Individuals interested in soil and water protection in Sherburne County should consider filing by June 3 to run for the position of Supervisor of the Sherburne County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD).

 

“Supervisors play an important role in how our community deals with a wide variety of resource management issues, including water quality, soil erosion, stormwater management, agricultural conservation and land protection” noted Francine Larson, District Manager with the Sherburne County SWCD.

 

“Serving as a supervisor is a terrific opportunity for people who want a voice in how we manage our environment and place conservation on the land” she said.

 

SWCDs are special purpose units of government that manage and direct local conservation activities such as cost share programs and technical assistance to

landowners and communities.  An elected Board of Supervisors governs each of Minnesota’s 90 SWCDs.

 

This year, the Sherburne County SWCD has two Supervisor positions up for election. SWCD candidates appear on the ballot for the general election which will take place November 4, 2014. Individuals who wish to be on the ballot must file for candidacy between May 20, 2014 and June 3, 2014.  A “Minnesota Affidavit of Candidacy” is available from the Sherburne County Auditor’s office, along with a $20 filing fee.  More information can be obtained at www.co.sherburne.mn.us or by calling (763) 765-4351.

 

Candidates are elected county wide, but must reside in one of the nomination districts up for election. Nomination Districts up for election this year are District 2 and 4. SWCD Supervisors serve four year terms.

 

District 2 includes Big Lake and Orrock Townships. 

 

District 4 includes Clear Lake, Becker, Palmer, and Santiago Townships.

 

Supervisors meet monthly to discuss the business of the SWCD including grant opportunities and allocations, district conservation priorities, coordination with other local units of government and state agencies, and legislative priorities.  Supervisors do not receive a salary although they do receive compensation for attending meetings and are reimbursed for expenses.

 

Additional information about the SWCD can be obtained by visiting their web site at www.sherburneswcd.org or calling the office at (763) 241-1170 ext. 4.