Education Matters!

The Guernsey Soil & Water Conservation District has a variety of educational and hands-on activities/programs. Some of Guernsey County's local schools have been taking full advantage of all the resources we have to offer! On Monday, October 29th, our employees Mark Wallen & Madyson Epperson provided a rain barrel workshop for students at Buckeye Trail High School. They learned about the importance of conserving and reusing resources, and were able to keep the rain barrels they assembled during the workshop for use at their schools.

Thursday, November 8th, Education/Natural Resources Specialist Madyson Epperson visited Meadowbrook Middle School's Science Club to discuss some of Ohio's key wildlife species and make molds of their tracks!

And November 14th through the 16th our Education Specialist was at Brook Elementary teaching 3rd graders about recycling, 4th graders about animal adaptations and fifth graders about Ohio's Wildlife and their habitats. The students are doing art projects centered around natural resources and the environment. If you're interested in any of our resources and programs we have to offer, please call our office at (740) 489-5276 or email mepperson@guernseycounty.org

Field to Table Venison Workshop

Guernsey and Noble County SWCD along with Noble OSU Extension are partnering together to bring you another field to table demonstration. Learn about processing your own venison and how to preserve and cook the meat from your harvest. We hope to see you there!

Ohio Couple Named National Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year
Hepatica Falls Tree Farm represents long-term care of the land
COLUMBUS, OH – Randy and Koral Clum have been named the 2018 National Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year by the American Tree Farm System, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). “Randy and Koral Clum’s Harrison County woodland property is a stellar example of forest stewardship practices,” said Robert Boyles, Ohio’s state forester. “Not only is their land a joy to experience, but their investment has produced a thriving woodland and showcase for fellow landowners to learn about sustainable forestry. I can’t think of more deserving people than the Clums to represent Ohio for this national recognition.” Randy and Koral are both professional consulting foresters that work with 50 to 75 other landowners annually. Clum Forestry Consultants promote and provide science-based forest management, approaching their work as an educational opportunity for clients. The couple purchased their own 153-acre Hepatica Falls Tree Farm in east-central Ohio in 1993, learning many lessons as they applied practices they advise for other landowners. The Clums have hosted numerous tours and workshops, including the 2017 Ohio Tree Farm of the Year Tour. Both Randy and Koral began their forestry careers with the ODNR Division of Forestry, spending many of those years providing private land stewardship advice as service foresters. They are active in several woodland owner and professional forestry organizations, and they have served as tree farm inspectors. Among both Randy’s and Koral’s numerous awards and recognitions, the couple was named in 2012 by ODNR as Forest of Honor inductees for their excellent work and enthusiasm for sharing good forestry and for the many landowners they have influenced. The Ohio Tree Farm Program was organized in 1946, bringing foresters and landowners together to apply the American Tree Farm System standards of sustainable forest management. The system includes 1,700 woodland owners across the state committed to caring for their land under a comprehensive plan developed by a professional forester. Landowners interested in the American Tree Farm System may visit ohiotreefarm.org. The ODNR Division of Forestry works to promote the wise use and sustainable management of Ohio’s public and private woodlands. To learn more about Ohio’s woodlands and the fire management program, visit forestry.ohiodnr.gov. Follow us on Instagram at @odnrforestry (instagram.com/odnrforestry). ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov. – 30 – For more information, contact: Matt Eiselstein, ODNR Office of Communications 614-265-6860 Cotton Randall, ODNR Division of Forestry 614-265-6667 Cutline: Pictured are Randy and Koral Clum, who were recently named the 2018 National Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year by the American Tree Farm System. Photo courtesy of Kian McKellar.

Guernsey SWCD Annual Meeting

On Tuesday, October 23, 2018, the Guernsey Soil & Water Conservation District celebrated its 76th Annual Meeting and Election at Deerassic Park Education Center. Two board members were elected to three year terms; Jo Lucas who was re-elected for her second term and newly elected board member Josh Stiers, who will begin his first term in January of 2019. Patrick Hodges and Sam Gatrell did an excellent job speaking about their experience at Camp Canopy which the district sponsored them to attend this year. Sam has been attending the past few years and this year he tested 5th overall at the camp out of nearly 100 participants which earned him a $1,000 scholarship to Zane State College.

 Mr. Louis Thornton was then honored as the 2018 Cooperator of the Year. Lou has diligently worked with the district and its partners this year as well as in years past. Lou has gone above and beyond making his beef operation work to its full potential. He has been gracious enough to hold workshops at his farm for the public to attend and show how certain conservation practices can improve an operation.

 We were delighted to have Tommy Butler from the USDA speak about Black Vultures and their increasing presence in Ohio and Guernsey County. 

The district would like to thank all who came out to celebrate the evening with them. Guernsey Soil & Water would like to extend a sincere thank you to Bill Bertram, who after 12 dedicated years of service to the district decided not to seek re-election. Mr. Bertram has assisted the district diligently during his time on the board and has helped guide the district through the years. We would like to wish him, his wife Shirley, and the rest of their family the very best. 

We would also like to give a special thank you to Orr’s Drive-In, Mosser Glass, The Engine House and M&M Feed who were generous enough to donate door prizes for our meeting. Its local businesses like yours that make our county so great!

Guernsey SWCD Annual Meeting

Guernsey Soil and Water Conservation District Election

On Tuesday October 23^rd , the Guernsey Soil and Water Conservation District will be holding their 76^th annual meeting and banquet.  Every year the GSWCD holds an annual meeting for the purpose of electing members to the five member board that comprises the board of supervisors for the district.  This year there will be two members elected to a three-year term.

The mission of the Guernsey Soil and Water Conservation District is to promote through education and technical assistance the sustainable use of natural resources for the benefit of present and future generations.  The traditional perception of the Soil and Water Conservation District has been one of working primarily with the agricultural community.  The district does work on natural resource issues with local agriculture but in addition to that, it is a considerable resource to all landowners and land users in Guernsey County.

This year's slate of candidates for election to the district board of supervisors include; Jo Lucas, Anna Hodges, and Josh Stiers. The two candidates with the most votes will be elected to a three-year term.  The official election will begin at 5:00 pm Tuesday, October 23^rd at the Deerassic Park Education Center located at 14250 Cadiz Rd, Cambridge, OH 43725. 

The dinner, catered by Theo’s Restaurant, will be served at 6:00pm, with a brief program following the meal. Tickets for the banquet are $10, and can be purchased from any current board member, or from the SWCD office.  If you are unable to attend the day of the election, absentee ballots are available at the district office located at 335C Old National Rd, Old Washington, Ohio until 3:00pm October 23^rd .  Eligible voters are all individuals who are at least 18 years of age and a resident of Guernsey County or at least 18 years of age and own real estate in Guernsey County.  Consider participating in this important process.  For additional information you may contact the Guernsey Soil and Water Conservation District office at (740) 489-5276.

Fall Forest Walk

Guernsey SWCD is hosting a fall forest walk with Guernsey OSU Extension. Come learn about all the cool things in your woods on October 10th from Levi Arnold of Guernsey SWCD and Clif Little of OSU Extension.

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Backyard Gardening for Pollinators & other Wildlife Planning Workshop

Pond Clinic

Fall Pasture Walk

2018 Ginseng Seed Sale

2018 Ginseng Seed Sale

Below are details for the Ginseng seed sale. please print the order form below and mail with  payment. For questions please call the office at 740-489-5276. Order deadline is Friday September 7th.

2018 Guernsey SWCD Conservation Camp

The Guernsey SWCD is hosting it's 33rd annual conservation camp for Guernsey County youth ages  8-11. The theme for camp this year is Wild for Wildlife. We will be highlighting Ohio's unique wildlife species through various fun hands on activities. We also will have traditional camp activities such as archery, fishing, and canoeing. The two day camp will take place on Wednesday July 25th and Thursday July 26th from 9 AM to 2 PM. Parents/guardians are responsible for child drop off and pick up both days. Wednesday July 25th we will be at the Salt Fork State Park park office located at R-16 Rd. Lore City Oh. 43755. The activities for the day include Fishing, Archery, Canoeing, making "seed balls" and meeting the park naturalist. On Thursday July 26th we will be at Moore Memorial Woods, located at 18665 Wings Ln. Salesville Oh. 43778. Here at Moore Woods we will be going on  a nature hike, doing crafts, dissecting owl pellets, and learning about Ohio's wildlife. For questions and registration information please call the office at 740-489-5276 or email mepperson@guernsyecounty.org. To register, please print off the registration brochure, fill it out, and mail it along with payment of only $10. Or, request one be sent to you.Registration deadline is July 18th. Please note that camp registration is limited to the first 30 kids.

Area Teen Wins Scholarship at Camp Canopy

Congratulations to Sam Gatrell on winning a $1,000 scholarship at Camp Canopy. The Guernsey SWCD sponsors kids from Guernsey County every year to attend the camp. Camp Canopy is located at FFA Camp Muskingum at Leesville Lake. The camp focuses on all aspects of forestry and wildlife management and brings kids in from all over the state. Forestry and wildlife professionals come together to teach many diverse classes and help with regular camp activities. At the end of the week the students take a test to compete for college scholarships that encompasses all they’ve learned that week.

Special Meetings

NOTICE:

The Guernsey Soil and Water Conservation District will be holding special meetings to interview candidates to fill the position of Education/ Natural Resources Specialist. Special meetings for interviews will be conducted on 6/6/2018, 6/7/2018, and 6/12/2018. All will be starting at 8 AM and ending after candidates are interviewed.

Local Work Group and Special Meeting Notice

The Guernsey SWCD will be having a local work group meeting with NRCS on Tuesday morning at 9AM to discuss local conservation issues and ways to help address these conservation issues at the local level. All are welcome, the meeting will be held at the Guernsey SWCD office located at 335 C Old National Rd. Old Washington Ohio. Please RSVP if you plan on attending by calling 740-489-5276. After the local work group meeting the Guernsey SWCD board of supervisors will hold a special meeting to discuss candidates for their job position vacancy. This meeting will occur at 11:30 AM at the Guernsey SWCD office located at 335 C Old National Rd. Old Washington Oh. 43768.

Pasture Walk

Come join us for our 2018 Pasture Walk.  This is a great opportunity to learn how you can increase grazing efficiency on your farm.  

We're Hiring!

Inquiring candidates can contact the district directly at 740-489-5276, or by emailing larnold@guernseycounty.org. Candidates are asked to submit a cover letter, resume, and a minimum of three references by Friday May 18^th 2018 no later than 4:30 PM. Resumes may be emailed, or mailed to the office. If you're mailing your packet please mail to Levi Arnold PO Box 310 Old Washington, Ohio 43768.

Guernsey Soil & Water Conservation District

Position Description

Position Title:             Education/ Natural Resources Specialist

For:                             

Reports to:                 District Program Administrator (DPA)

Employment Status:  Full time, subject to six month probationary period

Hours:                         8:00 AM to 4:30PM – 40 hours

                             

This position is responsible for education, technical assistance, and field assistance to landowners/operators and units of government, primarily in natural resources issues.  The position also coordinates educational programming in the Guernsey county school systems.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

·         Plan and conduct tours, field days, technical workshops, public viewing of demonstrations for the general public and or school field trips

·         Conduct teacher workshops in order to better prepare them with the skills needed to become competent in teaching natural resources issues.

·         Establish a reliable and accessible resource base to assist teachers with their own natural resource curriculum within all school districts in Guernsey County

·         Organize K-12 classroom activities and field days promoting agriculture and natural resources conservation and management.

·         Create materials promoting environmental education to be used as aides in the science curriculum.

·         Coordinate overall conservation education programs of the district to Guernsey county residents

·         Work with the DPA to develop communication of district programs through social media.

·         Help promote the Envirothon Contest and solicit contest participants in county schools.  Coordinate training events with area schools.

·         Coordinates the district’s Conservation day camp

·         Represent the District at meetings of local, state and federal agencies and organizations

·         Work with county 4-H youth programs

·         Attend monthly board meetings and/or other meetings as designated by the DPA and /or Board of Supervisors.

·         Keep abreast of all federal, state, and local laws that affect the conservation work within the district.

·         Prepare and maintain all records, reports, and forms as required.  This includes the computerized payroll and data collection system, currently known as SWIMS.

·         Must comply with all of the district’s policies (i.e. Employment Policy, this position description)

·         Must demonstrate regular and predictable attendance.

·         Perform all other duties as assigned by the DPA or board of supervisors.

·         Other duties and responsibilities not mentioned will evolve. The Board of Supervisors does not  hold this job description to be “all encompassing” and maintain the right to develop other 

areas of responsibility as deemed necessary. 

QUALIFICATIONS

·         Minimum 2 year degree in wildlife, forestry, natural resources management or related field.

·         Experience with presenting educational programs to both adult and youth audiences.

·         Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form; exercise sound judgment; use time and organizational skills wisely; be groomed and dressed appropriately as to reflect well on the Guernsey SWCD; cooperate with co-workers; receive and implement instructions from DPA and board of supervisors; communicate and work well with landowners without discrimination.

·         Ability to operate field equipment (survey equipment, water quality monitoring equipment, GPS data collector, digital camera, etc.) with guidance and training.

·         Familiarity with popular computer software (including, but not limited to, MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher) and willingness to learn new applications.

·         Must be insurable for government vehicle operation and have a valid Ohio driver’s license.

·         Ability to pass a background check in order to use county and federal computer system.

WORKING CONDITIONS

·         Occasionally performs duties during inclement weather.

·         Required to lift and carry necessary equipment; walk over uneven, steep ground; cross fences.

·         Required to transport district rental equipment using district vehicles.

·         Required to work in close proximity to construction equipment while in operation.

·         Required to attend evening and weekend meetings on occasion within and outside the county.

PERFORMANCE REVIEW

A formal performance review will be conducted annually by the DPA.  During this review, salary advancement and items concerning the employee’s professional growth and employment are discussed.   At this time, a set of goals for the coming year which meet with the goals of the district will be discussed and agreed upon. 

Wildlife Workshop in Harrison County!

Ohio Wildlife Council Receives 2018-2018 Deer Hunting Proposals

Ohio Wildlife Council Receives
2018-2019 Deer Hunting Proposals

COLUMBUS, OH – The Ohio Wildlife Council heard proposals for Ohio’s 2018-2019 white-tailed deer hunting season dates and bag limits at Wednesday’s meeting, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). The proposed season dates are nearly identical to previous seasons.

Overview of proposed deer hunting seasons for 2018-2019:

Deer archery: Sept. 29, 2018-Feb. 3, 2019
Youth deer gun: Nov. 17-18, 2018
Deer gun: Nov. 26-Dec. 2, 2018; Dec. 15-16, 2018
Deer muzzleloader: Jan. 5-8, 2019
Deer bag limits were proposed to remain the same for all but one county. A reduction in the bag limit from three deer to two deer was proposed for Jefferson County. All other county bag limits would remain the same. The ODNR Division of Wildlife also proposed modifications for hunting on public land that would permit hunters to harvest only one antlerless deer from public hunting areas per license year and require that only antlered deer be harvested on public land after Dec. 2. This proposal would allow for some herd growth on public land. The statewide bag limit was proposed to remain at six deer, only one of which may be antlered, and a hunter cannot exceed a county bag limit.

In other proposals, the ODNR Division of Wildlife proposed to allow the use of devices such as range finders on archery equipment that utilize only non-visible light when hunting in Ohio. Any device that projects a beam of visible light would still be prohibited. Proposed changes to furbearer management included modifying the list of counties open to river otter trapping and creating a limited bobcat trapping season to support scientific research. Trapping for bobcats would be limited to two zones in eastern and southern Ohio, with a small, fixed quota for each zone. Trappers would be required to purchase an additional $5 permit and only be allowed to harvest one bobcat per license year. Trapping in each zone would close when the quota is reached. The data collected from these bobcats would provide scientists with a better idea of the population in Ohio. New counties were proposed to open for river otter trapping, as the species is now prevalent in many areas. River otter bag limits have not changed.

A correction was made to the counties proposed to open for fall wild turkey hunting beginning in 2018. The corrected proposed county list includes Erie, Hancock and Lucas counties. Sandusky County is not proposed to be open to fall turkey hunting at this time.

A complete list of proposed rules changes can be found at wildohio.gov.

The Ohio Wildlife Council will vote on all proposals after receiving public input. Open houses to receive public comments about hunting, trapping and fishing regulations and wildlife issues will be held on Saturday, March 3. Open houses will be held at the ODNR Division of Wildlife District One, District Two, District Three and District Four offices and the Greene County Fish and Game Association clubhouse in Xenia. Directions to the open houses can be found at wildohio.gov or by calling 800-WILDLIFE (945-3543).

Open houses give the public an opportunity to view and discuss proposed fishing, hunting and trapping regulations with the ODNR Division of Wildlife officials. For Ohioans who are unable to attend an open house, comments will be accepted online at wildohio.gov. The online form will be available starting Monday, Feb. 12, through Sunday, March 4.

A statewide hearing on all of the proposed rules will be held at the ODNR Division of Wildlife’s District One office on Thursday, March 15, at 9 a.m. The office is located at 1500 Dublin Road, Columbus, Ohio 43215.

The Ohio Wildlife Council is an eight-member board that approves all ODNR Division of Wildlife proposed rules and regulations. The council will vote on the proposed rules and season dates during its meeting on Wednesday, April 11, after considering public input. Small game, migratory bird and wild turkey hunting season dates were proposed at the January council meeting and will also be voted on by the council on April 11.

Council meetings are open to the public. Individuals who want to provide comments on a topic that is currently being considered by council are asked to register at least two days before the meeting by calling 614-265-6304. All comments are required to be three minutes or less.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.

– 30 –

Editor’s Note: Attached is the proposed 2018-2019 Ohio deer bag limits map with season dates.

For more information, contact:
John Windau, ODNR Division of Wildlife
614-265-6325
Matt Eiselstein, ODNR Office of Communications
614-265-6860

Ohio Deer Hunter Harvest Numbers

Ohio Hunters Harvest more than 186,000 Deer during 2017-2018 Season COLUMBUS, OH – Hunters checked 186,247 white-tailed deer throughout Ohio’s 2017-2018 deer season, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Last year, 182,169 deer were checked during the 2016-2017 season. The ODNR Division of Wildlife remains committed to properly managing Ohio’s deer populations. The goal of Ohio’s Deer Management Program is to provide a deer population that maximizes recreational opportunities, while minimizing conflicts with landowners and motorists. Deer hunting regulations over the past three seasons have been designed to allow for moderate herd growth throughout most of the state. Herd growth is achieved by reducing harvest and protecting female deer. Hunting Popularity Ohio ranks fifth nationally in resident hunters and 11th in the number of jobs associated with hunting-related industries. Hunting has a more than $853 million economic impact in Ohio through the sale of equipment, fuel, food, lodging and more, according to the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s Hunting in America: An Economic Force for Conservation publication. Find more information about deer hunting in the Ohio 2017-2018 Hunting and Trapping Regulations or at wildohio.gov. ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov. - 30 - Editor’s Note: A list of all white-tailed deer checked by hunters during the 2017-2018 deer season is shown below. The first number following the county’s name shows the harvest number for the 2017-2018 season, and the 2016-2017 season number is in parentheses. Adams: 3,231 (3,272); Allen: 979 (1,039); Ashland: 3,254 (2,954); Ashtabula: 5,076 (5,040); Athens: 3,732 (3,646); Auglaize: 848 (751); Belmont: 2,931 (3,236); Brown: 2,521 (2,448); Butler: 1,401 (1,231); Carroll: 3,935 (3,586); Champaign: 1,197 (1,118); Clark: 685 (661); Clermont: 2,471 (2,343); Clinton: 810 (719); Columbiana: 3,257 (3,189); Coshocton: 6,559 (5,929); Crawford: 1,222 (1,113); Cuyahoga: 1,033 (1,124); Darke: 731 (679); Defiance: 1,600 (1,675); Delaware: 1,574 (1,527); Erie: 1,119 (868); Fairfield: 1,969 (1,800); Fayette: 353 (312); Franklin: 788 (837); Fulton: 745 (826); Gallia: 2,599 (2,720); Geauga: 1,818 (1,871); Greene: 778 (816); Guernsey: 4,753 (4,565); Hamilton: 1,639 (1,589); Hancock: 1,228 (1,179); Hardin: 1,253 (1,220); Harrison: 3,674 (3,763); Henry: 733 (708); Highland: 2,668 (2,587); Hocking: 3,321 (3,275); Holmes: 4,108 (3,731); Huron: 2,377 (2,279); Jackson: 2,984 (2,870); Jefferson: 1,903 (2,800); Knox: 4,658 (4,495); Lake: 883 (961); Lawrence: 1,784 (1,942); Licking: 5,009 (4,971); Logan: 2,055 (1,919); Lorain: 2,255 (2,511); Lucas: 748 (755); Madison: 511 (482); Mahoning: 2,032 (1,933); Marion: 893 (886); Medina: 2,012 (2,109); Meigs: 3,115 (3,476); Mercer: 677 (661); Miami: 787 (774); Monroe: 2,618 (2,571); Montgomery: 704 (591); Morgan: 3,278 (2,992); Morrow: 1,544 (1,486); Muskingum: 5,274 (5,118); Noble: 3,036 (2,855); Ottawa: 482 (450); Paulding: 1,022 (954); Perry: 2,769 (2,787); Pickaway: 822 (724); Pike: 1,934 (2,083); Portage: 2,289 (2,211); Preble: 969 (847); Putnam: 781 (709); Richland: 3,505 (3,246); Ross: 3,053 (3,029); Sandusky: 904 (862); Scioto: 2,326 (2,479); Seneca: 1,895 (1,842); Shelby: 983 (961); Stark: 2,880 (2,778); Summit: 1,474 (1,572); Trumbull: 3,640 (3,699); Tuscarawas: 5,722 (5,039); Union: 939 (842); Van Wert: 499 (458); Vinton: 2,802 (2,668); Warren: 1,186 (1,095); Washington: 3,327 (3,402); Wayne: 2,226 (2,020); Williams: 1,598 (1,687); Wood: 931 (857); Wyandot: 1,559 (1,484). Total: 186,247 (182,169). For more information, contact: John Windau, ODNR Division of Wildlife 614-265-6325 Matt Eiselstein, ODNR Office of Communications 614-265-6860

2018 Wildlife Symposium!

Check out this great event in Muskingum county happening in March, the 2018 Wildlife Symposium. Hosted by Zane State College and Muskingum SWCD. Our own Levi Arnold will be there doing a Waterfowl ID presentation. Here is a list of speakers and topics that will be covered. This event requires registration and an associated cost of $20 that gets you access to the event and covers a continental breakfast and a light lunch. To register, print the registration card picture, fill out and send to Muskingum SWCD with payment. We look forward to seeing you there!

Camp Canopy! Check it Out!

January may not seem like the time to be thinking about summer fun but this news is too hot not to share! Camp Canopy, formerly known as Ohio Forestry and Wildlife Camp has done some re-branding. Camp Canopy will offer the same unique opportunities to the youth of Ohio as they have for the past 65+ years! So, if you are someone who may be interested in this opportunity or know of someone, go check out their new website and other forms of social media. https://campcanopy.com/

Guernsey Noble Beginner's Beekeeping Class

New Employee!

Hello,

My name is Mark Wallen and I am the new Agriculture Resources Specialist for the Guernsey County Soil and Water Conservation District.  I originally hale from Champaign County near Urbana, Ohio where I grew up farming and was involved in agriculture.  I am an avid outdoorsman and enjoy spending my time either helping on the family farm, or spending my time afield either behind a good hunting dog or in a tree stand chasing deer. 

 I am a graduate of the Ohio State University where I earned my Bachelors degree in Environmental sciences.  After graduation I worked for the South McLean County Soil Conservation District in Turtle Lake, North Dakota as the District technician assisting agriculture producer’s with cover crop enrollment and tree windbreak plantings.  From there I joined the team at the Guernsey County SWCD where I enjoy working with producers and look forward to meeting with local landowners in the near future, so if you’re in the area please drop by and say hi, and we can discuss how I can be of assistance to you and your operation.