(ESCAMBIA, COUNTY) --- Misha Phillips has taken a seat on the Escambia Soil and Water Conservation District board after qualifying as the only candidate for the voluntary position.
The board oversees conservation work in Escambia County. Members meet once a month to discuss projects related to soil health, water quality, and public education.
The Escambia Soil and Water Conservation District was established on January 4, 1940 as the Perdido Soil and Water Conservation District. The name was changed to Escambia Soil and Water Conservation District on May 16, 1995. The district operates under Chapter 582 of the Florida Statutes. According to the statute, the purpose of soil and water conservation districts is to provide assistance, guidance, and education to landowners, the agricultural industry, and the general public in implementing land and water resource protection practices.
Phillips said she applied for the position to serve the community.
(Photo Credit: Misha Phillips)
"I want to use my gifts to serve my community, and this is one small way in which I hope to help," Phillips said.
She also cited concern for future generations as a reason for joining.
"I am concerned about my grandchildren's grandchildren and what their lives will look like," Phillips said. "I hold a sacred reverence for Mother nature, and I understand that we cannot survive without her."
The board works with local, state, and federal partners. Josh Michael Haney serves as the state representative and attends meetings to address agricultural topics. The district also works with the United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service to access federal funding for local projects.
The board does not receive a salary. Duties include reviewing grant applications and supporting small outreach projects. Recent and ongoing efforts have included billboards about plants that support butterflies, educational materials for youth groups such as Boy Scouts, and other environmental programs. The district also partners with the Escambia County Natural Resources Management Department.
The district's legislative purpose includes promoting the efficient use of soil and water resources, protecting water quality, preventing floodwater and sediment damage, and preserving wildlife.
Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at the district office. The public is invited to attend.
This is one of several conservation districts in Florida that rely on volunteers to fill board seats. When only one candidate qualifies, that candidate assumes the position without an election.
For more information on the Escambia Soil and Water Conservation District, see the district page.
To add to or correct any information in this report, please contact me at pepper.w
pepper.w@lead4earth.org.
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