Conservation Specialist - Agronomy
Position Summary and Job Duties
Performs entry to mid-level work related to the coordination and implementation of County, Federal, and State Soil and Water Conservation programs. Specifically, the position will provide support landowners, producers, agriculture professionals and other interested parties with soil health conservation programming including nutrient management plan implementation in Rock County.
85% Coordination and implementation of County, Federal and State Soil and Water Conservation programs:
Primary administrator and contact for the Departments' Nutrient Management Program, including but not limited; reviewing and verifying nutrient management plans submitted to the Department for the Farmland Preservation Program, Land and Water Conservation Program Cost Sharing, Purchase of Agricultural Conservation Easement Program and current USDA-NRCS Programs.
Coordinates and participates in the annual Nutrient Management Training workshops conducted in cooperation with Department of Agriculture Trade and Consumer Protection.
Maintains accurate database of nutrient management plan information in the county.
Network with farmers and other agronomy professionals to provide information and education on practices, equipment, and programs available to reduce soil erosion and runoff and improve overall soil health on their farms. This also includes providing continued training and support for the implementation of nutrient management plans.
Analyze and interpret soil test data to help farmers meet both production and soil health goals on their farm.
Analyze and provide available SNAP+ information to LCD staff for conservation and program planning. This includes assistance with analyzing and reporting soil loss and nutrient reduction information, preparing field maps and acreages of practices, and providing relevant information for preparation of cost share agreements.
Provide technical and outreach support to LCD staff for the successful implementation of soil health and water quality programming in the county.
Assist in coordination of field days and educational events to provide information about soil health conservation practices, techniques, and equipment.
Maintains, through applicable training, a high level of technical knowledge and skills necessary for the effective promotion of soil health practices including nutrient management plan implementation.
Assist with the design of conservation practices and construction plans.
Performs other tasks as required.
10%- Provide staff support to Producer Led Watershed Groups in Rock County.
5%- Assist with the design of conservation practices and construction plans
Success Factors (KSA's)
Knowledge of current principles and practices of natural resource management.
Thorough knowledge of and the ability to apply principles of soil health systems and methods, cropland conservation practices and nutrient management planning that are effective in improving soil health and water quality while maintaining economic sustainability for farm operations. This includes knowledge to set-up and operate various planting and tillage equipment, interpretation of soil test reports, and nutrient and pest management methods and application. Knowledge of weed identification, control and herbicide application regulations is desirable.
Proficient in using computer software such as Microsoft Office suite, USDA- NRCS RUSLE2, Wisconsin's nutrient management planning software SnapPlus including SnapMaps. Some knowledge of GIS software such as ESRI ArcMap and other web-based GIS software is desirable. Some knowledge of database management software is also desirable.
Ability to interpret aerial photography and soils maps using Wisconsin SnapMaps and otherweb based GIS applications.
Strong written, verbal, and listening communication skills. This includes effective communication to assist in the set up and operation of various planting and tillage equipment used for soil health practices.
Knowledge of programs and responsibilities of the Land Conservation Department as well as other conservation program partners such as WI Dept. of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, WI Dept. of Natural Resources, and USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service.
Ability to maintain effective and positive working relationships with farmers and landowners, agriculture professionals, and other LWCD program partners and staff.
Ability to prepare and maintain accurate information, records and reports.
Job Requirements, Education, Training & Experience
Possess a B.S. or Associate Degree in Natural Resource Management, Agronomy, Soil Science or a related field of study; or a combination of training and direct experience that would place the individual at an equivalent level.
Possess a minimum of two years experience in an Agronomy or Farming related position with knowledge of conservation tillage, residue management, cover crops and nutrient and pest management.
Possession of or the ability to attain appropriate Agronomic certification (CCA, ARCPACS,or NAICC). Attaining certification within 1 year is required.
In evaluating candidates for this position, the County may consider a combination of education, training and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of the position.
Essential Job Functions (physical elements, equipment and working conditions)