wateryways, notil, buffer
strips.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Practice
notill planting, manure management practices, EQIP program.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
Help spread
good land stewardship programs.
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?
Combination of
both, government information for people to decide which practices fit
there operation the best.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Hopefully I
can reach out to young farmer so they know that we need to be involved
in our future.
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HENNEPIN
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1
KIM N BOYCE
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I’ve served
four years on the Hennepin Conservation District (HCD) Board, so I have
a working knowledge of the strategic changes we have recently made,
including the cooperative work agreement with Hennepin County. The
cooperative agreement has helped the HCD Board focus on conservation
issues and policies rather than operations and management issues. I am
a clear communicator and understand the public decision-making process.
I’m skilled at designing and conducting public meetings, and leading
discussions on strategic issues and policies. I have an extensive
network of personal and professional contacts with local SWCD offices,
state associations and agencies.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Although I
grew up on a farm in central Minnesota, I’ve lived in Hennepin County
for over 30 years. I have a solid understanding of rural, suburban and
urban conservation issues, which are all present in Hennepin County.
I’ve chaired the HCD Board for the past four years; during a period when
we had to significantly change our priorities, policies and focus. That
change was successful and has benefited how HCD supports water and soil
conservation in Hennepin County. At my home I use urban conservation
practices to reduce storm water runoff. In my professional work I teach
public leadership skills and use those same skills on the HCD Board.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I want to make
sure HCD continues to be strong and effective in addressing conservation
issues in Hennepin County. The cooperative agreement with Hennepin
County has helped bring stability to HCD and reduced duplicate
personnel, financial and administrative systems. It also provides a way
to access new public funding to clean up impaired waters. I believe the
interests of citizens in Hennepin County are best served by having an
effective local SWCD, particularly when it comes to improving water
quality and assisting landowners and local governments in conservation
management decisions.
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?
There is not
one answer; instead it’s a combination. Voluntary adoption of
conservation practices is important for landowners. Providing
demonstration projects and education helps many landowners decide to
voluntarily use good conservation practices on their land. They want to
do the right thing. However there is also the need to use government
regulations - either through providing incentives like cost-share
funding for conservation projects, or through making sure landowners and
local governments meet the requirements outlined in laws and policies
related to water and land conservation. Conservation laws were put in
place to protect and enhance the public good.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
In Hennepin
County we need to do more work with urban and suburban landowners so
they make the small changes in their homes and yards that together will
add up to big benefits for water quality – for example, rain gardens to
capture storm water runoff and buffer strips next to streams and lakes.
We also need to continue to work with rural landowners to make sure we
reduce agricultural runoff and soil erosion as much as possible. We are
currently doing the right things; we just need to do it in more places.
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HENNEPIN
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
JAMES WISKER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I am currently
employed with the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD) as a Program
Manager for the Regulatory Department. Consequently, I have a working
knowledge of many environmental policies and regulations from other
State and local agencies including: wetland conservation, land use and
zoning, stormwater management , erosion control, and shoreline and
floodplain management. Currently, I am facilitating a stakeholder
driven rulemaking process and am familiar with policy development from
both a technical and implementation perspective. At MCWD I work closely
with the Planning, Land Conservation, and Capital Project departments
from which I have learned the importance of public/private partnerships
in the stewardship of natural resources.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Many of the
regulatory issues and projects that I review require coordination
between multiple regulatory agencies and significant public
involvement. I find that I am able to distill issues down to their
basic components and effectively craft solutions that satisfy the
interests of the involved parties. I have been involved in the
planning, development, and coordination of several public/private
partnerships which resulted in significant water quality improvements to
sensitive natural resources and impaired waters. This experience has
made me aware of the challenges facing public agencies, when attempting
to preserve and enhance natural resources on behalf of the public at
large. These lessons have instilled in me the desire to work
cooperatively with the County, watersheds, local, and State agencies to
effect visible change in the conservation of the County’s natural
resources.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I would like
to utilize my experience in the area of natural resource management to
serve the public in an arena where I can be a direct influence on the
County’s conservation efforts. I moved to Minnesota in 1993 from
England and was amazed at the State’s wealth of wetland, lake, woodland
and prairie ecosystems. I would like to take a proactive approach in
preserving these resources for the habitat and ecological functions they
provide, as well as for current and 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?
In my
experience, the diversification of efforts typically provides the
greatest level of natural resource protection. A combination of
incentive driven programs, partnerships and regulation offer the public
the best opportunity to preserve and improve natural resources. No
single method yields the solution to the complex problems that
conservation efforts face.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Farmers and
agricultural lands are facing increasing pressure to maximize production
over each acre. HCD and other SWCD’s play an integral role in working
with farmers to implement practices to improve natural resources.
Erosion control and phosphorus rich runoff has long been an issue facing
agriculture. I would like HCD to take additional initiatives to partner
with farmers to implement runoff and erosion control practices to
improve water quality and topsoil retention. In urban areas,
communities are faced with the increasing challenge of managing the
stormwater runoff that discharges to our lakes, wetlands, rivers and
streams. HCD needs to assume a leadership role in addressing both rural
and urban water quality problems through innovative partnerships,
incentive based programs in addition to regulation.
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HENNEPIN
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5
JEFFREY A.
BECK
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Mr. Jeffrey
Beck is the only candidate with a real vision plan for change that
everybody in Hennepin County can fully understand. Mr. Beck has the
mental toughness to put this vision in play. Mr. Beck has the best
organizational skills to start this plan to finish the plan in a
designated timeframe.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Mr. Beck has
run for public office before. Twice as a mayor candidate and once as a
Hennepin County Comm. Candidate. Whether it’s Green Circle Drive- LRT
plan in Minnetonka or the Poison Water Creeks at Penn Weed Park in
Golden Valley- Mr. Beck knows the issues all over Hennepin County.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
At present –
today’s Hennepin County Conservation Board is a do nothing group. A lot
of cheap talk and no action. They meet in a little room- not even at
the Hennepin County Government Center and they command no respect from
any local government boards.
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)
Education is the key. We must forget about the Mandarin Chinese Courses
and start teaching our kids of all races ecology in first grade and
continuing all the way up to Continuing Education. We start with
teaching proper lawn care techniques (How to mow-How to water.)
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
First of all-
the board needs new leaders. (Second) The Hennepin County Conservation
District needs to tackle real problems such as the poison-mucky waters
of the Mississippi River under the fallen 35w Bridge. Clean Water
projects are the key to further growth in all cities of Hennepin County
and Minnesota. Solar and Wind power will be put in play- 25% for 2009-
50%-2010 in all new building projects under my watch in Hennepin County
also.
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HOUSTON (ROOT RIVER SWCD)
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5
JOE MCMANIMON
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
As a present
supervisor and still being engaged in farming, I like to see farmers
using practices of alternate strips, interest in the practices provided
by the SWCD and NRCS and DNR including ponds, waterways, terraces and
more hay.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
By being a
supervisor and helping others to implement good soil and water
practices. By conforming with good farming practices. We have been
chosen as a conservation farmer of the year for our district in the
past.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
To help
promote saving our soil resources and woodland practices, grazing
programs and whatever can be done for a more healthy 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?
I feel that
voluntary adoption is the best approach, when the government gets
involved too much paperwork and bureaucracy.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would like
to see better relationship between SWCD, NRCS, DNR and FSA, also more
emphasis on flood control practices. More help for dairy and beef
farmers. That is programs for hay, grazing, also less corn and bean
rotations.
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HUBBARD
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1
DON RETTINGER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I bring the
experience of my past and current years on the board, as well as my
background in farming. I have attended SWCD workshops and am concerned
about preserving and improving the quality of our environment.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Conservation
issues for my county range from woods and lakes to farmland, from
visitors and residents to cattle. I have worked with and on the land in
Hubbard County for over twenty years.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
My motivation
for being a supervisor is to see that wet lands and water quality are
preserved.
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?
Landowners
have to be educated about best practices so that they can voluntarily
adopt and adhere to the government regulations.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
WCA laws
should be enforced and supported.
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HUBBARD
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
CAROL BERG
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I bring
experience and leadership! I have 12 + years of experience as
Supervisor with the Hubbard SWCD. I am on the Personnel Committee with
HSWCD. I have served on the MASWCD Board as personnel committee chair,
treasurer, vice president and president. I have served on the NACD Board
of Directors as well as on the NACD Legislative Committee & Policy
Committee. I have served on the North Central Region Board. I have met
and worked with our State and Federal Legislators. I have had leadership
training.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have served
on various state and national committees such as legislative committee,
planning committee for the North Central Region in developing policies
and practices. I have implemented conservation practices on our farm.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
My motivation
is to protect and enhance the natural resources in Hubbard County and
help educate individual citizens of the needs and opportunities to help
in this endeavor so vital for the preservation and improvement of our
soil and water 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?
Voluntary
adoption of best management practices by landowners, however some
standards and guidelines must be in place. Best management practices
need to be developed and tested and then examples and education must be
provided to the landowners.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I am very
interested and am active in forestry issues and practices for the
private forest owners and especially agricultural issues and have worked
on the National level in helping to formulate some of the provisions of
the conservation title of the New Farm Bill.
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HUBBARD
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
DUANE
SPLITTSTOESSER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
years of
experience
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I am a
supervisor
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
to see that
lakes are not polluted
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 of best management practices by landowners.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
make sure
there are buffer zones
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HUBBARD
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
LYNDEN NELSON
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I believe in
local control to deal with concerns that can be dealt with on a local
level. I am a patient listener. I listen to both sides before making a
judgment.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I farmed for
many years and worked with various conservation methods pertaining to
soil and water concerns. I have been involved with education and
teaching about conservation for 30 years.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I want to keep
our water and water supply pure for us and future generations. I want
the land used for the benefit of future generations also I want common
sense to be used in all decisions concerning 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?
I feel the
landowner is the best steward of the land. He knows what needs to be
done to protect our natural resources. Government regulators are too
much out of touch.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would
concentrate on involving landowners in limiting use of water for
irrigation, use more tillage for crops. Convince landowners to plant
more trees, etc. Work on harnessing the wind, wind generators, that is
still a free resource.
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ISANTI
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1
BRIAN DEVRIES
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Strong farm
background - extensive business experience - I work well in a group on
decision making process.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have CRP
acres on my farm and have went thru process of establishing conservation
projects.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
Wanted to get
involved with issues in my county - Help others establish there
projects.
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 a
combination of both is necessary to make conservation of natural
resources work.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I feel the
SWCD is doing a good job now and I would work to help make projects
easier for landowners to enroll in.
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ISANTI
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
RYAN
CARPENTER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I am actively
farming and witness first hand the benefits or losses of utilizing
conservation techniques or not.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have worked
with conservation tillage, no-tillage, grass waterways, and buffer
strips. All conservation techniques have trade offs and are not suited
for all areas. This knowledge and willingness to learn about site
specific needs should allow informed decisions as an SWCD supervisor.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
To be able to
provide more information to the public in regards to the SWCD’s purpose
and function.
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 the most effective and least cost method.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would like
to see smart development in order to preserve agriculture in the
southern part of the county. If agriculture cannot be preserved then
development should be implemented in a manner to minimize the effect on
natural resources.
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ISANTI
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4
ALLAN R.
KOCZUR
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Having a high
interest in conservation and wanting to preserve our supply of clean
water along with a degree in education, I have the communication skills
necessary to help get the work done.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I grew up on a
farm in the 1950’s & 1960’s. At that time we practiced conservation by
having buffers bordering our wetlands well before it became a common
practice.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I have a high
interest in conservation and improving our environment. Being a
supervisor puts me in a position to do more than a normal citizen.
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
government regulations usually are not supported to the fullest by the
people. When people voluntarily adapt management practices there is
usually better follow-up. Pheasant Forever’s Program is a good model to
follow.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I feel we
should take a close look at marginal farmland and what would be the best
for conservation, wild life, and the proper use of that land. Buffers
of prairie grass and tree plantings that will help filter runoff should
be a goal for everyone.
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KANABEC
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
LOWELL
SEDLACEK
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I am a retired
farmer who has used many of the services provided by SWDC. I am a
college graduate with a degree in agriculture. I have worked as a
mediator in Minnesota Extension Services Farm Credit Mediation program.
We mediated not only credit issues but also other agriculture related
issues.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have used
SWDC technicians to survey and stake my farm for ditching. I have also
use information distributed by SWDC to practice no till operations. I
have used technology from SWDC to plan and implement a farmstead wind
break. The technician also helped me convince my neighbor to plant trees
on his land to provide a wind break for my homestead. I in turn planted
trees on my farm to protect his homestead. I have used SWCD to design a
plan to stop river bank erosion on my current homestead. I worked with
SWDC to develop plans for farming lands with wetlands and highly
erodible land when I worked for Farmers Home Administration as a loan
officer. I also worked with them when they designed manure pits. SWDC
has sold me trees to plant windbreaks. I guess you could say I have
worked with SWDC in some form or another almost my whole life. My dad
used SWDC to survey and stake land for ditching on the farm I was born
and raised on.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
The chairman
of our current SWDC asked me to run for his seat. Other then that
friends and neighbors have asked me to represent them on the board. They
seem to feel that with my background and experience I would be a good
candidate.
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 natural resources on people’s private
property is education. We need to develop programs that will inform and
enlighten the public and then offer financial and other incentives to
accomplish these practices. We should try and stay away from practices
that pit “us against them”.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Agriculture
may not be able to compete with other interests for the land such as
recreational and residential development. I think we need to assess our
current situation to try and determine best use of our resources. SWDC
has an important role. We should try to work with the wants and needs of
the citizens of our jurisdiction. We should also work with other
organizations to maximize funding and services to our constituents.
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KANABEC
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
PAUL HOPPE
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
§ Experience
and knowledge of the county and the district
§ Background
with DNR and worked closely with other agencies
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
§ Landowner
and tree farmer who cares about the land and future
§ Graduate of
Woodland Leadership Institute sponsored by the Minnesota Forestry
Association
§ Retired DNR
Conservation and Wetland Enforcement Officer
§ Previous
service (8 years) on SWCD board
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
§ Helping
landowners gain knowledge of programs and helping them get technical as
well as financial assistance for conservation measures.
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?
§ While
regulation has its place voluntary application of BMP’s by conservation
minded landowners is clearly the more effective approach
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
§ Make sure
landowners have user friendly access to assistance and programs with the
favorable consequence of the county board hearing repeatedly how
important and valuable the SWCD is to the county. Financial security at
the local level will assure sustainability in the district.
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KANDIYOHI
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
DOUGLAS L
HANSON
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
My background
of growing up on a farm and teaching agricultural education have given
me an appreciation of the importance of conservation. I am able to
appreciate the benefits of conservation from a production agriculture
position as well as from a sportsman’s and a consumers viewpoint.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have taught
courses in natural resources and conservation. I worked closely with the
SWCD as an educator, especially on projects involving students. I have
supervised conservation projects on our land including CRP, tree
plantings, wetland restoration and native prairie.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
When I retired
from teaching, I wanted to keep active in the agriculture sector. Being
a SWCD Supervisor has been a perfect way to do that. I thoroughly enjoy
the opportunity to give something back to my community by serving on the
SWCD Board.
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 works most of the time. Most farmers and land owners appreciate
the need to leave their resources in better shape then they received
them. Government regulations are a necessity in some cases and are
needed to have uniform standards in all areas. Cooperation between Soil
and Water Conservation Districts, NCRS, groups such as Pheasants
Forever, and farm organizations will be the key to successful
conservation.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I believe that
buffers are going to play an increasing roll in conservation. The
pressure of crop prices and land values will make it more difficult to
enroll large areas in specialized programs. I also think that we will
make progress on new and improved drainage systems that will provide
better filtration of nutrients. Education will also be critical in the
future, both of land owners and young people. Our nation depends on
production agriculture and we need to preserve these resources for
future generations.
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KANDIYOHI
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4
KEVIN CLOUGH
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I've been self
employed as a farmer for the past 25 years and our family has a place on
a local area lake. I believe in conservation and I like to look at
things from a long term perspective. When you take everything into
account, conservation is indeed, a vital long term investment.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Some of my
experiences while serving as a SWCD supervisor have ranged from serving
on two state SWCD association committees (MASWCD), a MN Board of Water
and Soil Resource (BWSR) task force, to other projects, such as building
local displays that promote conservation. The district has been
involved with projects such as windbreaks, wetland restorations, both
large (Grass Lake) and small, and seeding of native grass, among
others. In addition to the other benefits, wildlife habitat has also
been greatly enhanced as well.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I have very
deep bond to the land, lakes, and wildlife in this area.
I grew up and
have lived on the family farm here all my life and over the years, those
ties to nature have quietly become a major part of my life. I feel that
I've been blessed and I want to give back. I also believe that we have
a responsibility to our future generations that will need to use these
same soil and water 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?
I prefer
voluntary adoption of Best Management Practices whenever possible. I
believe that the majority of people in this area care about conservation
and the environment. I feel that they are more likely to take an active
role, and take more initiatives on their own, and do more for
conservation this way. They would also hold a more positive view. But
there also needs to be some conservation standards and guidelines set
forth by the government because soil and water quality is a limited and
shared natural resource. So I favor a fair, flexible, and reasonable
mix of both.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would
continue to encourage all people to take an active role in
conservation. It can be little things such as soil testing every year,
and breaking individual soil tests down into smaller units of land size
to get a more detailed view of a field's fertility. Or it could be
something like, installing a rain garden to temporary catch storm water
runoff from your yard until it soaks into the ground. Or maybe seeding
a CRP native grass buffer strip. What ever it is, conservation does
make a difference in the environment. I thank you for your interest
here in conservation. The SWCD staff and board are here to help in any
way that we can.
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KOOCHICHING
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
ELDON VOIGT
JR.
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Having been a
board member this last year I have learned how the SWCD’s function. I
also have a small farm growing vegetables which have taught me the
importance of maintaining good quality water and soil.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have served
as a board member for a year so I have some experience. As mentioned I
also have a small vegetable farm. I also, have been involved in the
Forest Products industry for 20+ years.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
To maintain
the environment of Koochiching County and make sure rural people have a
voice in government.
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 is voluntary adoption of practices such as the very
successful BMP’s for water quality for timber harvesting. A better
approach to wetlands regulations for Koochiching county needs to be
found.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I have worked
with U of MN Extension Service in growing vegetables in high tunnels. I
maintain pesticide use at a minimum, plant wildlife food plots, maintain
fields for Bees and use crop rotation.
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LAC QUI PARLE
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
JOHN REBEHN
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Having worked
my entire career with conservation of soil and water resources, both in
the USDA and the local soil and water conservation district (SWCD) I
have acquired knowledge that will help in making administrative
decisions.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Many
conservation practices have been installed on our land, starting in
1959. Father and myself were named Outstanding Conservationists in
1963. Worked as a Soil Conservation Technician both for USDA Soil
Conservation Service at the district level and have served on the Lac
qui Parle SWCD Board since 1989.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
To improve and
preserve our natural resources 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?
Depending on
if caused by natural actions or operations and a benefit to the general
public which should be voluntary and come with a cost-share program or
grant money. If the problem is created by landowner neglect or abuse,
regulations could be used.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Work for a
levy authority for SWCDs similar to that of schools and watershed
districts.
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LE SUEUR
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4
CLETUS GREGOR
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
30 years as a
farmer in the rolling hills of Kilkenny Township
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Have grass
waterways for years and installed terraces on several sidehills
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
To protect and
conserve soil in LeSueur 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?
Management
practices by landowners with help from local countys.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would like
to see an annual adjustment made for enrollment in CRP acres so land
owners would keep enrolling in the program.
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LINCOLN
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
JOHN BOULTON
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Landowner;
interest in preservation of our land and natural resources for future
generations
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have
installed numerous conservation practices and have seen the improvements
they have made to the land
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
The
preservation of soil and water 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
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Encourage the
strengthening of Soil and Water Conservation Districts
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MARTIN
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
DUANE
PETROWIAK
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Years of
experience. Served as chairman Dist.,Zone 10. Treasurer Area 6 Member of
state finance & resolution committees
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Enrolled in
CREP & CRP. Have been on Dist & Area 6 tours at least twice a year.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
To help
supervise the employees of the Dist. Area & State to better serve the
customers of Mn.
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 without a doubt. Although I realize we will have to work with
federal regulations.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
More education
on our part to inform our customers of their options for how to sustain
our natural resources.
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MILLE LACS
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1
GENE GERTH
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I have been on
the SWCD Board for more than 10 years.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have been
farming for many years and have used conservation practices on my farm.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I have the
time and want to help others learn and use conservation practices in our
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
adoption of best management practices by landowners.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
As of now, I
believe we are implementing as much as we can for our constituents.
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MILLE LACS
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
KURT
BECKSTROM
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Extensive
knowledge of Mille Lacs County and its resources.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
My experiences
in conservation issues range from a background in farming, commercial
operation, and government administration.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
A genuine
interest in conservation 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?
Voluntary by
use of incentives rather than regulation.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
continue to
work towards a more streamlined system for delivery that would move us
closer to a one stop shop for conservation.
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MILLE LACS
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4
BARBARA ELLER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I was
appointed to the Mille Lacs Board in 2006 to fill a vacancy, so I bring
experience in working with the staff and other board members. I am
familiar with the issues facing conservation districts. As a retired
military officer and nurse I bring organizational skills and a deep
appreciation for how our environment impacts our health.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I am now a
small, diversified farmer committed to the National Organic Program
Standards and the principles of Biodynamic Farming. Sustainability of
this endeavor and the health of the earth depend upon respect for the
environment, use of Best Management Practices (BMP), and constantly
seeking harmony between the economic bottom line and conservation
practices. In 2002 I received a NRCS cost-share contract to complete a
managed grazing system and stock pipeline, use exclusion of wetlands,
and a shelter-belt. I learned first-hand about BMP and how the SWCD and
NRCS operate at the user level to assist with conservation.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
As a nurse, I
have been committed to improving the health of people for over 30 years.
I now believe one of the best ways to do this is to ensure the health of
the environment and the vitality of our soils 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?
We currently
use a combination of these to achieve natural resource protection. The
Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Natural Resource, and
Minnesota Feedlot rules are familiar government regulations that impact
private landowners when public health and safety are concerned. I
believe in the right of the landowner, however, to otherwise have
freedom of use which means voluntary use of Best Management Practices.
The majority of undesirable environmental impacts by the private
landowner are due to lack of knowledge and the ever present money
crunch.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would
continue to promote our staff’s excellent education programs and seek
better ways to provide our private landowners with the knowledge and
financial assistance to make ‘Best Management Practice’ a household word
and activity. Forest gardens, ‘Victory’ gardens, rain gardens are
inexpensive ways to raise nutritious food for the family while enhancing
soil and water quality. My vision is to replace the wasteful suburban
lawn with these healthy alternatives. Farmland is rapidly being lost to
urban sprawl and we must find ways to mitigate run-off, erosion,
multiple septic systems/wells and promote planning for green spaces so
important for water filtration and future food supplies. I would
continue our support of the Mille Lacs Watershed Group and their efforts
to monitor and improve the water quality of Mille Lacs Lake. As our SWCD
is involved with the county’s noxious weed control program, I would
continue and seek new ways to eliminate the use of pesticides and
herbicides in our roadways.
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NOBLES
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1
JAMES D KNIPS
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Ability to
speak out on issues common sense approach to problem solving leadership
experience.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
25 years of
service on boards and committees dealing with conservation issues state
wide
30 years of
conservation farming
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
To make an
impact on the preservation of our precious natural resources 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?
We need a
combination of both.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Increased
education and promotion of conservation programs. I would seed more
funding for cost share programs to reflect the changing economics in
Agriculture.
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OLMSTED
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4
MICHAEL
CHRISTENSON
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I was born and
raised on a farm in Salem township and live there now. I have seen how
agriculture and residential development need to co-exist and the impact
it has on our environment. I work in the financial field and have a
good understanding of the cost side agriculture and how it pertains to
implementing programs.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I work on a
frequent basis with agricultural clients that are addressing
environmental issues on their own operations. My father believed in
using conservation practices on our farm when he operated it, such as
contours, strip-cropping, crop rotation, rotational grazing and minimum
tillage. These same practices are still used on our farm.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I think it’s
important for everyone to take a pro-active approach to environmental
issues and conservation practices that will help preserve what we
already have as well as provide enhancements for 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?
You will have
better success with voluntary adoption versus government regulation. It
would seem that if a landowner believes in the process, compliance as
well as future maintenance would have a much greater likelihood of
happening.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
We all have to
be open to new ideas. There is constant development and testing of new
technologies and practices that will allow us to protect our environment
and increase productivity of agriculture at the same time.
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WEST OTTER TAIL
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5 (WEST)
RICHARD B.
VIGER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I am very
conservation minded. I promote use of buffers, structures, terraces to
prevent runoff water from entering lake, rivers and streams.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have
installed 65 terraces and structures on my own farm. I have promoted
lakeshore and stream bank stabilization. I have worked with updating
water plan. Promoted tree planting and no till drill.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
To promote and
monitor conservation practices that will protect our sensitive surface
and ground 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?
Voluntary
adoption of best management practices by landowners.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would like
to find a good way to control buckthorn! I will look for new ways to
improve enticements for farmers to keep marginal land in CRP.
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EAST OTTER TAIL
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1 (EAST)
GARY L. CRUFF
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Over 40 years
of Cons. Work in farm, USDA and Lake organizations
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Born and
raised on a N. Dakota family farm and worked for U.S.D.A. for over 30
years.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I have served
the board almost 8 years the past 2 years we have had a lake specialist
to work with lake folks. I want to see this continued.
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 must always
stay voluntary but we must and do offer incentive to get land owners to
put in Const. Projects.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
The soil dist.
must continue to offer help and programs as we have for past years.
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PINE
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4
BASIL SERFIN
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Served as
zoning administrator in Bremen Township – 5 years;
Served as
zoning administrator in Pine Lake Township – 6 years;
State licensed
sewage treatment systems inspector;
Completed the
MASWCD Leadership Program – 2007-2008
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Served on the
TEP Panel – Technical Evaluation Panel – which deals with wetland
issues;
Served on the
State Forestry Committee; Served on the Landscape Committee;
Met with
Legislators in Washington D.C. and discussed conservation issues.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
Have always
been interested in water quality. As a septic systems inspector you
become more aware of water use and land management practices.
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 apply.
More education of management practices for land owners; Landowners
should also be aware of government regulations.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
To have more
information available to property owners about conservation, natural
resources, and agriculture.
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PINE
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4
J.J. WALDHALM
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
My strengths
would be as follows. I would listen closely to any persons wetland
concerns and completely research any wetland matter before making any
decision.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
This past year
I have been involved in extensive research on landowner rights relating
to all types of wetlands. Years past I have been involved in farming as
a youth to working in all types of outdoor jobs including Electrical
Line work in my current job for the past 20 years.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
My motivation
is out of respect for our landowners.
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?
My approach is
to respect landowners rights while practicing good common sense on a
case by case basis.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
My change
would be to fairly represent the people in my district, with respect for
the landowners while taking the common sense approach to any matter on a
case by case basis.
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PIPESTONE
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
ANNA MAE
FRITZ
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Served 2 terms
on the board and just missed 1 monthly meeting.
Attended most
state meetings.
Read all
information up date on programs and new on conservation.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Be on the farm
all my life and help work the soil.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I enjoy
working with the board and office employees.
Served 2
terms.
Been on a farm
all my life.
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?
Clean Water
Act.
Strip till.
Plant more
trees
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Work harder
for the clean water program.
Try to keep
the CRP and their programs for wildlife in practice in our area.
Keep people
informed at meeting and a booth at our upcoming county fair.
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POPE
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
RALPH J.
PETERSON
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
A half century
of rural living in Minnesota and South Dakota has provided a wealth of
experience and importance of protecting the soil and water that everyone
is so dependant on. I also bring a cooperative attitude and the ability
to communicate with people and discuss issues.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
My first
experience with soil and water conservation was in the 1950’s when the
county technicians helped with long range planning, soil mapping and
encouraged best management practices. This early involvement has made
me watch for soil and water problems and solutions where ever I’ve
lived.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
Soil and water
are the foundation blocks which provide food, nutrition and sustenance
for life of plants, animals and humans. Without care of soil and water,
there is a risk of losing soil fertility and water quality. Locally,
nationally and worldwide, we need to be better stewards.
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?
Very often,
protecting our natural resources becomes an economic issue. When the
economy thrives, dollars are more available and more protection of
natural resources happens. However, protecting our natural resources
needs to be an everyday occurrence. We need to look for ways to partner
with landowners to share the costs of protection.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Many lakes and
rivers in Pope County and the State of Minnesota are impaired with
various pollutants. Pope County SWCD needs to partner with federal,
state and private groups to work toward improving clean waters. Water
is so essential to life! Minnesota is blessed with ample water, but
this also gives us a greater responsibility to develop partnerships
between private and public entities to keep this natural resource
available.
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RAMSEY
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
DAVID BOGUE
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Relationship
building, problem solving, creative thinking, integrity and a strong
work ethic are among the strengths I'd bring to the board.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
My
professional experience is working with landowners, government agencies,
and nonprofits that are involved with habitat restoration and improving
water quality. I'm a University of Minnesota graduate in Natural
Resources ad Environmental Studies.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
My motivation
is to use my education and experiences to serve the citizens of Ramsey
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
adoption of best management practices by landowners is the most
effective approach! The foundation of Soil and Water Conservation
Districts across the Nation is building cooperative partnerships with
landowners.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Runoff of
surface contaminants, such as fertilizers and motor oil, to our lakes
and streams is increasing. Recharge of our aquifers is decreasing
because of increased impervious surfaces from development, such as roofs
and parking lots. Furthermore, Ramsey County's ground water is
threatened by more than 30,000 abandoned wells, which can provide a
"straight shot" for contamination to reach our aquifers. The solution to
protecting our water is to work cooperatively with other agencies and
with Ramsey County citizens to ensure the safety of our drinking water.
As such, I'd like to see more citizens aware of and empowered to protect
their watershed.
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RAMSEY
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
GREG COPELAND
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I am offering
my leadership skills and hands-on knowledge of city, county and state
government, as well as my ability to motivate and involve citizens in
the governance of their community, to leverage public and private
resources to take new initiatives to clean up our lakes. I propose the
Ramsey Conservation District take action to create The Save Our Lakes
Campaign to focus public attention on the degradation of our surface
waters and the need for citizen participation to develop a strategic
plan to improve the water quality of our lakes.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I worked as a
volunteer with my neighborhood, Payne-Phalen District Council, to lead a
battle clean up a 27 acre Garbage Transfer Station that operated without
the proper state permit. This involved working with the St. Paul City
Council, Ramsey County Environmental Health, Ramsey- Washington County
Solid Waste Board, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, the
Legislature, the Attorney General's Office and Ramsey County District
Court. I was a member of the Board of Directors the St. Paul
Neighborhood Energy Consortium for six years, where I chaired its Public
Policy Committee for several years. While Maplewood City Manager I
worked with the Mayor and City Council to: 1] develop a model
Conservation Easement Program to provide permanent protection of the
city's Open Spaces and Parks, 2]adopt a new more restrictive city Tree
protection ordinance, 3]establish funding for the city's first
Environmental Planner, 4]up grade a citizens task force to a full City
Commission on the Environment and Natural Resources and 5]initiated
planning for a new Wetlands Protection Ordinance.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
There is a
need to provide leadership to focus attention on the challenges we face
as a community, as a county, in order to accomplish the restoration of
our lakes as the high quality surface water resources we want them to
become in the future. I look forward to the opportunity to serve and
help build the partnerships through The Save Our Lakes Campaign with
citizens, property owners, leaders of watershed districts, cities,
Ramsey County and state government, to develop innovative and cost
effective methods of improving the water quality of our lakes.
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?
Educated
motivated citizens and responsible property owners will, I believe, act
out of enlightened self interest to Save Our Lakes. No one, lake front
property owner or citizens in general, want a lake so choked with
aquatic weeds, filled with excessive algae and slime or contaminated by
mercury that we can't boat, swim or eat the fish. Saving Our Lakes is up
to all of us acting to comply with the myriad of existing laws and
regulations, but that is not enough. Together, as individuals acting on
a cooperative basis with our neighbors, having engaged upon a shared
vision with our public and private partners to bring resources to the
table, we can implement best management practices need to clean up our
lakes.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
The Save Our
Lakes Campaign I have proposed elsewhere in this questionnaire is my
primary idea for improvement of Ramsey County's natural resources. The
Save Our Lakes Campaign offers the Ramsey Conservation District two long
term opportunities; 1] development of a program to build citizen
participation, and 2] achieving its prime institutional goal of
protecting and improving surface water quality.
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RAMSEY
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
JILL
ELIZABETH WILKINSON
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I am a current
Supervisor and have gained much knowledge and a better understanding of
the problems my county faces with regard to soil and water conservation.
I am fiscally responsible and have a background in small business
management.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I am an avid
angler and hunter and my family ran a business that catered to sportsmen
and women for over 50 years and the experiences have taught me how
precious our natural resources truly are. I am a current member of the
National Wild Turkey Federation.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
To protect and
conserve the soil and water of Ramsey county in a fiscally responsible
manner.
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 adaptation of best management practices by landowners is the
most effective approach. If people feel involved and that they are
making a difference they will be more motivated and more open to change.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would like
our district to continue to partner with watershed districts to educated
citizens about best management practices and I would promote voluntary
implementation of best management practices.
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RAMSEY
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
MARA MAGNUSON
HUMPHREY
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I have a
passion for the outdoors and I would bring my experience with the
legislative process representing various efforts and groups at the State
Capitol to the board. I would also bring the ability to work with local
organizations to coordinate projects that will help to protect the
environment. As a member of the Ramsey County Capital Improvement
Program Advisory Committee, I have insight into local government capital
needs and budgeting.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
During my
service as president of the area homeowners association, I worked to
decrease the amount of chemical use on our lawns and protected green
space for the neighborhood to use. As a member of Ramsey County's
capital budgeting advisory group, I am familiar with park, environmental
and recreational projects needs in the county. As a founding member of
the Friends of Lake Phalen organization, I am involved with issues
related to park improvement and preservation in the area.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I want to
ensure that our natural resources are protected for the next generation
to enjoy. Ramsey County needs to have a comprehensive strategy in place
to improve both water and soil quality. This area needs a Conservation
District Supervisor who will work with community, local and state
officials to ensure that we are all working together to protect water
quality, preserve soil resources and improve the urban and suburban
environment. It is also important that we leverage available resources
to achieve these goals and to make sure that Ramsey County receives its’
fair share of state and regional funding
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
best management practices by landowners are an important component to
protecting our natural resources. Encouraging landowners and developers
to adopt best management processes is a first step. Landowners need to
be provided with the tools and resources to help protect water and soil
quality. However, there is also a role for government regulation to
ensure that overall water quality goals can be met and particularly
sensitive areas are protected. Necessary regulations can be developed
and refined through collaboration with local watershed districts and
municipal zoning authorities.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
There are a
number of issues facing Ramsey County and its communities. Saint Paul
is a built community which presents unique challenges. We have
opportunities to improve water quality every time a site is redeveloped
in Saint Paul and in Ramsey County. The SWCD can be a partner with
municipalities, redevelopment authorities and developers to meet
community goals to improve water quality. We can provide expert advice
and match private investments where appropriate. I would like to see
increased resources directed toward the restoration of native vegetation
and proper storm water management. It is also critical that attention
is paid to the clean-up and remediation of several sites where
environmental contamination is occurring, by partnering with
redevelopment authorities.
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RAMSEY
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
PAUL SAWYER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I have many
strengths which will make me an effective conservation district
supervisor. I have much experience working in legislative and
policymaking environments. I am comfortable working closely with a team
to finish long and detailed projects—even if I may disagree with some of
the members. Finally, I am well educated in issues facing the soil and
water resources facing Ramsey County, and I am constantly talking with
district staff, scientists, and elected officials knowledgeable about
those issues to continue learning more to develop very nuanced views so
that I am prepared to make effective policy and implement practices
which are proven to work.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have
extensively studied environmental policy from every angle, including
economics, ecology, and sociology. I have specifically done policy
research in the area of water quality and water pollution. I also have
participated in and experienced firsthand some of the most successful
ecological restoration projects around the Twin Cities by extensively
volunteering with Friends of the Mississippi River where I currently
hold a leadership role.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
In addition to
my experience working with environmental issues, I also have a great
passion for them. Living in Saint Paul my entire life I have grown up
along the Mississippi River and have enjoyed lakes all over Minnesota.
These resources are an important part of my life, and I am committed to
protecting them so that all Minnesotans can continue safely using them
for decades to come. Being a young person, I also have a sense of
urgency about these issues, because I will have to live with the
conservation decisions made today for the next fifty or sixty years. As
more and more waters in this state turn up polluted it is time to make a
permanent mark and implement policies which will really turn the tide on
pollution and water quality. Our resources are too valuable to ignore
any longer.
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?
Minimal
regulations to prevent the most damaging practices must be implemented
by the watershed districts. However, the most success in protecting
natural resources on the local level will come from the conservation
districts providing assistance and resources to individual landowners so
that they can implement BMPs themselves.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
With Ramsey
County being a uniquely urban county, our natural resources are in the
form of the river and lakes where we swim and fish. The greatest way
that these waters can be kept safe and usable for decades to come is by
implementing practices which aggressively target runoff and storm water
to minimize the amount of water that is entering the storm sewers—and
thus our bodies of water—and to decrease the pollutants in the water
that makes it to the storm sewers.
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RAMSEY
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5
MARGARET A.
BEHRENS
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I have a
lifetime of experience in community service along with proven leadership
skills. My passion for the preservation and protection and repair of our
aligning environment drives me to work on resoling the issues and not
just writing regulations or guidelines for the citizens to be penalized.
I believe that government has a great responsibility in protecting us
all and they are failing and are ignoring their responsibilities at
citizens and at great environmental expense. I will demand answers and
results to all of the issues.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
For years, I
have watched with great concern, my neighborhood and extended community
being contaminated and severely damaged by toxic chemical and other
biological contaminates. Our waterways, lakes and streams have become
greatly impaired. Our waters have been damaged so severely that they
have various warnings issued on them. Many of the cities within the
fifth district have very serious environmental issues that need to be
immediately addressed and corrected. We need to take action. These
issues are severe and should have been addressed and they should have
been corrected before they became so severe.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I have watched
our environment become so severely damaged that our environmental
habitats began to die. I have worked on environmental issues, including
litigation for over 25 years. I have been a passionate citizen
representative. I will continue to work tirelessly to help provide the
citizens with the answers and the results that we all deserve. After
years of unresolved issues with various agencies. I knew that I needed
to approach these issues on a new forum. As I decided this, I was
approached be several people to apply for a position on the
Environmental and Natural Resources Commission that had recently been
made into a commission. After I applied to the commission and I was
interviewed by the city council. I was appointed as a Commissioner on
the City of Maplewood’s very first Environmental & Natural Resources
Commission. There have been numerous requests for me to become an
elected official so I would be able to represent our communities and so
I will have a more respected voice and the authority to go along with
it. I have filed for election to become a Supervisor for District 5 so
our communities will have the voice and the respect that we all deserve.
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 must
produce and implement educational resources in all community
opportunities. There are already too many governmental regulations that
are demanding accountability on behalf of the citizens and not on the
responsible party of government. Citizens pay taxes and have rights
through the Minnesota State and Federal Constitutions regarding their
property rights. I will work to protect the rights of the citizens and
the protection of the rights. I encourage education and proper property
management to help utilize any of the best management practices that
landowners may want to implement.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
The promotion
of citizen involvement and education. The concept of community
educational events is critical to success of any program with realistic
goals and expectations. We need to stop writing and start repairing the
damages that are a reality in our environment now. We need to commit to
resolve and start it now. It is always too late once the damages are
done. However. It is never too late to help heal damages as much as
possible and to prevent further damages and new damages in the future.
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REDWOOD
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
EMILY EVANS
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I have a
passion for the environment, and conservation issues. I feel strongly
about public education, and the benefits of working closely with
producers and citizens for change. I am educated in biology, ecology
and agriculture and have worked closely with producers implementing
practices which promote sustainability on their farms. I have served on
previous boards and board committees, and am familiar with the
responsibilities and work involved. As a researcher, I became familiar
with SWCD programs and have worked with producers implementing SWCD
programs.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have a
bachelor’s degree in Biology with a focus on Ecology and the
environment. I worked in the Rodale Institute’s Soil Health Department,
researching soil quality for 2 years. Then, as an assistant scientist
for the organic research program at the University of Minnesota’s
Southwest Research and Outreach Center, I worked with numerous research
trials promoting various management practices to decrease erosion and
chemical run-off, and studied high-input, low-input and organic system
effects on soil and water quality. I also visited over 50 farms,
educating producers on sustainable and organic practices. I gathered
input from producers on what information would be most valuable for
them, and used that data to set up workshops, field days, and shape our
research program. I served as a board member for the Minnesota
Institute of Sustainable Agriculture for 2 years, and chaired and
participated in numerous committees.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
After taking
an extended maternity leave from full-time employment, I would like to
once again become involved in the environmental health of the area in
which I reside. My family has recently moved from town to farm, and I
see many more ways in which we, as citizens, can do our part to better
the health of our environment. I am looking forward to becoming very
familiar with programs offered by SWCD, and participate in making
decisions about how to best connect and serve the public.
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 they
should both be part of natural resource protection, but I feel the most
effective way is by voluntary adoption of best management practices,
particularly through incentive programs. Often a producer/landowner is
unaware of the risks certain production practices have on the
environment, but are interested in change due to an added incentive.
Once a change is made, the benefits become more evident, neighbors ask,
and word spreads in a positive way.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I am
especially interested in public education. Producers and landowners in
our district may not be aware of the impact current practices have on
the environment as well as opportunities available for them. A strong
positive connection between public and SWCD offices could ensure a
healthier environment.
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REDWOOD
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4
JOSEPH R.
PLAETZ
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I would bring
strong leadership skills, a knowledge of current programs, and the
ability to work well w/others. I am a go-getter who’s not afraid to get
my feed wet and I have served and am currently serving on other Boards
in the community.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
As a farmer, I
have had past experiences w/various conservation programs. I have
worked w/CRP and other ways of protecting our farmland. I am also a
hunter so I know what groups like PF and the MDHA are striving to
protect.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
A strong
commitment to protecting our environment and resources. I believe we
can make production agriculture and conservation work together
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?
Unfortunately
I think its gov’t regulation. There is a huge “push” for higher and
higher production. Land prices and rents are at record highs and
individuals are willing to sacrifice CRP and other sensitive land to
grow crops. The only way to stop some of this is through regulation.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would
encourage more buffer strips and tree plantings along w/wetland
restoration. The way I see it, trend-like yields are increasing so why
should we put sensitive land into production when we can produce more
bushels on less land?
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RENVILLE
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1
JAMES SCHAFER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I would bring
knowledge, leadership and practical experience to the board.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I believe that
I have set an example in the community by speaking at youth
organizations, churches and other community events about conservations
issues. I have served on several state and federal committees and
lobbied at the legislature in support of soil and water conservation
issues. I am a member of Ducks Unlimited, Pheasant’s Forever, the
Turkey Federation and Buffalo Lake Rod & Gun Club. I have also been
involved in building fishing piers in my community.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
In the near
future there will be a crisis with water, food and energy. We need a
good message from the soil & water district to those ends. I believe in
conserving the resources for the future and addressing practical uses of
our 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?
Definitely
voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners. We need
to promote the people caring and utilizing the resources that we have.
I believe that the supervisor needs to set an example of this.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would
promote resource management for the betterment of the soil and water
conservation district. This can be done by continued encouragement
around such conservation practices as rock tile inlets, windbreaks,
buffers on water courses, positive maintenance of dredge ditches and
conservation tillage.
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RENVILLE
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1
M R KOENIG
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I am a
lifelong resident, landowner, and agriculturalist of Renville County. I
have also been a high-school educator and coach for 28 years, and am a
graduate of Minnesota State University, Mankato, Minnesota. I am very
interested in native plants, animals, and birds of my area; and also in
all matters concerning environmental issues.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have been
involved for decades with the planting and maintenance of field hedges,
filter strips, CRP acres, and tree windbreak areas.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I would like
the opportunity to be involved in the planning and facilitation of
useful and beneficial environmental practices.
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 a
mixture of voluntary and regulatory tactics are essential in order to
assure optimum levels of compliance and efficiency in matters concerning
soil and water conservation efforts. Regrettably, not all individuals
care about the long-term effects of their actions to other citizens, or
to the environment; and therefore governmental oversight is
necessary....to some degree, at least.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I advocate
higher payment levels for CRP land, in order to keep landowner income
more competitive with current high commodity prices. Also, more
incentives are needed to encourage landowners to plant more field
windbreaks.
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RENVILLE
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5
LOYAL FISHER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
My education
and experience as a high school Ag teacher provided me with a helpful
background in learning about the conservation delivery system. My
experiences as the chair of our teacher's organization taught me more
about cooperation and helped me to learn issues that employees may have
with supervisors. I also learned a lot from the staff of the Renville
SWCD when they helped me teach subjects related to soil conservation and
water quality prior to 1998. I've developed relationships that help
support trust in the ten years I've been a Supervisor.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
It's been a
very positive growing and learning experience for me to be able to
attend four NACD Annual meetings and three NACD national legislative
events while serving as a supervisor for our SWCD. As a District we
encourage our Supervisors to be informed; because of this general
attitude I've been able to attend workshops related to nitrogen and
phosphorus in our environment as well as the workshops sponsored by
Dennis Fuchs of the Stearns SWCD where presenters do an excellent job of
keeping us up to date with conservation and agronomic topics.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
Very few
people are willing to look at the condition of and circumstances
surrounding our nation's surface water. Local SWCD's are VERY important
in the maintenance of relationships with private land owners/operators
so worthwhile government programs can provide funds and technical
assistance to help keep our soil in place and thus keep much of it out
of our surface 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 love
freedom in our country; hardly anyone wants to be told what to do with
their land or whatever. Wise, passionate and cooperative SWCD staff and
supervisors can connect with private landowners to persuade them to
install and help pay for best management practices.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Supervisors
need to continue to hire the best people we can, encourage them to stay
current with programs and information, let them work and pay them almost
as much as we know they should receive. Someone in our SWCD needs to
consistently work with elected officials to help move the focus of
government programs to include what works in our county and others in
Minnesota. We need to work with County officials so they can use our
expertise.
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RICE
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
RICHARD
HUSTON
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Education and
experience with conservation issues.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Have restored
165 acres to prairie, wetlands and tree plantings.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
Clean water
and slowing down soil erosion while at the same time enhancing habitat
for wildlife.
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
necessary
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
More
participation in available programs and increased use by county
residents of our highly trained staff.
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ROCK
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4
ALLEN NUFFER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I would bring
many years of conservation farming practices, along with being a hard
working and ethical person.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have been
involved in terrace farming, contour farming, starting new wind breaks,
and redoing old wind breaks.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
There was a
need for a replacement in my area. I serve on the Township Board and
want to help make my community better by serving the public.
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 of best management practices by landowners. I feel it is better
to keep government out of regulating what we do.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would do my
best to help preserve our agricultural standards with conservation
practices, while making well informed decisions.
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NORTH
SAINT LOUIS
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2 (NORTH)
GARY A.
RANTALA
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Strengths I
will bring to the board are a good ability to listen to all points of
view, experience from numerous other boards, good financial background (
own and have operated our greenhouse / nursery business for nearly 40
years), agricultural background ( teacher of vocational agriculture for
30 years), as well as political experience ( local Town Board for 18
years).
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Experience
with conservation issues, in addition to the 30 years of vo.ag
experience, include working with our local town board on the Embarrass
River stabilization project, interest with several lake associations,
and landscaping projects I have worked on in conjunction with our
business as well as coaching the FFA Soils team as ag. instructor.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
My motivation
for being a SWCD Supervisor is my interest in wise usage of the soil and
waters resources of Minnesota, maintaining their stability ,
sustainability in a ecologically friendly manner while still maintaining
productivity and profitability.
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
the most effective approach to protecting our natural resources is the
education and promotion of good management practices to not only
farmers, but to all land owners and users. We, the SWCD's are the
people with the white hats, it is our duty to promote this educational
effort to establish top rate BMP's. Government regulation may at times
be necessary if certain situations cannot be otherwise controlled.
Voluntary controls via proper educational methods, I believe, are much
more effective and easier to adopt as well as maintain.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would like
to see our district continue to take interest in the Fire Wise program,
continue its participation in the Great Lakes programs and become more
involved in base line monitoring programs of our waters because of the
great increase in the non-ferrous metal mining possibilities in our
district. Increased funding toward these ends is needed and is an issue
we need to contend with and resolve.
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SOUTH SAINT LOUIS
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4 (SOUTH)
DAVID T.
DAVIS
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
My strength is
many years of Board experience and knowledge of the various programs and
the wisdom to compromise and get along with staff and other individuals.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Past
experience is over twenty-two years of serve as a Board member dealing
with farm and urban conservation issues. I am a retired dairy farmer
and have first hand knowledge of working the land, and I am cognizant of
the importance of maintaining our environment and natural resources.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
My motivation
is seeing the huge amount of conservation work that needs to be
accomplished and the foresight to realize that there is no end to what
could and should be done.
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 best management practices are enhanced
significantly with government regulation (direction). Without this, the
adoption of these practices would be inadequate.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
The change
that I would like to see made is a concerted effort statewide to advise
all citizens of the ongoing long-term damage we are causing our
environment. If we could eliminate or reduce to a larger degree this
damage, it would enhance the sustainability of our natural resources and
agriculture.
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SCOTT
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1
EWALD
GRUETZMACHER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
This will be
my fourth term. I watched my dad for many years, and then I took over
the supervisor job from him. I believe in creating various practices to
protect the land and water resources in Scott County.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I’ve seen
first-hand the many methods we can use to stop erosion.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
The board has
an important role in best management practices regarding water and soil
in the county. I enjoy going to the meetings and listening to the
different ways to stop erosion on creeks and lakeshores.
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?
Measures to
control erosion on creeks and lakeshores are of great importance. We
have to adopt voluntary adoption of best management practices with
guidance from the SWCD.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Developing
rain gardens is a conservation practice I’d like to see more of in Scott
County.
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SCOTT
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
LINDA K.
BROWN
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I have strong
skills in problem solving. I am able to see the big picture while still
keeping in mind the fine details. When making decisions I like to
gather data from every side of an issue to fully understand what the
ramifications of a decision would have on those involved. I have the
ability to stay calm during difficult situations. I have over 14 years
of experience working in City government and with public boards.
Through this experience, I completely understand board dynamics and
their connections to local government.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
My grandfather
was a farmer all of his life. My father also farmed and I grew up
helping both of them on the farm. This gave me first hand experience in
understanding the importance of taking care of the land and also the
difficulties that farmers can face. I have lived most of my adult life
in a rural setting and currently have acreage of my own. I have a love
and appreciation for the land and a desire to see that our natural
resources are properly cared for so that future generations can also
appreciate them.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
My motivation
for wanting to be a SWCD supervisor is so I can be involved in the
decision making process to make sure we protect our land and water
resources. Scott County has seen tremendous growth. We have many rural
settings, however, urban settings are encroaching into the rural areas.
There is a need to balance rural needs with urban desires. I want to
assist in developing strong conservation methods and educating the
public on these practices.
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?
Certainly
willingness and cooperation by land owners to preserve our natural
resources is a necessary component to ensure our natural resources are
protected. I believe people truly want to protect our environment and
through ongoing education of “Best Practice” methods they can see the
importance of protecting our natural resources and being a part of the
process. The government’s role should be to educate and assist land
owners, and when necessary, institute regulations to prevent practices
that are detrimental to the environment. It is a blending of both that
will result in the best outcome.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I believe it’s
important to make sure Scott County residents are aware of the programs
the SWCD office has available so I would be an enthusiastic promoter of
these programs. I would also search out the availability of new
programs that would benefit the residents of our county. Also, I will
be a strong advocate for continued funding during these difficult budget
times and I would be cognizant of the importance of fiscal
responsibility.
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SCOTT
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
SCOTT TRACY
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
During the
past four years, I’ve had the opportunity as a SWCD supervisor to
develop strong working relationships with local community leaders
related to conservation issues. In addition, I’ve lived in and around
Scott County for more than 30 years and understand the balance that must
exist between conservation and development.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I’ve served
one term as a SWCD Supervisor and have participated in the following
committees: the Scott County 2030 Vision Advisory Committee; the
Minnesota Association of SWCD Leadership Program; the Scott County
Natural Areas Corridor Initiative; the MASWCD Legislative Committee; and
the Area IV MASWCD Education Committee. I also have more than 20 years
experience as an environmental consultant.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I have a
strong sense of community involvement, having served on appointed
committees and as an elected official since 1990. Conservation issues
are of particular interest to me, as they reflect many of my
professional interests in water quality and sustainable development.
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?
What I have
seen work best in our county is a cooperative program of education and
incentives to encourage effective stewardship of our soil and water
resources. Our SWCD staff does an excellent job of working with property
owners to find cost-sharing programs for best management practices.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Continuing to
educate land owners on available practices and programs is a high
priority. Adopting a common vision of how to prioritize and protect our
natural resources without being overly restrictive of development is
another high priority.
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SCOTT
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
PAUL KRUEGER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Extensive
experience as a farmer, landowner, developer and real estate agent,
representing buyers and sellers in transactions. All of these
perspectives bring different issues to the table.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
As a farmer
and landowner, I have participated in installing various conservation
practices. As a SWCD supervisor, I have been involved in the approval of
many conservation practices.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I want to make
sure we maintain and preferably improve both our land and water
resources. But we need to employ a common-sense approach and be
conservative with the use of taxpayer dollars.
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?
Hands down, it
has to be the voluntary adoption of best management practices.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
The role of
the Scott SWCD and his role as a supervisor are changing. Development
and the added stress on our natural resources caused by increased
demands for the production of both food and energy will require us to
use new, innovative ideas and practices to preserve our natural
resources.
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SIBLEY
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
GARY SCHAFER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Past
experience with the legislature and serving on board for 8 years.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Served as a
supervisor and legislature member.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
Want to serve.
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 of best management practices by landowners.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Without money
there isn’t a lot we can do but we try to spend more on the field than
administration. More people in administration less money to go around.
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STEARNS
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
GERALD
TOWNSEND
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Management,
former Business Owner.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have done
surveys of lakeshore property, in the past. Regarding set, elevation,
and inspecting sewer systems, and some design all so I do understand
Building Codes and I do have experience in water and waste technology
and water treatment
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I am concerned
about water pollution, proper use of fertilizer and runoff, also rural
development.
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 must meet
with landowners and try to reach an agreement about issues, and if not
we must use government regulations.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Using
conservation or no tillage cultivation systems, planting cover crops,
installing permanent vegetated conservation buffers, such as wind
breaks, grass water ways, filter strips and buffers
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STEARNS
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
LARRY SALZER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
My profession,
my past experience on the board of directors of the Minnesota Erosion
Control Association and my current seat on this board of supervisors
since 2003, has kept me in close touch with the ever increasing
complexity of the issues of protecting our natural. As a graduate of the
MASWCD Leadership Program, I have formed relationships with our
conservation partners and learned how to become a better advocate for
conservation.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
At the time of
my appointment, I was well in tune with the new NPDES Phase 2
Regulations of the Federal Clean Water Act being that where affecting
all of the states and counties and many communities. Over my 5 years on
this board, I have become much closer and more educated on the issues as
they continue to change and as our resource protection dollars become
more threatened. I was instrumental in the start of new program that
protects SWCD funded shoreline projects ensuring the projects remain
intact for current and future owners of the property.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
Having grown
up in Stearns County and enjoying all of the outdoor activities this
area has to offer, I feel a responsibility to ensure these opportunities
to future generations. I believe strongly that agriculture and
conservation go hand in hand and that a strong agricultural does not
have to threaten our natural resources. I also believe in responsible or
what some may call Low Impact Development. Education is key and the
staff at the Stearns SWCD share this belief and they love to educate and
motivate landowners and community leaders toward making conscientious
decisions on how to get the most out of the land they occupy with the
least possible impact. Who would not wish to work with a group like
this?
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 strongly
believe in voluntary adoption. It is not the roll of an SWCD to enforce
regulations. Our roll is to provide technical and financial assistance.
Educate people on the responsible way of dealing with their specific
issues and provide a source of funding to help make it a reality. The
rest is up to them. Enforcement is a different animal and quite
necessary and we have several agencies that deal directly with those
issues. The SWCD should not take on a roll as enforcer.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
There are new
programs that target highly sensitive areas near lakes and waterways
that have lower agricultural value to them. These programs promote the
uses of vegetated buffers for wildlife and water quality and pay
incentives for establishing and maintaining these areas. These are easy
solutions that protect our most sensitive areas and offer economical
advantages that most producers can realize. Continuing and expanding our
educational opportunities is my goal. Far to many citizens don’t really
know the roll of the SWCD or the difference between us and a Watershed
District or other county agencies. We partner with all of these groups
in our conservation efforts and could not accomplish all we do without
them. Each entity has the same goal of conservation, but we all serve
different rolls. We could do a better job of identifying and educating
the public on these rolls and how we work together.
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STEARNS
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
DAVID WELLER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I believe the
most effective boards are those with members who agree to disagree and
are able to examine an issue from all points of view. I think I have the
ability to see the pros and cons before making a decision.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
We have
implemented CRP, Buffer strips, pond restoration, and the new CP 38
programs on our farm, so I am familiar with these and other programs
available. I am also an officer in the Padua Conservation club, and a
life member of Pheasants Forever. Our club is a sponsor of NWTF,
Minnesota Deer Hunters Assn, PF, TIP, and other organizations.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I think now is
good time to educate the public and the farm producers about the
opportunities and benefits of conservation. I think most farmers are
more aware of and receptive to the idea that conservation and farming
can co-exist, so we need to keep them on board with new programs.
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?
No doubt it
has to be done voluntarily. If we can prove a program works on the farm
and it makes economic sense to the producer, they will implement it.
Most of the producers are excellent stewards of their land.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I have been on
the SWCD board since my appointment in January, and I have been
impressed with the job that has been and is being done by our Stearns
County SWCD staff. My goal is to see that continue and make the
producers aware of the programs available to them. I think there are
enough programs in place at present to spend more money than our budget
allows.
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STEELE
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
DAVID MELBY
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
As an owner
and operator of a construction company over the past 30 years, along
with my farming background and environmental concerns, I feel I would be
a helpful asset to the board.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Being a
lifelong rural resident of Steele County, with an interest in our
hunting heritage and land use practices, I have experienced the effects
of government policies and regulations related to conservation issues.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
While being a
farmland owner and outdoor enthusiast I realize the need to preserve and
enhance 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?
Voluntary
adoption with competitive payment incentive to ensure participation.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Continue
emphasis on soil erosion control and retaining more watershed runoff to
alleviate downstream flooding and groundwater contamination.
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STEELE
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
JOHN M. BOWE
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
As a Retired
law enforcement officer from Steele County I believe that I would bring
to the Board my experience in problem solving and that I have the
ability to look at a problem from all aspects. Also I served two terms
on the executive board with the Owatonna Eagles Club and have some
experience in making some difficult decisions.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I was raised
on a Farm is Havanna Twp in Steele County and have assisted in it’s
operation all my life. Although the farm is now rented out I believe
that I have some experience in conservation issues from that experience.
Also I have been an avid sportsman and have a strong interest in
conserving our natural resources for future generations.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I have a
strong interest in conservation of our farmland and our water quality
for future generations and would like to be a part of preserving them
and our wildlife.
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?
Any time that
Voluntary adoption can be achieved I believe it is the best thing to do
however there are times that regulation is the only way to achieve the
desired results. I would hope that through education most land owners
would voluntarily adopt the best practices for there operation.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I believe that
there needs to be an incentive for landowners to preserve the natural
resources in a way so that there is minimal impact on there valuable
crop land. I would work to achieve a balance that would benefit the
landowner and natural resources.
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STEVENS
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5
MARY ANN
SCHARF
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I grew up on a
farm in Renville County and came to work with the MN Extension Service
in Stevens County working with families and 4-H. I believe active
citizenship is what makes communities stronger. It allows us to take
responsibility for our future and our natural resources as well as
contributing to be good stewards of the land and water we are blessed
with.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
My past work
with the MN Extension Service, in the areas of water quality issues
related to safe drinking water, responsible use of ground water and
properly installed septic systems, have been helpful with the SWCD
supervisor role. My husband and I purchased a quarter section and
managed it for recreational use. We installed a variety of
conservation practices by restoring several marshes, planting trees and
food plots for winter cover that are used by many waterfowl, pheasants
and deer. The major portion of the farm was recently seeded to prairie
grasses and forbs through the Wetland Reserve Program.I served two terms
on the MN Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts. It
helped me understand the various state agencies that work with
landowners on conservation practices across Minnesota. It was
invaluable in getting to know supervisors across the state and to learn
about innovative ways to put conservation practices on private lands.
In addition, I have had board experience on a school board, a church
council and the West Central Regional Development Partnership Board.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I believe in
citizen involvement in dealing with out county's soil and water
resources. I work well with others in reaching decisions that benefit
those resources taking into consideration the people, the land, the
agencies, and costs involved. I try to be a careful listener and can
help a group reach consensus. I understand budgets and employee working
conditions and am actively involved with other groups doing research and
practices, namely the North Central Soils Lab and the Pomme de Terre
River Project.
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 best management practices (BMP) through well
thought out educational efforts is most effective. Understanding the
availability of state and federal cost share dollars makes a big
difference putting the BMPs on private lands. It is important to be
receptive to the Board of Soil & Water Resources (state) and Natural
Resource Conservation Service (federal) trainings and suggestions as
well. Good relationships with the North Central Soils Lab and WC
Research and Outreach Center contribute to working together with farmers
to improve management practices.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
We have an
opportunity with the Clean Water Legacy grant dollars to improve the
Pomme de Terre River by lowering the dissolved solids and fecal coliform
bacteria in the segments of the River here in Stevens County. Our SWCD
has targeted the placement of buffer strips adjacent to the river, lakes
and county ditches to filter out field runoff of chemicals, manure and
geese before the runoff reaches the river. I have seen how effective
sediment dams are in slowing water runoff and preventing gullies that
carry valuable topsoil from the fields and we are promoting landowners
to consider using the practice.
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SWIFT
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4
ORVIN M
GRONSETH
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
25 years plus,
of experience in conservation and environmental issues. Contracting
business with employees.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Hands on
experience as a farmer and land operator who for 40+ years has
implemented numerous practices myself, such as: CRP and RIM acres,
conservation tillage, no-till practices, tree plantings totaling over
6500, wildlife ponds, and retaining structure.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
Meeting people
in my county and the enjoyment of seeing conservation practices getting
done on the land. Also being part of our board of supervisors that has
the annual privilege of choosing a well-deserving co. conservation
co-operator to represent Swift Co. and be a part of our state convention
ceremonies each year.
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?
Some of each,
with the majority of landowners and farmers voluntarily and dedicated to
caring for the land is great. But government regulations have their
place for those operators who fail to make (B.M.P's) Best Management
Practices on their own.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Mandatory
rotation of grasses or legumes in farm cropland. All soil needs a
build-up period every few years. Congress in Washington has the Clean
Air Act, the Clean Water Act, but no Clean Soil Act or Act to Protect
Soil as such. Also, I believe a goal of every district supervisor
should work for is the right of each county board of S.W.C.D.
supervisors to levy their own district needs in tax dollars.
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TODD
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
KENNY PESTA
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Farmer-
Business experience and understanding- both aspects.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Enrolled in
CRP, longstanding concern for the environment, especially water.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
To have
influence over Todd County’s environmental 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?
A combination
of the two.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Stable funding
sources for SWCD’s to maintain staff and program continuity. Increase
funding to the Joint Powers Boards to maintain engineering staff for
SWCD use rather than hiring private engineering firms.
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WABASHA
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5
RALPH J
BREUER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
60 years of
farming – all using soil and water conservation, strip cropping, erosion
control type of farming.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Since 1944 our
farms have been strip cropped. We practice erosion control and have
built two larger ponds that control all run-off from our farm.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
Soil
conservation is on going. We have to continue to push for rainwater
run-off measures. With more cash cropping, we need more erosion
control.
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 will
not get it done. With investment people owning more agriculture land we
need government regulation. Voluntary went out the window along with
family farms.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
The use of
buffer strips and filter strips along creeks, streams and rivers. The
cash cropper should be required to have a percentage of his total acres
in conservation crops such as small grain or hay to help stop erosion.
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WADENA
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4
TOM SCHULZ
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I have a
strong background in agriculture and forestry and I have lived and
farmed in the county for my entire life. I was trained at the
University of Minnesota as an economist and also received a Masters
degree in education from North Dakota State University. I have been
appointed and elected to many leadership positions in the community. I
am well acquainted with budgeting and using scarce monetary resources to
achieve maximum impact.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have been an
advocate for using the resources of my farm and the county wisely for my
entire life. I have consistently promoted monitoring the quantity and
quality of our water and soil resources so that they may be used in
sustainable farming and recreation applications and be preserved for the
next generations. During my tenure on the board, the district has also
had a strong education program for both urban and rural adults and
children of our district. We have instituted programs to achieve clean
lakes and rivers as well as helping landowners manage their forestry
lands. Much of the support for these additional activities has come
from grants to our districts which have allowed the programs to be
presented to a much larger audience. I have also served the district as
an elected supervisor for nearly 33 years.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I believe that
society must be vigilant in how its resources are used. Being a
supervisor allows me to be a sensible advocate for using these resources
wisely and in a sustainable manner. I am also concerned that at times
conservation issues get driven by emotions rather than by proven
scientific findings. All of our citizens have a stake in how resources
are used be it for food or fiber production, space for families,
wildlife, or recreation. SWCD’s provide an opportunity to have an
impact with more people than any other government entity in their use of
the resources of the 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 believe the
voluntary methods to achieve conservation goals that districts have
employed since the districts were founded. This must be supplemented by
a strong education program aimed at all age groups and demographic
entities so that everyone understands the conservation goals that must
be met to ensure everyone has sustained use of the resources.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
The district
must employ innovative programs to meet the challenges for increased use
of our resources by a growing population. Some landowners must be
rewarded for applying conservation methods on the properties that
improve the quality of the soil and water resources for us all.
However, any of the incentive programs must be closely monitored to
ensure that the benefits that were promised are delivered.
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WASECA
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5
JEANNE HANSEN
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Diversity on
many levels with a genuine concern for the land and natural resources.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Growing up on
a farm I learned at a young age about conservation for both the land and
wildlife.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
With the
current demands on the land and other natural resources, I am encouraged
by surfacing innovative technologies that protect and conserve all of
the above and enhance the wildlife.
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?
A balance
between both; the landowner needs to take responsibility for the use of
the land and resources and the government needs to govern with
authority.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Continue best
management practices and implement new regulations as needed in the
future.
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WASECA
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5
LARRY HAGEN
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I believe we
need to protect our water and land for future generations and by doing
this, it would also be beneficial to wildlife and to all of the world.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have 22
years experience, 1982-2004, as a SWCD Supervisor for Waseca County
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I strongly
believe in conservation and soil stewardship. I am aware of the
different types of conservation practices needed in the area and the
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 would like
to see a voluntary adoption of best management practices by landowners.
If this is not accomplished, then some government regulations.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I feel that
CRP and RIM programs are very beneficial to conservation and wildlife.
I would promote these programs to continue. And I would promote all
conservation practices to landowners for all of our future.
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WASHINGTON
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
SARAH HIETPAS
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I have been a
board member of the Nandale Foundation since its founding in 1995. This
is an environmentally-focused foundation. I have a keen interest in
environmental issues and a strong desire to work towards conserving our
natural resources. I believe my strong communication skills and passion
for creating positive change will allow me to make a significant
contribution to the SWCD Board.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Most of my
experience comes from working on current issues with the Nandale
Foundation, reading and being involved in my local community,
neighborhood and on my own personal property. I have intensely studied
conservation issues and have been an advocate for change. I feel my
desire to apply what I know and to learn as much as possible will allow
me to do a good job.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I have had an
interest in environmental and conservation issues for much of my life.
I have seen the negative impact that society has had on our environment
and firmly believe that each individual can make a difference. Getting
involved is the only way to practice what I believe which is that we
have been given a gift that must be nurtured and protected if we wish it
to continue to sustain us and 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?
It would be
nice if voluntary action would be sufficient, but often times, it also
takes governmental policy to move things in the right direction. Thus,
I believe that there needs to be a balance of the two. I also believe
that educating people is critical piece of putting policy in place.
When people are informed how simple it is to make small changes that
have a big impact I believe they will be much more likely to voluntarily
make a difference.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Promoting
local and organic along with sustainable farming practices seems to have
the most impact in many different areas. It supports the local economy,
protects the environment and promotes the health and well-being of all
people from the farmer to the consumer.
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WASHINGTON
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4
LOUISE
SMALLIDGE
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I have been
serving on the Washington Conservation District Board as a supervisor
for several years, and am currently the chair. I also have been
appointed by the Governor to serve on the BWSR Board. I am in my fourth
year of that appointment. In 2007 I was selected by MASWCD as the
outstanding supervisor for the State of Minnesota.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
My husband and
I have been farming in Washington County for over 40 years. We have
incorporated many conservation practices during that time, such as grass
waterways, conservation tillage, no-till, and irrigation. We have also
planted 19 acres of native prairie.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
We live in a
changing county; agriculture to suburban to urban and our need to
conserve and protect our soil and water resources is growing. The
SWCD’s in Minnesota have done a good job in the past and as our
population changes so must the SWCD’s. I feel I am qualified to help
guide these changes. We have a terrific staff in Washington County and
I am proud to have been a part in helping it evolve.
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 of best management practices is always best, however most
people need a little incentive to change. Through various cost-share
opportunities and coordination with NRCS programs, people can be
encouraged to adopt best management practices.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
In addition to
the cost-share opportunities through BWSR, NRCS and others, our district
is now offering cost-share dollars to County residents for various
projects, such as rain gardens. We house a Blue Thumb staff person who
is jointly funded by several partners in Washington County. We also
work closely with the Watershed Districts. All of these ideas have
emerged in the past few years and we are looking to expand them. We are
working on a possible Conservation Center which would house several
Watershed Districts and our Conservation District in the same facility.
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WATONWAN
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
MARLIN L ZIEMER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
As a Soil
Conservation Technician doing conservation planning layouts,
Construction Supervision and certification for payment, I will provide
Watonwan Co. with knowledge and experience. I have a 2 yr degree from
SCTC in Civil Engineering Technology and a degree from MSU as well as
certificates from SCS REG Tech. Center Lincoln NE, Soil and Water
Conservation Plan. and App.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
As a
conservation technician having worked in an with several supervisors in
many SWCD’s in the state of MN, doing many soil and water related
projects, I feel I would bring these experiences to qualify me as a
SWCD Supervisor.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I would like
to see a continuation of application of Soil and Water Conservation
practices to preserve and protect these natural resources. My serving
on the County Planning and Zoning Board motivates me to serve as a SWCD
Supervisor.
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 is
the more desirable means to et the practices on the land, this having
failed, and alternate avenue must be in place to protect our natural
resources, soil and water.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would
promote the no tillage or minimum tillage, to save both soil and water
resources as well as conserve on energy, a non renewable resource
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WATONWAN
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
NOREN DURHEIM
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Years of
experience on many boards, Government and Co-op’s
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Have worked
with State Agency’s on conservation. Also have done projects on my
farm.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
Want to see
Watonwan County have a very active SWCD to serve the people.
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 is
best, but needs to be explained well to people. Some Government might
be needed to regulate some cases.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would see
that more information is put out to those who could be a part of good
conservation and agriculture and conserving our natural resources.
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WATONWAN
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4
MARK S.
ANDERSON
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I am creative,
easy to get along with, and am always looking for new ideas and
solutions.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
As a
journalist, I have brought conservation to the forefront in a community
where it wasn’t always in the news before. Through research, stories,
and opinions, I have presented issues from the point of view of the
land, and also from the point of view of future generations. As an SWCD
Supervisor, I would like to help put those views into practice and
continue to promote the SWCD services.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
As a new
member on the board, I have become very interested in what the SWCD can
do and would like to learn more about how to further conservation in the
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
adoption works well, since most landowners know that the best practices
will pay off in the long run. That should remain the primary mode of
business. But there may be a few instances where I would not rule out
regulation that would put pressure on landowners if a waterway is
getting polluted.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
Watonwan
County is lucky to have a vision for conservation already laid out for
us by Rural Advantage, which created the Madelia Model to make bio-fuels
and other products from native vegetation. The beauty of that model is
that it would put native plants on poor soils, sloped land, and land
along waterways, the three places that suffer the most erosion and are
not always the most productive crop land. If something can get started
along these lines, it could also lead to more changes, such as a more
diverse landscape and increased outdoor recreation. I would like to see
which of the Madelia Model ideas would be practical for this area and
help them get started.
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WATONWAN
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5
TONYA KLUNDER
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I have an
extensive background in environmental issues and education. I hope to
play a part in educating young people to practice conservation measures.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have my
masters degree in environmental science as well as implementing daily
environmental compliance measures at my place of employment. I have
been a strong supporter of Adopt-a-Highway and the Arbor Day Foundation
and have participated in both programs for several years.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I have a great
interest in conservation and the environment. I have real world
experience using conservation methods and practices and have been
working in the environmental industry for the last 9 years.
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 a
combination of both practices can be beneficial if implemented
appropriately. However, I strongly promote the voluntary adoption of
BMPs by landowners
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would like
to see BMPs in place to reduce soil erosion and the planting of more
trees.
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WINONA
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
JASON
LUDWIGSON
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Passion,
dedication, hard work, leadership experience and an ability to develop
relationships.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have been
passionately involved in conservation issues and agriculture my entire
life. I started hunting with my dad at age 5and have fond memories of
rescuing a calf by warming her up in a farmers tub as a young child. I
have been involved in FFA and am an active member of the Winona Root
River Pheasants Forever chapter. Not only do I believe in these issues I
have taken them to heart by planting over 2,000 trees and shrubs in the
last 10 years and enrolling my farm in the Conservation Reserve Program
with a 12 acre native grass planting, 11 acre cool season grass
planting, along with a number of food plot and tree plantings. As the
old saying goes you need to talk the talk and walk the walk!
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I would love
to play a larger role in helping conserve our water quality, improve
soil conservation, protect wildlife and keep our agricultural traditions
alive with sustainable farming practices.
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?
Education is
the most effective tool in bridging the gap between voluntary adoption
and government regulation. We need farmers and landowners who understand
the benefits of soil and water conservation for all citizens.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I look forward
to the opportunity to be a public relations advocate for farmers and
landowners in educating the public about the great practices and
conservation measures the are implementing.
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WINONA
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
JOHN BRONK
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Landowner for
35 years. Worked with SWCD on Diversions and Ponds for 30 years. As a
landowner, preservation and conservation of natural resources and water
quality is important.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
Worked with
SWCD for over 30 years on waterways, diversions, and ponds. Appointed
District Supervisor for Area 3 in Winona County on 11/07. On Advisory
Board for Stockton, Rollingstone, and MN City Watershed. On the Garvin
Brook Watershed Alliance Board.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I believe in
preservation and conservation of the areas natural resources by
promoting good conservation practices and maintaining the water quality
in the 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?
The best
approach is voluntary adoption of best management practices to 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?
1. Education
to enhance water quality and monitoring of streams.
2. Encourage
landowners to use good conservation practices.
3. Encourage
landowners to maintain waterways, diversions and ponds.
4. Encourage
landowners to build more diversions and ponds.
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WRIGHT
SOIL AND WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
JAYDEE JONES
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Bringing about
environmental improvements by using existing economic and legal systems,
often in new and creative ways using my own life to show others change
is possible while raising public awareness to our environmental
footprints that we can making a difference.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
The Earth does
not belong to us – we belong to the Earth and understanding nature, not
conquering it, we can protect and sustain our environment. I lived in
Chanhassen in the early 1970s and experienced the effects of urban
sprawl on a large scale with the development of this community. I have a
Bachelors of Science degree in Environmental Assessment and I was an
Environmental Educator for the Boys and Girls Club of Elk River.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
The position
of Supervisor of Soil and Water Conservation is my contribution to
society and our planet. As a youth of the 1970s I have emotional ties as
well as heard stories of major environmental change with urban sprawl.
My educational focus as a mediator between business and environmentalist
will be an asset for this 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?
Three factors:
1) landowners, 2) government regulations, and 3) economics. Education
becomes a valuable tool that benefits our fragile planet as well.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
True long –
term economic growth and wealth is achieved by becoming innovative with
environmental standards and regulations that will pay off in a cleaner
environment of our community. To grow or not to grow is not the
question; it is how we can grow without plundering the planet.
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WRIGHT
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
MARK MCNAMARA
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I bring
experience; I have a diverse background in natural resource and land use
management. Previously I have worked for a SWCD for eight years and have
an intimate understanding of their programs and how they operate on a
day-to-day basis. Currently I work with a County Planning and Zoning
Office so I bring expertise to the SWCD in land use and planning and
zoning issues. I have extensive understanding of various state, federal
and local programs and can provide guidance to the SWCD in how to
utilize these programs to achieve their goals and objectives. I bring
leadership to SWCD.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
My work
experience is vast in dealing with conservation. I have worked for
numerous federal, state, local and non-profit agencies/organizations
whose main charge is to put “conservation on the ground”. I have worked
with a SWCD for eight years, in that time I have administered/
implemented numerous conservation programs such as Conservation Reserve
Program, Wetland Reserve Program, Wetland Conservation Act, U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Partners Program and many others.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I believe in
“grass roots” government and I feel nothing is more grass roots than a
SWCD. The SWCD has the most efficient delivery system to implement and
get “conservation on the ground and being an integral part of
implementing conservation programs and putting conservation on the
ground is my greatest motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor.
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 am a firm
believer in a three pronged approach to protecting and enhancing our
natural resources. I believe we need to educate people about the
importance of natural resources and create an awareness, I truly believe
that natural resources\ curricula should be a requirement of K-12
education, make resources the fourth “R” in education. I also believe in
regulation, fair and consistent regulation is the best way to change
people’s behavior, I also see regulation as a form of education. My
third prong is voluntary, I believe in providing not only incentives to
implement conservation on private land but disincentives not to do so. I
believe that we can guide people to do the proper thing by making it
financially lucrative to implement conservation and discourage people
from making poor decisions by making it less lucrative not to implement
conservation.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I am a firm
believer in as the “Farm Bill” goes so does agriculture; ergo, as a SWCD
Supervisor I believe we need to keep vigilant on the United States
Department of Agriculture, and keep close tabs on the programs which are
developed and funded by this bill. Although as an SWCD Supervisor we do
not have a whole lot of control of the passing of the farm bill I do
believe we can make our voice heard through the legislative processes. I
believe the farm bill should provide more funding for long term
set-aside programs so that the payment for these programs are more
conducive to today’s land values. I also believe that we need to stop
providing crop subsidy payments which encourage monoculture and provide
more incentives for the preservation and establishment of native cover.
Again I believe that we need to make conservation profitable for the ag-producer.
In regard to land use I believe in the idea of working with local
governments to provide funding to promote conservation development,
creation/preservation of open spaces and the creation of Wetland
Preservation areas.
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WRIGHT
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5
DUANE DAHLMAN
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
To have an
effective board it is valuable to have experience and continuity among
the members. Having 20 years experience on the Wright SWCD, I have
gained the knowledge and understanding of the programs offered to the
citizens of Wright County and the policies and procedures which these
programs are carried out. My ability to listen to the residents of my
district and direct them in the right path to obtain the goal or a
compromised goal has always been my top priority.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
As a member of
the Board of Supervisors, I feel it is not only my responsibility to
carry out the policies and procedures of the programs of the Wright SWCD,
but to implement what can be done on our own property. As we move
forward with projects, the best interest of both the SWCD and the
property owner is always first. There are many issues that need to be
addressed so a slow and methodical type of approach is always used.
Again I have to say that it is so important that all parties need to
understand the rules and regulations of the different programs.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I have had the
passion of wetland conservation since the Wright SWCD was first given
the responsibility of implantation of the State Wetland Law. But I
prefer to take one step farther with that there are situations where
compromises are needed. Even though I am not a hunter myself, I feel I
understand the value of a wetland along with the value of the ability of
an owner to improve is land.
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?
Without a
doubt the use of both of these practices need to be used. There usually
is no situation that is identical to another. What is needed is to have
personal in the office and supervisors that understand the process to
effectively implement the many programs of the Wright SWCD.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
The public
education of the varied programs of the Wright SWCD is always brought
towards the top as we discuss the priorities for the SWCD each year. A
program is useless unless the public understands how it works. It would
be my continued responsibility to be the best listener to my district.
They need someone that they can trust to keep their best interest at
hand.
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WRIGHT
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5
LYNNE CASON
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
I have skills
in publishing and writing and am good at communicating and teaching. I
have a passion about the responsibility of protecting our natural
resources and am strong in problem solving and promoting ideas. I have
negotiating skills and am a good listener. I'm willing to work hard and
bring about effective conservation policies.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
My first
experience with conservation issues began in the mid-70s when I worked
at the Environmental Protection Agency as a property clerk. It was there
I began to understand the effects that toxins and other man-made
environmental disturbances had on marine life in the waters of Sabine
Island in Florida. I have been concerned about conservation issues ever
since. I’ve also made conservation an important priority in my private
life. I have made the necessary steps to balance the use of my property
for growing foods and gardens and implemented changes that would allow
wildlife to live and propagate. It has a balanced ecosystem and has been
certified as wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I decided to
run because I wish to bring more education to the public and private
sector about conservation issues. I want to be part of a pro-active team
that works with land owners to improve conservation management.
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 is voluntary. If we can convince people of the
importance of good stewardship and more efficient land management they
will volunteer to practice conservation methods. The best way to get
people involved in voluntary adoption of management practices is by
showing them the benefits it has for them and their community. By
practicing conservation methods, they can save time, money, and/or
improve their crop yield while preserving and improving land and
wildlife. However, regulation does have an important place in a
comprehensive conservation program.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I am concerned
about fostering habitats using rotational grazing to protect grassland
songbirds. Rotational grazing promotes efficient use of the land and
protects the songbird populations who nest in tall grasses. It also
reduces the cost of feed, fuel, fertilizer, pesticide labor and
equipment. I want to study and implement strategies to help cut back
invasion of non-native plants in our lakes and promote good fishing
practices that protect populations of fish from parasites and disease
brought by non-native aquatic life such as Spiny Water Flea. I am
also concerned about the preservations of wetlands in general. There are
more issues to study. I am eager to promote solutions to these and other
issues.
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YELLOW MEDICINE
SOIL AND
WATER SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
JERRY NELSON
1. What
strengths would you bring to the SWCD Board?
Patience and
understanding. Dad's generation spent a lot of time bulldozing
cottonwoods and boxelders to clear land for crops after their dads and
grand-dads planted them. Dad won't put in field wind breaks.
2. Tell us
about your past experience with conservation issues that make you
qualified to be an SWCD Supervisor.
I have
thirty-five acres in CRP (twenty in general sign-up and fifteen in field
windbreaks and filter strips) that I have planted and maintain. I also
work with Habitat Forever on the burn crew when time allows. I plant
about two thirds of my soybeans with a no-till drill.
3. What is
your motivation for being an SWCD Supervisor?
I would like
to see better maintenance on some of these CRP and CREP contracts. Most
people don't realize how much work these projects are.
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 action but sometimes government regulation is necessary.
5. What
conservation ideas or changes would you implement to ensure the
sustainability of agriculture and natural resources in your district?
I would like
to see more filter strips and windbreaks. If you look after the land
the land will look after you.
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