Yes, the district must become more active in the debate over increased development. It is the mission of the Conservation District to be active in debates that impact the environment and provide leadership and a unified voice for natural resource conservation to local governments. I cannot support any further western growth including in the Agricultural Reserve. Development thus far has lacked environmental impact studies, long-range planning, the true cost of development and environmental protection for soil and water.

There is more to the PB Soil & Water Conservation District than meets the eye; there are programs for all ages from elementary students to adults, for farmers, environmentalists, urban conservationists to community gardeners. The Poster Contest gives K-12 students the opportunity to explore the environment through art. Our Photo Contest allows our adult photographers to capture their vision of the our beautiful county and high school students can compete in Envirothon.

The "small" perception is a matter of choice in my opinion. It is my intention to work in collaboration with other governmental agencies, i.e. city, county, state, municipal and federal on matters of conservation and the environment. It's all about relationships and information.