Conservation Specialist

Applications are now being accepted for a Full-time Conservation Specialist position with the Lincoln County Land Department. This position is grant funded.  

To be considered, applicants must complete and submit a Lincoln County Employment Application form. Applications are accepted until position is filled.

Submit Your Application

PURPOSE OF POSITION: 

The Conservation Specialist will play a key role in enhancing soil and water conservation efforts across Lincoln County. This position involves developing and implementing conservation strategies for local landowners, with a focus on sustainable agricultural practices that protect our natural resources. Working closely with farmers, agricultural stakeholders, and government agencies, this position will help build strong, collaborative partnerships to improve local environmental outcomes. This position will work toward implementing goals outlined in the Lincoln County Land and Water Resource Management Plan.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

The following duties are typical for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive but will be the primary duties. Other duties may be required and assigned. 

• Works directly with the USDA-NRCS in partnership with the County to provide contract support for the Farm Bill Programs (i.e. Environmental Quality Incentive Program, Conservation Stewardship Program, Conservation Reserve Program, etc.) which support soil health practices. Provides detailed quarterly report of completed work to USDA-NRCS for data entry into performance tracking software.
• Works with farmers and landowners to voluntarily develop, maintain and implement conservation plans addressing resource concerns, focusing on cropland practices to reduce sediment and nutrient runoff and improve soil health. Mainly, but not limited to: no-till farming, cover crops, managed grazing, extending perennial forage rotations and other practices to improve soil health.
• Lead the County’s managed grazing programming, including developing a grazing network, completing grazing plans, recommending infrastructure (e.g., fencing, watering systems), and providing technical assistance. Monitor program effectiveness and provide recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Lead the County’s nutrient management programming, including developing nutrient management plans with landowners, providing technical assistance, and completing all necessary tracking and reporting Monitor program effectiveness and provide recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Provide expert guidance on sustainable farming practices, including no-till farming, cover cropping, managed grazing, and nutrient management to promote soil health and preserve water quality.
• Identifies significant sources of environmental pollution and works with landowners, other conservation staff, and/or private consultants to develop and implement solutions to runoff problems.
• Builds, engages, and participates with strategic partnerships and multi-disciplinary teams of internal and external stakeholders in soil health and managed grazing related efforts by programming to build and enhance the community capacity in achieving goals. This includes but is not limited to the following: USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency, UW-Extension, Department of Natural Resources, WI Department of Agriculture, County departments, various associations, and citizens, to increase participation in those programs and identified outcomes.
• Lead educational programs, workshops, and public presentations to engage farmers, community members, and stakeholders in conservation practices. Create and distribute promotional materials to raise awareness of conservation programs. Foster relationships with agricultural groups, schools, and community organizations to encourage the adoption of conservation practices.
• Partner with local, state, and federal agencies to coordinate resources, funding, and technical support for conservation efforts. Cultivate long-term relationships with farmers, landowners, and community organizations to advance shared conservation goals and integrate conservation programs into regional agricultural strategies.
• Track project progress, monitor financial and performance metrics, and submit reports to NRCS and other funding agencies. Assist with securing funding for ongoing and new conservation initiatives.
• Applies for grants through the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP), Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR), and other applicable organizations. Produces grant reports as needed detailing work accomplishments.
• Conduct field surveys and evaluations to inform the design and implementation of conservation practices, ensuring compliance with NRCS guidelines and technical standards. Track and report on the success of conservation practices, providing feedback to landowners to improve outcomes.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university in Natural Resource Management, Soil Science, Agronomy or a related field, and 3 years of experience in land resource programs or a related field; OR any combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge, skills, and abilities.

FUNDING SOURCE: 

This position is contingent upon grant funding through the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP). In the event these grants are not secured, the Lincoln County Land Services Department is committed to securing additional resources to ensure the long-term sustainability of the position. 

WAGE:

This full-time position has a starting hourly wage of $27.79. 

Benefits:

Eligibility for Lincoln County benefit package including: 

• Health Insurance- your choice of two health plans- (Health Savings Account associated with a High Deductible Health Plan with a County contribution or a Traditional Health Plan)
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Long-Term Disability
• Vision Insurance
• Vacation- available on day one!
• Generous Sick Leave
• 10 paid Holidays per year
• EAP (Employee Assistance Plan)- paid by the County
• 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plans
• Allstate Plans- Accident, Critical Illness and Short Term Disability
• Wisconsin Retirement System. As an employee of Lincoln County, you would be eligible for the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS), which is among the best funded and best managed public pension systems in the country!

Applicants must complete and submit a Lincoln County Employment Application Form.  Application forms are available at the Lincoln County Service Center (upper level), 801 N. Sales Street in Merrill, Wisconsin and on the County's website at www.co.lincoln.wi.us.  Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER