Holston River Soil And Water Conservation District

The Holston River Soil & Water Conservation District's long-term plan aims to promote the wise use and protection of natural resources within its boundaries. The plan focuses on four main categories: improving water quality in agriculture, implementing urban/residential non-point source pollution reduction programs, creating environmental educational opportunities for public, youth, and adults, and enhancing government interaction and internal organizational effectiveness. The vision is to become more visible as an organization dedicated to the protection of all natural resources, with a primary concern for conserving prime farmland, surface and ground water, air, forests, and urban areas through communication and cooperation with various stakeholders.

The meeting addressed several key areas, including the treasurer's report, NRCS report, DCR CDC report, and forestry report. The board approved Lance Yates as Conservation Specialist/Education Specialist. They also approved expenses for the Area IV Spring Meeting and changed the March meeting time and location to coincide with it. Health insurance options were discussed, and the KA 250 plan was approved with an 80/20 split for individual plans. The district will cover the complete portion of the VRS Life Insurance. The District Technical report included the transfer of a contract and the cancellation of another. Additionally, travel and registration expenses were approved for the VFGC Grazing School and the VA Cover Crop College. The District Educational report led to the approval of Envirothon expenses and sponsorships for students to attend Camp Woods and Wildlife and Youth Conservation Camp. Several TMDL Residential cost-share contracts were also approved.

The meeting included a review of the Treasurer's Report for December 2018, an NRCS report providing technical assistance updates to Washington County landowners, and a DCR CDC report with updates on administrative and operational items. The committee recommended offering the Conservation Specialist/Education Specialist position to Lance Yates. The District Technical report was presented, including the approval of cost-share payments. Additionally, the District TMDL report was discussed, leading to the approval of TMDL Residential cost-share contracts and payments.