As we all know, this year’s federal government shutdown affected many. Middle Park Conservation District is a political subdivision of the State, similar to a special district. Despite being locally-run, MPCD is innately tied to the federal government through our association with Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Our office is in an NRCS-leased building.  Additionally, the salary of our District Conservation Technician (DCT), Mark Volt, is funded primarily through a grant from NRCS. Per the terms of the DCT grant, Mark is required to work primarily on NRCS projects. 

During the shutdown, MPCD personnel were not permitted to work in our office building, use any NRCS-owned equipment or vehicles, or receive any federal grant funding. Fortunately, our District Manager, Katlin, works remotely and is entirely funded by MPCD, so she was not affected by the shutdown. Mark was impacted, but that did not stop him. Mark worked in the field on projects that required no NRCS specialty equipment and that were close to home (because he had to use his personal vehicle).

Despite the shutdown’s limitations, Mark persevered and helped landowners get quality conservation projects on the ground. During this time, MPCD paid his whole salary with funds acquired through local grants and the sale of seed, trees, tire tanks, and polyacrylamide.

MPCD is very grateful for Mark Volt. His passion for the job he loves and his dedication to the community members he serves make him an incredible human being and an invaluable resource for the Middle Park Conservation District.