Conservation Program Specialist at Indiana County Conservation District Indiana, PA

SUMMARY

The Conservation Program Specialist (CPS) is responsible for implementing and overseeing the Dirt, Gravel, and Low Volume Road (DGLVR) Program while also being cross‑trained and supporting the Indiana County Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP). This position provides technical assistance, program coordination, and field support to ensure the successful delivery of conservation practices and projects that improve soil health, water quality, and road sustainability.

The CPS works directly with landowners, municipalities, and partner organizations to evaluate project needs, develop environmentally sensitive solutions, oversee construction and installation, and ensure compliance with program guidelines.

• Fully administer all aspects of the Indiana County DGLVR program in accordance with the current PA State Conservation Commission Administrative Manual.
• Conduct pre‑application site visits for potential projects; provide technical assistance to applicants during grant preparation.
• Present grant applications to Quality Assurance Board (QAB) for prioritizing and ranking projects.
• Monitor projects through on‑site inspections to ensure practices are properly installed and maintained.
• Communicate with municipal officials and other public road owners as needed for program promotion and project management.
• Coordinate educational & outreach activities for the program – examples include field trips, product or BMP demonstrations, workshops, etc.
• Maintain GIS online database for quarterly and annual reporting in accordance with current SCC administrative manual.

• Participate in ACAP related trainings and certifications.
• Assist CPS ACAP when needed on various projects and technical site visits.
• Be able to provide information to interested persons on financial assistance and technical assistance programs supporting the implementation of best management practices identified in nutrient management, manure management, agricultural erosion and sediment control (Ag E&S), and conservation plans.
• Be able to advise applicants of alternative funding sources for project implementation, such as tax credits, loans, and grants.
• Be able to assist in nutrient management, manure management, Ag E&S, and conservation plan implementation by providing or facilitating, as resources allow, general technical assistance to program participants with approved plans. Technical assistance may include inventory and evaluation; developing or assisting in the development of designs; cost estimates; construction monitoring; and certification of the proposed project(s).
• Be able to complete and provide the SCC with financial and written quarterly reports that summarize the activities performed during the report period, including education and outreach, the number of grant applications received and processed, and technical assistance provided to program applicants.
• Be able to collect and report data pertaining to Ag E&S plans, conservation plans, manure management plans, nutrient management plans, and best management practice implementation completed under approved projects using Practice Keeper or other approved reporting systems.

• Maintain all appropriate records for all grants and delegated programs including quarterly reporting and reimbursement requests.
• Assist with demonstration projects, field days, and tours.
• Assist other District staff with the Indiana County Envirothon, training events, workshops, field days, and other educational activities.
• Work to promote a “District team concept” by assisting in various other related functions, activities and programs of the District.
• Prepare monthly activity report for and attend the Board of Directors’ meeting.
• Assist other District staff with projects/programs as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Associate’s degree in agriculture, agronomy, environmental studies, natural resource management, engineering, or similar area of study OR possess a combination of applicable education, training and…