A volunteer being recognized for their service may expect to receive a certificate or a plaque, but the Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (Richland SWCD) opted to do something a bit different. With assistance from Gorman Nature Center and the Village of Lexington, a Redbud tree was planted on Friday, November 15 at Gorman Nature Center in honor of Mark Meinzer, the Richland SWCD’s 2019 Volunteer of the Year.
The tree was planted in recognition of Mark’s countless contributions to the District. Mark joined the volunteer team in 2015 as a Precipitation Monitor. Mark also volunteers as a Stream Monitor; what started as monitoring only a few sites has now increased to 7. This is a huge commitment due to the time it takes to monitor so many sites. Mark helps staff the Richland SWCD booth at the Richland County Fair and readily volunteers whenever help is needed. He has even brought new volunteers to the District.
Mark’s personal biography is also impressive. He served in the United States Navy as an electronic technician from 1966 to 1973. He is a Vietnam veteran, having been aboard a ship that was deployed in a supporting role twice during his assignment. Mark is active in his church, St. Peter’s, and has been a member of the Johnny Appleseed Square Dance Club for 13 years.
The Richland SWCD always welcomes new volunteers to assist in the important work that they do. The District develops, implements and assists landowners, government agencies and other partners with a wide range of natural resource conservation programs. Those interested in volunteering can call the District at 419-747-8686 or go to http://richlandswcd.net/ to learn about volunteer opportunities as well as the services provided by Richland SWCD.
