SCOTTVILLE — The Mason-Lake Conservation District is seeking candidates for its board of directors. The district’s board of directors consists of locally-elected individuals, charged with oversight of the operations of the district, strategic planning 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 clean-up day, farm tour and other educational workshops. Statewide training and leadership opportunities are also available.
The board is comprised of five directors, 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 western 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 of one of the west eight townships of Lake County and must 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.” said Dani McGarry, executive director for the conservation district.
McGarry said the board is especially seeking someone 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.
The Mason-Lake Conservation District serves as a natural resource management hub for Mason and Lake counties. The district, as a local government entity, provides technical expertise and supports landowners, local governments and partner organizations on conservation activities. The activities relate to groundwater and surface water protection, best agricultural management practices, sustainable forestry, erosion control, invasive species management and wildlife habitat improvements among others.
There will be two full-term board positions 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 or myself to learn more,” said McGarry. The next board meeting is scheduled for December 15 at 3:30 pm at the Mason County District Library Scottville branch, 204 E. State St.
To run for election, an individual must obtain a petition from the conservation district office, 655 S. Scottville Rd. or website, mason-lakeconservation.org and obtain five supporting signatures from registered voters of the district. Completed petition must be returned to the conservation district office no later than December 19, 2025 (60 days prior to the election). Voting will be held at the conservation district annual meeting on Feb. 19, 2026 or by absentee ballot.
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