The Butler County Conservation District recently submitted the following objectives and events to the State Conservation Commission for 2005:

- Environmental education - The conservation district will host the annual Envirothon for county high school students on May 3 at the Jennings Environmental Education Center.

Poster contests, field trips and conservation camps are among the many activities offered.

- Farmland preservation - Due to recent amendments to the state's Agricultural Security Law, conservation districts can now be involved in administering the Farmland Preservation Program. A county Agricultural Preservation Board will approve farms applying for the program. The state Department of Agriculture's board must then approve the purchase of all conservation easements in Butler County.

- Erosion and sediment pollution prevention - The conservation district will administer the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System Program. The program is aimed at preventing excessive soil loss and the resulting sediment pollution from earthmoving activities, such as construction and logging. Plans will be reviewed for environmental concerns. The state's Clean Streams Law is enforced through the state Department of Environmental Protection.

- Dam safety and encroachment permitting - The conservation district has signed an agreement with the state DEP to oversee regulatory functions and permit and monitor water obstructions and encroachments.

- Watershed programs - The conservation district supports existing watershed groups, submits grant proposals, and supports education about water quality and protection.

- Nutrient management - The state provides for the establishment of a program to address agricultural non-source pollution on large animal farm operations. The conservation district has received a second Growing Greener grant from the state to implement Best Management Practices, including barnyard runoff controls, grazing systems and manure storage.

- Biosolids - The conservation district has signed an agreement with the state for administrative responsibilities on land application of sewage sludge.

- Dirt and gravel road maintenance - The conservation district participates in the state's dirt and gravel road programs with local townships.

- West Nile Virus program - The district will continue to coordinate mosquito surveillance and control programs.

- Activities - The district holds an annual awards banquet in conjunction with Butler Rotary Club and the Extension office during Farm City Week. It also participates in the annual County Farm Tour. The annual Tree Seedling Sale will take place this spring. Order forms are available from the conservation district office.

The district board also elected officers for 2005.

Charles Stowe was re-elected as chairman and Leroy Andrews was re-elected as vice chairman. Other board members are: James Kennedy, James Faust, Denise Foertsch, Howard Halstead, Dave Lamperski, Yogi McCormick and Mary Zacherl.