Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District, organized in 1944, remains committed to its mission of conserving, protecting and enhancing soil and water resources in Geauga County by providing leadership, education and assistance.
Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District, organized in 1944, remains committed to its mission of conserving, protecting and enhancing soil and water resources in Geauga County by providing leadership, education and assistance.
Geauga SWCD held its 73rd annual dinner Nov. 2 at Geauga County fairgrounds and featured a presentation called “There’s No Place Like Home, Geauga County’s Special Plants & Animals,” by Paul Pira, Geauga Park District biologist.
“I hope that people listening will come away from my talk with better appreciation for this wonderful county and its great natural heritage,” Pira said. “We are truly fortunate to live and work in one of the best spots in Ohio for water quality, wildlife and plant life. Both Geauga Park District and Geauga County Soil and Water Conservation District share a very similar mission of conservation and the education of its citizens on the importance of Geauga County’s natural resources.”
Carmella Shale, Geauga SWCD district director, welcomed everyone to the event, which was filled with residents and elected officials. She shared an overview of 2017 district highlights.
“We really rely on all the valuable partnerships with all the great people in this county,” added Gail Prunty, Geauga SWCD education and communications specialist. “Together we can advance each other’s mission.”
Geauga County Commissioner Skip Claypool talked to residents prior to the presentation.
“This is part of Geauga County and what makes Geauga County great,” Claypool said. “These are my kind of people. It’s part of the heart of Geauga County.”
Audience members soon turned their attention to Pira’s presentation, which highlighted native Ohio brook trout.
“Not too long ago, the only place in Ohio that you could find these extremely beautiful fish were in two tiny Geauga County creeks,” Pira said. “These special fish are extremely sensitive to poor water quality and are great indicators of cold and clean water.”
Pira said thanks to a concerted 10-year brook trout restoration effort, which was led by The Ohio Division of Wildlife with lots of help from other partners such as the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the Geauga Park District. This fish was re-introduced into 12 other streams, some succeeding, while others not.
“Interestingly, the only self-sustaining native Ohio brook trout streams left are located on Geauga Park District property,” Pira added. “This fact truly confirms the vital importance of watershed protection.”
State Rep. John Patterson sat in the front row for the event.
“We take our water for granted,” Patterson said. “We are blessed in this area of the lake. I’m here to keep in touch with concerns of the soil and water conservation district.”
Geauga SWCD also announced the 2017 Geauga County Big Tree Contest, featuring the Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra). This year’s winner went to George Lanesky, of Auburn Township, who nominated a majestic red oak tree on the property of Mike Munn. Munn passed away this summer.
Prunty said the voluntary contest, with 23 nominations, promotes the beauty and benefits of the county’s biggest and oldest trees, along with their giant contributions to clean water and healthy soil.
“Impressive and immense, this oak champion tree stands at approximately 138 feet high, with an estimated crown spread of 84 feet, and circumference of 228 inches (19 feet),” Prunty said.
During the GSWD dinner, Chester Township’s Bob Rogish was also re-elected for his leadership position as board supervisor.
“Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District is a beneficial organization that provides services to the residents, businesses and governmental bodies of Geauga County,” Rogish said. “I have always been a person who feels the need to be active in the community, not just living in it.”
The board sets district policies for office procedures, county projects and public requests, and determines the need for additional staff members. The GSWCD works cooperatively with other agencies and local officials, and assists with attainment of operational funds.
Rogish said he is already looking to the future and he hopes to continue “our relationship with our county commissioners.”
“They are the ones who allocate the majority of the funds to keep Geauga SWCD moving forward,” Rogish said. “The State of Ohio does contribute to SWCDs, but that funding is based on a percentage match of local funding. That is set during the state budget and does vary.
“I am thankful for the trust and support our county commissioners have with us and as we have proven, we are ready to help them when asked. Geauga SWCD is very fortunate to have the staff that goes above and beyond what is required and accomplishes the goals set by the board year in and year out. These dedicated individuals provide series, education and assistance to everyone throughout the county.”
