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SCOTTVILLE — The Mason-Lake Conservation District is seeking individuals who will serve on its board of directors.
The Mason-Lake Conservation District is a local entity of government that strives to be the natural resource management hub for Mason and Lake counties. The district promotes farming best management practices and supports landowners on conservation activities that relate to groundwater and surface water protection, river restoration, forestry, invasive species management, and other environmental activities.
The district’s board of directors consists of locally-elected officials, charged with oversight of the operations of the district, strategic plans and ensuring the long-term viability of the district. Directors also often volunteer at events put on by the conservation district throughout the year. Some of these events include spring tree seedling sales, household hazardous waste (HHW) clean-up day, farm tour and other educational workshops. Statewide training and leadership opportunities are also available.
The Board is comprised of five individuals, each serving a four-year term. These are unpaid, volunteer positions. Though elections are not held on the general ballot, directors are elected by registered voters in Mason County and the west half of Lake County, by votes cast at the annual dinner of the conservation district.
To be eligible for a director position, an individual must be a legal resident of Mason County or the west eight townships of Lake County, and be 18 years of age or older.
“We like to have representation from both counties, with a variety of backgrounds, including natural resources, finance, education, agriculture, business and more. 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.” says Dani McGarry, executive director for the Conservation District.
“Our Board has identified a skills gap and is hoping that a candidate will come forward who has business management or fundraising experience.”
While the district is a local government office, over 85% of funding comes from grants and the board is looking for more reliable ways to maintain services.
To run for election, an individual must obtain a petition from the conservation district office or website, obtain five supporting signatures from registered voters of the district, and return the completed petition to the office no later than December 20, 2024. Voting will be held at the Conservation District Annual Meeting February 20, 2025 or by absentee ballot.
For the upcoming election, two seats are open for full, four-year terms. One seat has a candidate running for re-election, while the other is currently open.
“We try to encourage potential candidates to attend a board meeting to see more of what we’re about, or reach out to a current director,” said McGarry. The next board meeting is scheduled for December 9, 4 p.m. at the Mason County District Library Scottville branch, 204 E. State St.
For those who are unsure of committing to a four-year term, the board of directors also accepts applications for associate directors. These positions are 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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