Conservation District seeks board candidates. 

Conservation District seeks board candidates. 

SCOTTVILLE — The Mason-Lake Conservation District is seeking candidates to run for its board of directors. The conservation district serves as the natural resource stewardship hub for residents of Mason and Lake counties. The district works on programs dealing with groundwater and surface water protection, river restoration, forestry, invasive species management, and promotes farming best management practices, among other environmental activities. 

To be eligible for a director position, an individual must be a legal resident of Mason County or the west half of Lake County, and be at least 18-years-old. 

“We like to have representation from both counties, with a variety of backgrounds, including natural resources, finance, education, agriculture, business and more,” said Dani McGarry, executive director. “We’re looking for people who are passionate about working on conservation issues and running a small government office similar to a non-profit agency.”

To run for election, an individual must obtain a petition from the Conservation District Office, 655 N. Scottville Road or online here; obtain five supporting signatures, and return the completed petition to the Conservation District Office no later than December 27, 2021. 

Voting will be held at the Conservation District Annual Meeting February 24, 2022 or by absentee ballot. 

The board of directors is comprised of five individuals that are each elected by local residents for a four-year term. Directors hold monthly board meetings, oversee the direction and finances of the Conservation District, hire and manage staff and guide projects as well as participate in statewide training and leadership opportunities. 

Directors also volunteer at events put on by the Conservation District throughout the year. Some of the events include spring tree seedling sales, household hazardous waste clean-up day, farm tour and other educational workshops. 

For the upcoming election, four seats are open, with two seats being three-year terms, due to appointments made in lieu of an election during the pandemic. The other two seats are for the full four-year terms. Some seats have candidates running for re-election, while others do not. 

For those that are unsure of committing to a four-year term, the board also accepts applications for associate directors. This position is intended as a “test drive” to encourage those who are interested in learning and being part of the community through the Conservation District. 

For more information, contact Dani McGarry 231-757-3707 ext. 102.

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