What are the responsibilities and job description for the Watershed Agronomist position at County of Adams?
Implement the Fourteen Mile Creek Watershed NonPoint Source Watershed Plan (9 Key Element Plan). Provide technical assistance to landowners and agricultural producers within the Fourteen Mile Creek Watershed related to the adaptation and enforcement of conservation practices, nutrient management practices, along with the implementation of federal, state, and county standards and ordinances. Grant funding for this position is available until November 29, 2024.
The main duty of this position is to perform education and outreach activities to producers within the 14-mile watershed on the positive impact a Producer-Led Watershed Group would have within their area.
Work with the County Conservationist to provide technical assistance to landowners and agricultural producers within the Fourteen-mile Creek Watershed related to the adaptation and enforcement of conservation practices, nutrient management practices, along with the implementation of federal, state, and county standards and ordinances.
Ensure landowners are provided sufficient and accurate information and technical support to correctly implement nutrient management, and other soil and water conservation practices to ensure compliance with applicable State Ag-Performance Standards and county ordinances.
Ensure that working relationships are well maintained with all landowners, agencies, and governmental units.
Track and update information in the Watershed Plan to reflect ongoing work and present the progress of the plan to stakeholder groups.
Performs other related functions and duties as assigned or required.
It is unlikely an employee will perform all the duties listed on a regular basis, nor is the list exhaustive in the sense it covers all the duties that an employee may be required to perform. The examples are merely indicative, not restrictive.
Bachelor’s Degree or Associates Degree in Agronomy, Natural Resource Management, Soil Science, Watershed Management or a related field of study or a combination of training and experience. RUSLE2 and SNAP-Plus computer model experience required. ArcGIS experience preferred. Valid Wisconsin Driver’s License. WI Agronomic certification (CCA, ARCPACS, or NAICC). WI Commercial Pesticide Applicator certification preferred. USDA-NRCS Conservation Planner certification preferred.
OTHER KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Thorough knowledge and ability to apply principles of soil erosion control methods, and nutrient management. Ability to interpret and analyze soil test reports. Ability to investigate and evaluate animal waste ordinance violations and report finds clearly and concisely to both the department and Corporation Counsel. Ability to use computers and applicable software including spreadsheet, word processing, RUSLE2, SNAP-Plus and ArcView. Possess good mathematical skills. Ability to interpret aerial photography, aerial slides, soils maps, and to use in-field measuring devices. Knowledge of programs and responsibilities of the County Land and Water Conservation Department; USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service; WI Dept. of Natural Resources; and WI Dept. of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection; US EPA; UW Extension; and non-government organizations. Ability to understand and apply soil and water resource management planning methods. Knowledge of Wisconsin State Statutes regarding conservation programs administered by the County and other state soil and water programs. Knowledge of County water and soil standards, DNR and DATCP programs and reporting procedures. Knowledge of County and township zoning ordinances. Knowledge of the Adams County Code of Ordinances. Knowledge of agronomy, animal husbandry/biology, farming practices, nutrient management and soil sciences of the economics of conservation practices. Ability to analyze data and formulate solutions to erosion and conservation problems. Ability to prepare and give presentations to associations, community groups, schools, governmental entities and professionals regarding nutrient management and conservation practices. Ability to promote and persuade landowners to use proven conservation ideas. Ability to apply for grants through both state and federal agencies. Ability to address hostile citizens and employees in a tactful manner. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, landowners, contractors, government officials, and the public. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Ability to walk long distances in fields, streams, and along uneven terrain. Intermittent sitting, standing, walking, and driving. Lifting 50 pounds maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects weighing up to 20 pounds. Withstanding temperature changes in the work environment. Distinguishing people or objects at varying distances under a variety of light conditions. Distinguishing sounds at various frequencies and volumes. Tolerating exposure to outside/site elements such as heat, cold, water, mud, animal waste, dust, pollen, and fumes.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Exposure to blood-borne pathogens is considered low for this position.
Salary : $24