9 25 2012 VASWCD Board Minutes FINAL

							          Virginia Association of Soil & Water Conservation Districts Quarterly Board Meeting ∙ September 25, 2012

Meeting called to order at 9:00AM. Invocation given by Pete Farmer and pledge of allegiance led by Lou Ann Wallace.
Attendees introduced themselves: Ed Overton, JC Berger, Richard Chaffin, Ward Robens, Pete Farmer, Gavin Sanderlin, Steven
Meeks, Suzie Brown, Keith Boyd, Herb Dunford, Darrell Marshall, Matt Poirot, Lou Ann Wallace, Wilkie Chaffin, Kendall Tyree,
Beth Sokolik. Guests in attendance include: Bob Brian Wagner, Gianinna Ienco, Barbara Teeple, Sherry Ragland, Tom Turner,
Gray Coyner, Jennifer Hoysa, Renee Morning, Laverne Calhoun, Rick Brown, Linda McAllister, Tara Williams.

Motion to approve the Association agenda by JC Berger. Seconded by Don Wells. Motion approved unanimously.

Motion by Don Wells to approve minutes of the July 25 Meeting. Second by JC Berger. Motion approved unanimously.

Don Wells presented the treasurer’s report which identified the expenditures from July 1, 2012 to September 18. JC Berger
asked if all SWCDs had paid support service fees. Wells clarified that all 47 districts have paid with one district having paid half
of the fee with an agreement to pay the remainder in December.

The FY2014 proposed budget was presented to the board for first review. The most significant change is the proposal to
decrease Area Spring meeting support back to $100 per Area rather than $200 as we were able to do this past year. With
increasing travel costs and other expenses and no increase in support service fees, a return to a $100 per area for support of
the spring meeting is necessary. Wells also noted that there has been no increase in support service fees since approximately
2006 or 2007 and a discussion of an increase by $50 or $100 per district may be necessary.

Don Wells moved that the budget be approved as presented. Seconded by Wilkie Chaffin and motion was approved.

President Ed Overton then asked for the presentation of the legislative report which Don Wells, Legislative Committee chair
presented. The report was included in board materials and filed with the minutes. Wells highlighted the draft legislative
agenda which was organized by the legislative committee. Items include an increase in essential operating funds, support of
increasing resources to meet the State TMDL programs in the Chesapeake Bay and Southern Rivers. Additional proposed
legislative items include the support of establishing an Urban BMP cost share program, requesting additional funds for small
watershed dam maintenance, garnering technical resources for shoreline erosion control, and ensuring support for Resource
Management Programs.

Don Wells moved the report be approved by the board. Overton asked if there was any discussion or questions. With the
report coming from the committee, no second needed. Motion to approve the legislative agenda and take before the full
membership for approval was passed unanimously.

Wells noted one final item that was discussed by the legislative committee was brought forward by Area VI regarding
staggered terms. The recommendation of the committee was to study this issue and re-discuss. Richard Chaffin asked if there
was any discussion regarding the item brought forward by Area V. Don Wells stated that it will be kept on our legislative
agenda for discussions and he will follow up further on the matter.

Wells added to follow up on the board’s approval of legislator of the year awards that two of the four approved in July have
agreed to attend the VASWCD Annual Meeting and accept this award. Mays and Herring will be joining us and VASWCD staff
continue to work with Watkins and Dance to accept their awards in person. Special service awards will be given to Paul Van
Lenten and Clyde Cristman – House and Senate Appropriations and Finance staffers. Clyde Cristman will be joining the Annual
Meeting to receive the award and VASWCD will continue follow up with Paul Van Lenten.

The federal legislative committee chair, John Peterson, is unable to be here today as he has pressing business at his local
district. Ed Overton and JC Berger highlighted parts of John Peterson’s report which is included in board materials and filed
with the minutes.

Ede Overton also highlighted parts of John Peterson’s NACD report. At the summer Southeast NACD meeting, Peterson was
awarded the NACD Hall of Fame award. Tim Miles of Daniel Boone SWCD also attended the meeting and provided an excellent
presentation of the Virginia showcase on their acid mine drainage work. Additionally, Kendall participated in the state
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executive director conference recently in Maine and had the opportunity to network and learn from fellow individuals holding
her position in other states.

With no agriculture report at this time Ed Overton then called on the Operations committee report.

Richard Chaffin reported on the the Operations Committee and details from the subcommittee handling revisions to the
Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of the Association. With the proposed changes having been tabled at the last meeting,
Chaffin asked that the AOI and bylaws be brought back to the table. This motion was seconded by Don Wells. Motion approved
unanimously. With this motion, the floor was open for comment. Richard Chaffin stated that amendments could come from
board members at this time if necessary or from the floor at the Annual Meeting. Gray Coyner stated that he had submitted
through Jim Christian proposed changes to the bylaws and he encouraged the Area II chair to ask for these to be incorporated
by the board. R. Chaffin, to clarify, stated that Coyner had indeed submitted a complete list of possible changes but if they
were to be included they needed to be taken one by one.

ED Overton stated that if the committee report were to be approved today than it is an approval to simply move this item
forward for discussion and approval at the business meeting of the membership at the Annual Meeting.

Wilkie Chaffin stated that two lawyers have now reviewed the document and both have found no concern with the articles and
bylaws being considered.

Robert Brame of Culpeper SWCD asked to speak to the motion on the floor from the committee. Overton allowed. Brame
stated that having a lawyer review on behalf of the Association does not give justice as a lawyer reviewing on behalf of the
Association would look at it solely on behalf of the Association and not the full spectrum of district needs. He asked that the
board please take into consideration alternatives that will help clarify 12b and provide a hearing for a district if district
participation were to be limited because of failure of support.

In response, Richard Chaffin stated that frequently an organization’s participation is limited to those members who pay dues.

Ed Overton stated that there is a motion on the floor that needs to be addressed. Coyner claimed a point of order to ensure
his Area II Chair be asked to address the earlier question he (Coyner) posed. W. Chaffin stated that, as not a member of the
VASWCD board and only a member of the Association, Coyner did not have the ability to call a point of order.

Overton called on Jim Christian for any final comments. Christian stated that he has been involved in discussion with the
committee and others reviewing the document and appreciates input but at this time feels the document needs to be moved
forward to the full membership for review at the Annual Meeting. Christian stated as someone with no background in law or
experience he did not feel it was his place to make a selection of the proposed changes that have been brought forward by
interested districts but reiterated that the motion here is to simply move this document forward for full review by the Annual
Membership in December.

With no more discussion, the motion for approval of the revised articles and bylaws in order to take before the full
membership at the Annual Meeting was called to a vote. Motion carried. The changes to the bylaws will be shared with the
full membership shortly in order to meet the 60-day notification deadline. These proposed changes will therefore be
forwarded on to districts immediately on behalf of the board.

Ed Overton thanked the committee that has spent much time reviewing these documents as well as the full board for their
review and interested districts for submitting proposed amendments. Overton stated that this process has not halted and is a
continuing process of discussions which will continue to ensure our operating documents are tailored most effectively.

At this time the marketing committee was passed over for later discussion once Chris Simmons, 2nd VP arrives. Therefore Ed
Overton called on Greg Wichelns to present the Urban Committee report. Alyson Sappington, Urban Committee chair,
submitted a report which is included in board packets and filed with the minutes. Greg Wichelns shared details that the
committee has now successfully garnered four grants, totaling $57,138, to support the development and implementation of an
urban/residential BMP cost share program, preliminarily called the “Virginia Conservation Assistance Program” (VCAP) within
the four pilot districts (Culpeper, Thomas Jefferson, Piedmont, and Hanover-Caroline).
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The next report presented is that of the IT Committee. Though the chair George Lamb the chair of the IT Committee is unable
to be with us today, JC Berger and Gavin Sanderlin, IT Committee members, provided an update. Berger stated that one of the
major items of work for the committee – garnering IT resource support - was included in the legislative agenda presented
earlier by Don Wells. Berger noted that 39 districts have responded to the IT committee survey request which is helping
formulate the recommendations of the IT Committee for improved IT resources. Overton thanked Gavin and Berger for their
work and the amazing leadership that this committee has shown over the last few months.

Richard Chaffin asked if it would make any sense from a legislative standpoint for IT recommendations to become a budget
item need? Don Wells responded that IT resources is an item in the legislative agenda and is a high priority. Additionally, he
stated that through his work with the summer study there have been discussions to fund Technical Assistance and IT which is
tied together as a package through the recordation fee which provides greater stability of funding.

Overton said that since we started the meeting we have had a number of new arrivals including Gary Hornbaker, Soil & Water
Board member, Stephanie Martin of DCR, David Ball from Peter Francisco, and Debby Simmons and Chris Simmons an
Associate and Director of Loudoun SWCD. These individuals were introduced.

At this time, Chris Simmons was asked to present the marketing committee report. The committee has invited Jeff Ishee to the
upcoming Annual Meeting and will follow up in hopes he can attend. Simmons followed up on a previous discussion at the
March meeting regarding the creation of a PR list. Simmons asked Area Chairs to encourage assistance with this. He reiterated
that the VASWCD is not trying to step over lines but assist and create one consolidated list that will be a guide and resource aid
for both the VASWCD and districts. However, districts may opt in or not based on their desires. Simmons would also like to
start having a more formal half day meeting of the committee at the VASWCD office and has asked for support from Area
Chairs on this matter.

Overton asked Area Chairs to review the handout in materials regarding Area elections. Per VASWCD files--Area I, Area II, and
Area V are slated for elections in December. Overton reminded individuals that in March the board approved a list of Area
Chair responsibilities which VASWCD staff will post online this week.

Ward Robens shared an Area I report. He highlighted the success of the Fort Defiance Envirothon team in Headwaters SWCD. A
complete report is filed with minutes.

Jim Christian presented an Area II report. The full newsletter and handout is included in board packets and filed with the
minutes. Christian highlighted the work of Loudoun on the first year of residential buffer plantings, the Thomas Jefferson
Moores Creek watershed project, the NWFW small watershed grant received by John Marshall, and the work of Northern VA
SWCD interns.

JC Berger, Area Chair shared highlights of Area III districts. Berger stated that at least two districts from Area III – Northern
Neck and Three Rivers – have provided input into the summer study and others into the stormwater rollout.

Pete Farmer, Area IV Vice Chair, serving in Mike Altizer’s absence, noted that some districts are working on a grant through
Virginia State on alternative farming practices. Farmer’s district is working with Extension specialists on this program and plans
to continue for another four years.

Richard Chaffin, Area V Chair, acknowledged Deanna Fehrer of Piedmont SWCD and Sherry Ragland of Peter Francisco SWCD
for their efforts in creating the Area V report included in packets and filed with the minutes. Each district in Area V contributed
to the written Area V report.

Carey Copeland, Area VI Chair notes that a full report is included in the packet and filed with minutes. Copeland reported that
a major issue in Area VI is where they stand on the subject of SWCD re-organization. Peanut SWCD has lost a great deal of
locality funding in recent times.

The meeting recessed for a ten minute break. Meeting called to order at 11:05.

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Ed Overton introduced David Paylor who joined us today to discuss the issue of reorganization. Overton shared with Paylor
that we held a district-wide conference call with folks about the possibility of reorganization and there are, without doubt,
some concerns of a transfer. While the Executive Committee has met with Paylor, we wanted him to join us in this forum to
shed more light on a possible transfer of districts to DEQ from DCR.

Paylor began by noting that no decisions have been made--simply discussions about government efficiency and possible shifts.
Paylor stated that the governor has been interested in streamlining government and therefore created a government reform
commission. All agencies have been reviewed to see if reorganization makes sense. Paylor stated that in 2005 the stormwater
programs were within DCR, DEQ and CBLA and at that time there was a decision to consolidate to make reporting easier for
businesses. At that time it was consolidated into DCR. The question is should DEQ be the regulatory agency or the water
quality agency and at that time under Warner it was decided DEQ be more of a regulatory agency. As it was reviewed closer
though, Paylor stated there was still confusion among the public. The question still remains – should DEQ be more of a
regulatory agency or water quality agency.

Paylor stated there are four elements being considered for reorganization – stormwater permitting, TMDL process (which is
currently divided between two agencies), nutrient management planning, and SWCDs. Paylor stated that for at least the first
two pieces, he became more of an advocate that they fall under one agency because of efficiency needs and trouble
experienced in developing the Bay WIP.

As far as this group is concerned, Paylor asked would it make sense assuming other elements of those mentioned move, should
districts move also? He stated this is not a clear answer to him and welcomed input from attendees. Paylor made clear the
importance of districts and the need to do what best fits SWCD needs.

Paylor stated that a strawman has been prepared for stakeholder review at an upcoming committee meeting on October 1 in
which Ed Overton and Don Wells serve. This strawman was released late yesterday and outlines that the relationship with the
agency would remain the same. He did note that if a transfer were to occur, that the resource management plan and district
issues would still have oversight by the state soil and water board. Paylor mentioned that more regulatory items that the soil
and water board currently oversees may then transfer to the Water Control Board.

Paylor made it clear that if a transfer were to occur a new division within DEQ would be set-up reporting to a different deputy,
one not responsible for regulatory items, to ensure the program remains visibly separated, as it should, from regulatory items.

Wilkie Chaffin asked what programs are currently at DEQ that are not regulatory in nature. Paylor stated that there is indeed a
non-regulatory side to DEQ that includes the Virginia Environmental Excellence Program, Coastal Zone Management Program
(which has significant pass thru dollars in the Eastern part of the state), and the Environmental Impact Assessment work. This
side of DEQ also has public outreach work as a part of it.

Brame asked that Paylor clarify what he meant as to where TMDLs and nutrient management planning would fit in the agency.
Paylor said that if SWCDs were to stay at DCR then the State Soil & Water Board would also remain at DCR as fitting.

Gary Hornbaker thanked Paylor for his understanding that the regulatory nature of DEQ may be of concern to a producer and
SWCD. Hornbaker asked if there had been some thought in terms of educational outreach to explain what a transfer might
mean. Hornbaker also asked about where dam safety oversight would fall as it currently resides with the Soil and Water Board.

Paylor said that currently dam safety is slated to remain at DEQ. He referenced that discussion at one point thought the
Department of Emergency Management might be a good fit but currently it would be considered best to remain at DCR. Paylor
stated that there had been some thought about education and PR outreach if a transfer were to occur but that DEQ would rely
on advice from SWCDs and other stakeholders on how to best do this outreach and are prepared for this effort.

Overton mentioned that he was aware that DEQ was trying to buffer the agriculture community from EPA in some areas of the
state and asked that he elaborate. Paylor stated that approximately two years ago the state learned EPA was going to begin
inspecting farms in the Valley unannounced. DEQ learned of this about a week prior to these inspections and was able to
intervene, hold a community meeting about what would transpire and assist in the area. EPA does have the authority to visit
but DEQ has pushed back on this and established an AFO strategy which is comprised of a four step process in which many are
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voluntary. EPA is pushing that DEQ use a regulatory approach and DEQ is refusing to at this moment and believes the success
of the voluntary AFO strategy will assist with this effort.

Paylor noted that the farm community across the state has varying degrees of view of DEQ because of the varying degrees of
interaction. Paylor stated he believes the Department has a good relationship with the farming community in the Valley.

Berger asked what are the benefits of consolidating and what mountains to overcome exist? Paylor stated consolidating water
quality as defined by the permitting process and for efficiency is of benefit. Stakeholders as a result will be less confused and
therefore less redundancy may occur. The biggest mountain to climb Paylor stated is perception and the fear this transfer is to
move farmers towards regulation when this is unfounded but exacerbated because of the WIP.

Gray Coyner stated that the name is a large hurdle. Coyner said the sign-up form shows a DCR logo and there is concern that a
DEQ logo could deter sign-up. Coyner stated one of their district recommendations is to change the name of the agency to
assist with perception. Paylor thanked Coyner for these suggestions.

R. Chaffin stated that on the converse side of this, districts have developed a great working relationship with the farming
community and the outreach districts have could be beneficial. Chaffin additionally asked about future relationships with
partner agencies and Paylor’s thoughts. Paylor stated that he doesn’t envision any reason why these partnerships would
change but encourages such working relationships to continue.

Hornbaker asked that if the Secretary publishes a report with this recommendation is there an already established timeline be
for implementing such transfers. Whatever is recommended, legislation would be proposed this winter before the General
Assembly. In the strawman recommendation that will be shared with districts there is a list of possible code changes necessary
but it is not complete nor is it a recommendation on how legislation would be drafted. If this were to pass at the General
Assembly level a July 2013 date of effectiveness is anticipated.

Gavin Sanderlin asked how data transfer and sharing would be handled. Paylor stated that this would need further discussion
but that sharing is critical and streamlining of data is essential. Paylor envisions an easier nexus because of the possibility of a
unified office communicating with EPA.

Sherry Ragland asked for clarification on operational support levels to districts in the event of a transfer. Paylor confirmed that
the expectation of regional support received from DCR now would continue. Down the road, there may be some opportunities
of DEQ and DCR regional offices but that is a future issue if necessary. However, operational funding and CDC assistance
would continue through DEQ and if there are ways for improvement, DEQ is willing to work on these efforts.

Herb Dunford asked if the Soil & Water Board would transfer to DEQ for support. Paylor stated that the board would shift to
DEQ and DEQ staff would provide excellent support.

Carey Copeland notes that Area VI’s biggest issue is that when a new governor comes in how is DEQ going to react? Paylor
responds that Virginia has a strong history within DEQ. Virginia is the number one business state in the country and Paylor
does not think that any governor would want to/or be able to change that. Paylor admits that there is no guarantee but notes
that the change is possible regardless of which agency SWCDs are associated with. The change would be made July 2013 for
this reason to allow a smooth change. Ed Overton asks to halt this conversation and notes that Paylor will join us through lunch
time.

Linda Cronin with FSA-Budget for continuation of funding is close to approval. Cronin notes that the Farm Bill expires on
September 30th. From the FSA-the Farm Bill approves/supports programs that FSA provides. Until there is an extension or new
Farm Bill, FSA will not be able to provide many of their programs. They will finish out current contracts but will not be able to
begin any new contracts under these programs. FSA has issued $6.1 million dollars this year through the Dairy assistance
program-MILK. FSA is providing emergency designations for the recent drought. FSA is urging producers to keep track of
livestock losses in the event that there is approval for disaster assistance for this loss in the future. LAA are up for election this
year-farmer voted committee members. FSA encourages members to vote. Hispanic and women farmer ranchers’ claim
process is now open through FSA. Data sharing will not expire with the current farm bill.

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Overton breaks for lunch at 12:15 and asks to return at 12:45PM.

Overton called the meeting back to order at 12:51. Ricky Rash, President of the Foundation, who arrived during the lunch
break, was introduced.

At this time discussion was re-focused on the issue of reorganization and the floor was again open for questions to David
Paylor. It was agreed the strawman proposal which Paylor referenced earlier in the discussion would be shared with all
districts. Paylor noted that the secretary will not propose the reorganization if there are too many concerns against it.

Stephanie Martin suggested that the strawman be sent to all districts and then a conference call for all districts be coordinated
and have David Paylor join.

Gary Hornbaker asked that the DEQ vision be addressed and shared as districts did not hear today’s comments. Paylor asked
that we accomplish this by a FAQ document or to share with Paylor those questions that need addressing so he can best
answer district needs and concerns.

Paylor did note that he would make himself available for a district-wide conference call if deemed necessary.

Don Wells noted that prior to a conference call a FAQ document should be prepared. Area Chairs were also asked to assist with
outreach for the upcoming conference call with David Paylor.

At this time, Overton called on Keith Boyd to present the NRCS report. The report was included with board packets and filed
with the minutes. Keith Boyd highlighted components of this report. JC Berger asked for elaboration on the Soils/NRI/GIS and
Boyd stated he would follow up on this topic.

Overton pointed out J. Frye’s report on the Chesapeake Bay Commission is included in packets as he is unable to join us today.

Darrell Marshall presented the VDACS report. The Annual Report on the Agriculture Stewardship Program is included in board
packets and filed with the minutes.

Soil & Water Board member Herb Dunford provided comments and an update on board work. He reported that the board will
be meeting this Thursday and Friday in Richmond. Herb stated that there are four newer members to the board and there is
continued education with these individuals and the full board about district work.
Matt Poirot of the Department of Forestry shared a partner report. A detailed report is included in board packets and filed with
the minutes. DOF will be working on a statewide level to target non-productive ag land thanks to GIS capabilities with an
opportunity to forest that land. This is an ongoing project being done in cooperation with NRCS and VT. He also mentioned
that some local offices will be closing for efficiency and cost savings.

Stephanie Martin presented the DCR report. A written report will be sent electronically to VASWCD staff to share with board
members. The Ag BM cost share program is underway and the TAC met on the 16th and reviewed the plan of work for the FY14
program year. In the past input has always been solicited by districts and the Association. A representative from the VACDE,
Area Chairs, and two employees one from the Bay and one from Southern Rivers appointed by CDCs are members of this TAC.
The next meeting of the TAC is October 25 to be held at DOF in Charlottesville. The primary sub-committees of the TAC this
year are related to nutrient management, cover crop, stream exclusion, and forestry and wildlife BMPs.

The Summer Study has had great attendance by the Association and districts. The purpose of the summer study activitiy was to
review district funding needs and met five times as a full group though sub-committees met also. There are two basic pots of
funding – the recordation fee and general fund dollars – and discussion of new pots of money and sustainable funding was
reviewed. The majority of the committee agreed to investigate a code change that would allow the full recordation fee to be
utilized towards SWCD technical assistance. Currently $10 is allocated for SWCDs through the cost share program and the
remaining $10 currently goes to the general fund. Another item of importance that came forth from the summer study is the
concept of SWCDs completing an actual budget needs report to assist in determining actual need. The report has been
finalized and is currently being presented internally and should be made available October 1 to the public.

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The Resource Management Plan comment period has closed. The goal is to respond to those comments and for the Soil &
Water Board to address in December.

Work is underway to strengthen the JED program. A statewide call is being organized for November. Conservation selling skills
may be offered in even years in the future and Effective Presentation skills in odd years.

All operational grant funds should have been received by SWCDs to date per the commitment of Jeb Wilkinson.

JC Berger asked for the status of cost share funds and TA funding as well as the status of the initial letter noting those funds.
Stephanie Martin stated that the allocation amount noted in the grant agreement can be guaranteed. Martin also noted to
keep in mind that at the end of December district obligations of those cost share funds will be reviewed and unexpended
balances may be shifted to other areas along with 8% TA.

Ed Overton asked Martin to provide an update on the voluntary cost share pilot program. The six pilot districts may be pulled
together again for a debriefing but no report was required though the data spoke for itself – eastern Virginia pilot districts
showed greater voluntary participation than pilot districts further west. The tracking program does allow for the incorporation
of voluntary practices if a district has the time to input such data.

Attention was brought to the draft letter on the Virginia Enhancement Cost Share Initiative included in board materials. David
Johnson and Robert Bennett arrived at the meeting and began discussion on this initiative. Wichelns asked how the cost
estimates will be structured for this program. Keith Boyd stated that NRCS does average cost estimates annually. NRCS would
provide 75% of the cost average then DCR would complete the remaining 25% to bring the producer expenses up to a 100%
average cost paid.

Simmons asked about what press outreach has been rolled out to promote this program. Bennett stated that there is a
brochure in draft form and a scheduled announcement letter to be sent October 1 with trainings to follow. Additionally, there
is hope the Governor will do a press release on this initiative.

R. Chaffin asked about the process and the concern about the commitment to the producer. Bennett stated this is why there
should be a simultaneous application to enhance commitment. Johnson said no contract with the producer would be signed if
there aren’t funds available to the farmer. He stated that this is an effort to get more fencing practices on the ground.

Gavin Sanderlin reiterated the guarantee/commitment process because of the consequences of canceling on an FSA or NRCS
program. Johnson said this needs to be thought of like the supplemental program last year and planning is being done to do
this in a similar fashion.

Overton asked if the Worldview contract had been renewed for IT support to districts. Martin stated there is no contract but
that hours are augmented with Worldview for assistance. Bennett said funds from one of the EPA grants will be utilized for this
purpose and there will be a continued effort.

Overton asked David Johnson for insight into the summer study report that is scheduled to be released on October 1. Johnson
said yesterday the Secretary was briefed and as a result some edits are being made. At some point tomorrow, a draft of the
report will be sent to stakeholder advisor members. It will be shared before the report is final and submitted.

R. Chaffin asked Johnson for an update on the RMP process and if the Soil & Water Board would be reviewing the regulations
for the voluntary program again. It was confirmed the State Soil & Water Board would review these regulations in December.
R. Chaffin asked if it was possible to block passage of these regulations until funding is attached. David Johnson stated that no
one is expected to implement the program for free.

With partner reports complete, Overton made note of a few Executive Board items of importance:
   - District signage – Wilkie Chaffin noted his contact with VDOT about signage for SWCD signs. Simmons added that there
       are two sign venues – one entering SWCD boundaries or conservation practiced here as well as with businesses to
       display a conservation sign such as at Loudoun wineries practicing conservation. This issue was also addressed in the
       legislative committee report.
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    -   Nominating Committee – A nominating committee has been appointed and will be chaired by Ward Robens. Jerry Ingle
        and Daphne Jamison will also serve on this committee. An all district email has been sent requesting anyone interested
        in serving on the VASWCD board send a resume or explanation of interest by October 15. The nominating committee
        will meet on October 30 to determine a slate of candidates to bring before the members at the Annual Meeting.
    -   Healthy Waters Initiative – Simmons shared an update on the program that has been spearheaded by Loudoun SWCD.
        To date this program involves two states and many other partners. In addition VT is doing a ten year study of riparian
        buffers.

Kendall Tyree presented information on the 2012 Annual Meeting preparations as included in board packets.

Ed Overton reminded individuals that the VASWCD has assumed all responsibility for the blue directory. Please notify VASWCD
staff of changes.

Overton asked for new business. Richard Chaffin stated that one of the Area Chair responsibilities is to serve on the DCR
Technical Advisory Committee. The TAC requires a peer of the member can serve in his or her absence. Richard Chaffin stated
that he does not feel comfortable serving in that position as he lacks some of the needed technical experience. He is concerned
that an employee cannot serve in this position when perhaps they can provide the most input – as defined by the TAC it must
be a peer to the Area Chair in other words a fellow director must serve in that role. Wells stated that there is some benefit to
having a Director serving in this role. At this time, Richard Chaffin asked if this could be an item of continued discussion at the
December meeting.

The meeting of the VASWCD adjourned at 3:48.


                       VASWCD Educational Foundation Quarterly Board Meeting ∙ September 25, 2012

President Ricky Rash called the Foundation meeting to order at 3:56pm.

Motion to accept agenda as presented by JC Berger, seconded by Don Wells.

Rash asked that minutes from the July meeting be approved as presented. Motion made by Wells, second by Lou Ann Wallace.
Motion passed unanimously.

JC Berger presented the Treasurer’s Report. To begin Berger asked Elizabeth Sokolik to review the Envirothon and YCC budgets.
Beth Sokolik stated that there were increased sponsors for YCC as we were able to shift from Envirothon to YCC because of the
generous donation. In terms of Envirothon, Dominion Power has increased their support this year to an even $50,000.

Berger presented the treasurer report of expenses to date this fiscal year. Berger noted the change in the Envirothon budget
item on this sheet. Berger made a motion to amend the previous budget to reflect the increased funds for Envirothon as
highlighted in yellow in board packets. Richard Chaffin seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

Additional changes that can be seen include under the George Beals leadership fund are the expenses of a scholarship to send
an individual to the NACD Southeast regional program to present the Virginia showcase. An additional unexpended cost was a
$1000 scholarship to assist an individual accepted into the VT VALOR program which is similar to the VNRLI program but with a
three year commitment.

With no questions about the budget presented to date, Berger shared that the value in the investments were each in the
neighborhood of $139,000. Berger also presented the draft FY14 budget for the Foundation. Motion to approve by Wells,
second by Lou Ann Wallace for presenting at the VASWCD Annual Meeting. Motion approved unanimously.

Included in board packets is a proposed resolution before the board. Chris Moore with Moore Financials was introduced to the
board and asked to explain a needed resolution for allowance of withdrawal from the annuity. Moore stated that the best
action is to start a distribution from an annuity contract and purchase other investments. This is proposed because the funds
have not been needed by the Foundation as expenses have been covered
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At this time Moore Financials would like to pull from the annuity account and determine what investments should be made
following the election. Wells asked that when the 6% is drawn from the annuity will the two accounts be maintained. Moore
stated that both have their own annuity and separate brokerage accounts. Wells moved to adopt the resolution, second by W.
Chaffin. Motion approved and resolution signed by treasurer and secretary.

Suzie Brown presented the Education Committee report. She noted that the committee is planning on a website session in
March of 2013 to be hosted by the same speaker that will be presenting at the Annual Meeting.

Kendall Tyree highlighted fundraising topics of importance including the CVC campaign, golf tournament, and other fundraising
items.

There was discussion on scholarship policy. There was a motion by R. Chaffin that any unused scholarship money be rolled over
one time – i.e. which can be used the following year. Seconded by JC Berger. Motion to include the above policy (to be
included under management policies in the 2003 policy statement). Motion approved unanimously.

Beth Sokolik shared details on the Envirothon program. Local SWCDs can apply for grant funds to assist with their local
Envirothon programs. These applications are due by October 15. The education gift this year budgeted in the Envirothon
program will be camera to use to video tape for oral presentations. These educational gifts will be given at the December
Annual Meeting. There is also an increase in the budget for the national competition for 2013 noted in handouts because of
the further location of the competition in Montana. The 2013 competition will be set for May 19-20. R. Chaffin stated that VSU
has a new Dean, Jewel Harrison and she may be a good contact and that might be a viable option for the Envirothon program
state competition location.

Beth Sokolik also presented an update on YCC. VASWCD staff have worked with NRCS to provide in the coming year a
scholarship to an African American student interested in the environment. The VASWCD continues to work to garner sponsors.

Details on the MWEE grant opportunity were shared. Applications for funds from the VASWCD are due by October 1.

Beth reminded folks about the VASWCD poster contest and encouraged districts to submit to the VASWCD by October 26.

JC Berger mentioned that the professor at R-MC who presented at the last board meeting/training in July shared a great model
of how to do a hands-on environmental program and he hopes this model is one that can be used at the community college
level perhaps across the state. This is an item that will be explored further.

Rash gave the floor to Suzie Brown for a VACDE partner report. She highlighted the work of the association including the
upcoming quarterly meeting. Suzie summarized the success of Graves Mountain training held in August. A full report was
included in the board packets and filed with the minutes. She noted that 87 were people in attendance – highest attendance
records ever.

Suzie also shared that the VACDE is looking to offer scholarships of $190 which would cover full registration and a ticket to the
VACDE luncheon.

Officer elections will be held at the next business meeting. Rash and Overton agreed and appointed Ward Robens to handle
nominating committee recommendations for the Foundation in addition to the VASWCD.

With no further business the meeting adjourned at 5:01pm.




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