Meet the District

Julie Orris

Chair and Co-Treasurer

Term Expires January 2, 2027

Madison Township

Jeff Von Behren

Vice Chair & Treasurer 

Term Expires January 2, 2027

Jackson Township

Walter Laetare

As a person who loves the outdoors, I want to make sure that all the soil that we own stays put for future generations.  Our grandchildren will reap the benefit of the fruit trees we planted and the windbreak that we are nurturing back following the 2020 Derecho.  Conservation was a big concern to my father, and I am doing my best to pass it on.  Be it in our WRP ground or the trees and native grasses, the blow sand is staying put and the productive ground is being farmed.

Co-Treasurer

Term Expires January 2, 2029

Rome Township

Mary Melchert

I was born and raised on a dairy farm in southern Buchanan County. I began understanding the importance of water for crops, creeks, pastures, and hayfield at a young age. My interest in conservation and clean water stems from the many changes the agricultural industry is facing as it moves to a more corporate model and foreign countries begin to own Iowa's farmland. I believe we all must be good stewards of our rich soil and waterways in Jones County.

Term Expires January 2, 2029

Lovell Township

Paul Specht

Conservation has always been one of the priorities of our farming business. We've implemented No Till soybean and Strip Till corn planting for over two decades. Being a Commissioner is a position where I can help promote the care and protection of our soil and water health in our state.

Term Expires January 2, 2029

Castle Grove Township

Joe Trumm

Assistant Commissioner - Yearly appointment. 

 Appointed January 2, 2025.  

Washington Township