Wayne W. Garman

The Board conducted interviews for staff positions, resulting in the hiring of a Program Coordinator and a decision to hold a second interview for the Office Administrator role. Updates were provided on the OWITS-RHIP meetings, NRCS collaborative projects, and pending funding applications for WDA RHAP. Additionally, the Board received reports on forest health improvement projects, fuel treatment designs, and collaborative wildlife habitat initiatives. Financial actions included the approval of bills and the authorization of fund transfers between district accounts.

The Crook County Natural Resource District's 2026-2030 Long-Range Plan serves as a guiding document for its programs and activities, addressing natural resource concerns and issues. The plan aims to provide coordinated leadership in resource conservation by educating, assisting, and meeting the needs of natural resource users. Its vision is to raise awareness of natural resource concerns and provide landowners with the education, technical skills, financial assistance, and support necessary to conserve natural resources for present and future use. Key focus areas include Water Quality, Forest Health, Wildlife Habitat, Agriculture, Range and Pastureland, Waste Management, Oil, Gas, and Mineral Development, Education and Outreach, and Legislative Actions. The plan emphasizes conserving natural resources, fostering partnerships, and aggressively pursuing grant funding for conservation practices.

The Crook County Natural Resource District's board meeting included updates on conservation plans, WDEQ 319 projects, and future project RFPs. A tree sale voucher draft was reviewed, and the electronic recycling event was scheduled. The Bunny Bar XI Subdivision Soil Report was approved. The board discussed a virtual fence symposium and the County Fair. Updates were provided on hazardous fuels reduction and wildlife-forestry projects. A shared-position budget and work plan was submitted to WACD. State funding criteria documents were reviewed and signed. The board reviewed financial documents, the FY2026 budget, and conducted interviews for bookkeeping and program coordinator roles. They entered and exited an executive session to discuss personnel, and new hires and promotions were approved.

The Crook County Natural Resource District (CCNRD) board meeting included discussion and updates on various programs and projects. Updates were provided on the Water Quality Program, including BMP project updates, contract approvals, and grant submissions. The Forestry Program Update covered current grant projects such as Cedar Creek conifer removal, sage grouse habitat improvement, and hazardous fuels reduction projects. The Office Manager's update included attending meetings, subdivision reviews, website updates, and processing sales tax and financial documents. The board also discussed local issues, financials, employee job descriptions, board positions, and subdivision reviews. Additionally, they approved time off requests, discussed hiring a water quality program coordinator, and addressed the resignation of Bridget Helms.