Laramie County Conservation District

The board discussed project updates regarding the Mariah Reservoir, subdivision planning, and zoning applications, including the Tallgrass project and commercial zoning in the Burns area. The board reviewed legal correspondence regarding easement compliance, analyzed the financial report showing a net loss for March, and heard reports on water well proposals and NRCS applications. Significant personnel actions were taken, including the hiring and salary setting for a Resource Position, Outreach Coordinator, Wildlife Range Position, and an intern. Other business included planning for the Conservation Awards Dinner, preparation for the upcoming budget, and details on a new grant for seed propagation.

Key discussions centered on project status, noting that all conservation trees have been sold and windbreak designs are finalized, utilizing one tree crew. A Development Review Report highlighted subdivision well drilling needs and cell tower replacements, with development in the Natural Area currently paused. The financial report for January 2026 was reviewed, showing a decrease in income compared to January 2025, attributed to mill levy income. Supervisor oversight reports addressed water conservation needs due to aquifer recharge depletion, with an idea suggested to use balls on stock tanks to slow evaporation. NRCS reported that most of Laramie County is experiencing moderate drought. New business actions included the failure of a motion to implement a solar energy project and the unanimous approval of funding up to $5,000 to support the Master Gardeners' new gardening area project, providing trees, fabric, and labor. A motion passed to advertise for a new financial coordinator and outreach coordinator. Discussions were held regarding the selection-interview committee process, proposed amendments to the Employee Policy Manual concerning employee evaluations and probationary periods, and planning for the annual awards banquet. Significant discussion occurred regarding Meta Grant Expenses, specifically the unauthorized acceptance of a mini excavator by district personnel, leading to the suggestion of a summer retreat to establish necessary grant acquisition policies.

Key discussions during the meeting included project status updates, noting the completion of the Natural Area Dry Pond, Phase II, and concerns regarding early germination due to weather. The financial report detailed a significant income increase attributed to the December mill levy and a $55,000 gift from Eolian Corp, which was suggested for allocation to the solar panel project. Supervisor oversight reports covered tree sales, where misinformation about free trees was noted, and updates on NRCS programs, including a grazing school announcement. New business focused heavily on planning an annual awards dinner for April, with budget allocations approved. Significant time was spent on the election of new officers, resulting in a new Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, and Member. Discussions also addressed the timing and procedure for evaluating the District Manager, and the necessity of filling several staff vacancies, including a Marketing and Outreach Coordinator and the position currently held by the retiring Financial Coordinator, Kathy Cooney. The Board unanimously approved moving forward with the Wildlife and Resource Specialist job vacancy notices.

This Long Range Plan provides guidance for the Laramie County Conservation District, focusing on key areas such as administration, public outreach and education, wildlife and range management, tree programs, water conservation, and special projects. The plan aims to support sustainable production from soil and water resources, control flooding, improve air and water quality, increase wildlife habitat, protect the county's tax base, and promote the health, welfare, and safety of Laramie County residents.

The Crow Creek Watershed Plan, developed by the Laramie County Conservation District, addresses water quality impairments in Crow Creek, specifically concerning ammonia, cadmium, and fecal coliform. The plan's strategic goals include enhancing communication with local, state, and federal agencies and stakeholders; improving the quality and quantity of water; defining the origin, type, degree, and geographic extent of impairments; elevating public awareness; and developing an implementable plan to achieve water quality goals. The overarching vision is to promote a healthy and sustainable watershed, considering water quality, quantity, property rights, wildlife, and land-use planning, with the ultimate objective of delisting Crow Creek from the 303(d) list of impaired water bodies by meeting Wyoming water quality standards.