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People concerned about water quality and soil health in northern St. Louis County should consider filing by June 4, to run for the position of supervisor of the North St. Louis Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD).
“Supervisors play an important role in how a wide variety of natural resources are managed here, in this district, including wetlands, rivers, lakes, and forests,” said Peggy Pearson, supervisor with North St. Louis SWCD.
Those interested in running for supervisor should file at the county auditor’s office between May 21 and June 4.
SWCDs are special-purpose units of government that manage and direct conservation programs at the local level.
Important programs and priorities of North St. Louis SWCD include working with landowners to implement voluntary conservation practices on their land, from lakeshore to woodlands, implementing watershed-based plans, and educating all ages about conservation.
An elected board of supervisors governs each of Minnesota’s 88 SWCDs.
“It is important for all of us to be active and engaged in our communities. Serving as a supervisor is a terrific opportunity for community members, with an interest in conservation, to have a voice in how we manage our environment and natural resources,” Frank Modich, supervisor, said.
This year, North St. Louis SWCD has three supervisor positions up for election. One resident from each of the three areas will be elected. The three areas make up the eastern two-thirds of the District, including the cities of Aurora, Babbitt, Cook, Ely, Mt. Iron, Virginia. The areas extends north of township line 54/55 (near Cotton) to the border. SWCD candidates appear on the ballot for the Nov. 5, 2024, general election.
SWCD supervisors 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. SWCD supervisors serve four-year terms. Supervisors do not receive a salary but receive compensation for attending meetings and expense reimbursements.
Additional information about North St. Louis SWCD can be found at www.nslswcd. org or by calling 218288-6144.
