Conservation Planner

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position provides technical assistance and administrative service for land and water conservation by designing best management practices, conducting plan reviews; assisting public with resource concerns, ordinance application and permitting; presenting reports; conducting evaluations and inspections; preparing and maintaining records and files; developing conservation plans; and related work.

This section details the essential functions for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each duty satisfactorily. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Identifies natural resource concerns on private lands and determines which conservation practices can address those concerns, develops alternatives and cost/benefits for landowners.
• Performs field surveys and produces engineer approved plans of best management practices following federal, state and local specifications and oversees practice installation and construction.
• Develops and maintains effective relationships with customers, contractors, engineers, surveyors, town officials, government agencies, committees, and the public.
• Utilizes a variety of funding sources to achieve St Croix County's Land and Water Resource Management Plan goals including federal and state cost share programs, conservation initiatives, and grants related to agricultural conservation, protection of ground and surface water, and invasive species management.
• Conducts site visits, reviews aerial photography, property records, and prepares staff analysis and recommendations for Community Development Committee and Board of Adjustment.
• Determines landowner compliance with state statutes and county ordinances through site visits, aerial photography, and review of property records.
• Provides necessary documentation and testimony to Corporation Counsel for litigation required for enforcement of County land use ordinances. Testifies in court related proceedings as necessary.
• Reviews and evaluates applications and plans for animal waste storage structures or facilities and non-metallic mining operations.
• Implements the Farmland Preservation Program including nutrient management plan review, field spot checks, and issuing certificates of compliance to landowners.
• Assists with training of new staff and provides direction and mentoring to technicians and summer interns.
• Prepares and presents conservation related information to partners, community groups, and landowners.
• Reviews storm water and erosion control plans and spot checks plan implementation.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Supports the Land Use Division as requested with review of applications, plans, and environmental documents related to stormwater, wetland delineation, and structural erosion control measures.
• Active contributor to development of department goals and plans including the County Comprehensive Plan, Farmland Preservation Plan, Land & Water Resource Management Plan, Watershed Plans, and related documents.
• Serves as Resource Management Division lead contact for annual WI DNR Total Daily Maximum Load (TMDL) reporting that documents phosphorus reductions made in the county.
• Participates in the review, development, and updating of ordinances and policies.

This section details the essential competencies required to perform the job effectively, including a mix of technical knowledge, practical skills, and personal attributes.

• ArcGIS knowledge and skills.
• AutoCAD, SNAPPLUS and EVAAL knowledge and skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with and explain conservation principles to governmental officials, volunteers, community groups, associates and the public.
• Understanding of the structure, functions, and procedures of local, state, and federal government agencies, particularly within Wisconsin.
• Familiarity with state and federal laws, regulations, and policies that pertain to the job, including Wisconsin Statutes and administrative codes.
• Knowledge of effective customer service practices and the ability to apply them in a public sector environment.
• Ability to interact professionally, respectfully, and tactfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Awareness of local community resources, public services, and social programs available to residents.
• Technical proficiency in the use of relevant software applications, databases, or other technology tools used in the position (e.g., Microsoft Office, Outlook, SharePoint, etc.).
• General knowledge of standard office procedures, practices, and equipment.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to perform tasks with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail, particularly in the review and processing of documentation.
• Ability to adjust to changing…