About us
Geauga SWCD
Who We Are
The Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) was established in 1944. It was the 29th SWCD to be established in Ohio. The Geauga SWCD is a legal entity of the State of Ohio and is administered by a five-member, elected Board of Supervisors. These Board members make important decisions regarding conservation within the county and set the direction for the District Staff.
The District works cooperatively with other county agencies, local officials, and conservation groups. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service works with the District by offering assistance to agricultural producers within the county. Each of the 88 Ohio counties has its own SWCD, and funding is obtained through the County Commissioners, the State of Ohio, grants, and donations.
The individual Soil and Water Conservation Districts within the state serve the varying needs of the county in which they are located. The Geauga SWCD serves the residents of Geauga County by providing many quality services. The District works with the local community to increase the awareness and appreciation of the county's valuable natural resources.
The District works cooperatively with other county agencies, local officials, and conservation groups. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service works with the District by offering assistance to agricultural producers within the county. Each of the 88 Ohio counties has its own SWCD, and funding is obtained through the County Commissioners, the State of Ohio, grants, and donations.
The individual Soil and Water Conservation Districts within the state serve the varying needs of the county in which they are located. The Geauga SWCD serves the residents of Geauga County by providing many quality services. The District works with the local community to increase the awareness and appreciation of the county's valuable natural resources.
Our History
Each of the 88 Soil and Water Conservation Districts in the State of Ohio has a five-member, governing body. The governing body is the SWCD Board of Supervisors and their job is to set the direction for the District staff. Board members are elected to serve staggered, three-year terms. They serve as volunteers and are granted specific powers under Chapter 1515 of the Ohio Revised Code.
The Board of Supervisors has the ethical and legal responsibility to ensure that the SWCD meets its mission. They set the District policies for the office procedure, county projects, and public requests. The Board also determines the need for additional staff members, works cooperatively with other agencies and local officials, and assists with the attainment of operational funds.
There are twelve monthly board meetings, and a few special meetings throughout the year including the Annual Dinner Meeting, budget hearing with the County Commissioners, and various committee meetings. Many excellent opportunities arise throughout the course of the year that allow Supervisors to attend workshops, conferences, and events on an area, state, or even national level. These opportunities are a great way to learn more about the prominent conservation issues that face the community.
The role of the SWCD Board Supervisor is very important. Conservation is a prominent issue in Geauga County and the need for conservation leaders is essential. We encourage county residents to attend the Annual Meeting and vote for board supervisors in order to help protect Geauga County's soil and water resources.