Chat with the Chair….A Note from out-going Chairman Jim Beck

Posted May 27, 2010 - 1:27pm by carie.

In January, several of the members of the Council had an opportunity to meet with members of the legislature. What I had anticipated as an evening of trying to convince legislators of the timeliness and merits of local conservation turned out entirely differently. After three hours of causal, but frank, discussions I concluded that legislators have the best interest of Montana and its people at heart. Their approach and methods to accomplish that goal may differ from mine, but I found that for the most part, we are aiming for the same target. In general, legislators support the conservation efforts of local conservation districts and groups associated with those districts such as our Council. Several legislators offered their support by introducing legislation that conservation districts support while others assured us they would vote for those bills. Even more exciting is that several legislators offered additional advice on avenues to pursue on the state and federal levels to make certain that the changes legislated are implemented on the ground.For the legislature, balancing the protection, welfare, and the needs of nearly a million people in Montana is not an easy task, especially against the background of uncertain funding. From my discussions with legislators, I am convinced that they appreciate the work that conservation districts do on a local level and the issues that are addressed by drainage wide and state wide groups associated with the districts. I urge folks associated with conservation districts to continue their timely conservation work. Do not forget to interact with your local senator and representative to make sure they know of the work you are doing. Also, take a moment to see if they have suggestions that help the profile, funding, or impact of your work.For the past two years I have had the privilege to chair the Missouri River Conservation Districts Council. It has been an enjoyable job, not only because of the projects that were accomplished or the issues that were addressed, but because of the people that supported me. The council members are a knowledgeable, helpful, and active group. As one member mentioned to me, “There are no egos here.” Bringing all of the ideas and energy into a working organization is the job of our coordinator, Vicki Marquis. She works tirelessly to not only implement the projects and beacon the messages of the Council, but she always provides the background, ideas, and options that make my job easier.As I turn the gavel over to Dana Darlington from Big Sandy, I ask everyone to give him the same support that they gave me. Dana has youth and enthusiasm. I am confident he will take the Council to places and ideals that I had not considered.Many Thanks to Jim Beck for his dedicated leadership as Council Chairman for the past two years!! Under Jim’s leadership, the Council realized it’s goal of securing formal advisory seats with three federal agencies and expanded it’s public outreach through tours, Educator workshops, public meetings, and a new and improved website. Thanks Jim!

Missouri River Conservation Districts Council

Chat with the Chair….A Note from out-going Chairman Jim Beck

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