News : New Faces in Conservation - Integrated Roadside Management

Brock Leaders

Ethan Hennings

Eric Schares

The Roadside Department/Weed Commissioner duties have recently shifted to be under the umbrella of Benton County Conservation. Benton County is now one of 16 counties in Iowa where the roadside program is under Conservation.

This switch aligns more with the department's goal of combating invasive plants while promoting native species. If you stop by the Roadside Management Department, you might see some new faces.

Eric Schares

I am the new Roadside Manager and Weed Commissioner for Benton County. I bring over 6 years of experience as a roadside manager with another 10 years of experience on top of that managing almost any living plant from trees to golf greens to baseball fields. In 2008, I graduated from Hawkeye Community College with a degree in Horticulture. I also am a Certified Arborist. When I'm not at work, you will likely find me coaching or watching baseball and wrestling. My wife Jacki and I enjoy watching our son, Graham and daughter, Sloane compete in their many activities.

Brock Leaders

I'm Brock Leaders from Woodbine, Iowa. "I graduated from the University of Iowa with a BA in Environmental Policy and Planning. I've found that I have a passion for conservation through 3 years of internships in the past with Harrison County Conservation and the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation. I enjoy working outside, learning new skills, and helping others. I'm excited to help make a difference and I look forward to making connections here in Benton County!

Ethan Hennings

My name is Ethan Hennings, I am 20 years old and a graduate from Waverly-Shell Rock Highschool. I graduated this spring from Hawkeye Community College from the Natural Resource Management program. I have previously worked as a seasonal for the City of Waverly's Vegetation Management department. I have also worked for Black Hawk County Conservation as a Conservation Intern. In my personal time I like to hunt and do some fishing as well.