Training topics chosen previously have included financial matters, IT issues, parliamentary procedures, efficient meeting management, and personnel management. If you have a topic or a speaker that you would like to recommend for a future training, please contact VASWCD staff. Below find a resource library of past virtual trainings and materials.
2025 Virtual Training Resources:
March 17, 2025 – DCR Training: Minutes Training / Required DCR grant deliverable – Mrs. Arlene Skinner will focus on how to record meeting minutes, with an emphasis on properly documenting discussions, motions and votes, committee recommendations and committee reports. She will be sharing some tools and templates that help document minutes that meet the minimum requirements of FOIA and public expectation.
Mrs. Skinner was born and raised in Virginia Beach, VA. She attended Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA and Averett College in Danville, VA where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business Information Systems and Master of Business Administration respectively. She has been with the American Foundation for Donation & Transplantation for over 29 years as the Executive Director/Director of Operations. Ms. Skinner is a member of Meeting Professionals International and the National Association of Parliamentarians. She has many certifications including Registered Parliamentarian (RP). The recording can be found at: https://youtu.be/s-wok1T-kL8
March 7, 2025 – SWCD Training: HR: Next Level Teams & Retainer Hours Kick-Off Meeting – Cross training, growing soft skills, productive conflict management, encouraging talent growth, and even succession planning are all part of creating a resilient and versatile team that doesn’t just function but thrives. Join us to pick up a few strategies to help take your team to the next level. The session will wrap up with details about a retainer opportunity, sponsored by the Association, for your local SWCD with Gallagher. The recording can be found at: https://youtu.be/uvO7FttrzGc
February 3, 2025 – SWCD Training: Procurement eVA Training with DGS – Local Government Procurement Executives will be giving a presentation on how to post a contract in eVA and how to review bids that come in.
Effective January 1, 2025, updates to the Virginia Public Procurement Act §2.2-4303 letter A took effect. These changes now require that all local public bodies shall provide an option to submit bids or proposals through eVA. It also states that in cases where bids or proposal are submitted electronically, the local public body may require a certain number of paper submissions for review purposes.
After discussions with the procurement professionals at the Virginia Department of General Services (DGS), this change does apply to any requests for proposals (RFPs) put forth by soil and water conservation districts (SWCDs). This is particularly impactful to SWCDs that operate and maintain dams in the Commonwealth but applies to RFPs for any purpose. While SWCDs may still advertise RFPs through their normal process, they must also post to the RFP to eVa and accept electronic bids through the eVa platform. The SWCD may still accept hard copies bids from advertising RFPs in other places but must also accept bids through eVA. Email is not considered an acceptable, safe platform for receiving bids, thus eVA is offered as the alternative safe procurement platform. The procurement act only applies to RFPs from public bodies; it does not impact the bid process used for Ag BMPs.
The eVA system is available to SWCDs free of charge. If you do not already have an eVA account, you can contact your local government procurement account executive for assistance. Their contact information can be found at: https://dgs.virginia.gov/globalassets/business-units/dps/documents/localgovernment/virginiafullcounties-asof04242018.pdf. Join this training to learn more about eVA for District use. Access the recording of the training at: https://youtu.be/MrTmI6Pk558
VASWCD Annual Meeting 2024 Sessions
Monday, December 9, 2025
- Robert’s Rules and Parliamentary Procedure (slides available here)
Speakers: Richard Chaffin, Director, Peaks of Otter SWCD/Foundation President and Parliamentarian & Darrell Kuntz, Assistant Attorney General with the Office of the Attorney General
Robert’s Rules of Order, the manual for parliamentary procedure, has been the guiding light for the rules of democracy since it was written in 1876. It aims to ensure that organizations make decisions efficiently and orderly with consideration for every member’s opinions. If you are new to the world of SWCD’s, this session offers insight into how district board meetings operate.
- Soil Health & Farm Economics of Cover Crops (slides available here)
Speakers: Bob Waring, Senior Conservation Specialist, Colonial SWCD & owner of Brandon Farms
This Soil Health session focused on the economic effects of high biomass cover crops at Brandon Farms as we navigate the year-to-year uncertainties of a changing climate and fluctuations in commodity pricing. The session highlighted nutrient cycling, weed suppression, and reduced nitrogen fertilizer on corn by using legume cover crops, as well as their potential effect on Soil Organic Matter, heat management and harvesting of rainwater. The session explored the possibilities of variable rate nitrogen on corn by using satellite imagery of cover crop biomass.
- Accessible Learning, SOL’s and Strategies (slides available here)
Speakers: Lori Schoenwiesner & Cassiopeia Camara, DCR Environmental Education Specialists & Laura Casdorph, Department of Education Science Coordinator
In this collaborative session with Virginia Department of Education Science Team and the Office of Environmental Education at DCR, participants gained strategies to make learning accessible to all and practiced SOL identification within lessons. Participants learned more about the VA Science Standards of Learning and the VA Environmental Literacy Plan.
- A Director’s Perspective: HR Tools for District Success (slides available here)
Speaker: Becky Lakin, Director, Henricopolis SWCD
Feelings of frustration, futility, and cynicism fill workplaces across the world; our districts are no exception. This session explored a question organizations of all shapes and sizes are asking: How do we create an employee experience that attracts, engages, and motivates those who give their hearts and smarts to our work? And how do we create a board experience that does the very same? This session explored the five pillars of human resources, including the questions you need to be asking, the signs of successes and setbacks you need to be alert to, and two concrete actions you can take to make your district the very best it can be.
- Enhancing Your Support for Classroom Teachers (slides available here)
Speaker: Angela Whittaker, Solutionary Teaching and Learning Facilitator for the Institute for Humane Education/Former VASWCD Teacher of the Year & Kelly Atkinson, Education Coordinator, Piedmont SWCD
Participants heard about effective ways to engage and support teachers, make classroom visits more effective and valuable for students and educators, and gathered tips for co-planning activities to support teacher identified learning objectives.
- VCAP Technical Considerations (slides available here)
Speaker: David J. Hirschman, Principal, Hirschman Water & Environment, LLC
The session reviewed technical considerations when planning, designing, and installing VCAP projects. Topics included desktop assessment, collecting site information, honest assessment of site constraints and feasibility, essential design elements, working with contractors, the ever-important landowner communications, and designing with maintenance in mind. Several VCAP projects were used as case studies, as well as non-VCAP projects.
- Overview of a Nutrient Management Plan (slides available here)
Speakers: Stephanie Dawley, DCR NM Training and Certification Coordinator & Marie Schirmacher, DCR Nutrient Management Specialist
In this session, participants looked at how nutrient management plans are written in the current plan writing software, the necessary components of nutrient management plans for both plan writers and partnering agencies, and what is required for a plan from the farmer. Participants also had an overview of services plan writers can provide and important timelines for nutrient management plans.
Tuesday, December 10, 2024
- Keynote Speaker: Motivating Teams and Creating a Collaborative Environment (slides available here)
Speaker: Charlotte Jensen, Human Resources Consulting Manager with Gallagher Human Resources and Compensation Consulting Practice
A motivated and cohesive team is a cornerstone of an organization’s success. Fostering a culture of collaboration drives exceptional performance. To achieve that goal, we must know how to effectively communicate, build trust, and create an environment where every team member feels valued and empowered. This drives engagement, and engagement drives results. This session will provide strategies to support these initiatives, including guidance on missteps that can derail our efforts.
- Wetlands for Professionals (slides available here)
Speaker: Greg Hammer, Soil Scientist
Greg Hammer, a retired USDA NRCS Soil Scientist and State Compliance Specialist, brings over 30 years of experience in handling complex and often contentious situations related to conservation compliance and wetlands. In this session, participants learned techniques for creating and maintaining effective communication with customers, partners, and federal regulators. Session takeaways include lessons in soil science, wetland compliance and communicating with cost share clients.
- Canva Tips and Tricks (slides available here)
Speakers: Shernita Phillips, Friends of the Rappahannock and Rappahannock River Roundtable & Kelly Brann, Northern Neck SWCD
This Canva presentation is brought to you by a partnership between Northern Neck SWCD and Friends of the Rappahannock (FOR). In this session, speakers shared valuable tips and tricks on navigating Canva and explained how to incorporate your organization’s branding, color matching, collaborate with your team, and more.
- HR Legal Considerations: Lifting the Fog from HR Misconceptions (slides available here)
Speaker: Charlotte Jensen, Human Resources Consulting Manager with Gallagher Human Resources and Compensation Consulting Practice
Have you ever heard, “I can fire you anytime I want; this is a right-to-work state.” Or maybe, “You are required by law to give me a break after working four hours.” This session debunked some common HR myths, which can promote a compliant and fair workplace.
- NACD Stewardship and Education (slides available here)
Speaker: Aimee Figgatt, NACD Stewardship & Education Coordinator
An overview of the NACD Stewardship and Education program, and review of materials for the 2025 theme, “Home is where the Habitat is.” Participants learned about annual district contests, educational materials, and resources from the NACD Marketplace. The session also addressed FAQs and demonstrates how our initiatives assist the conservation districts to inspire youth and enhance community understanding of conservation.
- Keynote Speaker: HB206 & Utility Scale Solar Projects; Pay for Outcomes (slides available here)
Speaker: Jonathan Rak, DEQ Chief Policy Advisor
HB 206 (2022) requires DEQ to amend regulations for the solar permit by rule program to mitigate the impacts of solar projects on > 10 acres of prime agricultural soils and > 50 acres of contiguous forest land. This session explained how DEQ proposes to require mitigation and what feedback it has received.
Pay-For-Outcomes Nonpoint Source Nutrient Reduction Pilot Program is a $20M fund authorized by the General Assembly for nonpoint source pollution reductions in the Chesapeake Bay watershed based on actual outcomes. This one-year pilot program focuses on cost per pound of nutrients removed. This session explored how districts can apply for this program and how applications will be scored.
- Introduction to GIS and ArcGIS Pro (slides available here)
Speaker: Stu Blankenship, Data Services Manager, DCR
This session will provided a foundational understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and an introduction to ArcGIS Pro, focusing on their application for Soil and Water Conservation Districts. Participants learned about GIS concepts, spatial data, and mapping techniques, with a demonstration of how ArcGIS Pro can be used to visualize, analyze, and manage spatial data. The session was designed to help Soil and Water Conservation District staff understand how GIS tools can support informed decision-making. This session also included a demonstration of new techniques being developed by DCR Data Services staff to allow District staff to access spatial data stored in the Conservation Application Suite using ArcGIS Pro.
HR for District Managers: Managing Performance (slides available here)
Speaker: Charlotte Jensen, Human Resources Consulting Manager with Gallagher Human Resources and Compensation Consulting Practice
Effective performance management is crucial for achieving organizational excellence. This session was designed to empower leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to set clear expectations, provide constructive feedback, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. This session explored how to identify performance gaps, implement development plans, create sound documentation, and navigate the occasional inevitable…termination.
2024 Virtual Training Resources:
November 18, 2024 – FOIA Training – This training meets the Code of VA Training requirements for locally elected SWCD Directors. This session is targeted to a Director audience but also applicable and open to SWCD staff. The presentation will be provided by the FOIA Council and will be recorded. The link to the recording can be found here https://youtu.be/hXMOE6piDSk. This recording may be used as a resource only. No certificate will be issued for those using recording at a later date.
October 30, 2024 – Building Your HR Foundation – *This is part of a three-part training series, continued in 2025.* This training equipped SWCD employees with the knowledge and tools to streamline the hiring process, ensuring districts make the right hires the first time. Recording is available here: https://youtu.be/xRjNvTaUsuI
October 1, 2024 – OAG Training: Advice, Pitfalls and Lessons Learned from Working with SWCDs – The SWCD representative, Darrell Kuntz, Assistant Attorney General shared guidance and lessons learned from working with SWCD clients as well as highlighted key issues and common questions he receives from SWCDs. Topics included 1. District policies (i.e. personnel policies and by-laws) -Role of Associate Directors/Rights of Associate Directors &Staff issues. 2. How employee benefits are paid upon termination (voluntary or involuntary); 3. Common contract provisions to avoid; 5. Conservation easements; 6. Review of enforcement process, specifically, how the OAG will handle and approach this process; 7. Compliance with FOIA’s public meeting requirements; 8. Closed session procedures; 9. Maintenance of file materials. This session was not recorded, due to the nature of the topic.
July 31, 2024 – Mastering Excel: Tips & Tricks Part II. In this session we built on the formulas and functions discussed during the Part I session, and explore additional topics including Intermediate Functions (XLOOKUP, SUMIF, SUMPRODUCT), Text Manipulation (trimming, concatenation, and extractions) and Data Visualization (chart types and formatting). Access the recording of the training at: https://youtu.be/xngfEFabByw
July 23, 2024 – Admin/Ops Training: Local Government Investment Pool (LGIP)- Desktop Procedures for District Fiscal Operations Guide adopted by the Virginia Soil & Water Conservation Board states “Reserve funds are allowed to be maintained in CDs or MMAs; however, Districts also have the option to participate in the Virginia Department of Treasury’s Local Government Investment Pool (LGIP). Join this training to hear from Judy Milliron, Investment Operations Manager with Virginia Treasury, and staff for an overview of LGIP, the benefit to your district, an overview of the LGIP Investment Circular, application, and to answer any of your questions about participation. Access the recording of the training at: https://youtu.be/S5o72F4HQ6o?feature=shared
July 10, 2024 – Mastering Excel: Tips & Tricks Part I – Discover Excel tips and tricks that will improve your efficiency, productivity and skills. To learn the most important functions and formulas — without slogging through trial and error on your own — watch this easy, one-hour zoom with VASWCD staffer Rachel DuVal. Rachel has elevated Association VCAP data and will share shortcuts and formulas that may be useful to your own SWCD data management. Access the recording of this training at: https://youtu.be/6BhnJtp-lVQ
July 2, 2024 – Virginia Conservation Assistance Program FY25 Manual Update Webinar – Overview of VCAP Manual and form changes for FY25-26. Please direct any VCAP questions to Blair Blanchette (blair.blanchette@vaswcd.org) or Rachel DuVal (rachel.duval@vaswcd.org). Access the recording of the webinar at: https://youtu.be/Fh-bAfHrVs4
June 11, 2024 – Admin/Ops Training: How to Prepare for the New U.S. Dept of Labor Salary Threshold – The United States Department of Labor (USDOL) has finalized its rule to change the salary thresholds for exempt employees. The new rates could impact how you classify your SWCD employees, and more of your employees may now be eligible for overtime. Be ready for the changes. Join us for the can’t miss session with Patrick Teague, Director of Human Resources with James City County, to discuss: The new wage requirements for exempt employees, determining the exempt or non-exempt status of employees, how to recognize the distinct roles that can be paid exempt, and the available exceptions to exemption classifications. Open to all staff and directors. Access the recording of the training at: https://youtu.be/nGkHYJGepag
June 11, 2024 – Soils & Water Table Talk with Dan Schwartz, NVSWCD – Join Soil Scientist Dan Schwartz of Northern Virginia SWCD for a wide-ranging talk on how the appearance and color of the soil—its “morphology”—can be used to determine the depth to the water table. When recommending or designing VCAP practices that rely on infiltration, it is important to know the depth to the water table so that you can maintain required offsets. Water tables fluctuate throughout the year, but soil morphology can provide a consistent estimate of the depth of the SHWT regardless of the season. Access the recording of the training at: https://youtu.be/rd4CBirT1ac
June 4, 2024 – Director Training (Phase II) – Hear from experienced Directors Wayne Davis, VASWCD President/Colonial SWCD and Steven Meeks, VASWCD Representative to NACD/Thomas Jefferson SWCD with guidance and advice based on lessons learned. This session is targeted for new Directors but beneficial for all affiliated with SWCD work. Access the recording of the training at: https://youtu.be/VSzI387xDGI
April 18, 2024 – Admin/Ops Session – This session provides an update on QuickBooks from CPA Sarah Adams, Desktop Guide Revisions from DCR Blair Gordon and more. Access the recording of the training at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1IzZkmkwuo
February 22, 2024 – Internship Programs & Employee Recruitment – Speakers: Jim Henderson, Associate Director, Employer Relations, Virginia Tech Career and Professional Development Becca Scott, Associate Director of Professional Development & Experiential Initiatives, Virginia Tech Career and Professional Development Join to hear guidance about internship programs and employee recruitment. Walk through resources like the “Guide to Creating an Effective Internship Program” and “Employer Guide to Recruiting. ” Wherever you are in the recruitment process or if you are simply wanting to learn about the value of an internship program and opportunities available through VT that can support SWCD efforts, you’ll find value in this session. Access the recording of the training at: https://youtu.be/sGpsloQAoH4
2023 Virtual Training Resources:
October 20, 2023 – Unpacking the Issue: Soil Erosion Over Time in Virginia – Modern environmental legislation in the U.S. may be only a few decades old, but Virginians have been concerned about ecological degradation since the country’s founding. Many issues of the 18th- and 19th century were ones we would recognize: loss of biodiversity, crop failures, new pests or animal diseases, over-logging of forests, and flooding. But the number one issue for early Virginians was soil erosion, or the “exhaustion” of the land. In a time when most Americans lived and worked on farms, soil erosion was not just about the loss of topsoil–it threatened to unravel the state economy, Virginia’s place in global trade, and the very future of the nation. In this talk, I’ll unpack the issue of soil erosion over time in Virginia, how it was viewed, how it gradually rolled into concern over local waterways, and walk you through the various ways that Virginians responded. In doing so, we’ll also be exploring a much larger story, one about the history of science in America, and the ways that early ideas about soil and water shaped the beginnings of modern environmental agencies. Access the recording of the training at: https://youtu.be/AqNm9TLMYb8
October 17-18, 2023 – Virginia Cultural Resource Trainings – The Departments of Natural Heritage, Wildlife Resources, and Historic Resources presented information on how their work intersects with SWCD’s, including how the Conservation Application Suite intersects with their data and what investigations are triggered when district practice installations intersect with protected lands and resources.
- Department of Natural Heritage Recording Available here
- Department of Wildlife Resources Recording Available here
- Department of Historic Resources Recording Available here
October 11, 2023 – Commonwealth Risk Management Plan & Virginia SWCDs – Speaker: Bryan Chamberlain, Virginia Department of Treasury – Risk Management: State and Local Government Programs. This session will discuss the liability exposures and issues facing SWCDs and review the available solutions. Details of the role and scope of coverage provided by the state to SWCDs will be highlighted. Liabilities under state and federal law, insurance products, options and other tools for mitigating exposure and will be discussed. The Risk Management Plan can be found here https://vaswcd.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2017-risk-management-plan.pdf. Access the recording of the training at: https://youtu.be/J93HP1Tns34 & https://youtu.be/tcTwThdvV50.
July 18, 2023 – WIP14 Interagency Training – This training is for all staff that work with the Agricultural Community in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The event provides each partner the opportunity to highlight who they are and how they interact with the ag sector. Participants will gain a better understanding of the resources available to assist their clients in reaching conservation goals. Presentations are available from the Virginia Department of Forestry, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Department of Conservation and Recreation, Department of Environmental Quality, Virginia Association of Soil & Water Conservation Districts, Virginia Department of Agricultural and Consumer Services, and Natural Resource Conservation Service. Access the recording of the training at: https://youtu.be/gV7NnHmNbS0
July 11, 2023 – VCAP Program Year Updates – Learn more about new resources and changes for the Virginia Conservation Assistance Program for FY24 implementation. Access the training at: https://youtu.be/iYCj5t4Nvs4
April 12, 2023 – Human Resource Trends – Hear about HR trends for 2023 from a local government expert. Topics include: Recruitment, Employee Well Being, Employment Turnover, and Training & Development. Access recording of training at at https://youtu.be/mWsxplzexlE.
2022 Virtual Training Resources:
September 30 – Attachment E Training – Access recording of the training at https://youtu.be/9kE3jPoyQg8. Materials and templates/resources shared are available by request.
September 29 – VACS Training – A Virginia Agriculture Cost Share program overview was provided via zoom. Review the training at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iec2Asy5iXk&t=1s. Powerpoint slides from the training can be found at https://vaswcd.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/FY2023-DCR-VACS-101-Training-September-2022.pdf.
July 22 – NRCS Earth Team Training – Highlighting the partnership possibilities with the Earth Team program. View the training on our YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUsuoN1JLvY&t=4378s.
July 6 – Virtual VCAP Manual Updates – The new FY VCAP manual changes and programmatic items will be reviewed. View this training on our YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUbkt4wqWQQ.
June 22 – Admin/Ops Committee: Salary/Benefits Study – In June 2022 all districts received a survey request to participate in a Salary/Benefit study being conducted with the help of Terri Higgins, the HR Professional the VASWCD has on retainer for SWCDs. Data from all 47 SWCDs is provided in aggregate form and provides valuable data insights to districts. View the training here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbFsgtlmKR0 . Salary Survey Results https://vaswcd.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2022-VASWCD-Salary-Survey-Results-Compiled-22-Jun-2022.pdf . SWCD Total Compensation https://vaswcd.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/SWCD-Total-Compensation-Survey-.-Benefits-Paid-Leave-and-Perks-1.xlsxhttps://vaswcd.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/SWCD-Total-Compensation-Survey-.-Benefits-Paid-Leave-and-Perks.xlsx . Survey Results PPT https://vaswcd.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/VASWCD-Survey-Results-PPT.pdf
June 15, 2022 – Urban Ag Training – Hear from different partners including NRCS, DOF, VASWCD, and more about urban agriculture efforts underway. Available on the VASWCD YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwhGgYHwUNk.
June 14, 2022 – VCAP Training Back to Basics: How to Conduct a Site Visit/What BMP Where – Review VCAP site visit guidance and tips. View the training on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVpSN71tMKM.
June 8, 2022 – The Conservation Selling Skills course, as part of DCR Conservation Planner Certification, was held virtually on June 8 from 10 am to 12 noon. This course was conducted by former NRCS District Conservationist and farmer, Bobby Whitescarver. Learn how to sell conservation from the farmer’s perspective. Conservation is not science, it’s sociology. This course covers seven key principles for successful implementation of BMPs. Building trust, mastering the processes, and keeping it simple are three of those principles. Join us on June 8 to improve your selling skills to get more conservation on the ground. This training is being held in partnership between VASWCD and DCR. Training is open to all Directors, Staff, and partners – not just those seeking conservation planning certification. View the training here: https://youtu.be/RiBBCYXxkKI
March 2, 2022 – 10:00AM-11:00AM – CAST Training for SWCDs – Don’t be fooled, CAST (Chesapeake Bay Assessment Scenario Tool) isn’t daunting. This training will break down and review CAST Reporting tools so you can find value to your local SWCD. During this class we will go over the Loads Report, how to generate one and how to analyze it. We will create this Loads Report at the SWCD scale so you can see data that directly affects areas in your district. Questions and interaction will be encouraged during this session. FYI – The Loads Report is typically the most used report from CAST. You will learn how to create a basic Loads report which will provide the basis for creating other reports. Prior to this class, please create an account with CAST if you do not have one currently. View the training at https://youtu.be/nBjq3xqD43g
February 9, 2022 – 10:00AM-11:00AM – Soil Health Coalition/4theSoil Training –Ideal session for SWCD staff, directors and partners. Meeting Goals include: introduce the Virginia Soil Health Coalition, Present 4theSoil Initiative goals, message and audience, Share efforts/activities to date regarding 4theSoil Initiative, Discuss opportunities of Potential Application of 4theSoil within SWCDs. View the training at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SHWmL6ixY9w.
2021 VASWCD Virtual Annual Meeting Recording
Though it is unfortunate we were not able to gather in 2021 at an in-person conference together, we look forward to next December 4-6th, 2022 at Hotel Roanoke where we will be able to reunite!
Below find details from our 2021 virtual annual meeting including keynote sessions from Ray Ledgerwood and Jones Loflin. A recording of the Tuesday membership business meeting is also available for viewing. A district gift including a copy of keynote speaker Jones Loflin’s book “Always Growing: How to Be a Strong Leader in Any Season” was mailed to each district office. If you have questions about past virtual resources please contact VASWCD staff.
| Time: | Session: | Recording Info: |
| Monday, December 6 9:30AM-12:30PM | VASWCD Educational Foundation & VASWCD Quarterly Business Meeting The VASWCD Board Meeting is open to all attendees, not just board members. Attend and learn more about the activities of your Association and its Foundation. Learn more about the action items – including the proposed VASWCD 2022 Legislative Agenda – that will be brought before the annual membership meeting. Board Meeting Materials: [Association/Foundation Agenda] [September 2021 Foundation Meeting Minutes] [Foundation Treasurer Report] [September 2021 Association Meeting Minutes] [Association Treasurer Report] [Area 1 Report] [Proposed 2022 Legislative Agenda] [Policy Book for Review and Renewal] [Nominations Committee Report] [NACD Report] [DCR Report]. | https://youtu.be/1RRupT3TWS4 |
| Monday, December 6 2:00PM-4:00PM | Annual Meeting General Session State of the Association/Foundation address. Clean Water Farm Award Presentation. Earth Team Award Presentation. Keynote comments from invited speaker Ray Ledgerwood, an acclaimed speaker having worked with our National Association of Conservation Districts. Join for an interactive keynote “Vision Virginia Conservation Tens Years from Now” built on your ideas for innovation that will take Virginia Conservation into the future. We’ll build on lessons learned from other districts nationwide and how to grow Virginia’s efforts to conserve natural resources of the Commonwealth. | https://youtu.be/D9P6D-65CSw |
| Tuesday, December 7 9:30AM-11:30AM | Annual Meeting General Session & Awards Recognition The following award recipients will be recognized at this time – Teacher of the Year, Forestry, VCAP, Director Service Pin and Chaffin Employee. Raffle prize winners announced. Keynote comments from speaker and author Jones Loflin. He provides keynotes and training on time management, work life balance, change, and motivation. Having worked with SWCDs in North Carolina he brings a high level of energy. While the past two years have been a season of enormous challenges, you’ve survived with your hard work and dedication to the mission of SWCDs. The question is, what is it going to take for you to thrive in your role going forward? Our keynote speaker today says you need to think like a gardener. Jones will introduce us to a model of leadership that can help you build stronger relationships with your team, identify your top priorities, and determine what needs to change so you can accomplish your goals. The best part? You only need to remember four words: Grow, Cultivate, Prune, and Harvest. | https://youtu.be/0_kunm8hUMA |
| Tuesday, December 7 1:00PM-4:00PM | Annual Membership Business Meeting Recap VASWCD work, gain insight into the General Assembly session, vote on the VASWCD budget, legislative agenda and more. As a reminder, all elected and appointed Directors are voting members of the VASWCD. Agenda: • Call to Order • Approval of December 2020 Annual Mtg Minutes • Approval of Board VASWCD Motions 2020-2021 • Review & Receipt of Treasurer Report • Area Reports • Committee Reports Marketing Committee Admin/Ops Committee Legislative Committee – Policy Book, Leg Agenda • NACD Report • President & Executive Director Report • Nominations Committee Report & Election • Adjourn | https://youtu.be/Sa_Mc-9QqUs |
2021 Virtual Training Resources:
January 6, 2021 – 10:00AM-11:30AM
Partner Agency Panel Updates and Q&A – Confirmed Speakers: Director Clyde Cristman, VA Department of Conservation & Recreation; Director Dave Paylor, VA Department of Environmental Quality; State Conservationist Dr. Edwin Martinez, Natural Resource Conservation Service and Michael Crowder, National Assn of Conservation District (NACD) President-Elect. Click here for a video recording.
Presentation Materials: [DCR Presentation] [NRCS Presentation] [Virginia NRCS Programs Report] [Virginia Trees for Clean Water Reqest for Proposal]
January 7, 2021 – 10:00AM-11:30AM
Legislative Training: Understanding the Legislative Process, the Work of your VASWCD & the SWCD Role and Impact. Hear from Delegate Ken Plum with General Assembly Insights. Click here for a video recording. Click here for a copy of today’s presentation.
- Additional material: Tips on Effectively Working with Congress (government relations/lobbying) by John Peterson, VASWCD Legislative Committee Co-Chairman
January 8, 2021 –10:00AM-11:30AM
Chesapeake Bay Best Management Practices (BMP) Survey Effort. This is a large scale, multi-agency partnership that has been underway for over a year. The survey is scheduled to be released on January 11. The information obtained via this survey will help Virginia tell the story of what farmers are doing to conserve soil and improve water quality. This is important information that can help agriculture achieve its water quality goals for the Watershed Implementation Plan for the Chesapeake Bay. This training will help build your capacity to assist producers should they agree to complete the survey and have questions during the process. The training will include presentations by members of Virginia’s Voluntary Ag BMPs Task Force and provide: an overview of the project, survey preview, an outline of the process going forward, and FAQ. If you serve ag producers in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, I encourage you to review this presentation. Access information about the survey at https://vaswcd.org/virginia-farm-voluntary-agricultural-bmp-inventory
January 13, 2021 –10:00AM-11:00AM
Marketing & Outreach: Maximizing Online Presence using the VASWCD Marketing Toolkit. A recording of this session can be found here.
A copy of the Marketing Tookit can be found here. This resource will also be posted under the “SWCD Resources” tab.
January 20, 2021 –1:00PM-2:00PM
Ag BMP Loan Program Info – DEQ & VA Foodshed Capital. A recording of this training can be found here. [DEQ Presentation] [VA Foodshed Capital Presentation]. [DEQ County List]
March 3, 2021 – 9:00AM-12:00PM – Cover Crop Training (2 Conservation Planning CEUs & 2 Nutrient Management CEUs)
Join for a session focused on cover crops fundamentals, principles and practice. Chris Lawrence, NRCS will provide key cover crop information weaving in opportunities for questions from audience and a live interview/testimonial from Bob Waring, DCR staffer and producer. The final portion of the agenda will include a presentation from David Bryan for a better understanding of VACS cover crop-related BMPs, focusing on the SL-8B practice. Session is open to all Directors, Associate Directors, Staff & Partners. New Directors and staff are strongly encouraged to attend. Two Conservation Planning CEUs offered. Two Nutrient Management CEUs offered. A recording of this session can be found here. Additional Materials can be found below:
March 2021 – Video Creation Workshop: Three part series
This session is one of a three part series. Topics covered: Learn tips on how to shoot good videos, learn tools to start shooting your videos, and learn what type of equipment you will need to shoot your videos. Learn how to edit and upload videos and more. This three part series is available by directly contacting VASWCD staff.
April 7, 2021 – 1:00PM-4:00PM – Nutrient Management & Precision Ag (2 Conservation Planner CEUS, Nutrient Management CEUs will be available)
Nutrient Management & Precision Ag Training. Learn about nutrient management and precision ag principles thru an interactive case study approach with speakers Chris Lawrence of NRCS and Brandon Farms. Session will wrap up with David Bryan, DCR’s Agricultural Incentives Program Manager, who will provide an overview of the precision nutrient management practices available through the VACS Program, focusing on the differences between NM-3C, NM-4 and NM-5N options for nitrogen applications. A recording of this session can be found here. Copies of the presentations can be found below:
Lawrence NMP Webinar Slides (Dropbox File)
Lawrence NMP Webinar Slides (Google Drive File)
DCR Precision Nutrient Management Training Slides
April 9, 2021 – 9:00AM-12:00PM – Soil & Water Conservation Society
The Role of Professional Societies Across Your Career: Soil & Water Conservation Society (SWCS) Virtual Spring Meeting. Open to all. Directors, Associate Directors and staff encouraged to attend. Meet some key players in Virginia’s soil and water conservation field and learn more about what the SWCS has to offer. Meeting recording available at: https://youtu.be/5tanmLuZGNU
May 4, 2021 – 1:00PM-2:00PM – Admin/Ops Topic: Attachment D
This session will cover admin/ops topics including a review of the Attachment D budget template process required of your local SWCD board by July 15. Meeting recording available shortly. Meeting recording available at: https://youtu.be/FqQGR53coVM
May 27, 2021 – 3:00PM – 4:00PM – NRCS-SWCD MOA Overview w/ Dr. Martinez – The VASWCD is hosting a zoom session for SWCDs to learn more about the NRCS-SWCD Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and Unfunded Cooperative Agreement (UCA) process. NRCS State Conservationist, Dr. Martinez, and key NRCS staff will provide an overview of this collaborative effort and steps taken to successfully complete this task in Virginia. NRCS has started meeting with Virginia district conservationists to outline the process developed to complete this task as efficiently as possible. Those conversations will address expectations for partnership activities and the importance of the NRCS team working hand in hand with districts to fulfill MOA and Unfunded Cooperative Agreement (UCA) obligations. Join this conversation to gain a better understanding of the MOA, an overview of language, and the path forward for your local district. Though this session will be recorded, we recommend that you consider having a representative in attendance to better understand the process, roles, and requirements for finalizing your local MOAs. Each local SWCD will be working through this MOA process and your participation in this discussion is important. Video available on YouTube for viewing https://youtu.be/eSifzyiA4_Y
June 9, 2021 – 10-11AM – Overview of the New District Guide to VCAP -Join us for a short training session where we will review the *new* “District Guide to VCAP” document and take a look at some beautiful BMPs, virtually. Learn how you can utilize this new document in your District for new staff, directors, or those just looking for a refresh on VCAP! Reach out to maura.christian@vaswcd.org with any questions. View a video recording of this training session here.
June 17, 2021 – 11:00AM – 12:30PM – Admin/Ops Committee Meeting – The Admin/Ops committee will hold its next meeting on June 17 to discuss topics including but not limited to: Continued COVID topics (ex. State of Emergency order and relation to electronic meetings, teleworking policies, office policies and changes, etc), NRCS-SWCD MOA follow-up conversation, Brim & Associates CPA presentation and retainer hours.
June 24, 2021 – 9:00AM – VASWCD Educational Foundation & Association Quarterly Board Meeting. This meeting will be held virtually due to continued health concerns. The meeting will begin with the Foundation Agenda followed by the business of the Association. Register for this meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIuduiurzosHNE8XXrLvrmBhh_uo0zNxmfm. Materials will be posted as available at https://vaswcd.org/board-meetings.
July Series – Conservation Selling Skills: Water Words that Work
Contact VASWCD staff for resources from this three part workshop designed for people who need to communicate with public audiences about water resources, watershed management, and land conservation. Make a splash with your words and pictures! Relearn the language that everyday citizens use and become more confident and successful with your outreach. This course provides unique insights into what words and pictures turn your audience on, and off. For those who train in different disciplines, environmental writing for everyday citizens can be a frustrating challenge, but the Water Words That Work message method makes it easier to succeed. It’s designed to turn those blank stares into nodding heads–to turn passive “environmental awareness” into pro-environmental behavior. These methods will help you create and deliver messages that will reach your target audience and inspire them to action. This is part of the DCR Conservation Planner certification program and attendance to all 3 sessions counts as Conservation Selling Skills. Hosted by VASWCD in partnership with DCR and WWW. Register for each session separately.
- July 6, 2021 – 9:00AM-11:00AM – Part 1. The Perils of Preaching to the Choir. You will discover how to spot the signs of “preaching to the choir” and recognize when you are sending messages that miss the mark or antagonize your audience.
- July 8, 2021 – 9:00AM-11:00AM – Part 2. The Environmental Message Method. You will learn a proven step-by-step method to translate professional-caliber information into messages for the general public.
- July 13, 2021 – 1:00PM-3:00PM – Part 3. The Environmental Message Method. You will discover techniques for getting others to vouch for you and you will learn how to scientifically measure how easy or difficult your writing is to read.
August Series – Beginner QuickBooks Training – Contact VASWCD staff for resources and recording for this two part training held from 1:00pm-3:00pm on August 3 and August 5. Advanced QuickBooks training series scheduled for September 2021 will build off these sessions.
October Series – Website Training – Contact VASWCD Staff for resources and recordings for this three part training series on general website best practices, beginner WordPress Training and Advanced WordPress Training.
September 21, 2021 – 10:00AM-12:00PM – Advanced QuickBooks Training Part 1. Training Video Available on YouTube for Viewing: https://youtu.be/NcuuxYomCbE. Click here for the PowerPoint.
September 23, 2021 – 10:00AM-12:00PM -Advanced QuickBooks Training Part 2. Training Video Available on YouTube for Viewing: https://youtu.be/fJcLMZ5Eg0s. Click here for the PowerPoint.
November 10, 2021 – 1:00PM-4:00PM – IRS Form 1099 & Financial Training – Benefit from our 1099 training and tax law update. Training will be provided by Sarah Adams of Adams & Company, a certified public accounting firm serving Southwest Virginia since 1989, is committed to providing enhanced quality personalized service in the areas of tax, accounting, payroll services, estate planning, technology consulting, management consulting, and budgeting & planning. Training Video Available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/arNrDV9sswc. Click here for the power point.
2020 Virtual Training Resources:
September 8, 2020 – 9:30AM-11:30AM (2 CEUs)
Technical: Ag Waste Management – Trainer: Amanda Pennington, DCR
Training Video Available on YouTube Video for Viewing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qmjbvcW8cU&feature=youtu.be
September 15, 2020 – 9:30AM-12:30PM (2 CEUs)
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Training – Trainer: Pastor Guy Johnson
Training Video Available on YouTube for Viewing: https://youtu.be/YHr4CVKLP8g Click here for the PowerPoint
September 22, 2020 – 9:30AM-10:30AM
New Employee Meet & Greet (All Employees Welcome) – Facilitator: Tabbea Zimmerman, Colonial SWCD
Training Video Available on YouTube for Viewing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSXVkyNnjsY&feature=youtu.be
September 24, 2020 – 9:00AM-11:00AM (2 CEUs)
Technical: Pasture Condition Score – Trainer: JB Daniels, NRCS
Training Video Available on YouTube for Viewing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzkkwcwebm0
Click here for Pasture Condition Score PDF Slideshow: Plant List: https://vaswcd.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Common-Plant-Species-in-VA-Pastures.pdf
September 28, 2020 – 9:30AM-11:30AM & 12:30-2:30PM (4 Conservation Planning CEUs & 4 Nutrient Management CEUs – Must Attend AM & PM)
Technical: AM Portion – Erosion Fundamentals (RUSLE2 Background)/PM Portion – Assessing Sheet & Rill Erosion with RUSLE2 (Running RUSLE2) – Trainer: Chris Lawrence, NRCS
Training Video Available on YouTube for Viewing: https://youtu.be/pLJx8MwhfHs
October 6, 2020 – 9:00AM-11:00AM (2 CEUs)
Technical: Grazing Plan Development – Trainer: JB Daniels, NRCS
Training Video Available on YouTube for Viewing: https://youtu.be/gVDOeIXjElE
GoogleDrive Link of Training Materials Provided. Dropbox Link of Training Materials Provided.
October 7, 2020 – 10:00AM-11:30AM
Personnel Management Training – Trainer: Terri Higgins, HR Specialist
Materials posted on our COVID-19 resource page. Training video available on YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/7AT89QwoK1o
October 7, 2020 – Private Appointment w/ Terri Higgins to discuss personnel topics specific to your SWCD
October 13, 2020 – 10:00AM-12:00PM
Education Outreach: COVID-19 Programming Shifts & Success Stories – Panelists: Tim Miller, Mountain Castles SWCD, Ashley Palmer, Northern VA SWCD; Lindy Durham, Henricopolis SWCD; Elizabeth Bennett, Tazewell SWCD; Elise Corbin, Peter Francisco SWCD; Julie Head, Eastern Shore SWCD
Click here for Training Video Click here for power point presentations
October 20, 2020 – 10:00AM-11:30AM
Education Outreach: Water Conservation & Literature – Trainer: Julie Head, Eastern Shore SWCD
Click here for Training Video Click here for power point presentation
October 27, 2020 – 1:00PM-3:00PM
VA Ag Cost Share (VACS) Program 101 – Targeted for Directors but also Open to Staff – Trainers: David Bryan, DCR
Click here for a video recording of the session; Click here here for a PDF version of the presentation.
October 29, 2020 – 9:00AM-10:00AM (1 CEU)
Ensuring Your Conservation Efforts Live On: Legacy Planning for Farm & Forest Owners – Trainers: Andrew Fotinos, DOF Forestland Conservation Specialist; Bill Worrell, VCE Forester; Adam Downing, VCE Forester
Click here for a video recording of the session.
November 11, 2020 – 7:00PM-8:00PM
Director Meet & Greet – Structured socialization with other Directors. Veteran Directors are asked to attend but newbies are strongly encouraged. Registration and Session Details: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMsceGtrj8pHdc1iyR9OCKB1bI4BixN799l
November 16, 2020 – 9:00AM-11:00AM
Technical Part I (DNH AM Session): Virginia Rare, Threatened & Endangered Species Protection (4 Conservation Planning CEUs – Must Part I, II & III). Click here for a PDF of the slideshow. Click here for a video of the training.
November 16, 2020 – 1:00PM-3:00PM
Technical Part II (DWR PM Session): Virginia Rare, Threatened & Endangered Species Protection (4 Conservation Planning CEUs – Must Part I, II & III). Click here for a PDF of the slideshow. Click here for a video of the training.
November 17, 2020 – 9:00AM-11:00AM
Technical Part III (DHR Session): Virginia Cultural & Historic Resources Protection (4 Conservation Planning CEUs – Must Part I, II & III). Click here for a PDF of the slideshow. Click here for a video of the training.
December 2, 2020 – 9:00AM-10:30AM
VCAP: Identifying Resource Concerns, FAQ, & Local Funding Discussion. Click here for a video recording of the training. Click here for a PDF of the slideshow.
December 7, 2020 – 9:30AM-12:30PM
VASWCD Quarterly Board Meeting. The VASWCD Executive Board and Area Chairs comprise the VASWCD Board. The Board will hold its quarterly board meeting at 9:30. A video recording of this meeting can be found here.
Quarterly Board Meeting Materials: [Quarterly Board Agenda 12.7.20 Updated 12.4.20] [Educational Foundation Board Meeting September Minutes] [Foundation Treasurer Report] [Beals Investment Report] [Foundation Investment Report] [Chaffin Investment Report] [Association Minutes from September 2020] [Association Treasurer Report] [Association Investment Report] [Association Pipeline Investment Report] [Marketing Committee Toolkit Resource] [Area I Report] [Area III Report] [Area IV Report] [Area V Report] [Area VI Report][Proposed VASWCD Legislative Agenda] [Soil Health Policy Proposal] [Non Discrimination Policy Proposal] [NACD Report] [Federal Legislative Report] [VASWCD & VASWCDEF Nomination Committee Report] [VACDE Report] [VDACS Report] [DCR Soil & Water Division Report]
December 7, 2020 – 2:00PM-4:30PM
VASWCD Annual Membership Meeting. All Directors are voting members. A video recording of the meeting can be found here. Approved Materials during the membership meeting [Posted 12.11.20]: [2021 Legislative Agenda Approved][Approved Non-discrimination policy] [Approved Soil Health Policy] [FYI: Awards Announcement & Memorial Slideshow PPT]
Business Meeting Materials for Review and/or Approval [As of 12.4.2020]: [Familiarize yourself with VASWCD Zoom Guidance PPT]Business Meeting Agenda Posted 12.4.20] [December 2019 Business Meeting Minutes for Approval][Motions for Approval] [Assn Budget] [Nominating Committee Report] [2021 Draft Legislative Agenda] [Soil Healthy Policy Proposal][Non Discrimination Policy Proposal] [Marketing Committee Toolkit Report] [NACD Report] [Federal Legislative Report][VASWCD & VASWCDEF Nomination Committee Report]
December 8, 2020 – 9:00AM-11:00AM
VA Conservation District Employee (VACDE) Winter Meeting.
December 15, 2020 – 3:00PM-4:00PM
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Training – Meets Code of VA Training Requirements. Targeted for Directors but also Open to Staff – Trainers: Alan Gernhardt, FOIA Council. Click here for the video recording https://youtu.be/yBcle6GG5og. Click here for the PPT presentation http://foiacouncil.dls.virginia.gov/ref/FOIA for Local Elected Officials.pptx
Prior Director/Admin Training Resources of Interest:
Below you can find presentations and documentation presented at previous VASWCD Director & District Admin Trainings.
The Power of Communication and Outreach: Enhancing the SWCD Message– Speaker: Dr. Julie Gochenour, James Madison University
- Communication PPT
- Elevator Speech Grid & FAQs
- Elevator Speech pt 2
- Writing Your Elevator Speech
- Fine Tuning Your Speech
- Micro-Story Handout 1
- Micro-Story Handout 2
- Micro-Story Handout 3
- Micro-Story Handout 4
“Incentivizing Your Employees: Personnel/Human Resources Mgmt. Topic”– Speaker: Terri Higgins, Associate Director Henricopolis SWCD & Loudoun SWCD
- Incentivizing Your Employees PPT
- Incentivizing Your Employees by District page 1 front
- Incentivizing Your Employees Your Role for pge 2 back
- Incentivizng Your Employees Ideas
- 15 Actionable Employee Retention Strategies
Local Outreach Spotlight – Tips & Testimony from a Successful Envirothon Program- Speaker: Brent Hull
Virginia Conservation Assistance Program Update- Speaker: Kevin McLean