Agricultural Resource Conservationist

Summary:

This position is the primary focal point for two conservation initiatives: Pennsylvania's Chesapeake Bay Program and Pennsylvania's Nutrient Management (Act 38) program. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) pledged to annually inspect 10 percent of Pennsylvania's farms to ensure they comply with erosion and sedimentation control as well as manure management regulations. Additionally, all animal operations in Pennsylvania that generate or land apply manure, regardless of scale, are required to have one of two types of plans: Chapter 91 Manure Management Plan or Act 38 Nutrient Management Plan. These plans document nutrient sources, whether through generation, storage, treatment, transfer, or land application, and aim to keep them separate from clean water resources to protect local and regional water quality. Conservation District agricultural staff administer those programs at the County level. As part of their duties, Conservation District agricultural staff carry out farm inspections and provide both technical and financial assistance for farmers as they develop erosion and sedimentation and manure management plans and implement best management practices that keep soil and nutrients on the farm. These efforts not only maintain the productivity of the farm but also protect drinking water and recreational activities such as fishing by keeping these pollutants out of our streams. The purpose of this position is to administer conservation programs such as Chapter 93 Nutrient Management Regulations, Chapter 91 Manure Management Rules, Chapter 102 Agricultural Erosion and Sediment Control Plans and federal Conservation Planning requirements. This is accomplished through writing and reviewing plans, providing technical assistance on best management practice design and installation, and offering instructional/education training programs to various audiences. The goal is to improve soil health, water quality, and reduce non-point source pollution to local waters and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay. The work is performed under the direction of the Conservation District Manager for time reporting, trainings and financial needs. Program and project work is under the direction of the Deputy District Manager.

Pay:

From $43,700.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person