Embedded Files
Commissioners
Commissioners
The Jones SWCD is governed by five unpaid Commissioners who are elected to positions on the general ballot and serve four-year terms. The Commissioners are assisted and supported by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS). Commissioners can appoint as many Assistant Commissioners, for a one-year term, as they deem necessary.
The Jones SWCD is governed by five unpaid Commissioners who are elected to positions on the general ballot and serve four-year terms. The Commissioners are assisted and supported by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS). Commissioners can appoint as many Assistant Commissioners, for a one-year term, as they deem necessary.
2025 Commissioners
2025 Commissioners
From Left to Right: Mary Melchert, Paul Specht, Julie Orris (Chair), Jeff Von Behren (Vice Chair & Treasurer), and Walter Laetare (Co-Treasurer)
More Information
More Information
I have been a state employee with Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship - Division of Soil Conservation and Water Quality (IDALS-DSCWQ) since 1996. One of my main responsibilities since 1996, is serving as secretary to the Jones Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD). Prior to my employment with IDALS, I was a partner employee with Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) for a couple years following employment for six years with Farm Service Agency (FSA formerly known as Agriculutural Stabilization Conservation Service (ASCS). I have always had an interest in nature and conservation. Since 1986, I have enjoyed working with the public and helping people help the land for the next generation.
Julie Orris
Julie Orris
Chair and Co-Treasurer
Term Expires January 2, 2027
Madison Township
Contact:
cuppy@netins.net
Jeff Von Behren
Jeff Von Behren
Vice Chair & Treasurer
Term Expires January 2, 2027
Jackson Township
Contact:
jvonb118@gmail.com
Walter Laetare
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
Contact:
Mary Melchert
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
Contact:
mpmelchert62@gmail.com
Paul Specht
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
Contact:
pspecht4799@gmail.com
Joe Trumm
Joe Trumm
Assistant Commissioner - Yearly appointment.
Appointed January 2, 2025.
Washington Township
Contact:
joesaratrumm@netins.net
Office Staff
Addie Manternach- NRCS District Conservationist
Sonya Ellison- IDALS-DSCWQ Secretary/Conservation Assistant
Makenzie Roling- NRCS Soil Conservationist
Halie Jackson - NRCS Soil Conservationist
Tristen Overton - IDALS -DSCWQ
Social Media
Social Media
Visit our social media pages below for more frequent updates and news about upcoming events.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse