Individuals concerned about water quality and soil erosion in Freeborn County may file to run for the position of supervisor of the Freeborn County Soil and Water Conservation District by June 5, according to a press release.

“Supervisors play an important role in how our community deals with a wide variety of resource management issues, including wetlands, water quality and soil erosion,” Don Kropp, supervisor with the Freeborn County SWCD, said. “Serving as a supervisor is a terrific opportunity for people who want a voice in how we manage our environment.”

SWCDs are special purpose units of government who manage and direct conservation programs, such as the state Cost-Share Program and the Conservation Reserve Program and the Reinvest in Minnesota reserve program.

This year, the Freeborn County SWCD has two supervisor positions up for election, the release said. SWCD candidates appear on the ballot for the general election, which will take place Nov. 6. Candidates are elected county-wide, but must reside in one of the nomination districts up for election. These include nomination District 3 and District 4. The geographic area covered by nomination District 3, includes everything south of Interstate-90 and east of Interstate-35 except Albert Lea Township. Nomination District 4 includes everything south of I-90 and west of I-35 except Albert Lea Township. SWCD supervisors serve four year terms.

Supervisors meet monthly to discuss the business of the SWCD, including state grant allocations to landowners, district conservation priorities, coordination with other local units of government and state agencies and legislative priorities. Supervisors do not receive a salary, although they do receive compensation for attending meetings and are reimbursed for expenses.

To file for the position, file a Minnesota Affidavit of Candidacy with the Freeborn County Auditor’s office between May 22 and June 5. The filing fee is $20.