Become a Board Member or Associate Board Member with Mahoning SWCD

Mahoning County, OH – The Mahoning Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) plays a vital role in protecting our county’s natural resources, supporting agriculture, and promoting environmental stewardship. At the heart of this work is our Board of Supervisors—local leaders who help guide the vision, priorities, and programs that make conservation possible in Mahoning County.

If you are passionate about conservation, agriculture, or community service, we encourage you to consider becoming a Board Member or an Associate Board Member.

What Does a Board Member Do?

Board members are elected by Mahoning County residents during the annual election period. They serve three-year terms and provide leadership and oversight for the district. Responsibilities include:

• Setting priorities for conservation programs and services.
• Approving budgets, grants, and district policies.
• Partnering with farmers, landowners, schools, and local governments.
• Representing the district at community events and state-level trainings.

Board members attend monthly board meetings and support special programs throughout the year.

Meet the 2025 Candidates

This year, two individuals are running uncontested for two, three-year term open seats on the Mahoning SWCD Board of Supervisors:

[Photo: Matthew Monus (left) and Dr. Fred Owens (right)]
Photo Courtesy of Mahoning SWCD

Matthew Monus

Matthew Monus is an engineer with GPD Group in Akron and has worked as an engineer since 2004, focusing on site development, grading, stormwater management, permitting, and erosion control. He holds several certifications in soil and water management.

Before joining GPD in 2017, Monus spent eight years with Navarro & Wright Consulting Engineers, based in Pittsburgh. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Youngstown State University. Matthew lives in Boardman with his wife and two children.

Dr. Fred Owens

Dr. Fred Owens is a professor emeritus at Youngstown State University, where he taught telecommunications and business courses for many years. Twice named Distinguished Professor, he also served as chair of the Department of Communication from 1983 to 1998.

Dr. Owens is the author of several textbooks and research articles on communication and organizational behavior. His academic and leadership experience continues to enrich the community through his service.

The Mahoning SWCD thanks both candidates for their commitment to conservation and community leadership. Their experience and dedication will strengthen the district’s mission to protect soil, water, and natural resources throughout Mahoning County.

What Is an Associate Board Member?

If you are not ready to run for an elected position, you can still get involved by serving as an Associate Board Member. Associates volunteer their time to support district events, education programs, and committee work. They:

• Gain firsthand experience with conservation projects.
• Provide input and advice to the elected board.
• Learn about local conservation issues and how SWCDs operate.

This is a great way to get involved and prepare for possible future service as an elected board member.

Why Serve?

Serving with Mahoning SWCD is a rewarding way to:

• Protect our county’s soil, water, and natural resources.
• Help shape programs that support agriculture, education, and environmental health.
• Give back to your community in a meaningful way.
• Connect with conservation-minded residents and leaders.

Annual Meeting & Voting Information

• The Mahoning SWCD Annual Meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Austintown Library.
• Mahoning County residents and landowners are eligible to vote for SWCD Board of Supervisor candidates. Voting will take place from October 6 through November 4, 2025.  Please call our office for details.

How to Get Involved

If you are interested in running for a board position or volunteering as an associate board member, please contact the Mahoning SWCD office. Together, we can protect Mahoning County’s natural resources for today and future generations.