An Update on Natural Resource Conservation in Mahoning County

Mahoning Soil & Water Conservation District | Fall 2021
SWCD Welcomes New District Technical Educator
The Mahoning SWCD recently welcomed Dr. Shane Smith, district technical educator, to its staff. Shane's role consists of providing resources and technical assistance on storm water and conservation education initiatives.
Bozick, Baltes Elected to Board of Directors
Elayne Bozick of Lowellville and A.J. Baltes of North Jackson were elected to the SWCD's five-member volunteer Board of Directors in November. Elayne and A.J. will officially join the board in January of 2022.
SWCD Collecting Milkweed Seed Pods
The Mahoning County Soil & Water Conservation District is collecting milkweed seed pods as part of a statewide effort to reverse the decline in monarch butterflies.
Financial Assistance Available, Deadlines Approaching
USDA'S Natural Resources Conservation Service provides financial assistance to eligible landowners and agricultural producers through voluntary programs. Here are the financial assistance programs.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) serves farmers, growers and producers by providing financial support through credit and loan programs. Here are the application deadlines and important dates to remember.
Preparing for 2022 Envirothon Competitions
The Mahoning County SWCD will co-host the 2022 Area 2 Envirothon with Columbiana County SWCD. Here is everything you need to know about the upcoming Area, Ohio and National Envirothon competitions slated for next year.
Preparing Fields for Winter: Q&A on Cover Crops
Cover crops have many benefits that help improve and protect the ground over the winter months. Blaine Winger, agricultural specialist and district technician, provides insight on cover crops and how they help prepare fields for the winter.
Staff Spotlight
Meet Jerry Rockhold
As Mahoning SWCD’s Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, Jerry helps plan and oversee monthly board meetings and ensures that new supervisors understand their duties.

He has played an important role in assisting the district over his 9-year tenure. Jerry assisted with Area Envirothons and has attended numerous local, state and federal partner meetings and Ohio Department of Agriculture Division of Soil & Water Conservation partnership meetings. 
 
Jerry has spent most of his career working in the environmental and hazardous waste industry. He currently works at Advanced Waste Services. Outside of work, Jerry enjoys spending time with his wife, two children and granddaughter. He also served in the U.S. Army for six years.
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