People concerned about water quality and soil health in Stearns County should consider filing by June 4, 2024, to run for the position of Supervisor of the Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD). Those interested in running for Supervisor should file at the county auditor’s office between May 21 and June 4.
“Supervisors play an important role in how a wide variety of natural resources are managed in our county, including wetlands, rivers, lakes, forests and farmland,” said Dennis Fuchs, Administrator.
SWCDs are special-purpose units of government that manage and direct conservation programs at the local level. Important programs and priorities of the Stearns County SWCD include soil health, healthy drinking water, improved water quality, wildlife habitat and protection, and much more. An elected board of Supervisors governs each of Minnesota’s 88 SWCDs.
“Serving as a Supervisor is a terrific opportunity for people who want a voice in how we manage our environment,” said Supervisor Matt Bruyette.
This year, Stearns County SWCD has 3 Supervisor positions up for election. SWCD candidates appear on the ballot for the Nov. 5, 2024, general election. SWCD candidates are elected countywide but must reside in one of the Supervisor districts up for election. These include:
Area 2 – Krain, Holding, Brockway, Albany, Avon, St. Wendel, and LeSauk
Area 3 – North Fork, Lake George, Spring Hill, St. Martin, Crow Lake, Crow River, Lake Henry and Zion
Area 4 – Farming, Collegeville, Munson, Wakefield, Paynesville, Eden Lake, Luxemburg
SWCD Supervisors serve four-year terms and meet monthly to discuss business, including state-grant allocations to landowners; district conservation priorities; coordination with other local units of government and state agencies; and legislative priorities. Supervisors do not receive a salary but receive compensation for attending meetings and expense reimbursements.
Additional information about Stearns County SWCD can be found online at www.StearnsCountySWCD.net/swcd-board or by calling the office at 320-251-7800 ext.3.
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