News : Candidates Sought for Two Seats on Benton SWCD Board

By the time you enter the voting booth this November, you might be tired of hearing about those running for most elected offices. But the office of Soil & Water Conservation District Commissioner is an office you may not know a lot about.

If you’ve never heard of Soil & Water Conservation District Commissioners, it’s not because they are rare. Iowa has 100 Soil & Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs). Each District has a board of five commissioners that are elected in the general election for four-year terms. The Benton SWCD has been in existence since July 30, 1945 and is a subdivision of State government. Soil & Water Conservation District Commissioners are local residents who have a deep interest and understanding for local natural resources. They work with state and federal agencies, private partners and community organizations. Soil & Water Conservation Districts have successfully helped to improve our environment locally, and nation wide through careful planning and use of our resources.

The terms of Robert Moen and Randy Schirm will expire this year and will be filled at the November election. If you are eligible to vote in a general election, and live in any Benton County township EXCEPT Taylor, Eden or Union, you are eligible to run for the office of District Commissioner. There can only be one Commissioner per township, and the townships previously listed have a Commissioner currently serving. Candidates need to get a nominating petition from the County Auditor. The petitions need to be signed by 25 eligible voters and must be returned to the Auditor by the filing deadline of 5:00 P. M. August 25, 2010.

Soil & Water Conservation Districts sometimes work quietly, but one message stands out – everyone can help protect our natural resources. If you have an interest in preserving our soil and water resources, consider serving in the office of District Commissioner. Or volunteer to be an Assistant Commissioner, a one year appointment. Your help will make a difference. Contact the Benton SWCD at 319-472-2161 for more information.